September 2024 Connections

GREATER LEHIGH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SEPTEMBER 2024

The Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum is on Thursday, October 3.

Explore the diverse array of industries thriving in the Lehigh Valley.

Learn best practices, efficiencies, economic outlook and updates from Harrisburg and DC! (See PG. 5)

FEATURED BUSINESS: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE (PG. 7)

TRUSTED FOR

QUALITY PRO INSTALLATION & DIY MATERIALS LARGE IN-STOCK INVENTORY

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Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 1

CHAMBER STAFF DIRECTORY President & CEO Tony Iannelli........................................610-739-1513 President & Chief Executive Officer tonyi@lehighvalleychamber.org Assistant to the President, Chamber Foundation, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council Lorie Reinert........................................610-739-1597 Executive Director, Chamber Foundation and Nonprofit & Business Partners Council Liaison lorier@lehighvalleychamber.org Member Relations, Marketing & Sales Frank Facchiano...................................610-739-1515 Chief Operations Officer, EVP, Member Relations frankf@lehighvalleychamber.org Gina Martens.......................................610-739-1511 Senior VP, Member Relations ginam@lehighvalleychamber.org Alison Pickel........................................610-739-1512 Senior VP, Member Relations, Veterans & Military Council alisonp@lehighvalleychamber.org Paige Nicholas ....................................610-737-0565 VP, Major Events & Small Business Council Liaison paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org Ellie Andino..........................................610-739-1000 Director, Communications & Design elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org Bailey Muhl.........................................610-349-9776 Member Relations Manager baileym@lehighvalleychamber.org Sofia Groves ........................................610-802-2380 Coordinator, Member Relations sofiag@lehighvalleychamber.org Joseph Groves......................................610-349-8226 benefits@thechamberhealthmarketplace.com Government Affairs & Business Matters Leo Rooney...........................................610-739-1642 Vice President, Government & External Affairs and Producer, Business Matters leor@lehighvalleychamber.org Isabelle Jabbour..................................610-810-6412 Assistant Manager, Government & External Affairs isabellej@lehighvalleychamber.org Diversity Councils African American Business Leaders Council, Hispanic Chamber, LGBTQ Business Council, Women’s Business Council, Young Professionals Council Danielle Joseph...................................484-226-0128 Executive VP, Diversity Councils daniellej@lehighvalleychamber.org Brittany Keal.......................................610-295-9824 Vice President, Diversity Councils brittanyk@lehighvalleychamber.org Hannah Stott........................................484-668-0390 Manager, Diversity Councils hannahs@lehighvalleychamber.org Sabrina Olivo.......................................484-547-8970 Manager, Diversity Councils sabrinao@lehighvalleychamber.org Chambers of Commerce Allentown Area Chamber & Downtown Allentown Business Alliance Brittney Ciardi ....................................484-828-9765 Senior VP, Allentown Initiatives brittneyc@lehighvalleychamber.org Vaughan Bryant...................................484-226-6323 Manager, Allentown Initiatives vaughanb@lehighvalleychamber.org Liz Martin ............................................484-834-9693 Allentown Chamber Associate lizm@lehighvalleychamber.org Bethlehem Chamber & Downtown Bethlehem Association Tammy Wendling................................610-739-1775 Senior VP, Bethlehem Initiatives tammyw@lehighvalleychamber.org Claire Boucher.....................................610-349-2180 Manager, Bethlehem Initiatives claireb@lehighvalleychamber.org

Ty Versocki............................................610-739-3385 Manager, Downtown Bethlehem Association tyv@lehighvalleychamber.org Evelyn Caron........................................610-810-7841 Assistant Manager, Downtown Bethlehem Association evelync@lehighvalleychamber.org Easton Area Chamber, Phillipsburg Area Chamber, Forks Business Association Caitlin Hamlin......................................610-739-1520 Manager, Easton & Phillipsburg Area Initiatives caitlinh@lehighvalleychamber.org Erin Deutsch.........................................484-264-6630 Assistant Manager, Easton & Phillipsburg Area Initiatives erind@lehighvalleychamber.org Affiliated Chambers (East Penn, Emmaus Main Street Partners, Hellertown-Lower Saucon, Greater Northern Lehigh, Southern Lehigh, Western Lehigh, Whitehall, Nazareth Area, Greater Northampton Area) Jessica O’Donnell-Gower....................610-573-4010 Executive VP, Affiliated Chambers, Northern Tier and Easton & Phillipsburg Initiatives jessicao@lehighvalleychamber.org Aaron Gasparetti..................................610-349-1532 Manager, Affiliated Chambers (GNACC, HLSC, NACC & WACC) Elyse Cuttic...........................................484-834-7868 Assistant Manager, Affiliated Chambers (GNACC, HLSC, NACC & WACC) elysec@lehighvalleychamber.org Hayden Rinde .....................................484-828-9777 AVP, Affiliated Chambers (EMSP, EPCC, SLCC & WLCC) haydenr@lehighvalleychamber.org Emily Brosky .......................................610-739-1273 Coordinator, Affiliated Chambers (EMSP, EPCC, SLCC & WLCC) emilyb@lehighvalleychamber.org Northern Tier (Carbon County and Pocono Area) Kylie Adams-Weiss .............................484-548-4090 SVP, Carbon Chamber & Economic Development kyliea@lehighvalleychamber.org Sarah Wallace.......................................484-547-8551 Director, Pocono Chamber sarahw@lehighvalleychamber.org Sierra LeFurgy......................................610-295-9047 Assistant Manager, Pocono Chamber sierral@lehighvalleychamber.org Lindsey Dedics.....................................484-280-3024 Coordinator, Pocono Chamber lindseyd@lehighvalleychamber.org

CHAMBER BOARD OF GOVERNORS Tom Groves, Equinox Benefits Consulting Chair, The Chamber I know you’re hearing it here first, but summer went way too fast! But now time at the beach is behind us and the kids are back in school. As we transition into fall, I want to update you on what The Chamber’s volunteers and staff have planned to ensure a great membership experience through the end of the year and into 2025. Your Chamber membership signals that you operate a reputable business and a great workplace. Beyond that, Chamber events offer an essential opportunity to expand your network through experiences that are relevant, informative, and entertaining. Exciting Fall Events to Look Forward To: · Allentown BeerFest on Saturday, September 7 · Carbon Chamber Sturm Cup Golf Tournament on Monday, September 9 · Whitehall, Greater Northern, and Veterans Clay Shoot Tournament also on Monday, September 9 · Pocono Chamber Bizzy Awards on Thursday, September 12 · The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala on Friday, September 13 · The Lehigh Valley Fall Manufacturers Forum on Thursday, October 3 · The Nonprofit & Business Partners Council Fall Collaboration Breakfast on

Tuesday, October 8 · The ATHENA Awards Celebration on Tuesday, October 29 · The Chamber Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7 These are just a few of the significant, Valley-wide events planned for the coming months. Additionally, your local chambers, business councils, and government affairs and public policy committees are continually working to provide a wide range of informational, business, social, and professional development events and programs tailored to your needs. Stay Connected: For more details, be sure to check LehighValleyChamber.org, keep an eye on our weekly Chamber emails, and don't miss your copy of the monthly Connections publication. You can also reach out directly to any Chamber staff member or volunteer for more information.

