SVP, Carbon Chamber & Economic Development kyliea@lehighvalleychamber.org
Sarah Wallace.......................................484-547-8551 Director, Pocono Chamber sarahw@lehighvalleychamber.org
Sierra LeFurgy......................................610-295-9047
CHAMBER BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Tom Groves, Equinox Benefits Consulting Chair, The Chamber
The Chamber Annual Meeting!
More than a thousand chamber members from across the Valley get together every November to celebrate achievements and to connect with their business networks, customers, prospects and competitors at The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Show, taking place on Thursday, November 7 at the Wind Creek Event Center. I’m so looking forward to seeing you all! The Chamber Annual Meeting is the biggest and best opportunity to raise your profile, promote your business, connect with the vibrant leaders of the Lehigh Valley business community, and to be entertained, enlightened, and informed by fellow Chamber members and volunteers as
Hall for 125 years and Lehigh Valley Health Network 17th Street Allentown Hospital for 125 years and the Cedar Crest Campus for 50 years! We will also recognize the 2024 Chamber Volunteer of the Year, the Veterans & Military Council Brush-up Our Veterans Committee and the 2024 Business of the Year, the PPL Center / Lehigh Valley Phantoms also celebrating 10 years! And back by demand, Anchorman Rob Vaughn presents 69 WFMZ-TV Business News Highlights from 2024! Bring your energy and we’ll bring ours! Expect some surprise performances, prizes, and lots of fun! Are you ready? Come out and attend this annual, fast paced extravaganza again this year! The program starts promptly at 11:15 a.m. and goes till 1:00 p.m. Doors open at 10:00 a.m. to allow plenty of time for networking and to visit exhibits. There
ing event! Contact Frank Facchiano at
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Tuesday, October 1
5:30-7:30pm - Allentown Design WeekJane Heft of City Center Group (Free Event)
Tuesday, October 2
11:30am-1pm - Her Path to Public Service presented by the Women's Business Council
11am-1pm - ATHENA Awards Presented by the Women's Business Council
Wednesday, October 30
7:30-9am - Bethlehem Budget AddressMayor J. William Reynolds (Free Event)
2-4pm - The Hamilton at Grand PlazaGrand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (Free Event)
3-6pm - The Boyd Apartments Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration (Free Event)
Clarence M Gockley Elementary Schoo
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.
LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMIC REPORT
Dr. Kamran Afshar, Chamber Chief Economist
The Chamber’s Finance Committee
610-691-3272 • ka@kaa-inc.com
The Lehigh Valley business sentiment is in a shallow down-trend
The Lehigh Valley's Business Sentiment Index (BSI) at 55.8 in July 2024 is in a statistical tie with its previous four observations. In 2022, BSI dropped significantly in response to the sharp rise in inflation. As inflation eased from its exceptionally high rates by the end of 2023, the rate of decline of the index moderated. And as inflation started to return to close to normal this year, the index ran almost flat in 2024, however, longer-term data shows a shallow downward trend. The BSI is based on a quarterly survey of businesses in the Valley conducted by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce- Kamran Afshar since 1998. The index of actual hiring dropped to 49.6 in July, a whopping 14% below last year’s level, and it dropped below 50% for the first time since April 2021. This indicates that slightly less than half of the participants have increased their employment levels, which is unusual. The percentage of local businesses increasing in their em-
ployment dropped from 21% in January 2021 to 18% in July 24, while those with net layoffs rose from 12% to 18%. The shift is not huge, as employment is still growing, albeit slower than before, and the number of initial unemployment claims is approaching normal from its tight labor market lows. Plans for future hiring are also down; at 53.5, the index is 5% below its last year’s level, and while more than a fifth of the participants, almost the same as last year, are planning to increase employment, 12% are planning net layoffs, double last year’s level. The index of purchases in the last six months at 54.0 has dropped 4% below last year’s level. While the percentage of businesses increasing or reducing their purchases has not changed much from last year, although its average amount has decreased. Plans for future purchases, while below its April’s level, are by a sizable 12% above last year’s level. A significantly larger percentage of businesses plan to increase their purchase
by larger amounts than last year. The index of past revenues is the only index in the model that is not only above its last year’s level but also significantly higher than its April’s level. At 56.4, it is 10% above last year’s level, and the percentage of businesses with net revenue improvement is also significantly higher than last year. The index of future revenues has been in a statistical tie for the last five quarters. The overall index has been in a very shallow downtrend since the middle of 2023, almost entirely pulled down by the dropping employ-
ment indices, which have fallen by 15% due to the stabilizing labor market. As businesses no longer feel that they must overbid for employees. The model's purchasing and revenue indices are trending up, canceling the employment indices drop and keeping the overall average in a statistical tie over the last four quarters. The forward-looking indices are scoring significantly higher than those reporting events in the past, indicating businesses feel a lot more optimistic about the future than the past.
