CHAMBER CONNECTION
Your connection to the greater Hanover business community.
CHAMBER NEWS
Pages 4-6
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Pages 7-8
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Pages 8-10
EVENTS
Page 11
THANK YOU WORKFORCE SPONSORS
Discover Hanover® 2025 Magazine Available to Read Now
The Chamber's annual tourism and community guide, Discover Hanover® Magazine, is now available to read online.
The print copies of 2025's Discover Hanover® will be distributed mid-January. Each of our members will receive a copy as well as the organizations mentioned in the magazine's articles. You may also pick up the magazine at coffee shops and other businesses around Hanover. Discover Hanover® Magazine and the new Discover Hanover® brochure will be distributed throughout southcentral Pennsylvania as well as high traffic and lodging locations in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and New Jersey.
This year's Discover Hanover® features what's new in Hanover this past year, where to experience arts, culture, and history, information on community wellness, and so much more.
"I am excited for the unveiling of another Discover Hanover®!" states Katie Bream, Editor-in-Chief of the magazine. "This is
my second year on the project and this experience sheds light on just how much Hanover has to offer."
Read Discover Hanover® Magazine 2025 by scanning the QR code.
Thank you to all of the organizations that participated with Discover Hanover® this year and supported our growing tourism brand!
And special thanks to York County and Explore York for funding the project through the York County Tourism Grant Program.
2024 - 2025 COMMUNITY LEADERS
Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce
Chair of the Board
Cynthia Simpson, Utz Brands
Secretary/Treasurer
Ashley Hershey, Brown Plus
Vice Chairs
Jeremy Frey, Barley Snyder
Julia Groft, Manpower
Lesley Zinn, UPMC
Past Chairs
Brandon J. Smith, CFP ®, AAMS™ , Edward Jones
Mike Kelly, Traditions Bank
Board of Directors
Tom Allison, Allison's Plumbing, Heating & AC
Dr. Jay Burkhart, South Western School District
Jon Harris, M&T Bank
Nikki Hoffman, Stambaugh-Ness
Shaun Hoffman, Leonhardt Manufacturing Co. Inc.
Liz Johnides, The Markets at Hanover
Kristin Leese, WellSpan
Drew Little, Conewago Valley School District
Stacy Pitta, Campbell’s Snacks
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Dr. John Scola, Hanover Public School District
Jody Shaffer, YWCA Hanover
Loni Smith, Hanover Auto Team
Brandon Wingert, L2 Brands LLC
Chamber Staff
Sarah Messer, President smesser@hanoverchamber.com
Katie Bream, Marketing and Public Relations Manager
kbream@hanoverchamber.com
Melissa Goodwin, Administrative Coordinator
mgoodwin@hanoverchamber.com
Jake Taylor, Member & Community Relations Manager jtaylor@hanoverchamber.com
Proud Partner of the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce
Meet the Board: Stacy Pitta from Campbell's Snacks
Tell us a little bit about the organization you work for and your role within the organization.
I am the HR Site Lead for the Hanover and Hyannis snack plants for Campbell’s and proud to be a part of such an iconic brand making some of my favorite snacks. Campbell’s was founded as a purpose-driven company and, for over 150 years, the essence of our purpose has not changed: to make food that is delicious, affordable, and prepared with care—food that people love. Our purpose guides the way we think, talk, and act. It shapes the relationships that we have with one another, and the positive impact we aim to have on the world. We believe in the work we do to connect people to each other, to the memories they cherish, and to honest, authentic, delicious food they can trust. Food connects all of us to the people and world we care about. Our purpose is connecting people through food they love—today and for generations to come.
What motivated you to become a member of the Board of Directors for the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce?
Campbell’s has a long history of being involved in the local community. When one of my peers was finishing their board service, I learned of the opening and was thrilled to be able to support the Chamber.
What value do you think the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce brings to the community and the local economy?
I have worked with many Chambers of Commerce in different areas throughout my career and honestly have been impressed with the support and involvement the Hanover Area Chamber provides our community. The Hanover Area Chamber consistently operates at a high level facilitating valuable networking opportunities among local businesses, advocating for their interests to the government, providing access to business services, hosting community events, and generally increasing the visibility of member businesses within the community.
What do you feel is the most impactful aspect of serving on a board for a non-profit organization?
Being on a Chamber of Commerce board of directors provides significant benefits like enhanced networking opportunities, increased community influence, a platform to advocate for business interests, access to key decisionmaking processes, and the ability to shape the direction of the local business community, ultimately boosting your professional and personal impact not only in the community but also to your employer. Being on the board of directors gives you the opportunity to serve your Chamber, community, and employer!