Raise Your Profile: If your goal is to build your business by expanding your network, consider sponsoring and attending events that align with your objectives. There's no better way to enhance your visibility and connect with other leaders in the community. We’re looking forward to a productive and engaging fall season, and we can’t wait to see you at these exciting events!

Accounting & Billing Department Dawn Werkheiser................................610-751-4980 Chief Financial Officer dawnw@lehighvalleychamber.org Tina Marte............................................610-739-5422 VP, Finance & Quality Processes tinam@lehighvalleychamber.org Rose Caras............................................610-739-1612 Finance & Database Manager rosec@lehighvalleychamber.org

Board of Governors Executive Committee Chair, Tom Groves, Equinox Benefits Consulting Tony Iannelli, The Chamber, President & CEO Vice Chair, Laurie Hackett, Air Products Treasurer, Jeff Berdahl, RLB Accountants Secretary, Bret Ludlow, Liquid Counsel, Buddy Lesavoy, Lesavoy Butz & Seitz LLC Imm. Past Chair, Mary Lisicky, Morgan Stanley •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Danielle Adams-Wiltshire, QueenSuite Paul Anthony, IBEW 375 Krista Berardelli, Agentis Plumbing Michael Butz, Alvin H. Butz, Inc. Luis Campos, City of Easton Dorota Gasienica-Kozak, The KingSpry Law Firm Lou Fromm, Fromm Murtaza Jaffer, EBC Printing Marilyn Kelly-Cavotta, PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Andrew Lawler, West Side Hammer Electric Buddy Lesavoy, Lesavoy Butz & Seitz, LLC Donna LoStocco, First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union

Scan here to watch the latest episodes!

Designer/Editor/Layout/Sales: Ellie Andino, Communications Director, The Chamber • Articles: Chambers, Councils, Staff & Various Contributors • Printer: TN Printing

2 | Connections Magazine

mark your calendars! please note: all dates, times, and locations are subject to change. please refer to our online events calendar for the most up-to-date schedule!

Thursday, September 5

6-8pm - Phillipsburg Summer Concert Series - Dr. Dick (Free Event) Saturday, September 7

1-5pm - 7th Annual Allentown Beer Fest September 8 - September 14

Nazareth Shop Local Week

11:30am-12:30pm - Eberhardt Motors' 100th Anniversary & Ribbon Cutting (Free Event) Tuesday, September 17

5-7pm - Economic Empowerment Series Presented by African American Business Leaders Council

7-9am - Carbon County's Economic Outlook

Thursday, September 26

4:30-9pm - Chamber Night with the IronPigs! The Biggest Networking Event of the Year!

5-6pm - Platinum Star Cleaning Easton Ribbon Cutting (Free Event)

Monday, September 9

Wednesday, September 18

8am-3pm - 18th Annual Carbon Sturm Cup Golf Tournament

4-6pm - Viking Pest Control Bethlehem Grand Opening Celebration (Free Event)

8:30am-1pm - 6th Annual Clay Shooting Tournament Tuesday, September 10

4-6pm - United Federal Credit Union Branch Celebration (Free Event) 5-6PM CreekView Dental Easton One Year Celebration Ribbon Cutting (Free event) Thursday, September 12

Wednesday, September 25

5pm - Iceland Trip Info Session (Free Event) Thursday, September 19

5-7pm - Springhill Suites by Marriott Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting (Free Event)

5-6pm - Fidelity Bank Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration (Free Event) Monday, September 30

5-9pm - A Toast to Our Community at Lost Tavern Brewing (Free Event) Tuesday, October 1 - Saturday, October 5

5-7pm - Allentown Design Week (Free Event) Tuesday, October 2

5:30-7:30pm - Lehigh Valley Veteran & Military Employee Resource Group Collaborative

11:30am-1pm - Her Path to Public Service presented by the Women's Business Council

6-8pm - Phillipsburg Summer Concert Series - Little Red Rooster Band (Free Event)

5:30-7:30pm - Falling for Flavors Tasting Event at Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Saturday, September 21

Thursday, October 3

11:30am-1pm - Chamber President's Roundtable with Pete Ruggiero, CEO of Crayola

11am-3pm - Farewell to Summer Fest (Free Event)

7:30-11am - Carbon County: State of the County

5-7pm - B Social Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting (Free Event)

11:30am-1:30pm - Wrenchtec Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening Celebration (Free Event)

8:30am-12pm - Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum

5-7pm - Fall in the Fairgounds (Free Event) 6-8pm - Phillipsburg Summer Concert Series - Timewhys (Free Event) Friday, September 13 - Sunday, September 15

Tuesday, September 24

11:30am-1pm - How Can I Help: A Luncheon Conversation on Hunger in East Penn & Western Lehigh

4-5pm - Maximize Your Membership at Wind Creek Bethlehem 5-7pm - Signature Networking

Forks Township Community Days Friday, September 13

8-10am - Building Brighter Futures: Addressing the Early Childhood Crisis presented by the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation 6pm - Hispanic Chamber Annual Awards Gala Saturday, September 14

11am-4pm - Uptown Northampton Street Fair (Free Event)

CONNECTIONS INDEX:

Affiliated Chambers........................................................23 Allentown Area...............................................................10 Ambassadors & Small Business Councils.........................11 Bethlehem Area..............................................................17 Carbon & Pocono Chambers............................................29 Chamber Events Calendar...............................................2 Chamber Staff Directory..................................................1 Diversity Councils...........................................................20-22 Easton Area....................................................................18 East Penn Chamber & Emmaus Main Street Partners.......25 Greater Northern Lehigh & Western Lehigh Chambers.....24

Greater Northampton Area Chamber..................................28 Nazareth Area & Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chambers ........27 Lehigh Valley Economic Report......................................... 6 Southern Lehigh Area & Whitehall Area Chambers.............26 New Members...................................................................8-9 Member News...................................................................32 Nonprofit & Business Partners Council & Chamber Foundation..13 Phillipsburg Area...............................................................19 Public Policy......................................................................12

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 3

UNVEILING NEW BEGINNINGS! Celebrating a grand opening or anniversary?