Unlock the Wonders of Science with Da Vinci Science Center’s Corporate Program
Unlock the Wonders of Science with Da Vinci Science Center’s Corporate Program
Elevate Your Company’s Impact with Exclusive Corporate Opportunities
Elevate Your Company’s Impact with Exclusive Corporate Opportunities
In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are constantly searching for ways to inspire innovation, foster teamwork, and engage their employees. At the Da Vinci Science Center, we believe that science is more than a subject—it’s an adventure that sparks creativity and transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our exclusive Corporate Program, designed to offer businesses unique opportunities through corporate memberships, private events, donations, and group sales.
In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are constantly searching for ways to inspire innovation, foster teamwork, and engage their employees. At the Da Vinci Science Center, we believe that science is more than a subject—it’s an adventure that sparks creativity and transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our exclusive Corporate Program, designed to offer businesses unique opportunities through corporate memberships, private events, donations, and group sales.
Corporate Membership: Empower Your Team and Enhance Engagement
Corporate Membership: Empower Your Team and Enhance Engagement
Imagine giving your employees access to a space where innovation comes to life, where every visit brings new opportunities for discovery and collaboration. With a Corporate Membership at the Da Vinci Science Center, your organization can enjoy unlimited access to our interactive exhibits, cutting-edge educational programs, and special events. This isn’t just about providing perks; it’s about creating a culture of curiosity and creativity within your team.
Benefits of Corporate Membership include:
Imagine giving your employees access to a space where innovation comes to life, where every visit brings new opportunities for discovery and collaboration. With a Corporate Membership at the Da Vinci Science Center, your organization can enjoy unlimited access to our interactive exhibits, cutting-edge educational programs, and special events. This isn’t just about providing perks; it’s about creating a culture of curiosity and creativity within your team.
• Unlimited General Admission: Your employees can explore our exhibits and special programs year-round, keeping their minds engaged and inspired.
Benefits of Corporate Membership include:
• Exclusive Discounts: Take advantage of discounts on private events and educational workshops, adding extra value to your membership.
• Unlimited General Admission: Your employees can explore our exhibits and special programs year-round, keeping their minds engaged and inspired.
• Employee Perks: Extend special offers and membership benefits to your employees and their families, making science a part of their everyday lives.
• Exclusive Discounts: Take advantage of discounts on private events and educational workshops, adding extra value to your membership.
• Employee Perks: Extend special offers and membership benefits to your employees and their families, making science a part of their everyday lives.
A Corporate Membership with the Da Vinci Science Center isn’t just an investment in your employees—it’s an investment in innovation and growth.
A Corporate Membership with the Da Vinci Science Center isn’t just an investment in your employees—it’s an investment in innovation and growth.
Private Events: Host Unforgettable Gatherings
Private Events: Host Unforgettable Gatherings
When it comes to hosting corporate events, the setting can make all the difference. The Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion offers a unique and memorable venue for your next corporate retreat, client appreciation event, or team-building session. Our state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect backdrop for events that are both inspiring and impactful.
When it comes to hosting corporate events, the setting can make all the difference. The Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion offers a unique and memorable venue for your next corporate retreat, client appreciation event, or team-building session. Our state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect backdrop for events that are both inspiring and impactful.