What do you enjoy about Hanover as a community?
I have lived in a border community for most of my life and frequently visit Hanover as an extension of my home. There is so much to do and see. It is nice to be able to join activities and events in a family focused community.
List three (or more) of your favorite things to do in the Hanover area.
Work for Campbell’s Snacks in the Snack Food Capital of the World, dinner out with my family (so many options!!!) and fishing
New Vendor Applications Now Open for Snack Town Street Fair
Reminder: Applications for new vendors for Snack Town Street Fair 2025 will be open in January.
If you are a vendor or organization who has not participated in Snack Town Street Fair before, keep an eye on our website at https://www.snacktownstreetfair.com for the application. Space is very limited for our rapidly growing event.
Snack Town Street Fair will be happening on July 12, 2025 in Downtown Hanover.
Announcing the Winners of the Hanover Chamber's Annual Business Awards
These esteemed organizations have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our community and business excellence. Join us in honoring these outstanding businesses at our annual Awards Ceremony:
Small Business of the Year: So's Taekwondo So's Taekwondo has made a significant impact on our community, fostering discipline, respect, and physical fitness through martial arts training.
Entrepreneur of the Year: CAM Innovations CAM Innovations has shown remarkable innovation
Holiday Luncheon Recap
On December 13th, the Hanover Chamber of Commerce celebrated the Christmas season with the Annual Holiday Luncheon!
We extend our gratitude to everyone who joined us in celebrating the festive season, reflecting on the past year, and looking forward to what the future holds.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, KLK Welding, and our Eggnog Sponsor, The Glatfelter Agency. Thank you to our Table Sponsors, ACNB Bank, Barley Snyder, C.S. Davidson, Fulton Bank, Met-Ed, M&T Bank, Orrstown Bank, OSS Health, Traditions Bank, YWCA Hanover, and WellSpan Health.
and entrepreneurial spirit, driving growth and success in the technology sector.
Positive Action Award: Olivia's House - A Grief and Loss Center for Children Olivia's House provides invaluable support and healing to children and families during difficult times, making a profound difference in our community.
Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Location: Highland Taps & Tables
Price to attend: $40 for members.
Register today to celebrate with us!
We extend our sincere gratitude to the presenting sponsor, Doceo, for their continued support of Hanover's business community.
Legislative Luncheon Dates
Join the Hanover Chamber, local and state legislators, and expert panelists for this year's round of Legislative Luncheons. The luncheons will be held on the following dates:
1st Quarter - January 24, 2025
2nd Quarter - May 2, 2025
3rd Quarter - August 1, 2025
4th Quarter - November 7, 2025
To register for the Legislative Luncheons and to stay updated about the speakers and topics covered, please visit our event calendar to register, or contact Member & Community Relations Manager, Jake, at jtaylor@ hanoverchamber.com.
Thank you to 2025's Legislative Champions, Adams Electric Cooperative Inc. and WellSpan Health.
The Hanover Chamber: A Year in Review
2024 was a great year for the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce!
This past year, 32 new members joined the Chamber and we ended 2024 with a total of 376 active members. The Chamber is pleased to state that it has seen a 91% retention rate among existing members. And as was the case for years past, 90% of our members are small businesses in the greater Hanover area.
This was also a busy year for events. In 2024, the Chamber hosted 19 ribbon cuttings, 9 membership mixers, 4 Legislative Roundtables, and 4 Lunch & Learns. This is in addition to our annual events which includes Snack Town Street Fair, the Golf Outing, and the Holiday Luncheon. The Chamber was also proud to introduce Snack Town Fall Fest to its lineup of signature events, which was a successful community event that we will continue annually.
The Chamber was also proud to sponsor a new apprenticeship program opportunity that is the first of its kind in the Commonwealth. Tech Pathways, pioneered by Hanover Auto Team, became the first Automotive Technician Training Program in the state of Pennsylvania. In addition to this, we have 6 active employers, 15 apprentices, and 9 pre-apprentices participating in our apprenticeship programs.
Thank you to our partners in the community, without whom, our accomplishments would not be possible:
• Hanover Economic Development Corp.
• Adams Economic Alliance
• York County Economic Alliance
• Explore York
• Destination Gettysburg
• Rail Trail Authority
• DCED
• South Central PA Works
• PA Department of Labor and Industry
• Apprenticeship and Training Office
• York/Adams Legislative Delegation
• Local Municipalities
• Local School Districts
• PA State Chamber of Commerce
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Not only did the Chamber embark on its 14th class of Leadership Hanover, but a spin-off of the class was introduced this past year. Youth Leadership Hanover debuted in September of 2024 and the class consisted of five students from each school district in the greater Hanover area. Youth Leadership Hanover is designed to inspire student engagement and cultivate leadership skills within the community, empowering students to become active contributors to the region and to prepare the next generation of leaders.
