Tony Iannelli, The Chamber, Vice Chair, Bret Ludlow, Liquid
Treasurer, Donna LoStocco, First Commonwealth FCU
Secretary, Marilyn Kelly-Cavotta, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Counsel, Buddy Lesavoy, Lesavoy Butz & Seitz LLC Imm. Past Chair, Tom Groves
Paul Anthony, IBEW 375
Krista Berardelli, Agentis Plumbing
Michael Butz, Alvin H. Butz, Inc.
Luis Campos, City of Easton
Lou Fromm, Fromm
John Hayes, New Tripoli Bank
Murtaza Jaffer, EBC Printing & Signs
Kristin Keenan, Keenan-Nagle Advertising
Andrew Lawler, Barry Isett & Associates
Mary Lisicky, Morgan Stanley
Sarah Finney-Miller, NAI Summit
Tom Stoudt, LV International Airport
CHAMBER BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Laurie Hackett, Air Products Chair, The Chamber
A Closer Look at Service
Each November, we take time to pause and honor the men and women who have served our country in uniform. Their courage, discipline, and commitment to something larger than themselves remind us of the very best of who we are — as a nation, as a Lehigh Valley community, and as people. Here in the Lehigh Valley, that spirit of service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our businesses, our nonprofits, and our neighborhoods — through the countless veterans and active military a who now serve as mentors, volunteers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Their leadership and example strengthen our entire region.
At the Chamber, we’re proud to celebrate and support our Veterans and Military Affairs Council, a powerful network that brings together local employ-
ers, service organizations, and veterans themselves to make sure those who served are celebrated and remembered. From career opportunities and workforce development to recognition events and community support, this group embodies collaboration in action — the very heart of our Chamber’s mission.
As we reflect on Veterans Day, let’s remember that honoring service means more than saying “thank you.” It means opening doors, creating opportunities, and ensuring every veteran in our Valley feels valued and included.
To all who have served and to the families who serve alongside them — we are deeply grateful. Your dedication inspires us to lead with purpose and to keep building a stronger, more connected Lehigh Valley.
Wednesday, November 5
mark your calendars!
7:30-9am- Cafe Connections: A Morning at Colonial Cafe 71 (NACC) (Free Event)
Thursday, November 6
10am-1pm - 2025 Chamber Annual Meeting
5-7pm - The Melting Pot Ribbon Cutting Celebration (Free Event)
Friday, November 7
11:30am-12:30pm - The Barbecue Boys Grand Opening (Free Event)
Monday, November 10
11am-12pm - Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony (Free Event)
5-7pm - My Place Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (Free Event)
Wednesday, November 12
11:30am-1pm - Unlocking Forensics, Lunch & Tour of the Northampton County's Forensics Center
Thursday, November 13
11:30am-1pm - Sharp Manufacturing Luncheon Tour
Friday, November 14
2025 Christmas City Village Begins
5:30-9pm - Midnight in the Garden: The 2025 Carbon Annual Awards Gala
Saturday, November 15
8-11am - Lehigh Valley Ruck 'N Walk presented by the Veterans & Military Council
Sunday, November 16
12-4pm - Easton Taste Trail at the Silk Mill
Tuesday, November 18
11:30am-1pm - The Career Lift: How Mentors and Sponsors Shape Success presented by the Women's Business Council
Wednesday, November 19
5:30-7:30pm - Young Professionals Council Meet & Greet (Free Event)
6-10pm - African American Business Leaders Annual Awards Gala
Friday, November 28
4:30-6:30pm - City of Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)
5-8pm - Light Up Night (Free Event)
Saturday, November 29
8am-6pm - Emmaus Small Business Saturday (Free Event)
6-8pm - Coopersburg Tree Lighting (Free Event)
Sunday, November 30
4:30-7:30pm - Northwestern Lehigh Tree Lighting (Free Event)
Tuesday, December 2
4:30-6pm - 2nd Annual Lehigh Valley Light & Legacy Award Reception honoring outgoing Lehigh County Executive Phillips Armstrong
Wednesday, December 3
5:30-7:30pm - North Whitehall Tree Lighting (Free Event)
Thursday, December 4
11:30am-1pm - Burnout to Balance presented by the DEI Collaboration
4-5pm - Maximize Your Membership - A Member Benefits Review (Free Event)
5-7pm - Cheers to the HolidaysNetworking at Yianni's Taverna (Free Event)
Friday, December 5
7:30-10:30am - Chamber Healthcare Summit
Saturday, December 6
8-10am - The 57th Annual Community Advent Breakfast
12-5pm - Emmaus Cheers Trail
4-7pm - Emmaus Old Fashioned Christmas (Free Event)
4-6pm - Allentown Holiday Tree Lighting (Free Event)
Sunday, December 7
8am-5pm - Alburtis Holiday Festival (Free Event)
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2025
SNOW BALL2026
Don't miss our legendary, infotaining Annual Meeting! A sound and light extravaganza with more than 1,000 members in the audience.