Contact Paige Nicholas at paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org

K.V. Knopp Funeral Home 46 E Susquehanna Street, Allentown, PA 18103

Aloha Jay's Malasadas 1120 Main Street, Unit A, Hellertown, PA 18055

Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant 950 Lehigh Lifestyle Center, Lehigh Valley Mall Whitehall, PA 18052

JuxtaHub Groundbreaking 375 South 10th Street, Emmaus, PA 18049

Watch Me Swim 3553 Apollo Court, Orefield, PA 18069

Raising Canes 6240 Hamilton Boulevard, Allentown, PA 18106

4 | Connections Magazine

THE CHAMBER'S BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR!

PRESENTED BY:

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.

Join us as we entertain, inform and turn the spotlight on our members through special appearances, updates and award presentations!

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.

Scan Here to Reserve your spot today!

PLUS MUCH MORE!

Email Frank at frankf@lehighvalleychamber.org to become a sponsor!

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 5

PRESIDENT'S ROUNDTABLE

PRESIDENT'S ROUNDTABLE

Thursday, September 12

Thursday, October 17 The Ever-Changing World of Insurance!

WHERE: Thyme 100 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042 11:30AM Lunch 12 - 1PM Program $100/person Limited Seating!

Tom Groves

Meet Peter Ruggiero President & CEO Crayola, LLC

CONTACT LORIE AT LORIER@LEHIGHVALLEYCHAMBER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

CEO, Equinox Benefits Consulting

WHERE: Lehigh Country Club 2319 S Cedar Crest Blvd Allentown, PA 18103

John Yurconic

CEO, The Yurconic Agency

11:30AM Lunch 12 - 1PM Program $100/person Limited Seating!

CONTACT LORIE AT LORIER@LEHIGHVALLEYCHAMBER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

THE LEHIGH VALLEY MANUFACTURING FORUM Thursday, October 3, 2024 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Delta Hotels by Marriott Allentown Lehigh Valley

Scan to learn more!

7736 Adrienne Drive Breinigsville, PA 18031

Unlock opportunities and drive innovation at the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum – where professionals connect, collaborate, and shape the future of our local industries.

6 | Connections Magazine

LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMIC REPORT Dr. Kamran Afshar, Chamber Chief Economist The Chamber’s Finance Committee 610-691-3272 • ka@kaa-inc.com The Growth Rate of Retail Sales Has Slowed After the COVID shutdowns, retail sales exploded upwards, rising by more than 18% in 2021, followed by another historically high increase of 9% in 2022.

During these two years, retail sales increased by more than $150 billion, equal to 8 years of pre-pandemic increases combined, causing the highest inflation in 40 years. The growth rate of retail sales dropped to a much more normal 3.6% in last year, and in the last 12 months, its growth at a rate of 2.3%.

The COVID shutdowns created a sizable pent-up demand. The government transfer payments ballooned disposable income, creating the perfect storm.

Huge demand was met with trillions of dollars of windfall money, spiking consumer expenditure sky-high. During the first six months of this year, retail sales have increased by only 0.2%, a significant drop from 3.3% during the same period of last year and 6.8% in the year before.

Adjusted for inflation, retail sales have decreased this year; however, it is still 12% above its pre-pandemic

high. Restaurants were among the biggest losers of the Covid shutdowns and its immediate aftermath. However, the market soared to new heights for those businesses that survived the crisis. They are making record-breaking sales almost every other month. In May, their sales reached another record at $90 billion, 50% above its pre-pandemic high.

Our expenditure patterns have changed significantly in the last 50 years; in the early 1970s, we spent 16% of our budget on food and only 8% on medical care.

This equation has reversed; today, we spend 16% of our budget on medical care and only 8% on food! We spent between 5 to 6% of our budget on motor vehicles and parts 50 years ago, now that number has dropped to 4%. And it is interesting to note that we have reduced our expenditure on clothing from 7 to 3% of our budget in the last 50 years and it shows! Contrary to the common belief, we are not buying everything online! According to the Census Bureau, only 16% of all retail trade is done

through e-commerce. However, the increase in e-commerce sales is six times faster than other modalities. There are two major indicators used to forecast retail sales demand. Disposable income is the primary, and the consumer sentiment index is a secondary indicator of future consumer expenditure plans.

Over the last 12 months, disposable personal income is up by 4.1%. Adjusting for inflation, our real purchasing power is up 1.4%, indicating improved financial situation; however, the Consumer Sentiment Index has dropped below last year’s level, indicating a modest in-

crease in demand. On the supply side, the relative size of retail inventories is a key indicator for forecasting future supply. Over the past 12 months, retail inventories have grown by 5%, whereas sales have only increased by 2%. This has led to a significant accumulation of excess inventory. Accordingly, we expect a smaller increase in demand in to meet a larger increase in supply, leading to more sales signs with bigger discounts hanging around longer in the coming months.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 7

F eatured B usiness

Won’t You Be Our Neighbor?

Written by Gina Loiacono, Community Engagement & Grants Manager, Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley

It’s early June 2024, and the Habitat Lehigh Valley construction staff rolls their trucks into a desolate parking lot just off Main Street. The sun is high in the sky and shining, as the morning fog lifts and the haze burns off the ground on a muggy, hot day. They unload their vehicles, ready for one of their largest projects to date - renovating Hellertown’s beloved Neighbors Home and Garden Center into Habitat Lehigh Valley’s new, additional ReStore location.

The farmhouse sitting on Main Street casts a shadow over the lot and reminds staff and volunteers it is a place to cool off from the sun and will house office and conference space for HLV staff and volunteers. On the other side of the main entrance sits the barn and deck area, where retail and event space potential patiently wait.

In early 2024, it became clear to the Habitat Lehigh Valley staff the organization needed to grow in order to better serve the Lehigh Valley community. As the Neighbors property sat vacant for nearly four years, it was a space begging to be utilized for the surrounding community and by the surrounding community.

How could Habitat Lehigh Valley honor Neighbors’ rich tradition of being a Hellertown staple and spread their mission of building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter?

Proudly anticipating an October 30, 2024 grand opening, the Habitat Lehigh Valley Hellertown ReStore, located at 38 Main Street, Hellertown, PA 18055, will be Habitat Lehigh Valley’s second ReStore location - a sister store to the already existing Whitehall ReStore, located at 1053 Grape Street, Whitehall, PA 18052. Habitat Lehigh Valley’s programs serve those seeking affordable homeownership and critical home repairs throughout our local community, but the ReStore component of the organization will now extend its reach and service capability to even more Lehigh Valley families. Both locations operate Tuesday Saturday from 10am to 4pm for donations and Wednesday - Saturday from 10am to 6pm for shopping.