Why choose the Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion for your next event?
• Tailored Experiences: Customize your event with exclusive access to our exhibits, hands-on science activities, and engaging workshops.
Why choose the Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion for your next event?
• Event Planning Support: Our dedicated event team is here to ensure every detail is taken care of, from catering to audiovisual setups.
• Tailored Experiences: Customize your event with exclusive access to our exhibits, hands-on science activities, and engaging workshops.
• Flexible Spaces: Whether you need an interactive exhibit hall or a private meeting space, we have spaces to suit your event’s needs.
• Event Planning Support: Our dedicated event team is here to ensure every detail is taken care of, from catering to audiovisual setups.
• Flexible Spaces: Whether you need an interactive exhibit hall or a private meeting space, we have spaces to suit your event’s needs.
Host an event that not only impresses but also educates and inspires, leaving your guests with lasting memories.
Host an event that not only impresses but also educates and inspires, leaving your guests with lasting memories.
Donations: Make a Lasting Impact
Donations: Make a Lasting Impact
Supporting science education is more than a charitable act—it’s an investment in the future. Through our Corporate Donations Program, your company can make a significant impact on our ability to expand educational outreach, develop new exhibits, and maintain our state-of-the-art facilities. Your generosity helps us continue to make science accessible and engaging for everyone.
Benefits of donating include:
Supporting science education is more than a charitable act—it’s an investment in the future. Through our Corporate Donations Program, your company can make a significant impact on our ability to expand educational outreach, develop new exhibits, and maintain our state-of-the-art facilities. Your generosity helps us continue to make science accessible and engaging for everyone.
• Recognition Opportunities: Gain visibility through our donor acknowledgment programs, including recognition in our publications and on our website.
Benefits of donating include:
• Community Impact: Your donation contributes to programs that inspire and educate thousands of students and families, making a tangible difference in our community.
• Recognition Opportunities: Gain visibility through our donor acknowledgment programs, including recognition in our publications and on our website.
• Community Impact: Your donation contributes to programs that inspire and educate thousands of students and families, making a tangible difference in our community.
Join us in our mission to bring the wonders of science to all, inspire future manufacturers, technicians, and engineers, and leave a lasting legacy of support for future generations.
Join us in our mission to bring the wonders of science to all, inspire future manufacturers, technicians, and engineers, and leave a lasting legacy of support for future generations.
Group Sales: Bring Your Teams and Clients Together
Group Sales: Bring Your Teams and Clients Together
Looking for a unique way to engage your team or clients? Our Group Sales Program offers customized packages that provide special pricing and exclusive experiences tailored to your group’s interests. Whether it’s a day out with your team or a special visit for clients, we offer a fun and enriching experience that combines learning with adventure.
Our Group Sales Program offers:
Looking for a unique way to engage your team or clients? Our Group Sales Program offers customized packages that provide special pricing and exclusive experiences tailored to your group’s interests. Whether it’s a day out with your team or a special visit for clients, we offer a fun and enriching experience that combines learning with adventure.
• Customizable Packages: Tailor your visit to meet the specific interests and needs of your group.
Our Group Sales Program offers:
• Educational and Interactive Programs: Enhance your experience with special workshops and exhibits designed to engage and inspire.
• Customizable Packages: Tailor your visit to meet the specific interests and needs of your group.
• Educational and Interactive Programs: Enhance your experience with special workshops and exhibits designed to engage and inspire.
A visit to the Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion isn’t just another outing—it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.
A visit to the Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion isn’t just another outing—it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.
Why Partner with the Da Vinci Science Center?
Why Partner with the Da Vinci Science Center?
Partnering with the Da Vinci Science Center means more than just gaining access to premier educational and event opportunities—it means aligning your company with an organization dedicated to innovation, education, and community impact. Together, we can unlock the wonders of science for your team and create a brighter future for our community.
Partnering with the Da Vinci Science Center means more than just gaining access to premier educational and event opportunities—it means aligning your company with an organization dedicated to innovation, education, and community impact. Together, we can unlock the wonders of science for your team and create a brighter future for our community.