It is THE place to see your colleagues, customers, and competitors and to be seen by them! It’s the biggest and best opportunity to build your network and connect with other leaders of the Lehigh Valley business community.
The program starts promptly at 11:15 AM and goes till 1:00 PM.
Doors open at 10:00 AM to allow plenty of time for networking and to visit our sponsor's exhibits.
State of the Chamber by Chamber Board Chair Laurie Hackett
Scan Here to Reserve your spot today!
Buddy Lesavoy
Lesavoy, Butz & Seitz
Buddy Lesavoy
Lesavoy, Butz & Seitz
Artists, Studios & Galleries
Forks Area Art Society
Robert Jordan 1290 Hawthorn Drive Easton, PA 18040 484-764-5328 www.forksareaartsociety.yolasite.com
Assisted Living, Independent Living, Nursing Homes, Memory Care, Personal Care
Care Connect
Richard Grieco 108 Henderson Street Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 908-484-4307 www.careconnectseniorliving.com
Attorneys, Judges & Legal Services
Lahoud Law Group
Raymond Lahoud 600 Hamilton Street Tower 6, Suite 300 Allentown, PA 18101 484-544-0022 www.nationalimmigrationlawyers.com
Banks, Credit Unions & Loans
Ambler Savings Bank
Carolyn Watson 155 East Butler Avenue P. O. Box 210 Ambler, PA 19002 215-619-8875 www.amblersavingsbank.com
Business Consultants, Developers & Incubators
BAR40 Fractional Solutions
Eric Bartosz P. O. Box 385 Coopersburg, PA 18036 917-853-9691 www.bar40fs.com
Candy & Chocolate Manufacturing and Retail
LV Candy Shop Gifts & More
Rachel Causa 118 South Main Street Nazareth, PA 18064 484-809-1912 www.facebook.com/lvcandyshop
Pablo Farnan Coopersburg, PA 18036 610-428-0328 www.eramediaco.com
Financial Services
SS Pension Consultants
Kaitlin Smith 49 Main Street, Suite 37 Clinton, NJ 08809 908-442-8550 www.sspension.com
Fire Protection
Express Kitchen Hoods, LLC
Joseph Bonilla 110 Frederick Avenue Rockville, MD 20850 800-200-2134 www.expresskitchenhoodsystems.com
Flooring Sales, Service, Installation
Floor & Decor
Oscar Villagomez 1259 Whitehall Mall Whitehall, PA 18052 484-488-0008 www.flooranddecor.com
Lawn & Tree Care Services
Kasel Rocks Landscape Company
Chad Gorr 712 Krocks Court Wescosville, PA 18106 610-395-6409
Marketing Consulting Services
1 in 3 Marketing
Scott Wedemeyer 7150 Hamilton Boulevard P. O. Box 223
Trexlertown, PA 18087 201-757-8600 www.1in3marketing.com
Massage Services
Heart Space - A Massage Therapy Studio
Luisella Audifredi 41 N 7th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 917-620-3106 www.heartspacemassage.com
Medical Spas
Pocono Weight Loss and Acupuncture
Don Allen
137 Tego Lake Road East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
570-534-0502 www.pwlaa.com
Replete Wellness
Cecilia Bermudez
2030 West Tilghman Street Suite 100 Allentown, PA 18104
484-274-6519 www.repleteaesthics.com
Newspapers, Publications, Digital News and Reporting
The Cardinal - Lehigh Valley
Jay Pelc P. O. Box 1486
Doylestown, PA 18901
267-824-2412
www.cardinalcommunitynews.com
Pet & Animal Supplies, Grooming & Boarding
Sundog Mobile Grooming Breanne Ruffin
Allentown, PA 18103
484-767-2016 www.sundogmobilegrooming.com
Podiatrist & Foot Care
Carbon Foot & Ankle Centers PC - Lehighton
Jennifer Sloboda 215 South 1st Street Lehighton, PA 18235 610-377-5544
www.carbonfootandankle.com
Carbon Foot & Ankle Centers PC - Palmerton
Jennifer Sloboda 185 Delaware Avenue Palmerton, PA 18071
610-377-5544 www.carbonfootandankle.com
Printing, Copying, PublishingEquipment and Services
Stratix Systems
Sean Culver 2298 Broadhead Road Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-439-4133
www.stratixsystems.com
Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
Nick and Noah's Nick Ferrani 501 Main Street Hellertown, PA 18055
Steel City Tattoo
John Bicknell 314 East Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