When you shop at the ReStore, you are doing more than just saving money on new and gently used items. Every purchase of furniture, home decor, building supplies, and more at the ReStore generates funds that funnel directly back into the organization in order to build and repair more homes in Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Every donation dropped off at either ReStore location becomes another purchase that generates those funds. Habitat Lehigh Valley believes in supporting our future homeowner and home repair families with a hand up - not a hand out - and when you support the ReStore locations by donating, shopping, and volunteering, you are helping provide that hand up for low to moderate income families right here in Northampton and Lehigh Counties.

The Whitehall and Hellertown locations thrive on supporting the local community. All revenue from the ReStore builds and repairs local homes, both in the Homeownership and Critical Home Repair Programs. We accept donations from local families, businesses, contractors, builders, etc.

Habitat Lehigh Valley builds locally, repairs locally, and serves locally. ReStores are crucial to the success of the Habitat for Humanity mission. Without them, providing affordable housing options for our neighbors is not possible. The funding secured from the ReStore’s sales is unrestricted and supports building endeavors for the most vulnerable community members in our area - single mothers, Veterans, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. At Habitat Lehigh Valley, our Critical Home Repair Program, now in both Lehigh and Northampton Counties, depends on grant and ReStore funding in order to serve our

low to moderate income friends and neighbors at no cost to them.

Supporting the ReStore means supporting your neighbor…supporting your community. What does it mean to be a good neighbor? A good neighbor sees the needs around them and works with others to address those needs. A good neighbor lends a helping hand. A good neighbor supports their local community. At Habitat Lehigh Valley, we address the needs of the affordable housing crisis in the Lehigh Valley.

We work with our community partners to support our homeowners and help our home repair clients safely age in place. We steadfastly commit to serving, shopping, donating, building, and volunteering locally. We can’t wait to see you beginning Tuesday, September 10th for donations only and Wednesday, October 30th for our grand opening!

It may not be the Neighbors property anymore, but the Habitat Lehigh Valley ReStore is a new neighbor in Hellertown…a neighbor that believes every family deserves a decent place to live and that every family should have access to a local community filled with opportunity and sustainability. Your new Hellertown neighbor promises endless possibilities and the limitless gift of helping others build their home and their dreams.

For more information about Habitat Lehigh Valley, its mission, and the ReStore locations, visit www.habitatlv.org or call 610-776-7499 today!

Habitat Lehigh Valley ReStore - Whitehall Hours: Donation Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM Shopping Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM Habitat Lehigh Valley ReStore - Hellertown Hours: Donation Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM, beginning Tuesday, September 10th Store Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM, GRAND OPENING Wednesday, October 30th

8 | Connections Magazine

Food Service

ALLENTOWN | EASTON | STROUDSBURG

DEDICATED PEOPLE • INNOVATIVE MINDS PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! FAMILY LAW • BUSINESS SERVICES EMPLOYMENT LAW • REAL ESTATE LITIGATION • ESTATE PLANNING • TAX LAW CRIMINAL DEFENSE • MUNICIPAL • SPORTS LAW

SERVING THE LEHIGH VALLEY AND BEYOND

www.GrossMcGinley.com 610.820.5450

Attorneys, Judges & Legal Services

Ojeil Law Patrick Ojeil 573 Long Lane Road Walnutport, PA 18088 484-201-9093 www.ojeillaw.com Barbers & Barber Shops

Flow Factory Barbershop 639 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042 610-330-2779 Business Consultants, Developers & Incubators

Katherine Jones Communications Consulting Katherine Jones 1636 North Cedar Crest, #208 Allentown, PA 18104 610-417-6557 www.kjonescc.com

Cleaning & Janitorial Services, Equipment, Restoration & Bio-Hazard Remediation

Compleat Restorations Natalie Dorshheimer 974 Marcon Boulevard, Suite 220 Allentown, PA 18109 717-738--2121 www.compleatrestorations.com Entertainment & Festivals

Doctor Jay's Comedy Milieu Janear Hankerson Bethlehem, PA 18015 610-748-7093 www.docjaycomedymilieu.com Exterminators

Viking Pest Control - Bethlehem Alicia Maresco 3400 Bath Pike, Suite 100 Bethlehem, PA 18017 800-618-2847 www.vikingpest.com

Chef Night Tonight Sara Miler 29 Dansbury Terrace East Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-534-4038 www.chefnighttonight.com Foundations

Leo's League Pediatric Cancer Fund Laurie Merkel P. O. Box 25 Orefield, PA 18069 484-265-1350 www.leosleague.org Grocery, Convenience & Meat Stores

Emmaus Stop & Go Urvesh Patel 1146 Chestnut Street Emmaus, PA 18049 215-554-9968 Health & Wellness Products and Services

Around the Clock Nursing Carolyn Hoffman 3136 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18031 610-433-9980 Elixir Health and Wellness Yuliya Semenovych 1021 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 985-492-0404 www.elixirlv.com Pocono Community Pharmacy II Kelly Pennell 175 E Brown Street, Suite 107 East Stroudburg, PA 18301 570-664-8226 Home Care- Non Medical

Bayada Habilitation (Bayada Home Health Care) Danielle Ralph 961 Marcon Boulevard Allentown, PA 18109 484-795-5920 www.bayada.com Lagom Care Brian Miranda 1405 North Cedar Crest Boulevard, Suite 108 Allentown, PA 18104 484-816-8600 www.lagomcare.com

Home Improvement & Remodeling

Roof Maxx Matt Boyer 445 Deerfield Drive Nazareth, PA 18064 484-903-3408 www.roofmaxx.com Interior Design & Decor

SJ Interiors LLC Shweta Jajodia 3711 West Chew Street Allentown, PA 18104 832-247-8281 www.sjinteriors.com Investment Services

Conrad Siegel James Kehr 501 Corporate Circle, P. O. Box 5900 Harrisburg, PA 17110 717-652-5633 www.conradsiegel.com Manufacturing Services

Royal Industries Ari Ruden 1131 North Plymouth Street Allentown, PA 18109 718-369-3046 www.royalindustries.com Photographers & Photography Studios

McKinney Media Carter McKinney 306 South New Street, Suite 110 Bethlehem, PA 18015 484-222-5062 www.mckinneymedia.co Real Estate Agents, Brokers and Other Services

JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Jim Andrews Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-297-0070 www.jdogjunkremovalrdsc.com Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

Alibi Bar & Lounge Orwa Makhoul 203 East 3rd Street Bethlehem, PA 18015 610-882-3888 www.alibibarandlounge.com

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 9

Bonefish Grill - Whitehall Martin Kempfe 901 Lehigh Lifestyle Center Whitehall, PA 18052 610-264-3476 www.bonefishgrill.com Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers Gregory Elchert 6240 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18106 833-442-2637 www.raisingcanes.com The Wicked Chef Georgiann Moniak 279 Cetronia Road Allentown, PA 18104 484-274-6022 www.thewickedchefpa.com Retail Sales

Tat My Luggage Verona Gaynor 1850 Union Street Allentown, PA 18104 877-513-5203 www.tatmyluggage.com

Schools

At Any Age Swim Academy Kyra Uniejewski 104 Michael Lane Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-350-5620 www.atanyageswinacademy.com Security Guard and Patrol Services

Alpine Security Guard Services Elijah Eigene 750 South Hall Street Allentown, PA 18103 610-333-7586 Surveyors

New Office in Bethlehem, PA!

