Lancaster Thriving Spring 2026

SPRING 2026

SETTING THE TABLE FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS

From farm to table to tourism, discover how the business of food fuels Lancaster County’s economy.

Inside Business Features pgs. 10, 13, 15, 18, 21, 24 Community Collaboration in Action pg. 19 Built on Craftsmanship pg. 22

“

Value my perspective.

Have a conversation with me.

Monet Elverson

Using AI to take notes, so your provider can be fully present.

Because the next big thing in healthcare is you

Yes, you. See how at WellSpan.org/You

Setting the Table for Economic Success

Contents 11

The Better Way Values-driven financial planning strengthens business stability, growth and long-term decisionmaking confidence.

14

Saving Local News in Lancaster What the shift to nonprofit journalism means for Lancaster’s business community and future sustainability.

6 Kegel’s Produce

Multi-generational leadership and innovation are strengthening Lancaster County’s agricultural and food economy.

Lancaster County favorites, showcasing the depth and diversity of the region’s culinary scene. Featured are Mekatos Eatery at Southern Market, Miller’s Ale House, Decades, Oola Bowls, Denim bouquet provided by Central Market Flowers.

Photo: Food features from Annie Bailey’s

16

COVER PHOTO: A vibrant table set with an assortment of

Coffee, Plough, Stoltzfus Meats and Salt & Sugar Bakery. Flower

Lancaster County’s food industry is more than a collection of restaurants—it is a dynamic, interwoven economic ecosystem.

Agriculture, local sourcing, global cuisine, tourism and hospitality work together to fuel growth across the region. From farmers and chefs to national events and small business partnerships, this feature explores how collaboration and culinary diversity position Lancaster County’s dining scene as a powerful driver of sustainable, countywide economic success.

10, 13, 15, 18, 21, 24 Inside Business Features

Highlighting Lancaster County businesses and how their practices strengthen growth, collaboration and a resilient countywide economy.

28 | Out & About: Member Ribbon Cuttings & Grand Openings 29 | Welcome New Members 30 | Lancaster Chamber Upcoming Events 31 | Lancaster Chamber Member Anniversaries

Spread the Word #LCThriving #LancasterThriving #HoffPubs #LancChamber

A Letter from Heather Valudes

President & CEO of the Lancaster Chamber

O

ne of the things that makes Lancaster County such a

compelling place to do business is that success here is rarely defined by a single moment or milestone. It is

shaped over time, through relationships built across industries, thoughtful planning and a shared commitment to reinvesting in the communities where we live and work.

That mindset shows up repeatedly across our business community. Whether a company has been rooted here for generations or is building its next chapter, there is a clear understanding that long-term growth is strongest when it is collaborative, intentional and connected to place. That approach is part of what makes doing business in Lancaster County unique.

This issue of Thriving! explores how those shared practices influence the way our local economy functions. The stories in these pages highlight businesses and organizations that look beyond short-term wins, choosing instead to invest in people, partnerships and systems that support sustained success.

From food and agriculture to finance, manufacturing, media and community-based organizations, each example reflects a broader culture of cooperation and stewardship.

You will read how Lancaster County’s food economy operates as an interconnected network, where restaurants, farms, distributors and service providers rely on one another to grow responsibly. You will hear from multi-generational businesses

At the Lancaster Chamber, this perspective guides our work every day. We exist to support businesses not only as individual enterprises, but as contributors to a countywide economy that is strong, adaptive and inclusive. When businesses succeed here, it is often because they are supported by a network that values long-term thinking and collective progress.

As you move through this issue, I encourage you to consider how your own organization fits into that larger picture. How are you investing for the future? How are your partnerships shaping the communities you serve? These questions matter because the answers help define what Lancaster County’s economy will look like for generations to come.

Thank you for being part of a business community that understands that growth is most meaningful when it is shared.

Warmly,

balancing tradition with innovation, and from organizations demonstrating how cross-sector collaboration strengthens both our communities and the workforce. Together, these stories show that economic resilience is not accidental. It is built through deliberate choices and shared responsibility.

4 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Heather Valudes President & CEO, Lancaster Chamber

Stand out as an employer with benefits that actually feel personal.

Rising costs and changing expectations make benefits decisions more complex than ever. Horst Insurance helps you personalize coverage while supporting employees’ financial wellness in the face of inflation.

Together, we create a benefits package that’s sustainable for your budget and compelling for your team.

Personalize your benefits with Horst Insurance!

The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

EDITOR & CONTENT MANAGER: Justin W. Johnson Director of Marketing & Communications, Lancaster Chamber jjohnson@lancasterchamber.com Aliyah Mengel Marketing & Communications Coordinator amengel@lancasterchamber.com

©2026 All rights reserved.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

Protecting What Matters To You® 717-560-1919

Lancaster Thriving!

is published quarterly by Hoffmann Publishing Group, Reading, PA • 610.685.0914 HoffmannPublishing.com

HorstInsurance.com/ commercialinsurance RISK MANAGEMENT | PERSONAL INSURANCE

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE | EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Publishing Group

Hoffmann Publishing Group is the official publisher of the Lancaster Chamber’s Thriving! magazine.

Thriving!

For Advertising Opportunities: contact Ad Sales at Sales@HoffPubs.com or call 610.685.0914 x715 Lancaster Thriving! Magazine Online at LancasterChamber.com

LancasterChamber.com

5

Setting The Table for Economic Success:

The Business of Food in Lancaster County Photo: Miller’s Smorgasbord

I

n Lancaster County, we focus on quality ingredients—but that expands well beyond a food recipe. It’s a mindset that transcends what’s on the table to how the overall dining industry blends agriculture, tourism, hospitality and a unique combination of local traditions plus global influences to establish a critical economic pillar for our County. The industry continues to shift, elevate and transform as we look to what’s next in Lancaster and how we maintain intentional, positive growth within Lancaster County dining.

Plants to Plates The agriculture and farming industry in Lancaster County proves invaluable for restaurants. “Lancaster County’s agriculture sector is exceptionally strong compared to the rest of the state, producing roughly six times more economic output than the average Pennsylvania county, and that strength directly supports our restaurant community,” says Ezra Rothman, President of the Economic Development Company of Lancaster County. “Our deep base of local farms gives chefs access to fresh, high-quality ingredients, which helps differentiate Lancaster’s dining scene. In turn, restaurants that prioritize local sourcing help sustain small and mid-sized farms, creating a mutually reinforcing local economy.”

6 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

It’s a symbiotic relationship between local farms and restaurants.