Ready to unlock the wonders of science? Contact us today at corporate@davincisciencecenter.org to learn more about how you can be a part of this exciting journey.
Ready to unlock the wonders of science? Contact us today at corporate@davincisciencecenter.org to learn more about how you can be a part of this exciting journey.
Bookkeeping Services
Mana Accounting & Advisory
Josh Chapel 484-403-0846 www.manacpa.com
Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations
The Community Connection
Donna Olsen P. O. Box 201 East Greenville, PA 18041 215-679-5090
www.ccmonthly.com
Artists, Studios & Galleries
Sutcliffe Designs 3D Print Factory
Ryan Sutcliffe 65 South Broad Street Nazareth, PA 18064 908-894-9642 www.SD3Dprintfactory.com
S.P. Auctions
David Brannan Kempton, PA 19529 570-728-3164
Automobile Repairs, Services & Detailing
Wrenchtec
Rebecca Romano 3315 Sullivan Trail Easton, PA 18040 610-759-7581 www.wrenchtec.com
Banks, Credit Unions & Loans
Citizens Bank
Khushbu Gajjar
227 North West Boulevard Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-1205 www.citizensbank.com
www.leap2learningchildcare.com
Dentists, Oral Surgeons & Orthodontists
Creekview Dental
Tiffani Smith 1305 Tatamy Road Easton, PA 18045 www.creekviewdentalpa.com
Educational & Community Services
The JSpot Youth Organization
Jacquelyn Wells 4115 Rosewood Terrace East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 973-666-2918 www.thejspotyouth.org
Employment Services, Screening & Staffing
On Time Job Staffing
401 West Walnut Street, Suite 8 Allentown, PA 18102
www.ontimejobstaffing.com
Engineering
GPI - Greenman Pedersen Inc.
Heather Kubic Skapyak 1320 Hausman Road, Suite 204 Allentown, PA 18104
www.gpinet.com
Entertainment & Festivals
Signal Chain Audio and Visual
2379 Main Street Northampton, PA 18067
Government Agencies and Authorities
PA Department Of The Treasury
613 North Drive Finance Building, Room G-06 Harrisburg, PA 17120
www.patreasury.gov
Home Care- Non Medical
Visiting Angels
Sherry Mack 35 East Elizabeth Avenue Bethlethem, PA 18018 610-253-6353
www.visitingangels.com/beth
Hotels, Lodging, Bed & Breakfasts
Fairfield Inn & Suites Bethlehem Rebecca Szabo-Silfies 2401 Emrick Boulevard Bethlehem, PA 18020 610-861-9500
Jonathan Gerancher 1036 North Irving Street Allentown, PA 18109 610-849-3758
www.goldoutdoorliving.com
Pharmacies & Pharmaceuticals
Sharp Packaging Services, LLC
James Laporta 7451 Keebler Way Allentown, PA 18106
610-395-5800
www.sharpservices.com
Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy
Transform Rehabilitation
Ryan Sumski 3103 West Emaus Avenue Allentown, PA 18103 610-871-3146 www.urpt.com
Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
Five Guys Burgers & Fries
Center Valley
Mary Kennedy
3045 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 106 Center Valley, PA 18034
610-709-8636
www.fiveguys.com
Good Jakes Restaurant
Felicia Franco 13 South Main Street Coopersburg, PA 18036 484-720-0004 www.goodjakes.com
Le Macaron French Pastries
Bethlehem Gina Storelli Passerman 521 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-849-2700 www.lemacaron-us.com
Retail Sales
Magnolia's Homemade-Natural Candles and Soap
Magnolia Baez 727 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
301-448-5583
www.magnoliascandlesandsoap.com
Petfection Exotic Pet Specialist
Johnny Thompson
2989 Route 611, Suite 102 Tannersville, PA 18372 570-629-1737
Second Chance Goods Ltd
Lauren Barry Macungie, PA 18062
610-739-6079
www.secondchancegoodsltd.com
Veterans Services
Veterans Brotherhood John Kukitz
267-424-4162
www.veteransbrotherhood.vet
Veterinarians, Animal Wellness & Rehabilitation
West Lehigh Veterinary Care
Tim Mosebey
9897 Old US Route 22 Breingsville, PA 18031 610-477-4909
www.westlehighvetcare.com
Windows, Window Treatments
K&H Custom Window Treatments
Amanda Miller 5925 Tilghman Street, Suite 20 Allentown, PA 18104 610-481-9005
www.KuhnsAndHeller.com
Workforce & Career Services