Taylor Wiseman & Taylor David Nowicki 2158 Avenue C, Suite 205 Bethlehem, PA 18017 856-235-7200 www.taylorwiseman.com

Services Land Surveying

Geospatial Services

Site/Civil Engineering

Infrastructure Design & Analysis

Transportation Engineering

Subsurface Utility Engineering

Environmental Geology

Construction Inspection Services

CONTACT US (484) 754-8797 info@taylorwiseman.com

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ

VINELAND, NJ

BLUE BELL, PA

Connect with us!

Lehigh Valley Chamber lehighvalleychamber @glvcc Lehigh Valley Chamber Lehigh Valley Chamber

2158 Avenue C, Suite 205 Bethlehem, PA 18017

BETHLEHEM, PA

APEX, NC

CHARLOTTE, NC

10 | Connections Magazine

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Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 11

AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL Bill Benz Carnegie Agency Chair, Small Business Council

I am thrilled to assume the role of Chair of the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council, continuing the exceptional work of Ben White, President of Supporting Strategies Lehigh Valley.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 season, we’re focused on driving economic development by hosting engagement opportunities for our members. Welcome Lisa Pammer, Founder and CEO of Green Pond Packaging, as our newly elected Vice Chair.

This year, we are excited to invite the Nonprofit and Business Partners Council to co-host this year’s Snowball Gala with the beneficiary, our own Main Street Lehigh Valley Foundation.

Excellence in Business Awards—Recognizes the outstanding achievements of organizations within our community. Start thinking of those businesses that have made a positive difference.

Lehigh Valley Business Summit—We are thrilled to announce

not one but two business summits in the spring and fall. Feedback about our AI panel, emceed by Byron Roth, Byron Roth Consulting, and TAB Lehigh Valley on AI, was overwhelming. Mark your calendars. Part 2 is in the works.

Masterminds Program—Tailored to ignite growth within existing chamber organizations, these sessions offer practical advice and innovative approaches in operations, finance, talent acquisition, and marketing, helping one another navigate business challenges.

The Small Business Council's vision and mission are to promote small business growth and sustainability in the Lehigh Valley while increasing member engagement by providing key business program initiatives, stewardship, and outreach through the exchange of ideas and best practices.

I am eager to get started and look forward to collaborating with each of you to achieve our shared goals.

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from Maximize Your Membership on August 1st at Madeline's

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PUBLIC POLICY LVPC WINS AWARD FOR INNOVATIVE WATER PROTECTION

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission is being recognized for its innovative efforts to protect our environment. The Water Resources Association of the Delaware River Basin has awarded the LVPC the 2024 Innovation and Collaboration Award - Government Awardee.

The Water Resources Association (WRA) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization representing water professionals, water purveyors, and commercial, industrial, and maritime river users. WRA promotes the science-based management of water resources within the Delaware River Basin to protect all water-dependent uses and enhance the longterm sustainability and resiliency of the river system. The LVPC won this award for its long history of protecting the environment, and more recently for its innovative Priority Climate Action Plan and the Lehigh Valley Green Transportation Infrastructure Plan, which proposes adding green infrastructure to 522

acres of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation rights-of-way along Route 22, 33 and 378.

Last year’s awardee was the Philadelphia Water Department for its Climate Change Adaptation Program (CCAP) which provided a roadmap for Philadelphia and others to develop an actionable risk-based approach to planning, design, operations, and management of drinking water, stormwater management, and wastewater treatment.

In announcing this year’s award, the WRA said LVPC’s “innovation, leadership and dedication make a real difference to the health of the Delaware River Basin and our communities. We are excited to promote your collaborative approach to addressing climate change as a template for others.”

The award will be presented during WRA’s Awards Gala, Thursday, September 12th at the Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia.

The 21st Season of Business Matters will air Monday, September 16th, 7:30pm ONLY on 69 WFMZ-TV!

TUNE IN!

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE Owen O'Neil, Executive Director, LANTA Transportation Committee Member

LANTA’s EBS Rapid Transit a Key Part of 2024 Musikfest A cooperative effort between LANTA, the Bethlehem Parking Authority (BPA), and ArtsQuest was well received at this year’s Musikfest in Bethlehem.

LANTA’s Enhanced Bus Service (EBS) rapid transit service through Bethlehem connects parking assets with destinations on both sides of the river. During Musikfest, the BPA sponsored an additional shuttle route, the Gold Line, to increase service frequencies to the ten EBS stations in Bethlehem’s business districts. Along with the existing EBS Blue and Green lines, buses arrived every 10 minutes or less at designated stops in the Musikfest zone. During the 10-day event, the EBS Blue, Green, and Gold Line shuttle system provided approximately 8,000 rides to people shopping, dining, and enjoying the festival. The partnership also allowed for a fully accessible mobility plan for the

2024 festival.

BPA has been a regional leader in coordinating with LANTA, marketing the phrase “Park Once and Ride” and promoting the hashtag #ParkOnce. These efforts encourage visitors to park in any garage facility and feel comfortable riding EBS services across the river to any destination. The impact of these efforts will result in congestion mitigation, increased access to businesses, and more equitable distribution of parking management resources across the City.

LANTA looks forward to building upon these partnerships to offer similar options at the other festivals in Bethlehem and to having a consistent Musikfest shuttle plan that festival goers can become more familiar with and use in greater numbers in coming years.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 13

NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS COUNCIL & CHAMBER FOUNDATION

NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS Kathleen Trimble, Pinebrook Family Answers Chair, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council

Embracing Growth: A Year of Achievements and Exciting Plans As summer unfolds, we hope you’re enjoying the warmth and relaxation. The Nonprofit and Business Partners Council has been hard at work, planning for an exciting new year! Last year, our programming—focused on the timely theme of AI and the Intersection of Technology and Humanity—resonated with our community. The pinnacle of our efforts was the Collaboration Conference held at DeSales University in April, drawing over 250 attendees and garnering much positive feedback..