“Sourcing locally is critical to the success of both Plough and The Exchange,” says Mia Carlson, Director of Restaurants at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square. “When we work with local farmers, markets and producers, we’re not just elevating the quality and freshness of what we serve—we’re reinvesting in the local economy, supporting jobs and preserving the agricultural heritage that defines this region.”

With many farmers’ markets, dairy farms and local grocery stores, there is no shortage of fresh ingredients for menus across the County.

Global Influence & Local Traditions Lancaster boasts a history of flavors rooted in Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions while welcoming global influences shared by many refugees and immigrants who have moved here.

For instance, Stoltzfus Meats brought their handmade meats and Pennsylvania Dutch recipes to the New Castle Farmer’s Market in 1952 and continued to grow, now offering a restaurant featuring their time-honored traditions.

Ron Buitrago, Owner at Mekatos Eatery at Southern Market In addition, Lancaster welcomes global options to coincide with these traditional flavors, creating a delicious cultural collision, which is represented well at Southern Market Lancaster.

“Everybody is so welcoming to our food and open to trying something different,” says Ron Buitrago, Owner of Mekatos Eatery, a Colombian and Laos stand at Southern Market. He is grateful to Lancaster for accepting his cuisine. “You don’t understand how good it feels when somebody loves your food.”

experiences—like the 2024 Women’s US Open at the Lancaster County Country Club. Food was key in making it successful. “I provided breakfast and lunch for about 125 guests for seven consecutive days at the US Open in 2024,” says Emily Gisselle Gonzalez, Owner of GEMs Catering, LLC. Emily also owns Inna’s Pierogies, based in Lititz. “It was an incredible experience that helped elevate my business and opened many doors for me.”

Other award-winning favorites like Passerine, The Belvedere, Bulls Head Public House, LUCA, Bube’s Brewery, Shady Maple and Chellas also keep Lancaster County in headlines nationwide—further strengthening the area as a foodie destination.

Guests can experience everything from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch to authentic Nepalese, Greek, Irish, Mexican and more—all in one community. This blend of traditional and global has made Lancaster stand out and succeed due to delicious diversity.

The Tourism Impact Lancaster has long been a destination for tourists, historically seeking to explore Amish culture and cuisine. Whoopie pies, pot pie, scrapple, donuts and other traditional treats have been featured in many restaurants and tourist destinations ranging from nationally known Miller’s Smorgasbord and Achenbach’s Pastries to attractions like Kitchen Kettle Village and Dutch Apple Dinner Theater.

“Lancaster County’s heritage of hearty, Pennsylvania Dutch cooking has welcomed in more recent years the addition of delicious upscale, international and diverse dining and drink experiences in Lancaster City and beyond,” says Jeff Vasser, President & CEO of Discover Lancaster. “This rich culinary combination continues to draw the enthusiastic attention of visitors from all over, not to mention the appreciation and support of residents as well.”

There is no sign of tourism to the area slowing down anytime soon.

“Tourism plays a vital role across all of our businesses at Thomas E. Strauss, Inc., from Miller’s Smorgasbord and Smokehouse at Plain & Fancy Farm to AmishView Inn & Suites and our retail shops,” says Tom Neely, CEO of Thomas E. Strauss, Inc. “According to Discover Lancaster’s most recent data, Lancaster County welcomes more than 10 million visitors annually who generate approximately $2.7 billion in economic impact, and dining is an essential part of how those visitors experience the destination.”

It isn’t just tourists choosing Lancaster as a destination.

Large, national events look towards Lancaster for quality

The classic acai bowl at Oola Bowls Collaboration for Local & National Growth A culture of collaboration and mutual support within the culinary industry has proven to be critical in creating a foundation of success that expands beyond the Lancaster area while also drawing people to it. “Lancaster’s food scene is one of our most important assets—and personally one of the things that inspired me to move to the city five years ago,” says Cara Cherry, Managing Director at Fig Industries.

“I’m proud to be part of a team that believes in supporting our locally owned restaurants, and I’m equally honored to get to partner with other businesses and organizations who also want these small businesses to shine.”

With organizations like the Lancaster Chamber, the Lancaster City Alliance, Discover Lancaster, the Lancaster Tourism Alliance, ASSETS and the Economic Development Company of Lancaster County, along with media partners like Fig and Lancaster County Magazine, there is a collective push to elevate small businesses—like restaurants—for sustainable growth.

“We just had such a great opportunity to start Oola Bowls in Lancaster, where we have a supportive community and a place that’s open to adopting new concepts and being trendforward,” says Joe Ferderbar, Co-Founder of Oola Bowls.

The business has now expanded nationally, including stands within Hersheypark and shops in Florida and Massachusetts.

LancasterChamber.com

7

A couple celebrating at Decades

Featuring Flavor: A Refreshed Lancaster City Restaurant Week

“It gave us the confidence to take it into larger markets outside of Central Pennsylvania.”

It all started with an idea: how do we best collaborate as restaurants in downtown Lancaster?

Not only is the area a launchpad for expansion, but it also draws businesses to choose Lancaster in their expansion strategy.

A few restaurants near Penn Square in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, started an event called “On The Square,” which became the foundation for Lancaster City Restaurant Week, the bi-annual culinary celebration that began in 2014 and has now grown to include around 50 restaurants.

“We had been visiting open storefronts for years before finding our current location,” says Matt Ramsay, Founder/ Owner of Denim Coffee. “While Lancaster had a phenomenal coffee scene already, we knew Lancaster was on a growth trajectory and still had room for our offering. It is our responsibility and honor to be part of the tremendous hospitality offered by the Lancaster community.”

Having the resources for businesses to both start here and expand here is a great asset to the local economic landscape.

“When it all started, many of us still had the mindset that some people were hesitant to come to downtown Lancaster,” said Chris Trendler, Founder of Lancaster City Restaurant Week. “We have seen the weeklong event evolve drastically in that time to include all City restaurants that want to participate, not just those near the square.”

A Future of Flavors This article is just a glimpse of the expansive dining Lancaster has to offer—there is also a crucial beverage pillar featuring local liquor, craft beer and wine, while a robust lineup of bakeries, confectionaries and creameries is spread across the County, adding to the eclectic experience mix.

Chris helped start Lancaster City Restaurant Week and continues to manage the event along with a small team.

He has since also started the Lancaster Craft Beerfest and Decades—the latter a popular retro arcade, bowling alley, bar, restaurant, events space and seasonal ice cream bar in the City of Lancaster.

With a multifaceted landscape of agriculture, farms, purveyors and restaurants; a combination of storied traditions and global influences; an ever-growing demand for tourism and a platform for local and national expansion, the restaurant industry within Lancaster County showcases an expansive, interlocking strategy for economic success.