Pocono Counties Workforce Development Board
Samuel Hellen 811 Blakeslee Boulevard, Drive E Suite 85 Lehighton, PA 18235
484-464-2494
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Chamber Night with the IronPigs on September 17th at Coca Cola Park
AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL
Paul Williams , Miers Insurance Small Business Council Board Member
Serving on the Small Business Council (SBC) Board has been one of the most rewarding experiences as a Business Development Executive at Miers Insurance. A chamber member for over 15 years, with the past four years serving on this board, I have had the honor of working alongside some of the most inspiring leaders in the Lehigh Valley, one being Erik McGaughey, CEO of Meals on Wheels of the Lehigh Valley. Seeing Erik and MOW recognized as the 2024 Snowball recipient and witnessing the event raise over $30,000 for such a meaningful cause has been a personal highlight. It reminds us of the profound impact the Chamber and its events have on our community. Through my role on this Board and as a former Chair of the Excellence in Business Awards (EIBA), I have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges, business needs, and triumphs that local businesses face.
These connections have strengthened my ability to promote Miers Insurance through the Chamber and allowed me to support and collaborate with many extraordinary leaders and businesses throughout our valley.
One rewarding aspect of my role has been the opportunity to create and lead the William Allen High School entrepreneur series. This initiative has provided over fifty professionals and business owners a platform to share their ‘story’ with well over 250 students, inspiring the next generation of business leaders! I am extremely proud to be part of our SBC and Miers Insurance, which values leadership, service, and forward-thinking solutions to help our community and businesses. I look forward to continuing to support this great community through these efforts.
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Maximize Your Membership on August 1st at Madeline's
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE
James Policelli
Energy & Environment Consultant
HEALTHCARE COMMITTEE
Michael , Hitcho Insurance Healthcare Committee Member T U N E I N M O N D A Y N I G H T S A T 7 : 3 0 ! O N L Y O N
NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS
Kathleen Trimble, Pinebrook Family Answers Chair, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council
Join Us for the Annual Collaboration Breakfast!
As we look forward to the upcoming year, we are excited to invite you to our annual Collaboration Breakfast on October 8, 2024, at the Ben Franklin Technology Center. This year's theme, "Nurturing a Growth Mindset," promises to infuse our initiatives and events with fresh energy and purpose.
We are thrilled to announce that our keynote speaker will be Elaine Zelker, the renowned author of the book "Zero Limits: Breaking the Boundaries That Hold You Back." Elaine's inspiring journey from a nursing career to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author is a testament to the power of embracing a growth mindset. In her book, she shares invaluable insights
and practical advice for individuals seeking to unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Elaine is also a skilled facilitator and brand strategist, on both the personal and organizational level. . Her expertise in guiding individuals and organizations to discover and articulate their unique value propositions has made her a sought-after speaker and consultant. Her talk will provide a unique opportunity to gain insights into personal and professional growth.
Don't miss this chance to reconnect with colleagues, network with like-minded professionals, and cultivate a growth mindset together. Mark your calendars and join us for a morning of inspiration, networking, and community building. We look forward to seeing you there!