But we’re not ones to rest on our laurels.

As we dive into planning for the upcom-

ing year, we’ve unanimously chosen our guiding theme: Growth. This theme will infuse our initiatives and events with fresh energy and purpose.

Make sure to mark your calendars for our annual Collaboration Breakfast on October 8, 2024, at the Ben Franklin Technology Center. Under the banner of Nurturing a Growth Mindset, this event promises valuable networking opportunities and a chance to reconnect with colleagues after a summer apart.

Join us as we cultivate growth and community—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

MAIN STREET LEHIGH VALLEY Jody Piagesi, Northampton Pool & Patio Chair, Chamber Foundation

On August 22 the Chamber Foundation held its annual meeting and grant awards program, touting over $1million and counting. The Foundation invested directly into the community for beautification and covid emergency grants, and over $12 million leveraged so far in community development projects.

Many elected officials, sponsors, board members and recipients gathered to celebrate 15 new community beautification projects getting underway across the valley. In Lehigh County there will be additions of picnic tables in the Slatedale park to give residents a place to sit while they visit the newly constructed pickleball courts, dog park and accessible playground. Emmaus is adding a colorful community mural; the 19th Street Theatre district in Allentown will display beautiful new planters to encourage more walking and visiting businesses and restaurants; in Alburtis, new pole banners will create a sense of community pride, Coopersburg is adding outdoor seating; and the Parkland Library will also create a peaceful(? Or a better word) new space.

In Northampton County, the town of Nazareth will have a new kiosk to keep residents informed; Catasauqua will no longer cut and truck their Christmas tree – instead they’ve opted to plant one and decorate it in a space where the community can gather; the Northside of Bethlehem is adding beautiful planters; Easton is adding bicycle racks as part of a major overhaul of the Delaware Canal Park on the D&L Trail, and Hellertown will add historic signage giving some significance to the bridge trussell built in the 1800s that still remains. Our Northern tier is also growing – with the addition of beautiful landscape enhancements in Jim Thorpe and Lehighton; 150th anniversary decorations in Bangor; and hometown heroes banners in East Stroudsburg. We hope you willget out and visit all of these special main streets throughout the year. They and you play an important role in supporting the Chamber’s mission of improving the economy and quality of communities in the Greater Lehigh Valley.

The Fine Feather Foundation recently completed a mural dedicated to bringing awareness to mental health. Located on 9th street between Hamilton and Walnut, the “Symbols of Freedom” artist Monica Salazar worked with kids from the Excelsior Summer Camp to complete the mural with suport from Lehigh Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance, Community Action Allentown, The Chamber Foundation and Allentown Mural Arts.

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Bring the Team for a Night of Tuesday Networking and Fun! 9-17-24

$35 Per Person includes:

-Appetizers, drink ticket, and game Networking start at 4:30 PM Game start at 6:45 PM

Register: web.lehighvalleychamber.org/events

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 15

HOST YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY PARTY HERE! Matera

Tony & Wendy Iannelli

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce presents...

Southern Italy & Sicily

featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

Join Tony & Wendy Iannelli

September 26 – October 8, 2025 13 Days • 20 Meals Palermo, Monreale, Agrigento, Valley of the Temples, Piazza Armerina, Giardini Naxos, Taormina, Strait of Messina, Winery Tour & Tasting, Matera, Sorrento, Positano, Pompeii

Join Us for a Travel Preview!

Book today! 610-351-6400 www.centennialeventcenterpa.com

Wednesday, October 15, 2024 at 5:00 PM Bethlehem Chamber Office

RSVP to Lorie Reinert at lorier@lehighvalleychamber.org

16 | Connections Magazine

Find out how you can be featured! Contact Ellie at elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org for more information!

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 17

BETHLEHEM AREA Downtown Bethlehem Association presents

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2024 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Live Entertainment Beer, Wine & Soup Trails Local Vendors & Crafts Family Friendly visithistoricbethlehem.com/harvestfest

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EASTON AREA

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 19

PHILLIPSBURG AREA

CHAMBER SEEN! Photos from Phillipsburg Concert Series

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Annual Awards

DIVERSITY COUNCILS

GALA Saturday, November 23, 2024 6:00 p.m. - Cocktail hour 7:00 p.m. - Program followed by music and dancing

Aster Event Center 621 Grange Road, Allentown, PA 18106

Tickets $150 for one | $275 for two

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The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce presents

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Da Vinci Science Center 815 W. Hamilton Street Allentown, PA 18101

Tickets

$175 for one ticket $325 for two tickets Contact daniellej@lehighvalleychamber.org for sponsorship opportunities PLATINUM SPONSOR

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Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 21

DIVERSITY COUNCILS

2024 LGBTQ ANNUAL AWARDS

OCTOBER 18 | 6PM-10PM

The Centennial Catering & Conference Center at Homewood Suites, Center Valley

The LGBTQ Business Council’s eighth LGBTQ Annual Awards Gala is a stylish semi-formal event held to raise awareness and celebrate the achievements of our community in the greater Lehigh Valley!

CIVIC THEATRE OF ALLENTOWN Community Grant Recipient

KAREN WIDRICK, EDGE Ally of the Year

ERIC CUTTING, BLENDED Trailblazer of the Year

Single Ticket: $100 | Couples Ticket: $190 Sponsor | sabrinao@lehighvalleychamber.org

The Women’s Business Council presents

2024-2025 YPC Student of the Year!

ATHENA Awards Ceremony

For Women Who Empower Women

ATHENA Emerging Professional Leadership

ATHENA Leadership

ATHENA Organizational Leadership

Chloe Cole-Wilson

Vicki Doulé

ASR Media

Project Silk Lehigh Valley

Capital Blue Cross

Northampton Community College Undergraduate Learn More: www.lehighvalleychamber.org

Date and Time: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Members $60 Future Members $90

Where: ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem RSVP: Scan QR code or contact daniellej@lehighvalleychamber.org

Presenting Sponsor

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DIVERSITY COUNCILS

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from Party on the Patio hosted by the LGBTQ Business Council

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from the Veterans & Military Council Board Planning Session

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 23

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS

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GREATER NORTHERN LEHIGH & WESTERN LEHIGH CHAMBERS

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from 8th Annual William George Mini Golf Outing & Membership Picnic on July 25th at Bear Rock Junction

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 25

EAST PENN CHAMBER & EMMAUS MAIN STREET PARTNERS

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SOUTHERN LEHIGH & WHITEHALL AREA CHAMBERS SOUTHERN LEHIGH CHAMBER

Hal Warner, Lehigh County Humane Society Chair, Southern Lehigh Chamber

Greetings! I’m Hal Warner, CEO of the Lehigh Valley Humane Society and the current chair for the Southern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce.