“We love participating in Restaurant Week because it gives us the opportunity to come up with creative specials,” says Chris Grove, Owner of The Gloomy Rooster at Southern Market. “Last year, one of the specials even ended up becoming a full-time menu item.”

As margins continue to be tight, and with consumer confidence rapidly swinging in different directions, we all must do what we can to support restaurants and their sphere of impact—from buying gift cards to taking staff out for team building.

As we look to what’s next, there is always room to grow—and with a continued focus on collaboration, resource-sharing and multi-sector integration, the Lancaster County restaurant industry is poised to be a major economic factor in both the local and regional landscape. LT

BY TONY GORICK,

Sales and Marketing Manager, Decades Contact Tony at tony@decadesbowl.com

8 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

The success of the week is also attributed to key community sponsors that help make it possible to not only promote the event but keep it free for any restaurant within the City of Lancaster to participate.

Annual sponsors include the Lancaster City Alliance and Downtown Investment District, Discover Lancaster, The Restaurant Store, Toast, Decades, Sysco Foods and Chuck Honabach Realty.

“The collaboration of Lancaster City restaurants is crucial to the success of the vibrant dining scene Lancaster has to offer,” adds Chris. “Through collaboration coordinated

by Lancaster City Restaurant Week, our goal is to support downtown restaurants and create a strong citywide culinary destination for local customers and tourists alike.”

Spring Lancaster City Restaurant Week is Monday, April 13 through Sunday, April 19, 2026. Explore the newly-designed website at lancastercityrestaurantweek.com. LT

MAY 28, 2026 4PM - 9PM LANCASTER COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

ORDINARY PEOPLE. EXTR AORDINARY IMPACT. For Lancaster County, success isn’t the result of a single breakthrough moment.

It comes from consistent effort and collaboration of businesses, industries, and people, whose efforts strengthen our region and create a thriving community for all.

The Lancaster Chamber’s Annual Dinner returns May 28, 2026, and we invite you to join us for an evening of celebration, connection, and renewed commitment to the work that keeps Lancaster County moving forward.

MEET THE SPEAKER:

MALCOLM GLADWELL Malcolm Gladwell is the author of eight New York Times bestsellers, including his most recent book, Revenge of the Tipping Point. He has been named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People and one of Foreign Policy’s Top Global Thinkers. An extraordinary speaker, Malcolm has an unparalleled ability to be both entertaining and challenging, meeting the needs and exceeding the expectations of each unique audience with his signature eloquent, warm, and humorous delivery.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

L A N C AS T E R C H A M B E R A N N U A L D I N N E R . C O M

LancasterChamber.com

9

Inside Business feature

DESIGNING WITH PURPOSE IN LANCASTER COUNTY

Founded in 1954, RLPS Architects has built its practice around organizations that exist to care for people, educate future generations and strengthen communities. What began as a collaboration between Monroe Haak and S. Dale Kaufman on an elementary school project evolved into a firm nationally known for senior living design and regionally for education and commercial work. With its Lancaster office established in 1965—and serving as its headquarters since 1975—RLPS has grown while remaining intentionally mid-sized.

The firm provides feasibility studies, master planning, architecture and interior design services. Its client base includes senior living communities, K-12 schools, colleges and mission-driven organizations. Choosing to remain mid-sized allows RLPS to combine personal accessibility with deep technical expertise. Many of the organizations it serves share long histories and community-focused missions, reinforcing the firm’s own values.

At the core of RLPS’s operations is its internal mission: listen, create, serve. Listening comes first. By carefully understanding a client’s long-term vision and concerns, the firm develops solutions that genuinely support their mission.

That mindset is visible in projects such as Landis Place on King, Southern Market and the Lancaster Chamber building.

Each project reflects a collaborative design process shaped by stakeholders, shared ideas and consensus-building.

Collaboration extends beyond client engagement. RLPS fosters teamwork within its offices and connects staff across locations through technology. For the Lancaster Chamber building, the design process began with an internal competition among staff teams, followed by close collaboration with the Chamber and construction manager to

10 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

refine the final concept. That shared ownership continues to define the firm’s culture.

Lancaster County has shaped RLPS as much as RLPS has shaped the environment here—building relationships and growing alongside its clients. Its average employee tenure of 12 years reflects both a strong internal culture and the region’s work ethic as well as a sense of community.

Lancaster’s accessibility and proximity to major cities and transportation hubs supports RLPS’s national reach while allowing it to remain rooted locally.

Looking ahead, RLPS is focused on investing in talent and supporting thoughtful growth. Their brand promise to “Inspire People and Transform Lives” is considered by both employees and clients. Through mentorship, internships and engagement with local colleges—and trade programs at Thaddeus Stevens—the firm is committed to developing the next generation of design professionals. At the same time, it continues helping senior living communities, schools and nonprofits plan for sustainable, phased development.

RLPS remains committed to reinvesting in the places where they live and work. Whether through partnerships, design services or civic engagement, they want their presence in Lancaster County to strengthen the community that has supported them for decades. LT

The Better Way™:

A Values-Driven Approach to Financial Leadership for Business Owners

A

client once told me, “We’re great at building. But when it comes to tying it all together, that’s where we feel stuck.”

They had grown a thriving family business, expanded into multiple states and built real wealth. But with that success came complexity—scattered advisors, unclear risk exposure, no real succession plan. They weren’t failing; they just didn’t have clarity.

In many ways, their story isn’t unique. I’ve sat across the table from dozens of business owners who have done the hard work of building something meaningful—and yet find themselves at a crossroads. The business is growing, but the financial picture feels fragmented. Decisions get made reactively rather than intentionally. The people and legacy they’ve worked so hard to provide for are never quite as protected as they should be. Success, it turns out, creates its own set of challenges.

That’s where The Better Way™ comes in.

More Than a Financial Plan This approach isn’t about chasing returns or reacting to the market. It’s about aligning your financial decisions with what actually matters—your people, your long-term goals, your values. At its core, The Better Way™ is a virtual family office model that brings every dimension of your financial life into one coordinated, intentional framework. We help you plan for growth while managing risk—and we never lose sight of what comes next.

For business owners, especially, this matters deeply. Your business is likely your largest asset, your primary source of income and the vehicle through which you provide for your family and your team. That means the stakes of getting the financial strategy right—or wrong—are extraordinarily high. A fragmented approach to planning simply isn’t good enough.

continued

LancasterChamber.com

11

to make sure that investment is protected, purposeful and positioned to last.