2158 Avenue C, Suite 201 Bethlehem, PA 18017
610-850-0449 www.specialolympicspa.org
Tattoo & Tattoo Removal
AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL
Bill Benz, Carnegie Agency Chair, Small Business Council
The Small Business Council primarily focuses on economic growth for our members. We recognize that when veterans open businesses, they are economic catalysts that bring knowledge, leadership and economic strength to our region. Their service is the foundation of the safe and vibrant lives we lead in the Lehigh Valley. Veteran-owned businesses across the U.S. generate approximately $922 billion in revenue and employ approximately 3 million people with 99.9 of them considered small businesses (source: www.sba. gov). In Pennsylvania, there are nearly 55,000 veteran-owned businesses (source: www.census.gov). Specifics on the Pennsylvania veteran-owned businesses government contracts awarded are not easy to calculate. As a point of reference, the average spend across the US is between 3-6 percent of all government contracts awarded to veteran owned organizations. The economic impact of veteran entrepreneurs in the Lehigh Valley is profound. These businesses create jobs, stimulate innovation, and enrich the Lehigh
Valley with their participation. Monies spent with veteran-owned businesses is directly attributed to the local money multiplier model which is reinvested with other businesses in the valley. It's reflected in the economic vitality in the Lehigh Valley. Gratitude is a great start. But meaningful support including deals, collaboration, attendance, sponsorships, and community engagement makes a difference. Show your support by attending and sponsoring the next event hosted by the Veterans and Military Council, chaired by Marilyn Kelly-Cavotta, MSW, Special Advisor for Women & Minority Veterans with the PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
Attend and sponsor the 6th Annual Ruck ‘N Walk Lehigh Valley held Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Bicentennial Park
For more information or to get involved, please contact Alison Pickel or Bailey Muhl, Council liaisons.
PUBLIC POLICY
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Article written by: Heather Heeter, Urban Engineers, Mike Rebert, Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson & Ron Young, PennDOT
State Route 309 and Tilghman Street Interchange Reconstruction Project in South Whitehall Township, Lehigh County. The goal of the project is to improve safety and mobility through a comprehensive redesign of the interchange and surrounding infrastructure.
Key components of the project include:
· Replacement of two bridges: Route 309 over Tilghman Street and Route 309 over Broadway Street.
· Rehabilitation of the Route 309 culvert over Little Cedar Creek.
· Roadway drainage improvements and repairs.
· Paving and sidewalk enhancements along Tilghman Street.
· Installation of two new traffic signals at the reconfigured Route 309 ramps to Tilghman Street.
The new signals will be coordinated with existing signals at the intersections of:
· Hausman Road and Cetronia Road
· Tilghman Street and Parkway Road
· Tilghman Street and 40th Street
2025 Construction Activities
Work scheduled for 2025 includes:
· Utility infrastructure upgrades
· Drainage facility construction
· Installation of electrical conduit and traffic signal foundations
· Interchange ramp construction
· Erosion and sediment control measures
· Embankment and roadway work along Route 309 and Tilghman Street
· Barrier installation
· Construction of a cul-de-sac at Windsor Drive and Midland Road
Route 309 within the project area carries an average of 57,372 vehicles per day, and Tilghman Street sees an average of 20,101 vehicles per day.