From the team at the Chamber, we thank our members and our community for a great year and we look forward to more great things to come in 2025!
New Member Spotlight: On The Fly Pest Control
Join us in welcoming new member On The Fly Pest Solutions!
"At On The Fly Pest Solutions we pride ourselves on offering safe and sustainable pest solutions to the Pennsylvania community as well as in Maryland.
Our treatments are all child, pet and environmentally friendly to ensure the safety of our customers.
We offer solutions for general pest, mice, termites, mosquitoes and more.
We're grateful to be a part of the Hanover chamber of commerce which allows us to give back to the community that helps us grow!"
Thank you, On The Fly Pest Solutions, for being a part of our network of members!
Ashley Hershey of Brown Plus Has Been Named Audit Principal
Congratulations to Ashley Hershey for her recent promotion to Audit Principal. Ashley is a member of the Chamber's Board of Directors as well as Secretary/ Treasurer and member of the Executive Committee. Ken Wolfe, CPA, CGMA, President & Managing Principal of Brown Plus released the following letter, commending Ashley for her accomplishment.
"As a client or key contact of Ashley Hershey, I am thrilled to share with you that Ashley will be promoted from Audit Senior Manager to Audit Principal, effective January 1, 2025.
This is an extraordinary accomplishment for Ashley and is incredibly well deserved. Ashley’s promotion to Audit Principal is a testament to her exceptional
contributions as a key member of our team. Over the past decade, she has played a pivotal role in both our Audit and Tax Departments, showcasing her leadership skills and commitment to helping her clients and colleagues achieve extraordinary outcomes. We are incredibly proud of Ashley’s impressive talent, dedication and numerous professional achievements. She has proven herself more than capable of representing Brown Plus as a leader of the Firm.
If you are interested, you can learn more about Ashley’s experience, education, awards and honors, association memberships and community involvement by visiting her bio on our website.
We know that you will join us in congratulating Ashley as we welcome her to our leadership team."
HANOVER AREA YMCA AND YWCA GETTYSBURG & ADAMS COUNTY ANNOUNCE MERGER
Hanover, PA — The Hanover Area YMCA is excited to announce the merge approval with the YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County. As part of this transition, the YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County will dissolve as an independent entity, with the Hanover Area YMCA serving as the surviving organization. This merger represents an extraordinary opportunity to honor the YWCA Gettysburg’s rich 95-year legacy while expanding our collective ability to serve and impact more children, teens, families, and seniors in the region.
Key Highlights of Our Combined Organization:
Employing over 400 dedicated staff members.
Engaging more than 27,000 members and program participants. Operating four membership branches and two early learning childcare centers.
Generating over $2 million annually through fundraising and grants to support our mission.
As we integrate, members and program participants will enjoy expanded benefits, including access to all YMCA locations and services across our network. Additional information on these enhancements will be shared in the coming weeks as we continue this journey together.
Our unified organization brings together over 150 years of combined service to our communities, backed by the commitment of dedicated
volunteer leaders and staff. With expanded reach and resources, we are poised to deliver an enhanced YMCA experience. This includes a broader range of programs, services, and opportunities that reflect the historic strengths of both the Hanover Area YMCA and the YWCA Gettysburg & Admas County.
We are excited to build a stronger future, embracing the transformative potential of this merger. Together, we will create a more significant impact on the communities we serve.
BARLEY SNYDER PARTNER JUSTIN TOMEVI NAMED PRESIDENT-ELECT OF YORK COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
York, Pa. - Barley Snyder partner Justin A. Tomevi has been named President-Elect of the York County Bar Association.
The York County Bar Association (YCBA) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of legal practice and service in York County. With a membership of local attorneys, judges and legal professionals, the YCBA provides resources for professional development, fosters a strong legal community, and works to improve access to justice for all residents. Through educational programs, community outreach, and advocacy, the association plays a pivotal role in enhancing the legal profession and supporting the public interest in York County. Tomevi has served on the board of the YCBA and/or its subsidiary boards for nearly a decade.
"I am honored to be named PresidentElect of the York County Bar Association. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside
talented legal professionals dedicated to strengthening our community and advancing justice,” said Tomevi. “I look forward to collaborating with our members to enhance the practice of law, promote ethical standards, and expand access to legal services for all in York County."