Collaboration Breakfast
Nurturing a Growth Mindset
Tuesday, October 8th, 2024
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from the Chamber Foundation - Annual Meeting and Awards Reception on August 22 at Lehigh Country Club *Photos Courtesy of
7:30 a m - 9:00 a m
Ben Franklin Technology Partners 116 Research Drive, Bethlehem, Pa 18015
$29 Per Person
Sherry Clewell Photography*
Tony & Wendy Iannelli
EASTON AREA
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Forks Community Days
COUNCILS
Saturday, November 23, 2024
6:00 p m - Cocktail hour
7:00 p.m. - Program followed by music and dancing
Aster Event Center
$150 for one | $275 for two Tickets
Photos from the YPC Yappy Hour on August 21st at Seven Sirens Brewing
Photos from the Lehigh Valley Veteran & Military Employee Resource Group Collaborative on September 19th at VentureX
CHAMBER
SEEN! Photos from the 6th Annual Clay Shooting Tournament on September 9th at Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays
GREATER NORTHERN LEHIGH & WESTERN LEHIGH CHAMBERS
WESTERN LEHIGH CHAMBER
Carol Ulrich, The Golderberg Group/Hamilton Crossings Chair, Western Lehigh Chamber
It’s exciting to see how the Western Lehigh Chamber is connecting in many ways throughout its communities. WLCC hosted its annual Paws at the Park back in the Spring, which benefited S.O.A.R. (Starting Over Animal Rescue), and proudly presented a check in the amount of $2,800 to aid S.O.A.R. in continuing to help abused, neglected, and abandoned animals. Considering the day greeted us with torrential downpours, we were still able to successfully raise these funds and have fun with our furry friends in the rain! WLCC is also excited to have received 25 applications for our Community Grants this year, which applicants quadrupled from pre-
vious years! Our Community Grants are funded through the WLCC signage displayed throughout our communities, supported by local businesses. And don’t forget about our annual Holiday Luncheon! Please mark your calendars for our annual Holiday Luncheon, which will be held on December 11th at Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie, a new location this year!! WLCC partners with East Penn Chamber and each year we move the Holiday Luncheon back and forth between our communities, with last year’s being at the beautiful Delta Hotel in Breinigsville. This is a great way to network and enjoy the holidays.
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Mingle at the Movies on August 22nd at Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre
EAST PENN CHAMBER & EMMAUS MAIN STREET
Photos from the Southern Lehigh Summer Concert Series
Exciting Fall Ahead for Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber
Hello everyone! I am Brandon Wimbish, Owner of Farmers Insurance the Wimbish Agency in Hellertown, I am the new Chair for the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Board. The Hellertown-Lower Saucon Area Chamber had a great summer.
We recently wrapped up our Music in the Park series with great bands and wonderful community engagement. We are looking forward to next year's series already. We also had a wonderful Summer Restuarant week and are looking forward to our upcoming Winter Restaurant week. As the page starts to turn to our Fall Chamber season, we have
some great events coming up such as A Taste of Hellertown and Light up night.
We are extremely excited about the next few events, especially Light up Night as it is our biggest event of the year. We will have another full packed schedule for this year and maybe some exciting new features. You'll have to come out to see. Light Up Night is Friday November 29th.
We hope to see everyone there and I look forward to a great year serving as the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chair.
Photos from Uptown Northampton on September 14th
POCONO CHAMBER
Kristine Bush, PA State Senate Chair, Pocono Chamber
Happy Fall from the beautiful Pocono Mountains!
The annual Bizzy Awards Gala in September kicked off our fall event season. The Bizzy’s (think ‘business’) is a spoof on the Oscars with 13 award categories such as Best Business Leader, Best Logo and more. Each year is accompanied by a theme with 2024 being Masquerade. The 200 attendees enjoyed dining, dancing and a live-on-tv awards show at Camelback Resort. October rolls right into community favorite, Pickle Me Poconos Festival on October 5th in the Borough of East Stroudsburg followed by Popcorn and Politics on the 10th. This televised political forum event will host candidates from local legislative races to provide voters with information on relevant issues for the upcom-
ing elections. At the end of the month our Women in Business council will be hosting a vendor showcase so guests can “trick or treat themselves” to some early holiday shopping from an array of local businesses.