Project Details
· Contractor: Allan Myers, LP, Worcester, PA
· Total Cost: $86,800,253
· Estimated Completion: March 2030
NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS COUNCIL
Tanya Tyler, Air Products
Chair, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council
The chamber nonprofit and business parts are council kicked off their season on October 8 at Ben Franklin. This year’s event series, “float, flow and fly: unlocking a fresh
way of thinking” continues on January 21 at The State Theatre followed by our annual conference at Desales university on April 14. Hope to see you at an upcoming session!
MAIN STREET FOUNDATION
Jody Piagesi, Northmapton Pool Chair, Main Street Foundation
Belvidere, NJ — A vibrant new butterfly mural is turning heads in downtown Belvidere, adding a colorful burst of energy and creativity to the historic streetscape. Installed this summer near the popular Cellar Door antique and craft store, the interactive mural was created by artist Amanda Knoll in collaboration with Conscious Community Creations.
The mural, designed to invite visitors to stop, pose, and engage with the artwork, is part of a larger effort to revitalize the area, support local businesses, and encourage tourism. Alongside the mural, new planters and an enhanced crosswalk were also installed, creating a safer and more welcoming environment for pedestrians and shoppers.
Veteran-Owned Business Guide
610-437-4300
www.firstgencom.com
SWBR Marketing & Media
Ernie T. Stiegler 516 Main Street 3rd Floor Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-739-7264 www.swbrinc.com
Armed Forces
Wilson Fischer American Legion Post 413
Thomas Crosby 248 Old Route 940 Pocono Lake, PA 18347
570-646-6010
Artists, Studios & Galleries
Children's Art Classes
Peter Nation
Orefield, PA 18069
610-546-0250
www.childrensartclasses.com
Attorneys, Judges & Legal Services
Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo
Martin Cohen
2851 Baglyos Circle, Suite 200
Bethlehem, PA 18020
610-625-2100
www.cohenfeeley.com
Automobile Dealers: Used & New
Brown-Daub Chevrolet of Nazareth
L. Anderson Daub 819 Nazareth Pike Nazareth , PA 18064
610-759-1000
www.browndaubchevy.com
Automobile Repairs, Services & Detailing
Herstine Automotive, LLC
Zachary Herstine 3 North 2nd Street Coplay, PA 18037 610-262-5900
Behavioral Health
Safe Harbor of Hope Counseling
Donald Steffy 700 Hammond Lane Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-844-0779
Bowling
Hampton Lanes and Hammerhead Hops & Grill
Jason Lauchnor 326 Main Street Northampton, PA 18067 610-262-6713 www.hamptonlanesbowling.com
6081 Hamilton Boulevard, Suite 200 Allentown, PA 18106
610-597-0012
www.advancedsolutionspa.com
CWM Commercial Cleaning LLC
Carl Martens Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-730-8452 www.cwmcommercialcleaning.com
Coaching
Kairos Growth Resources Cherryann Joseph Macungie, PA 18062 484-548-0393 www.kairosgrowthresources.com
Construction Management & General Contractors
Jerdon Construction Services LLC
Ron Jerdon 5925 Tilghman Street, Suite 1100 Allentown, PA 18104
610-530-2430 www.jerdoncs.com
Consulting Services & Training
Dellicker Strategies
Kevin Dellicker 8766 Bittners Court Germansville, PA 18053 484-788-1221 www.dellicker.com
Weather Trends International
William Kirk 1 West Broad Street Suite 802 Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-807-0118 www.wt360.com
•
•
•
•
Dance Studios, Instruction, Dance Supplies
Dance Fusion Studio
Kristi Mcinerney
6330 Farm Bureau Road Allentown, PA 18106
610-360-4335 www.studiodancefusion.com
Distilleries
Eight Oaks Farm Distillery
Chad Butters 7189 Route 309 New Tripoli, PA 18066 484-387-5287 www.eightoaksdistillery.com
Curt Hoyak 901 West Lehigh Street P.O. Box 799 Bethlehem, PA 18016 610-691-8606 www.albarell.com
BEI Electrical
Bryan Lieberman 1035 Bushkill Center Road Nazareth, PA 18064 610-437-4763 www.beielectrical.com
Employment
Services,