At Hershey Financial Advisers, we believe that financial leadership isn’t just about growing wealth. It’s about stewarding it wisely—for your family, your team and the generations that follow. That’s not just a service we offer. It’s the way we believe business should be done. LT

Here’s How It Works

BY NICK BRIGHTBILL,

• It starts with clarity—not just about the numbers, but about your vision for your business and your life. Before we talk about a single investment or planning strategy, we get to know what you’re actually building toward. What does a successful exit look like? What do you want your legacy to be? What keeps you up at night? Those answers shape everything.

Partner, Hershey Financial Advisers Contact Nick at nick@hersheyfinancialadvisers.com

• It brings everything into one coordinated plan— integrating investments, tax strategy, risk protection, succession and legacy planning through a carefully assembled professional network. No more siloed advisors working in isolation. Every piece of your financial picture is mapped, connected and moving in the same direction.

• It gives you a proactive framework—so you’re not reacting to problems, but anticipating opportunities.

Whether it’s a change in tax law, a potential acquisition, a key employee departure or the first real conversation about succession, you’re prepared. You lead with strategy rather than scramble with urgency.

From Complexity to Confidence In the case of that family business I mentioned, we began by mapping out every piece of their financial world— business structure, personal balance sheet, insurance coverage, tax exposure, estate documents and retirement assets. What emerged was a clear picture of both the gaps and the opportunities. From there, we brought in top-tier specialists in tax, legal and risk management, coordinating each relationship so the advice was additive rather than redundant.

WE ARE YOUR WORK TRUCK & VAN DESTINATION!

The result? Less noise. Better decisions. And most importantly, the confidence that their business wasn’t just growing—it was growing in the right direction. They went from feeling stuck to leading with clarity, and the difference was palpable in every conversation we had after that.

Built for Builders If you’ve built something worth protecting—and you want to lead with clarity, not just keep up—The Better Way™ is built for you. Not for the passive investor. Not for someone content with good enough. For the business owner who has poured everything into what they’ve built—and wants

12 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Truck body partners: Van partners: 3417 Pricetown Road, Fleetwood • 610-944-7455 • www.levanmachine.com

Inside Business feature

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH FOOD AND EMPOWERMENT

Emily Gonzalez began catering in 2018 to provide for her children. What started as a necessity quickly grew into a passion and a thriving business. Today, she is the owner of Gems Catering, a full-service catering company serving events that range from intimate gatherings to large corporate and community celebrations. In September 2024, she became a co-owner of Inna’s Pierogi Shop and recently expanded again with the opening of Gems Bodega & Café.

Her growth has been driven by discipline, structure and heart. Emily organizes her days carefully, setting daily tasks and maintaining a consistent routine. She starts early and approaches each day with urgency and purpose, believing that if she does not push things forward, no one else will.

That mindset has helped her businesses expand while staying grounded in her core values.

As a leader, she brings empathy to her work. As a mother, she understands the importance of support and care—and she treats her employees with respect and kindness. She works to ensure her team feels valued and supported while also maintaining high standards and accountability. Because she genuinely enjoys what she does, she often goes above and beyond for clients and community partners.

Lancaster County has played a central role in her journey.

Emily arrived from Puerto Rico in 2001 at 12 years old, attended Hempfield High School and spent years building her life in Hempfield before moving to Lancaster City— where she now lives and works. She describes Lancaster as a community deeply rooted in supporting and investing in small businesses. That encouragement and loyalty created the conditions for her to grow locally.

connected with entrepreneurs and community leaders throughout the county. Hosting women’s empowerment events alongside other small business owners has expanded her network and opened doors to new collaborations. She credits those authentic relationships as a major factor in where her business stands today.

From her perspective, Lancaster County stands apart because of its culture of support. While other communities she has visited can feel competitive or isolated, she sees Lancaster as focused on partnerships, collaboration and genuine connection—that environment has allowed her business to grow sustainably and naturally.

Looking ahead, Emily plans to continue expanding her businesses while building authentic relationships across the county. A key priority is growing her Annual Women’s Empowerment event to connect more women and highlight the power of partnership, resilience and dedication. Through food and leadership, she hopes to inspire young women to recognize their potential and become the next generation of entrepreneurs and community leaders. LT

Partnerships have been a key part of that growth. By attending merchant meetings and local events, she has LancasterChamber.com

13

A Homecoming With a Mission: Saving Local News in Lancaster David Greene hasn’t lived in Lancaster County for more than 30 years—but his experience of growing up and of going to high school here inspired him to return to help the newspaper—and community—he remembers so fondly. “My mom and I felt very quickly welcomed here. I never took that for granted. It really meant something,” said Greene, 49, who was in junior high school when he moved to Lancaster with his mom when she got a job as a psychology professor at Franklin & Marshall College.

Greene lives in Los Angeles now but has been visiting Lancaster more than usual lately. When he’s here, he’s been leading an effort to forge a new, financially sustainable model for LNP | LancasterOnline. Greene is interim publisher and board chair of the nonprofit that now owns the media company where he once interned as a college student.

In January, his nonprofit, Always Lancaster, was gifted LNP | LancasterOnline by Pennon, the WITF parent company that itself was given the newspaper in 2023 by the Steinman family, its longtime owners. As a nonprofit, Always Lancaster will solicit donations to complement revenue from subscribers and advertisers, creating what Greene describes as a “three-legged stool” that can support what is otherwise a broken business model for newspapers.

Greene, who maintained some strong ties to Lancaster, joined LNP’s board of directors when it was given to WITF by the Steinmans. He also became a board member of the Steinman Institute for Civic Engagement, the Steinmanfunded group that was supporting the new venture.

But within a couple of years, Greene saw the early optimism of that partnership giving way to some grim financial reality.

“Suddenly, we started talking about survival,” said Greene, recalling that options included a radical restructuring with severe job losses, bankruptcy or a sale of LNP. “That’s when we started to talk and see if there was another way.” In his new role leading that other way, Greene is pitching the

14 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

idea that a community that feels like it has a stake in a local newspaper will support it with donations.

Lancaster County is a special place with the right ingredients to support a local nonprofit news source, Greene says. He lists four unique qualities that make the move to nonprofit news possible here: 1. A strong spirit of philanthropy, exemplified by annual community fundraising events such as ExtraGive and FaithfulGive.

2. A deep sense of civic engagement and pride.

3. The existence of respected, high-quality journalism.

4. An owner (Pennon) of a news organization that was willing to gift the assets to the nonprofit (Always Lancaster).

Always Lancaster is doing business as LNP Media Group, which publishes LNP | LancasterOnline, the Lititz Record and the Ephrata Review.