I’m super excited to continue working with the Chamber in service to the people and animals of the Lehigh Valley.

The SLCC has a number of exciting events coming up and I hope you can find the time join us for a few of them. On October 10th we will be hosting the annual Octoberfest at Link Beverages. This is a great networking event that features lots of great beverages and food and even a live brass band for entertainment.

Tickets are only $10!

One of our primary focus areas is raising funds for a scholarship awarded each year to a Southern Lehigh student. Our first fundraiser for this project is a fall mum sale that is supported by Tilley’s Nursery. $10 vouchers can be purchased on the Chamber website and redeemed in store for an 8” mum.

On November 30th we will host the annual Coopersburg Tree Lighting from 6-8pm. This is an amazing event with lots of food, beverages and fun activities for kids of all ages.

We hope to see you at some of our upcoming events.

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from Berkshire Hathaway Center Valley Mixer

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 27

NAZARETH AREA & HELLERTOWN-LOWER SAUCON CHAMBERS

CHAMBER SEEN! Photos from Martin on Main on July 27th

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GREATER NORTHAMPTON AREA CHAMBER GREATER NORTHAMPTON AREA CHAMBER David Kerper, Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group Chair, Greater Northampton Area Chamber

SUMMERS OVER - BUT STILL PLENTY TO DO IN GREATER NORTHAMPTON What a summer it's been for the Greater Northampton Area Chamber of Commerce! In addition to our normal everyday initiatives, we kicked off our event season with the "Spuds and Spurs" event in Bath on June 15. July saw us cooling off at the ever-popular Hillside Mini Golf and Ice Cream, in Allen Township where connections were made over scoops of delicious frozen treats. But we are not done - YET! Mark your calendars for September 14, when we host our signature event - the 35th Annual Uptown Northampton Street Fair on Main Street. This beloved community gathering showcases the best our area has to offer, from local artisans to mouth-watering food vendors. We're still accepting applications, so don't miss this chance to showcase your business to thousands of attendees.

As we reflect on these events, we're reminded of what makes our Chamber truly special: the people. Our small but mighty board works to keep Northampton great, but we need your help to continue growing. We're seeking volunteers to join the Greater Northampton Area team, as your unique perspective could be the key to unlocking new opportunities for our area. Joining is a low-risk, low time commitment opportunity, that has many benefits including making new valuable connections.

After all, people prefer to do business with those they know and like. Join us - because together, we're not just good, we're great!

To learn more about available volunteer opportunities, or to sign up for street fair contact me at 540-220-3766 or dkerper@redrobinpa.com.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 29

CARBON & POCONO CHAMBERS CARBON CHAMBER

Patrick Reilly, Mauch Chunk Trust Company Chair, Carbon Chamber

September is a very busy month for CCEDC beginning with the highly anticipated 18th Annual Sturm Cup Golf Tournament at the picturesque Jack Frost National Golf Club, in Kidder Township on Monday, September 9th . Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the tournament begins with a shotgun start at 9:00 am. Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking to showcase your skills or a casual player seeking a fun-filled day on the course, the 18th Annual Sturm Cup Golf Tournament is an event not to be missed.

If you are an avid “indoorsman”, like me, plan to attend the MCT Economic Outlook on Tuesday, September 17th at the Hofford Mill, 500 Bridge Street,

Weissport. Guest Speaker, Dr. Edmond J. Seifried, Co-Chairman Emeritus, Seifried and Brew, Professor Emeritus of Economics and Business at Lafayette College and educator for community bank boards and staff is back by popular demand. Doors open at 7:00 a.m. Come for the breakfast - stay for the Economic Outlook!

Looking ahead to October, the CCEDC will host their 2024 “State of the County” at Blue Mountain Resort, followed by a great bus trip to our state capital with Senator Argall! Whether you’re looking to focus locally or get an inside look at how our state government is run, there are ample ways to learn and network as we look ahead to the fall!

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Melanoma: The Less Common but More Dangerous Skin Cancer Amber loved the tanning bed at her local salon.

Unlimited access for a mere $19.99 a month? She could swing that, even as a college student. So Amber rolled the tanning bed into her normal routine. “What started as a couple of times before a dance or trip, turned into a relaxing activity that I began to enjoy and do more regularly,” Amber writes on aad.org, the American Academy of Dermatology website.

“I didn't think much about it.” She thinks about it now, and has done so ever since her physical therapy professor noticed a “funny looking mole” on her tummy one day during a PT lab. A week later, at just 23 years old, Amber was diagnosed with stage II malignant melanoma.

The Most Serious Skin Cancer As we continue through the dog days of summer, Amber’s sobering story serves as a warning siren to limit our exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, be they from natural sunlight, sun lamps or tanning beds. “Melanoma is far less common than many other skin cancers,” said Dr. Jeremy Wigginton, Capital Blue Cross Chief Medical Officer. “But it’s also far more dangerous because of its greater likelihood to spread to other areas in your body if it’s left undetected and untreated for too long.” Dr. Wigginton says you also can lower your risk through commonsense UV-lessening measures such as seeking shade, using sunscreen, clothing as much of your body as you comfortably can, and wearing hats and sunglasses.

The toll

Melanoma is diagnosed less than 2% as often as nonmelanoma skin cancers in the United States, yet is up to four times more fatal, with the NCI estimating nearly 8,000 deaths in 2023. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) doesn’t break down its reported $8.9 billion annual skin cancer cost by cancer type, melanoma’s serious nature requires more ongoing and expensive treatments, so it likely comprises a larger percentage of the price tag than more common skin cancers. Employers can help through skin cancer education initiatives, and by offering quality healthcare that offers necessary preventive and treatment coverage. Many Capital Blue Cross plans cover preventive visits for skin cancer screening and counseling with a healthcare provider, and many Capital plans also help members cover treatment for diagnosed skin cancers.

Amber’s Arithmetic It’s a good thing her professor spotted that “funny looking mole” several years ago.“Little did I know she saved my life,” Amber writes on aad.org.

But that doesn’t mean it’s been smooth sailing. Far from it. Amber reports that her melanoma has required 38 excisions, 67 stitches, and 27 dermatologist appointments, and generated seven abnormal pathology reports, 19 scars, and a chest x-ray.

Math that makes that $19.99 a month seem like much less of a bargain.

(For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)

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Member News The Bach Choir of Bethlehem returns home from their European tour to Germany and Austria, feeling more connected than ever to our sister city of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and to our city’s roots in Germany.