Screening & Staffing
Express Employment Professionals - Allentown
Tom Rooney 795 Roble Road, Suite C Allentown, PA 18109
610-264-4080 www.expresspros/allentownpa
Express Employment
Professionals - East Stroudsburg
Terry Lukas 613 Blakeslee Boulevard
(Grant Professional Plaza) Suite 204 2nd Floor
Lehighton, PA 18235 570-424-1800
www.expresspros.com
Entertainment
Sherman Productions
Dan Romagno 160 King Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-517-9511
Financial Services
Blue Water Financial, LLC
Jason LaVigne
400 South Greenwood Avenue Easton, PA 18045 610-438-0988 www.bluewaterfinancialllc.com
Morton Brown Family Wealth
Dennis Morton 600 West Hamilton Street, Suite 510 Allentown, PA 18101 610-709-5072 www.mortonbrownfw.com
Fire
Protection
Kistler O'Brien Fire Protection
Scott Guzzo 2210 City Line Road Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-266-7100 www.kobfire.com
Veterans Fire Protection
Brian Petresky 228 8th Avenue Bethlehem, PA 18018 484-635-4661 www.veteransfire.com
Fitness, Gyms & Personal Training
2M Lyfestylez
Maurice Minnifield 3830 Oakwood Trail Allentown, PA 18103 484-347-9359 www.2mlyfestylez.us
Build and Burn Fitness
Joe Randazzo 216 Skyline Drive East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 814-270-3113
Foundations
Folds of Honor E. PA-NJ Chapter
Elizabeth Simmons
P. O. Box 276
Center Valley, PA 18034
610-442-5718
www.easternpanj.foldsofhonor.org
K9 Kop Project
Vickie Richards 726 Williams Avenue Walnutport, PA 18088 484-661-1666 www.k9kopproject.org
Fuel Dealers, Gas Fireplaces & Distributors
Hazleton Oil & Environmental, Inc
Gina Stitch 300 Tamaqua Street Hazleton, PA 18201 570-929-1793 www.hazletonoil.com
Home HealthcareMedical Care
BrightStar Care of Allentown & Stroudsburg
Dale Wilson 1401 North Cedar Crest Boulevard Suite 104 Allentown, PA 18104
Hospital, Clinics & Medical Groups
AFC Urgent Care Lower Macungie
Dominic Catrambone 780 North Krocks Road, Suite 101 Allentown, PA 18106
610-365-3354
www.afcurgentcare.com/lower-macungie
Industry Health Solutions, Inc.
Jack Perry
840 Harleysville Pike Suite 4 Harleysville, PA 19438 267-389-9218 www.ihspts.com
Valley Health Partners (VHP)
Community Health Center
Alexander Alex 400 North 17th Street, Suite 300 Allentown, PA 18104
610-969-4200
www.valleyhealthpartners.org
Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC
Eric Angle 81 Highland Avenue, Suite 100 Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-865-9550 www.janney.com
Westgate
Mark Fiorini 2299 Brodhead Road, Suite M Bethlehem, PA 18020 610-866-8001 www.shipwestgate.com Manufacturing Services
American Architectural Metal Manufacturers, Inc. 575 Business Park Lane Allentown, PA 18109 610-432-9787 www.americanarch.com
ELIR Electrical Controls LLC
William Fegely 3168 Wentling Schoolhouse Road East Greenville, PA 18041 410-980-4104 www.elirelectricalcontrols.com
Structural Metal Fabricators, Inc
Guy Seifert 1226 Little Gap Road Palmerton, PA 18071 610-824-7000 www.smftruck.com
Women
Claudette Williams 20 Sterling Road, Suite 3 Mount Pocono, PA 18344 570-269-7669 Office
Venture
Terry Wallace 306 South New Street Bethlehem, PA 18015 610-905-6218 www.venturex.com
Heather Trone 1320 Hausman Road, Suite 302 Allentown, PA 18104 610-231-9577 www.fraser-ais.com
Packaging, Shipping & Products
Lindenmeyr Munroe
Greg Stoudt
200 Cascade Drive, Suite A
Allentown, PA 18109
610-264-0551 www.lindenmeyrmunroe.com
Penn State Paper & Box Co., Inc.
Ercole Spinosa
323 Sumner Avenue Allentown, PA 18102
610-433-7468 www.pennstatepaper.com
Pet Sitting, Training Services & Waste Removal
Cressman Pet Poo Pick-Up
Craig Cressman
Bethlehem, PA 18017
610-839-8387
www.cressmanscoops.com
Photographers & Photography Studios
Simply Liz Photography
Elizabeth Wearin 2911 West Allen Street Allentown, PA 18104 484-894-3153 www.simplyliz.com
Plumbing
Delmont Utilities
Al Conan P. O. Box 374 Newtown Square, PA 19073 610-356-8977
Strow's Plumbing, Inc.