LNP | LancasterOnline can thrive, Greene says, if it continues delivering local news and information while also becoming a hub of civic discourse where people can feel connected, overcome disagreements and solve problems together.

Civic discourse also means LNP | LancasterOnline listens to feedback. LNP | LancasterOnline is actively soliciting feedback through Community Listening Events to be held all around the county. The first one was held on March 3rd in Landisville. The full schedule can be found on EventBrite: Lanc.news/LNP-Listening. People are asked to sign up for no more than one event so that as many different voices as possible can be heard.

These are early days for this new nonprofit, and the path forward is still being charted. If you have questions or would like to get involved, please email info@alwayslancaster.org.

Visit lanc.news/donate or make a check payable to the Lancaster County Local Journalism Fund and send it to: LNP Media Group, PO Box 1328, Lancaster, PA 17608. LT

Inside Business feature

REIMAGINING ACCESS TO CARE IN LANCASTER COUNTY feedback and understand professional goals. Clinicians interested in the business side of healthcare are encouraged to gain exposure beyond their clinical roles, reinforcing a culture that supports growth and cross-functional understanding.

Choosing Lancaster County as a base was intentional.

While many healthcare companies focus on Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, Tectonic Health sees Lancaster and Central Pennsylvania as foundational to the state’s manufacturing, construction and food production industries. The company works with employees who are building, feeding and supporting the state and country.

Leadership also points to the region’s diversity as a strength.

The varied backgrounds and experiences of Lancaster County residents help the company better understand cultural and social differences, allowing for more comprehensive and empathetic care.

Lancaster County also provides a strategic platform for growth. With a mix of small businesses and large employers, the region offers opportunities to test and refine the company’s healthcare delivery model across industries and both urban and rural environments. From here, Tectonic Health is positioned to expand into nearby counties and eventually scale into western Pennsylvania.

Founded in 2023, Tectonic Health was created to address growing challenges in access to quality primary care.

After speaking with hundreds of stakeholders across the country—including patients, providers, traditional payers and employers—the company identified a common thread: misutilization of care rooted in barriers of time and money.

By combining analytics with real patient stories, Tectonic Health built a model designed to remove obstacles such as time, cost, travel and wait times.

Tectonic Health’s Intelligent Primary Care model delivers inhome, at-the-office, on-the-jobsite and in-person primary and urgent care services to employees. By supporting employers in creating a healthy workforce while reducing healthcare costs, the company positions care not as an isolated service, but as part of a broader workforce strategy.

Leadership at Tectonic Health centers its operations on compassion. The team emphasizes listening first—both to patients and to internal staff. Taking the time to listen allows the company to avoid becoming a traditional healthcare provider where individuals feel like just a number. That mindset shapes both clinical care and company culture.

The company also prioritizes team development. Leadership meets regularly with employees one-on-one to gather

Looking ahead, the company’s priority is to grow responsibly while becoming an engaged member of the community.

Beyond delivering care, Tectonic Health aims to participate in local events and contribute meaningfully to the region it calls home. LT

Reyna ITS is a Cloud Solutions Provider.

Our Managed Services offering is based on the robust and best-in-class Microsoft 365/Azure Cloud Platform.

We have been serving small businesses with long-term commitment and dedication since the first day we opened our doors in 2008.

When you work with Reyna ITS, you engage an experienced and customer-focused professional Information Technology services provider and accomplished Microsoft partner.

Visit our website: https://reynaits.com or contact us today at (717) 553-2803.

LancasterChamber.com

15

Kegel’s Produce:

Growing with Lancaster County

F

or more than 75 years, Kegel’s Produce has served as a trusted partner in Lancaster County’s agricultural and food distribution network. While our product is fresh produce, what truly sets us apart is our people, our relationships and our deep commitment to this community.

At the heart of Kegel’s Produce is our team. We are proud of the men and women who show up each day with passion, work ethic and a shared desire to make the organization better than it was yesterday. We lean on one another through both the highs and the challenges. That culture of support drives growth not only in our operations, but in our people.

In an industry where timing, quality and service matter every single day, teamwork is not optional. It is essential.

16 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Lancaster County’s business community reflects those same values. The support, collaboration and mutual respect that define this region are part of why we are proud to operate here. As a company rooted in food, we understand the responsibility that comes with serving schools, healthcare facilities, restaurants and families. Providing safe, highquality, fresh products with consistent service is not simply a transaction. It is a commitment to the health and wellbeing of our region. Multi-generational ownership gives that commitment even deeper meaning. Today, three generations of the Myers family work inside the same building. My Yia Yia (Suzanne Myers), my father (Kenny Myers) and I share the responsibility of stewarding this company forward. Carrying

on a legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility. The phrase next generation can be approached with entitlement, or it can be approached with gratitude and energy. At Kegel’s Produce, we choose the latter. This business has supported our family for decades, and in return, we are committed to strengthening it for decades to come.

Balancing tradition with innovation is critical to long-term success. We are actively investing in operational upgrades that improve efficiency and traceability, including handheld tablets for drivers and warehouse scanning technology to enhance order accuracy. These investments allow us to better serve our customers while maintaining the high standards that define our brand. At the same time, we believe investment goes beyond equipment or technology.

In a world increasingly driven by automation, we continue to prioritize personal connection. We invest time in our relationships with growers and shippers, many of whom we have partnered with for years. We invest time with our customers, understanding their needs and finding ways to support their growth. And we invest in our community, supporting health, nutrition and local initiatives that strengthen Lancaster County.

Collaboration, in practice, means using our resources and relationships to benefit others. It means partnering with local chefs and restaurant owners, supporting community events and working alongside organizations that promote wellness and economic strength. When businesses support one another, the entire region becomes more resilient. What am I most proud of? I am proud that Kegel’s Produce stands for something bigger than itself. I am proud of a team that refuses to cut corners and chooses to show up with integrity every day. I am proud that we do business the right way, even when it is not the easiest way. Most of all, I am proud to be part of a legacy that challenges us to raise the standard each year. Growth does not happen by accident. It happens when people commit to getting better together. That mindset is what drives us forward.

As for what comes next, the answer is simple: growth together. Growth for our team. Growth for our customers.

Growth for Lancaster County. I have two younger brothers, and I look forward to seeing how their paths unfold within our family and our community. More importantly, I look forward to seeing how Kegel’s Produce continues to evolve while staying true to the principles that built it. In Lancaster County, businesses thrive not simply because of size or

scale, but because of commitment to one another. At Kegel’s Produce, that commitment remains at the center of everything we do.