Time waits for no one, and the holidays will be here before we know it! We are so fortunate our region offers amazing things to see and do with each season. As we leave behind the rafting, hiking, biking, swimming and numerous other warm weather activities of the summer many are excited to head into skiing, skating and tubing of winter. We hope you will join us at one of our many events to experience the charm and beauty of our towns, local businesses and many fantastic activities. Be well!
CARBON & POCONO CHAMBERS
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from the 18th Annual Carbon Sturm Cup Golf Tournament on September 9th at Jack Frost Big Boulder Mountain Resort
*Photos courtesy of Michael Straub Photography*
Should Your Business Cover GLP-1 Drugs?
4 Facts for Employers to Consider Employers have a vested interest in keeping their employees healthy, and employer decisions about healthcare coverage can play a major role in improving employee wellness. The rising popularity of medications like Ozempic, Zepbound, or Wegovy as weight management drugs has piqued the interest of employers and employees alike. The drugs – technically known as glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, or simply GLP-1 drugs – have long been used to treat diabetes but are relatively new as weight loss medications.
If you’re considering covering these types of drugs for weight loss, there are a few issues you might want to weigh:
GLP-1 coverage can be costly
GLP-1 drugs can cost more than $1,000 per month for an individual, and users of GLP-1s need to stay on the drugs long-term or the weight comes back. Those who stop taking them typically regain two-thirds of the weight they lost within a year. The hefty and recurring cost has led some employers to end or restrict coverage of GLP-1 drugs due to concerns about affordability for both employees and their businesses. Side effects might affect productivity It’s well-documented that obesity can be a cost driver in employee healthcare, fueling absenteeism and undermining productivity. But GLP-1 drugs also have concerning and risky side effects – ranging from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to depression –that can lead to absenteeism or lost productivity.
Some have trouble staying on GLP1s Whether it’s due to high cost, unwanted side effects, or both, the majority of people who start using GLP-1 drugs stop taking them before they see any meaningful health benefit. This can mean a costly expense with no tangible result.
A drug alone won’t keep the weight off GLP-1 drugs generally are not considered a standalone treatment for obesity, which often requires individual, comprehensive medical strategies and lifestyle changes. Exercise, behavioral changes, and even mental health counseling can be helpful to maintaining a healthy weight – and your healthcare plan can help make the difference. If you’re an employer considering (or reconsidering) whether to cover GLP-1 drugs for your employees, taking a comprehensive look at your healthcare coverage can help you decide.
Capital Blue Cross, for instance, can provide in-depth consultations to employers who have its group coverage. Capital’s medical experts examine cost and utilization data in addition to population health metrics to help employers identify healthcare-related issues impacting their employees. In addition, Capital can provide details regarding the prevalence of diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions associated with being overweight to help employers make coverage decisions. This insight can help businesses identify the most affordable, effective healthcare benefits and programs and better manage and support employee health and wellness. For individuals, Capital offers tools to lose weight, prevent diabetes, and even manage or reverse Type 2 diabetes. Capital also offers a wellness program that gives your employees financial incentives simply for taking care of themselves. Medications like GLP-1 drugs might be a helpful tool for some, but there are a host of other health and wellness resources available for your employees – and your business.
(For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)
United Federal Credit Union (United) was recently named one of the 2024 Best Credit Unions to Work For. This annual program was created to identify, recognize, and honor the best employers on workplace culture and business influence. “Without question, the reason we were selected for this award is because of the heart and drive of Team United,” said United President/CEO Terry O’Rourke. “Each day I see our employees come to work with not only passion for their jobs, but a commitment to give their best effort for one another. I am grateful for Team United’s hard work and unwavering dedication to making our workplace a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone at the credit union.”
Good Shepherd Rehabilitation has welcomed groundbreaking robotic exoskeleton technology that made history and a heartwarming viral moment at the Paris Olympics — becoming the first clinical user in the country to utilize this hands-free device to help people with stroke and spinal cord injury to walk. Beginning this summer, Good Shepherd’s specially trained clinical teams have trialed the technology — Wandercraft’s Atalante X — with inpatient rehab patients at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital, 3200 Center Valley Parkway in Center Valley. Later this fall, the exoskeleton will be available for outpatient neurorehabilitation patients at Good Shepherd’s Hyland Center for Health & Technology, 850 S. 5th Street in Allentown.