Tomevi is a partner in Barley Snyder's Litigation Practice Group with over a decade of experience in helping businesses, institutions and individuals manage litigation risk, resolve disputes and achieve their goals. He regularly represents clients in state and federal courts across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
Recognized for his legal and community service, Tomevi has earned honors from the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates, Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters and Central Penn Business Journal. In addition to his role with YCBA, Tomevi serves as general counsel for the YMCA of the Roses and as Secretary of its Corporate Board of Directors. He also teaches as an Adjunct Professor at Messiah University and serves on Eastern University's College of Business and Leadership Advisory Board.
BROWN PLUS RANKED A #1 BEST PLACE TO WORK IN PA IN 2024
Marking the Fifth Consecutive Year the Firm Has Been Ranked a #1 Best Place to Work in PA
Camp Hill, Lancaster and Hanover, PA: Brown Plus, a leading accounting and advisory firm with three offices in Pennsylvania, was named Central Penn Business Journal’s (CPBJ) #1 Best Place to Work in PA in the
medium-sized company category in 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Brown Plus has ranked first in the Best Places to Work in PA medium-sized company category and the 21st time the Firm has made the list of the top 100 organizations to work for in Pennsylvania.
“Words cannot express how thrilled we are that Brown Plus has been acknowledged as the top-ranking place to work in Pennsylvania in the medium-sized company category for the fifth consecutive year,” said Ken Wolfe, President and Managing Principal at Brown Plus. “This continued recognition is a true testament to the drive and dedication of our team members, who each make significant contributions to shape our workplace culture. I am incredibly proud to call each and every one of these individuals both a colleague and a friend.”
Brown Plus’ #1 ranking was revealed at the Best Places to Work in PA Awards Celebration on December 12, 2024, at the Lancaster Marriott.
The annual Best Places to Work in PA program is a partnership between BridgeTower Media/ CPBJ, Lehigh Valley Business and Best Companies Group. The award recognizes the top 100 organizations across the Commonwealth based on workplace practices and employee survey feedback, which is the most heavily weighted segment of the two-part process. To be considered, an employer must be a publicly or privately held business; be a for-profit business, nonprofit organization or governmental entity; have a facility within the state of Pennsylvania; have at least 15 full- or part-time
employees working in Pennsylvania; and be in business a minimum of one year. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process and analyzed the data to determine the final rankings.
Brown Plus is proud to have been ranked the #1 Best Place to Work in PA in the medium-sized company category in 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020. Brown Plus was also nationally recognized by Accounting Today as the #3 Best Accounting Firm to Work For in the mid-sized category in 2024.
To learn more about Central Penn Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in PA program, please visit www.cpbj.com/event/best-placeswork-pa/.
UPMC CARLISLE EARNS 2024 ‘LEAPFROG TOP HOSPITAL AWARD’ FOR OUTSTANDING QUALITY AND SAFETY
CARLISLE, Pa. – Dec 18, 2024 –For the second year in a row, UPMC Carlisle was named a Top General Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality. The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive awards American hospitals can receive. UPMC Carlisle is one of only 36 general hospitals in the nation named to this elite class.
“We’re proud to have been named a Leapfrog Top General Hospital for two years running,” said Elizabeth Ritter, president, UPMC Carlisle, UPMC Harrisburg, UPMC West Shore, and UPMC Community
Osteopathic. “This honor is a testament to our dedicated staff and providers who work tirelessly to prioritize patient safety and the highest quality standards every day.”
Elena Dailey, M.D., vice president of medical affairs, UPMC Carlisle, attended the 2024 Leapfrog Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C. on Dec.17 to accept the award.
Nearly 2,400 hospitals were considered for the award but only 134 Top Hospitals were selected, including eight Top Children’s, 36 Top General, 15 Top Rural and 75 Top Teaching.
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh was named among the eight 2024 Leapfrog Top Children’s Hospitals.
The quality of patient care across many areas of hospital performance is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors. The rigorous standards are defined in each year’s Top Hospital Methodology.
UPCOMING UPCOMING events events
HANOVER CHAMBER ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Highland Signature Events Banquet Room | 925 Westminster Ave, Hanover, PA
$40 / Member Rate. Heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. Cash bar available. Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
MEMBERSHIP MIXER & RIBBON CUTTING: BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY
Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Berkshire Hathaway | 880 Carlisle St, Hanover PA
Complimentary to members, $15 Community rate | Register at hanoverchamber.com/events/calendar
MEMBERSHIP MIXER: INET TECHNOLOGY
Thursday, March 13, 2025 | 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
iNet Technology | 1000 Carlisle St,Ste. 1350, Hanover PA, 17331
Complimentary to members, $15 Community rate | Register at hanoverchamber.com/events/calendar
To view all Chamber events as well as events hosted by Chamber members and community members, visit our Event Calendar on our website at hanoverchamber.com/events/calendar