Control what you can control. Fresh is Best! LT

BY KJ MYERS,

Director of Marketing and Operations, Kegel’s Produce Contact KJ at KJMyers@kegels.com

Rooted in Lancaster for nearly 40 years, our attorneys bring deep local insight and broad legal expertise right where you need us.

We provide a sophisticated range of legal services, including: Casualty Litigation Commercial Litigation Construction Corporate

Employment and Labor Health Care Hospitality and Retail Workers’ Compensation

1869 Charter Lane P.O. Box 10248 Lancaster, PA 17605-0248 717-291-4532

www.postschell.com

LancasterChamber.com

17

Inside Business feature

A MULTI-GENERATIONAL AGENCY ROOTED IN LANCASTER COUNTY

For more than 75 years, Godfrey has operated in Lancaster County as a full-service B2B marketing communications agency serving complex industrial and manufacturing sectors. Founded in the late 1940s by Tom Godfrey, the agency began by handling local accounts and national print advertising for Lancaster-based companies with growing customer bases. Over time, it expanded into new markets and industries, adapting alongside changes in media, technology and client needs.

Today, Godfrey partners with industrial and technical clients to build strong, differentiated brands, enter and expand into new markets, launch products and services, and create qualified sales opportunities aligned with revenue goals.

Its capabilities range from strategic planning and brand messaging to creative development, public relations, SEO and digital demand-generation programs tailored for complex B2B environments.

Leadership continuity has played a significant role in the agency’s longevity. In 2019, President Stacy Whisel and Senior Vice President and Partner Erin Michalak purchased the business, becoming the fourth generation of ownership.

Each owner or ownership group throughout the agency’s history began as employees. That progression—from team member to owner—reflects the agency’s emphasis on shared responsibility and long-term commitment. In June 2024, Godfrey was certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.

Whisel describes Godfrey as an organization guided by a clear vision, core purpose, core values and strategic anchors.

“Nothing gets done at Godfrey with just one person,” she says. The agency prioritizes empowering talented teams, delivering strong client experiences and maintaining a 18 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

growth-oriented mindset. Its purpose is to champion the world-changing work of B2B industrial manufacturers, telling the stories of companies whose products and services often operate behind the scenes but support essential infrastructure, healthcare facilities and industrial systems.

Lancaster County has been home to the agency since its founding. According to Whisel, the local business community has contributed meaningfully to the agency’s longevity. She points to a shared long-term partnership mindset among financial institutions, local vendors and fellow business leaders. That culture of collaboration and curiosity is especially visible at local business events and within the Chamber community.

The agency’s internal team reflects that same long-term approach. Several employees have been with Godfrey for five, ten and even 30 years. Whisel attributes that tenure in part to Lancaster County’s strong work ethic and pride in craftsmanship.

Looking ahead, Godfrey is navigating industry shifts, including a more geographically dispersed workforce and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in marketing. While team members now work from multiple states, the agency continues to anchor its culture in Lancaster County, bringing employees together in person and engaging with a local business community that values learning and shared growth.

LT

Community Collaboration in Action

I

n 2005, Joan Espenshade was volunteering at Carter and MacRae Elementary in Lancaster and saw children lined up outside the nurse’s office each Monday morning. When she inquired why this was the case, the nurse told her that children were lining up because they were hungry and had a bellyache—they had not eaten over the weekend since school breakfast and lunch programs were not available. Seeing this, Joan could not just sit idly by—thus, the Power Packs Project was born. Joan started what she called a “kitchen table committee,” made up of friends and family who believed, like she did, that children in Lancaster should not be going hungry. Their goal was to ensure that children were well-fed over the weekend and ready to learn on Monday mornings, and to help their parents stretch their food budget and take better control over their nutrition.

From that humble beginning, Power Packs is now the largest school pantry/backpack program in central Pennsylvania, partnering with 11 school districts in Lancaster County (Cocalico, Columbia, Conestoga Valley, Donegal, Hempfield, L-S, Manheim Township, Penn Manor, Pequea Valley, School District of Lancaster, Warwick), five school districts in Lebanon County (Annville Cleona, Cornwall Lebanon, ELCO, Lebanon, Northern Lebanon) and two school districts in York County (Eastern York and Red Lion)—serving a total of 117 school sites.

In 21 years, our mission has not wavered: to empower families with the education and ingredients to create nutritious weekend meals, so their children return to school well-fed and ready to learn. How do we do that? During

continued

LancasterChamber.com

19

the school year and summer distribution programs, Power Packs provides recipes for meals, the healthy ingredients for those meals and nutrition education to 1,900 families each week. The weekly packs include the recipe and ingredients, nutrition education materials, fresh produce, fresh milk, protein and other pantry staples such as peanut butter, cereal, whole grains and healthy snacks. Last year, we provided more than 662,000 meals to families who may have otherwise gone without the food provided by us.

As Power Packs continues to grow, we are perpetually evaluating our needs, processes and partnerships. Space and capacity are continually monitored. Six years ago, Power Packs moved into a larger warehouse space in Greenfield, and last year doubled our space there, adding a large industrial cooler to handle additional fresh food. receive fresh, local milk and all the nutrition milk provides, and Power Packs supports local dairy farmers and the ag industry in Lancaster County.

There are countless other examples that demonstrate the power of collaboration between sectors. Power Packs is constantly searching for new partners to increase the volume and quality of our offerings. Numerous local and regional companies who do not assist Power Packs with inkind donations support our organization financially, enabling Power Packs to continue our strategic growth and ensure that food-insecure children and their families receive the nutrition they need.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of the community. Lancaster and the southcentral region of PA offer Power Packs many tremendous opportunities and a culture of helping others. Building relationships with local distribution centers, warehouses, retailers, food producers and growers extends our offerings to the families we serve.

Power Packs’ partnership with Kreider Farms is a notable example of a cross-sector collaboration to meet the needs of families. For many years, the most requested item for families was fresh milk. Donations of fresh milk are nearly non-existent, so we needed to find a way to get the great nutrition fresh milk provides into the hands of our families— enter Kreider Farms. This well-known Lancaster County dairy farm now partners with Power Packs to supply the milk they distribute to families. It is a win-win—children and families

20 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

In the last year, school districts in at least eight surrounding counties have contacted Power Packs about potential partnerships. These potential new partnerships with Power Packs will enable us to meet this increasing need and fill the meal gap facing families who are food insecure. Together, we can all make a difference in the lives of children, one meal at a time. LT

BY BRAD PETERSON,

Executive Director, Power Packs Project

Contact Brad at Brad@powerpacksproject.org

Inside Business feature

HEARTSPITALITY™ IN ACTION: DUTCH WONDERLAND’S LASTING IMPACT ON LANCASTER TOURISM

Since opening in May 1963, Dutch Wonderland has grown into a cornerstone of Lancaster County’s tourism landscape.