The Choir’s journey through Germany was part of a larger mission to serve as cultural ambassadors, fostering harmony and collaboration across borders. From the historic Bachfest Leipzig to the spiritual Moravian town of Herrnhut, the Choir carried a message of unity and cultural exchange. Executive Director Leela Breithaupt expressed, "Our visit marks the beginning of a new era for the sister city relationship that began in 1991 but had been largely dormant for many years. As we stand together, we rekindle that bond and pledge to keep this connection active and vibrant.”

Gross McGinley is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Catherine E. Sears. Attorney Catherine E. Sears joined Gross McGinley in July 2024 and immediately became an integral part of the Wills, Trusts, and Estates practice group. Catherine was raised in Chester County and returned to the Lehigh Valley area after attending law school and beginning her career in Virginia, where she lived for ten years. A graduate of William and Mary Law School, Class of 2017, Catherine started her legal career in Williamsburg, Virginia as a Clinic Fellow, then as a Law Clerk, and then as an Associate Attorney at The Peninsula Center for Estate and Lifelong Planning.

KidsPeace announced that it has received a $4,500 grant from the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania to support youth in care with peer engagement activities. The grant covers youth receiving services through the KidsPeace Foster Care and Community Programs (FCCP) office in Bloomsburg, PA. The grant comes from FCFP’s “Pearls With A Passion” Fund, and will be used to support the office’s efforts to give those youth the opportunity to participate in interest-based, social and recreational activities.

Iliza Martinez-Mondschein of Bethlehem looks at her son, now 18 months, and sees two miracles. Frank “Frankie” Mondschein was born at St. Luke’s Anderson Campus on January 24, 2023, an IVF baby – and the first miracle. The second miracle was the blood transfusions Martinez-Mondschein received soon after giving birth that possibly saved her life. Martinez-Mondschein had lost a lot of blood during delivery via C-section. The next day while she was recovering in her hospital room, she felt weak. “I couldn’t hold my son,” she recalls. Next thing she knew she passed out.

Bloodwork showed she had a dangerous iron deficiency and low platelet count. She needed a blood transfusion right away, and thanks to Miller-Keystone Blood Center, blood was immediately available.

This fall, Northampton Community College (NCC) is excited to announce several new academic programs as it continues to meet the needs of its students and communities, all while continuing to offer a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid course options across its 120+ programs and majors.

McKinney Media invites prominent networking groups and organizations from the Tri-State area to join us for a premier networking event at Venture X Bethlehem on January 3, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm EST. This event will connect entrepreneurs, artists, content creators, and professionals in the Lehigh Valley’s dynamic coworking space. Venture X Bethlehem provides the perfect backdrop for fostering meaningful connections, with McKinney Media offering professional headshots and engaging photo opportunities. We are also seeking a top-tier catering partner to deliver exceptional food and manage sales directly to guests.

programs. In addition, she will oversee human resource-related duties in the following functional areas: employee relations, training, recruitment, benefits, affirmative action, and employment policy.

Ryan Kern recently joined HRG as a senior project manager. He is responsible for providing municipal and transportation engineering services to clients throughout the Lehigh Valley region and beyond.

HRG assists with the planning, design, and management of community infrastructure like roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, and commercial developments.

Via of the Lehigh Valley is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has elected a new member, Sedgwick L. Harris, Ed.D. Harris is Vice President of Administrative Affairs at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Master of Arts degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University, and Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University.

McKinney Media is excited to announce the expansion of our service offerings to include 360° virtual tours and drone videography! Specializing in professional photography, videography, and innovative marketing strategies, McKinney Media is your go-to partner for elevating your brand’s visual impact. Our state-of-the-art equipment and creative expertise ensure that your brand stands out in today's competitive market.

On July 26, Moravian Church Settlements was inscribed on the prestigious World Heritage List at the World Heritage Committee meeting in New Delhi, India. Moravian Church Settlements of Bethlehem, USA; Herrnhut, Germany; and Gracehill, Northern Ireland/UK now join Christiansfeld, Denmark (inscribed in 2015) as a single World Heritage Site that represents the outstanding universal value of these historic settlements and the worldwide influence of the Moravian Church.

The Board of Directors of The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Musselman, as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 19, 2024. Musselman succeeds Karen Shoemaker, who will retire August 31 after 25 years of dedicated service. With an impressive track record spanning over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, Musselman brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to The Arc. She currently serves as President/CEO at Martha Lloyd Community Services, based in Troy, Pa., where she led the transformation of programs and services to a more community-inclusive model.

Via of the Lehigh Valley is pleased to announce the promotion of Jenna Trach as Vice President of Human Resources. As Vice President, Trach will lead the human resources team and provide human resource guidance to the organization. She will be responsible for the overall administration, coordination, and evaluation of the human resources department and

Agentis Plumbing is excited to announce the addition of Krista Berardelli to their team as the new Business Development Director. Krista joined the company in July 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for building strong customer relationships. In her new role, she will focus on expanding Agentis Plumbing's brand awareness and presence throughout the Lehigh Valley.

The hard lessons former NFL running back Rocky Bleier learned early in life helped him to overcome adversity and reach his goals both on and off the football field. This former Pittsburgh Steelers teammate will share his message in a motivational evening on Monday, Nov. 4, sponsored by the Lehigh Carbon Community College Foundation. Proceeds will benefit scholarships for veterans. The event will be held from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Glasbern Inn in Fogelsville.

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation recently welcomed Daniel D. McNeill, DO, and Tariq Rajnarine, MD, as new physicians to the rehabilitation network. Dr. McNeill serves as medical director of Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital (3200 Center Valley Parkway in Center Valley), which features 76 private rooms, leading technologies and CARF-accredited inpatient rehabilitation programs for stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, limb loss and complex medical rehabilitation. He comes to Good Shepherd from the Reading area. Before joining Good Shepherd, Dr. McNeill most recently served as regional director of rehabilitation services at Rehabilitation Associates’ Mid-Atlantic Region and physician, chief executive officer and owner of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. He also served as medical director at Patient Care Home Health Reading and medical director at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Reading. Also based out of Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital in Center Valley, Dr. Rajnarine is medical director of Good Shepherd’s Brain Injury Program. Prior to joining Good Shepherd, Dr. Rajnarine served as an attending physician in both the stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation programs at Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation in Philadelphia. During his tenure, he also co-established and was the clinical director of Klein Family Parkinson’s Rehabilitation Center.

Submit your press releases to Ellie Andino at elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org to be featured in this section!

Please note: submission does not guarantee placement.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce | 33

More high fives.

Less crossed fingers.

Capital Blue Cross is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.