Tara Hill 11 Flory Avenue Pen Argyl, PA 18072 610-746-7851
Podiatrist & Foot Care
Allentown Family Foot Care
Ray Fritz 2414 Walbert Avenue Allentown, PA 18104
610-434-7000 www.affc.com
Printing, Copying, Publishing - Equipment and Services
Nacci Printing, Inc.
Frank Nacci 1327 North 18th Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-434-1224 www.nacciprinting.com
Real Estate Agents, Brokers and Other Services
Castle Gate Realty
Aggie Shoenberger
238 North First Street
Lehighton, PA 18235
610-379-FLAG www.come2thecastle.com
JDog Junk Removal & Hauling
Jim Andrews Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-297-0070
www.jdogjunkremovalrdsc.com
Main St. Real Estate Group
Lucy Lennon 525 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-365-1362 www.mainstbethlehem.com
SERHANT.
Sam Del Rosario 1 West Broad Street, Suite 410 Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-510-8064 www.serhant.com
Security Alarm Installation and Services
ZeroEyes
Nick Franzosa 555 E. North Lane, Suite 5050 Conshohocken, PA 19428 864-209-7704 www.zeroeyes.com
South Hall Street Allentown, PA 18103 610-333-7586
Barbara Lane Walnutport,
Signs, Banners, Flags, Vehicle Graphics and Promotional Products
Trident Laserworks
Gerald Smith 75 Ricks Road
New Ringgold, PA 17960
919-816-6793
www.tridentlaserworks.com
Social Services
Victory House of Lehigh Valley
Tom Carson
314 Fillmore Street, P. O. Box 5458 Bethlehem, PA 18015
610-691-3373
www.victoryhouselv.org
Veterans Services
BattleBorne
Christopher Yarnell P. O. Box 366 Center Valley, PA 18034
484-265-1262
www.wearebattleborne.com
Military Resource Group (MRG)
Samantha Huhn 101 Larry Holmes Drive, Suite 217 Easton, PA 18042
484-205-9381
www.military-resource-group.com
Veterans Brotherhood
John Kukitz
5764 Nina Circle Coopersburg, PA 18036
484-560-7900
www.veteransbrotherhood.vet
Women Veterans Empowered & Thriving
Jenny Pacanowski 1636 North Cedar Crest Boulevard #179 Allentown, PA 18104
www.womenveteransempowered.org
Waste, Recycling & Hauling
Sanico, Inc.
Sonya Koehler 5 Hutchinson Station Road Phillipsburg , NJ 08865
908-475-3300
www.sanicoinc.com
Wedding, Event Planners, and Officiants
The Barn at Walnut Grove
Donna Laudadio 813 Old Route 22 Lenhartsville, PA 19534
610-721-6710
www.walnutgrovebarn.com
EASTON AREA
Photos from Belvidere Food Truck Festival on October 19 at Riverside Park
Saturday, November 22, 2025
6:00 p.m. - Cocktail hour
7:00 p.m. - Program followed by DJ Romeog
CELEBRATE our 2025 awardees!
Aster Event Center
621 Grange Road, Allentown, PA 18106
$150 for one | $275 for two Tickets
Danielle Adams-Wiltshire
Pastor Dr. Phil Davis
Rosalind Lucien
EAST PENN CHAMBER & WESTERN LEHIGH
Cut costs, not care.
Three Tips for Businesses to Make Open Enrollment Less Stressful
Many people are confused when it comes to understanding healthcare benefits and the open enrollment process. Here are some tips that can help employers lessen the confusion for employees during open enrollment season.
Most Americans – about 72% according to one survey – have some level of confusion about healthcare benefits, and that confusion has very real consequences:
· 57% surveyed said they avoided medical care because they were unsure if an expense was covered.
· 45% mistakenly think they can switch health insurance plans anytime.
· More than half struggle to understand basic concepts like premiums, deductibles, and copays. Source: ValuePenguin Healthcare Survey.