Founded by Earl Clark, the property now includes the Dutch Wonderland Theme Park, the Old Mill Stream Campground and the newly opened Dutch Wonderland Inn. With more than 35 rides and attractions, Duke’s Lagoon Water Park and a full calendar of seasonal events, the park has earned recognition as the World’s Best Family Park by Amusement Today each year since 2019.

General Manager, Megan Hartman, oversees daily operations across rides, aquatics, safety, marketing, food and beverage, and guest services. Operational leadership centers on delivering consistent, high-quality experiences for families visiting from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. At its core, Dutch Wonderland describes itself as a peoplefirst organization. Front-line hosts embody Heartspitality™, blending heart and hospitality to ensure each guest feels welcomed and valued. The ultimate objective is to create experiences that bring families closer together and inspire repeat visits. This philosophy guides both operational decisions and long-term development.

Being located in Lancaster County provides both strategic and cultural advantages. The park works closely with

Discover Lancaster, the Lancaster Chamber and other regional businesses to drive tourism and awareness. Ongoing collaboration with local government officials supports expansion efforts and property upgrades. Together, these partnerships contribute to sustained regional growth.

Lancaster County’s strong community pride and deep-rooted history also shape how Dutch Wonderland operates. The park seeks to honor that heritage while introducing new entertainment offerings that appeal to returning families and first-time visitors alike. The balance of tradition and fresh experiences keeps the property aligned with the evolving expectations of today’s guests.

Future priorities include expanding seasonal events, adding new attractions and continuing to enhance the overall visitor experience. The launch of the Dutch Wonderland Inn marks an important milestone, creating additional lodging options and strengthening the property’s role within the county’s tourism infrastructure. With its grand opening on March 28th, the Inn is now fully opened for operation.

As Dutch Wonderland looks ahead, its focus remains on growth, reinvestment and delivering memorable family experiences. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to Heartspitality™, the park continues to play a meaningful role in Lancaster County’s vibrant tourism and business community. LT

Megan Hartman, General Manager

LancasterChamber.com

21

Built on

Craftsmanship

Z

ook Cabins reflects what makes Lancaster County exceptional: a deep respect for craftsmanship, a bias toward action and a commitment to under-promise and over-deliver. From our earliest days, we have believed that growth should never come at the expense of quality or character. Instead, it should strengthen both.

Lancaster County has long been known for its skilled trades, strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mindset. Those qualities are the foundation of how we operate every day.

Our homes—whether modular residences or luxury park models for resorts and campgrounds—are designed and built with pride. Many of our team members grew up here, trained here and have built their careers here—that continuity matters. It ensures that even as we innovate and expand across the country, our standards remain grounded in the values that shaped us.

22 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Balancing tradition with evolving market demands requires discipline. The housing and outdoor hospitality industries are changing rapidly. Buyers expect faster timelines, sustainable building practices and a consistently high-quality product.

Rather than resist those shifts, we lean into them. We invest in modern manufacturing processes, design technology and systems that increase efficiency without sacrificing craftsmanship.

Our approach to growth is deliberate. We are building capacity in a way that strengthens our team, our partners and our community. Over the last decade, the housing industry has faced labor shortages, longer lead times and rising costs.

Instead of stepping back, we have worked to find practical solutions. Growth has followed because we chose to solve problems rather than avoid them. That mindset reflects the Lancaster County culture that sits at the core of who we are.

It has shaped our past and will continue to shape our future.

Lancaster County remains the right place for our growth because it offers something many communities across the country struggle to maintain: a vibrant base of skilled trades and a culture that values long-term ownership. Here, relationships matter. Reputation matters. The work speaks for itself. Our ability to create and innovate has been welcomed by the broader housing market, but it is rooted in the standards and expectations of this community.

WE MARKET BRANDS, NOT BANANAS. BUT THIS AD HAS ONE.

We draw inspiration from the timeless principles of quality and stewardship that define Lancaster County. At the same time, we pursue design innovation, advanced manufacturing and thoughtful expansion that position us for the future.

You won’t forget this ad — and that’s the point. We help businesses stand out in crowded markets with bold branding and smart strategy.

Zook Cabins is proud to carry Lancaster County’s entrepreneurial spirit beyond its borders. Yet no matter how far our reach extends, our roots remain here. The values of craftsmanship, stewardship and integrity are not simply part of our origin story. They are the compass that guides our future. LT

BY MATT ESH,

Chief Marketing Officer, Zooks Cabins Contact Matt at mattesh@zookcabins.com

Let’s make something a little… bananas.

marketing 484-336-4341

success@madjmarketing.com

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE

madjmarketing.com

LancasterChamber.com

23

Inside Business feature

THREE GENERATIONS OF DEPENDABILITY IN LANCASTER COUNTY

In 1954, George Grove Sr. started a home improvement business from his home with one pickup truck and a commitment to doing the job correctly. What began as a sole proprietorship has grown into George J. Grove & Son, Inc., a family-owned exterior home improvement company based on Manheim Pike in Lancaster. Today, the company operates a fleet of 24 vehicles and is supported by a crew of 38, bringing together a combined 300 years of industry experience.

The business has remained in the Grove family across three generations. George J. Grove Jr. entered the company at an early age, working alongside his father and grandfather.

Later, George J. Grove III followed the same path. For the Groves, family ownership is more than structure—it is stability. “It’s nice working with family,” George Jr. said. “It’s better than a partnership. Partnerships can fail. Families always seem to come back to each other… and grow together.”

The company specializes in exterior home improvements, including replacement windows and doors, roofing, siding, spouting, gutter protection systems, patio enclosures, skylights, railings, decks and awnings. But its longevity, George Jr. notes, comes down to one core principle: doing jobs correctly and satisfying the customer. Many of their customers are multi-generational families, returning decades later because of the trust established with previous work.

That philosophy also shapes how the company advises homeowners. Rather than promoting the lowest price or steep discounts, the Groves emphasize evaluating product quality, installation experience and long-term value. Preventative maintenance, particularly for roofs and windows, is central to their approach. “Leaks are the first thing to be aware of,” George Jr. said, underscoring the importance of regular inspections.

24 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Operating in Lancaster County has reinforced that mindset.

The region’s strong sense of pride and long-standing community relationships mirror the company’s own generational roots. With a physical showroom and decades of local presence, George J. Grove & Son reflects the stability often associated with family-run businesses.