The KidsPeace Foundation announced that Lesley Holland Fallon has been elected Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Ms. Fallon is a community leader, entrepreneur, and management consultant. In her business career she served as president and chief operating officer of Holiday Hair, a chain of more than 200 salon locations throughout the MidAtlantic region; under her leadership the company saw a 30% increase in annual revenue. Recently Ms. Fallon and her husband Timothy have founded several ventures, including Wine Gadgets (parent company of WineSaverPRO) and Folks Tales, a multi-media legacy sharing enterprise.
The celebration of the 5th edition of the Haydenfilms Online Film Festival will take place in Reading, Pennsylvania on October 25-27, 2024. From drama to comedy to sci-fi to animation, the top 50 films submitted hail from all over the globe, across 6 continents, including a local submission from the Lehigh Valley, “The Retailer,” directed by Jared Haas.
Touchstone Theatre opens its 2024-25 season with a sixth year of Festival UnBound: a five-day celebration full of arts-infused events, performances, and workshops for all. Featuring visual arts, live music, participatory dance, original theatre, community dialogue, and more; the Festival is a unique, hyper-local arts experience taking
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place from October 2-6 at venues throughout Bethlehem. Attendance is free for most events; select events have an admission fee. The Festival includes work by the Touchstone Ensemble, local artists and organizers, and internationally-acclaimed guest artists.
First Keystone Community Bank (FKCB) is celebrating its 160th anniversary on September 21, marking a milestone in community banking. Elaine Woodland, president and CEO, said First Keystone Community Bank is proud of its heritage and remains committeed to its relationship-based business model that focuses on building long-term trust with customers and businenesses.
Unity Bank is inviting classic car owners and local businesses to participate in the 18th Annual Crusin’ Bob’s Classic Car Show, which will be held at the bank’s Clinton headquarters, 64 Old Highway 22 in Clinton, on Sunday, October 27th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will benefit Family Promise of Warren County and Family Promise of Hunterdon County, with all proceeds going directly to these non-profits. Unity Bank employees also volunteer their time to coordinate and support the event.
Timothy L. DeFoor, Pennsylvania’s auditor general, visited Northampton Community College (NCC) today to discuss his department’s expanded career pathways for graduates of accredited associate degree programs. Graduates with majors in accounting, business, data analytics, finance, economics, math, and other closely related fields may now be considered for career opportunities with the Department of the Auditor General. “Our goal is to create pathways to careers and expand opportunities to good jobs to more Pennsylvanians than ever before,” says DeFoor. “As a community college graduate, I can tell you firsthand that associate degree programs offer practical, hands-on training that prepares students for high-demand careers like auditing. That’s why I am so excited to visit with students at Northampton Community College to recruit the next generation of our workforce.”
United Federal Credit Union (United) celebrated its newest region in Allentown, Pennsylvania with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, September 10. United entered the Lehigh Valley market following a merger with GOLD Credit Union on April 1, 2024, followed by a successful system conversion of the credit unions on August 1. Tuesday’s event solidified United’s commitment to its Pennsylvania employees, newest members, and the Lehigh Valley community. “United is thrilled to bring our innovative financial tools and solutions to the Pennsylvania market,” said Meredith Williams, United Regional Vice President. “The Lehigh Valley is a great match to us in terms of future growth and opportunity. Since the merger in April, this community
has embraced us with open arms, and has been eager to take advantage of the vast number of products and services we offer. United looks forward to increasing our impact on our Pennsylvania Members and the community here.”
Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is stepping up children’s dental care with a mobile van – fondly called “Miles of Smiles.” Bringing dental services right to children by visiting the schools they attend, the service is for any child up to age 18 but is primarily concentrated at the elementary level. Miles of Smiles will visit schools that have identified a gap in dental care and will expand their scope as the program progresses.
Capital Blue Cross is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