As many employers prepare for open enrollment season, there is no better time to educate employees about healthcare benefits and the enrollment process.
3. Go paperless – Use electronic open enrollment materials whenever possible. Keeping it paperless typically saves time and eliminates the risk of important documentation getting lost or misplaced.
“Open enrollment can be a hectic undertaking for any business,” said Wes Reohr, Chief Sales Officer at Capital Blue Cross. “Sometimes the simplest advice, like starting early, is the best. The last thing you want is for employees to start a new year without their member ID cards or other materials because you got a late start choosing your benefits.”
While healthcare is complicated, communicating about healthcare benefits during open enrollment doesn’t have to be.
“Start by setting clear deadlines,” Reohr said. “Providing basic resources, like a glossary of health benefit terms can help.” Hold multiple virtual or in-person benefit meetings, and even consider recording those meetings so employees can view them later if needed, Reohr added.
our guide to learn what’s driving them – and how to take control.
Open enrollment season is a short period of time, usually two to four weeks, in which employees can opt in or out of a company-sponsored health plan. Most companies hold open enrollment in the fall. If your business is heading into enrollment season, here are three tips that can make the process easier for you and your employees:
1. Choose coverage early – Delays in choosing your company’s coverage can have a domino effect that affects your employees’ ability to use their coverage. Plan early. Decide early. Your employees who have ongoing medical needs will appreciate knowing of potential coverage changes well ahead of time.
2. Communicate early and often –Change can stress employees, especially if that change involves health benefits. Ease the stress for your entire team by sharing information as soon as possible on benefits options, elections processes, and deadlines. Be sure to highlight any key benefit or legal changes in enrollment materials. Employees need – and deserve – ample time to compare options and ask questions.
Capital Blue Cross offers electronic open enrollment resources for groups and brokers, hosts enrollment workshops for employers, and provides hands-on sales support to help make the process easier.
“Open enrollment only happens once a year,” Reohr said, “and it’s important for employers, with the help of our experienced teams, to help employees navigate the complexities of healthcare.”
(For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)
KidsPeace announced that it received a $7,250 grant to fund programs supporting foster families served through its Williamsport (PA) foster care office. The grant is from the Williamsport Lycoming Competitive Grant Program at the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania.
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, celebrated the dedication of the David and Jackie Jaindl Family Birth and Newborn Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest. With more than 3,100 births each year, the unit is the region’s most comprehensive provider in pregnancy and delivery care services. The multiphase renovation began in September 2024 to ensure the spaces match the expert patient care and experience already provided.
Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre is proud to announce that co-owner, Lauren McChesney, has been elected for an Independent Theater board seat on the Executive Board of Directors for Cinema United.
Lehigh Carbon Community College will offer fall late start accelerated sessions for students needing to earn credits in a fast format. A 10-week fall session will be held from Sept. 30 through Dec. 13, and a seven-week session is set for Oct. 22 through Dec. 13. Continuing and new LCCC students are encouraged to enroll.
The National Energy Improvement Fund (NEIF), a Certified B Corporation lender and national expert in energy efficiency financing, is pleased to announce several changes in its residential business development group as it broadens the nationwide reach of its market-based and program-supported financing options for home HVAC, electrification, generators, insulation, roofing and other energy improvements. The business and contractor development team supports NEIF-Approved Contractors with training and support. NEIF-Approved Contractors are qualified, leading companies of all sizes who have met or exceeded NEIF’s standards for commitment to quality work, customer service, financial stability, and personal integrity.
Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Stephen Bowers has joined as Executive Vice President, Lehigh Valley Market Executive. With 27 years of experience in commercial banking and finance along with his management skillset and civic contributions, Bowers will manage the Lehigh Valley Commercial Lending area for Fidelity Bank. In his role, Bowers will lead strategic growth, oversee lending operations, and strengthen client relationships across the region.
Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts), opened in 2003, continues to shine on regional and national school rankings. The school recently landed in the Top 10 Best Charter Schools in PA on U.S. News & World Report's 2025-26 School Rankings. This adds to the school's impressive list of accolades including the 2025 Niche Rankings as #1
Member News
Charter School in PA and #1 Best Public High School Teachers in PA.
The Bach Choir of Bethlehem announces its 2025–26 Concert Season: a year of music that celebrates America’s 250th anniversary and honors the Moravian tradition that gave birth to the Choir. Under the leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor Dr. Christopher Jackson, the Choir invites audiences into concerts that are at once timeless and alive with discovery — performances that connect us to our past and remind us why Bach’s music still speaks with such power today.
Promenade Saucon Valley, an open-air lifestyle shopping center in Center Valley, Pennsylvania (www. promenadesauconvalley.com), today announced the addition of Sunglass Hut (https://www.sunglasshut. com/us), the world’s premier destination for premium, luxury, and sport eyewear. The new 797-squarefoot store, expected to open in fall 2025 will be located adjacent to Bath & Body Works.
On September 8, Northampton Community College (NCC) and Delaware Valley University (DelVal) signed new articulation agreements that will facilitate students in continuing their education, the Dual Admission & Core to Core and the Honors to Honors Transfer Agreements.
St. Luke’s University Health Network, a national leader in the use of artificial intelligence, has adopted new AI technology to assist in the review of emergency department X-ray images to identify bone trauma such as fractures, dislocations, effusions and lesions.
ASR Media’s owner and community advocate, Ashley Russo, shaved her head on Saturday, Sept. 13, as part of Steel Nation Shaves for the Brave, a St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraiser supporting childhood cancer research. The event, hosted at the Steel Club in Hellertown, featured live music by The Counterfeiters, raffles, kids’ crafts and a variety of food and drinks for attendees.
Moravian University announced it has secured a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service to fund a vital preservation project at the Second Single Brethren’s House (99 West Church Street, Bethlehem, PA). The grant, awarded through the Semiquincentennial Grant Program, will support the replacement of all 91 windows with historically accurate, insulated glass and wood models to enhance the building’s energy efficiency while preserving its historical integrity.
JuxtaHub, a new arts and innovation non-profit in Emmaus, has opened their brand-new ceramics studio and are offering beginner and intermediate classes in 2026 with instructors Lisa Caruso and Deb Slahta. The organization continues to offer their monthly JuxTuesday open house on the second Tuesdays of the month; the December 9 edition will be a holiday party! JuxtaHub is now open to the public Tuesdays through Fridays from 3pm to 8pm and is offering a wide array of art and performance classes and workshops every
week.
Good Shepherd Rehabilitation and Lehigh University announced the creation of a partnership to advance the future of rehabilitation through joint research opportunities addressing innovations in care for a range of injuries and conditions.
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, and HNL Lab Medicine are now offering self-collection human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in the Lehigh Valley. This marks a significant shift in how women approach cervical cancer screening.
ASR Media, a Lehigh Valley-based production company, received a 2025 Mid-Atlantic Emmy® award in the ‘Community Service’ category. The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences announced the winners during an awards ceremony at the Marriott Downtown in Philadelphia on Saturday, Sept. 20.
Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. (HRG) has acquired Becker Engineering, LLC, a Lancaster-County-based firm with a strong emphasis on municipal engineering, water, wastewater, and hydrogeology. The acquisition allows HRG to expand its services to additional municipalities and municipal authorities in Lancaster, Lebanon, and Chester Counties.
When a crisis strikes, children often have nowhere safe to go. Families may be facing homelessness, sudden hospitalization or other emergencies, leaving children vulnerable and in need of immediate care. To help meet this urgent need, The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania Children’s Services announces the launch of a new Short-Term Foster Care Program that provides safe, loving homes for children who require temporary care. These short-term placements offer stability and support for days or weeks while families work through challenges or a long-term care plan is established.
G Outdoor Living & Design recently celebrated the grand opening of their 1,800 sq. ft. indoor showroom in Allentown. The space features full-scale outdoor kitchens, patios, and deck installations—designed to help homeowners envision their dream backyards. Stop in and get inspired for your next project, big or small.
The KingSpry Law Firm in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is proud to announce attorney Paige M. Gross has been elected to the board of the Foundation for Bethlehem Area Schools.
For the past 15 years, QNB Bank has teamed up with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs to help raise money for local libraries through the “Batting for Books” campaign. On September 18 at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, QNB donated $4,500 to this year’s proud beneficiary, the Lansdale Public Library. Since the program’s inception in 2011, QNB has donated $60,950 to local libraries.
Submit your press releases to Ellie Andino at elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org to be featured in this section!
Please note: submission does not guarantee placement.