Looking ahead, the company continues to serve Lancaster homeowners with the same values established in 1954: craftsmanship, transparency and reliability. Through three generations, the Groves have built more than roofs and siding—they have built long-term relationships grounded in trust. LT

Impact Update: Business Advocacy A New Focus on Timely Topics

Each year, the Lancaster Chamber adopts a Pro-Business Agenda that reflects the priorities of Lancaster County’s business community. The 2026 Pro-Business Agenda outlines the policy positions that will guide our engagement at the local, state, and federal levels in the year ahead.

Workforce development, smart growth, housing, transportation, and a competitive tax and regulatory climate remain foundational to our advocacy efforts. These priorities continue to shape how we work with elected officials, provide testimony, and elevate the voice of business across the Commonwealth.

New in 2026, the Chamber has introduced a dedicated Timely Issues section within our Pro-Business Agenda. This addition reflects what we are hearing from our businesses and recognizes that today’s business environment is evolving rapidly, requiring policy conversations to evolve alongside it.

Timely Issues include: • Advance Reliable, Affordable, and Sustainable Energy Solutions: As demand rises due to technology growth and electrification, we support reliable, affordable, and

sustainable energy solutions. Investments in generation, transmission, and grid modernization are essential to maintaining economic competitiveness.

• Promote Responsible Approaches to Artificial Intelligence: AI is reshaping industries at every level.

The Chamber supports an innovation-friendly approach to AI policy that balances safety and transparency with economic opportunity. We also advocate for workforce training that prepares local talent for technology-driven roles.

• Address Business Uncertainty: From shifting regulations to trade policy volatility, uncertainty can hinder business investment and growth. We advocate for predictable policymaking, clear regulatory guidance, and long-term commitments that allow employers to plan with confidence.

By formalizing these timely topics within our agenda, the Lancaster Chamber ensures our advocacy is rooted in long-term priorities while remaining agile and responsive to emerging challenges.

·

Read our complete 2026 Pro Business Agenda at lancasterchamber.com.

The Lancaster Chamber is committed to fostering a positive business climate for all Lancaster County businesses. We work with elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels to advance pro-business legislation and advocate for policies that elevate business and community success.

Get involved in our advocacy efforts!

• Attend an Advocacy event to gain direct access to the elected officials, agency heads, and community leaders who influence decisions and make an impact on business.

• Read and share our weekly Impact Report e-newsletter, which shares legislative updates, business resources, relevant news stories, and upcoming government meetings.

• Volunteer on our Advocacy Committee to advise the Board of Trustees on policy position statements and assist with grassroots advocacy efforts.

Introducing our New Public Policy Coordinator We’re excited to welcome James Voutsinos as our new Public Policy Coordinator at the Lancaster Chamber. James will lead our government affairs efforts and represent our business community at the local, state, and federal levels. He’ll work closely with our Advocacy Committee, elected officials, and community partners to advance our Pro-Business Agenda and ensure Lancaster County businesses are informed, represented, and heard.

From researching legislation and coordinating grassroots efforts to hosting Wake Up to the Issues sessions, James will help connect policy conversations directly to the real-world needs of employers. Be sure to introduce yourself at an upcoming event and share what issues matter most to your business. jvoutsinos@lancasterchamber.com | (717) 823-5456

Learn more at lancasterchamber.com/advocacy.

continued LancasterChamber.com

25

Cultivating the Next Chapter for Lancaster’s Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs

I

n January 2026, Cultivate Lancaster appointed Catherine Bonser as Director. Ms. Bonser recognizes the vital role small businesses play in the community and is committed to supporting entrepreneurs and local businesses to drive Lancaster’s economic prosperity through her leadership.

Ms. Bonser leads a team of 10 Cultivate Lancaster Business Mentors—seasoned professionals and dedicated volunteers passionate about helping small business owners and entrepreneurs in Lancaster County and neighboring regions.

The enhanced Cultivate Lancaster website now streamlines access to these mentoring services, allowing users to learn about the process, request mentorship and choose mentors who best suit their needs. According to the US Small Business Administration, mentored businesses are twice as likely to become sustainable, achieve greater revenues and experience accelerated growth. These mentors are instrumental in helping entrepreneurs overcome early-stage challenges and achieve long-term success. As the demand for business mentoring grows within the community, Cultivate Lancaster expects to grow its team of Business Mentors to support local entrepreneurs.

Cultivate Lancaster Business Mentors will further collaborate with entrepreneurs to access community resources, develop sound business and financial plans, address funding needs and build lasting confidence.

Beyond mentoring, Ms. Bonser and her team are committed to strengthening partner engagement and maximizing value for both members and community partners. Programs like “Money, Money, Money” will continue, along with new initiatives designed to bolster small business support.

With innovation and collaboration, Cultivate Lancaster is expanding services and empowering entrepreneurs, paving the way for small business success across the region in 2026 and beyond. Whether you need a business mentor or are interested in joining the Team of volunteer mentors, visit the Cultivate Lancaster Website and get connected.

26 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

About Cultivate Lancaster Cultivate Lancaster is Lancaster County, Pennsylvania’s hub for entrepreneurs and small business resources.

Cultivate offers a space for small businesses to identify resources they need, meet with business support organizations, connect with mentors and network with each other. Cultivate also provides a platform for organizations that support small businesses to empower, collaborate and strategically work towards a more prosperous and vibrant small business economy in Lancaster County.

EXPAND YOUR REACH With Withan anAdvertisement Advertisement ininLancaster LancasterThriving!

Thriving!

LANCASTER’S RESOURCE HUB FOR ENTREPRENEUR AND SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES. Cultivate offers a space for small businesses to identify resources and funding, meet with business support organizations, and network with each other.

Reach over 12,000 readers invested in the business trends, activities and news that impact Lancaster County.

From regional economic development, legislative advocacy, workforce solutions, business education partnerships, business success, and innovative industry and community news, Lancaster Thriving ! is read by consumers, business and community leaders, educators and professionals, and community members.

Contact us before the next issue drops at Sales@HoffPubs.com or 610.685.0914 x715.

• Resources for Your Business • Local Calendar • Small Business Funding • Mentoring

STARTING A BUSINESS?

Find everything you need to know about starting a small business in Lancaster County, from organizations that can help you solidify your business idea to funding opportunities. Go to cultivatelancaster.com/startups to learn more.

If you have any questions about attending, participating in, sponsoring, or otherwise partnering with Cultivate Lancaster, contact Cathy Bosner.

Cathy Bonser, Director c (717) 487-0011 p (717) 293-3156 ext. 270 cbonser@cultivatelancaster.com

LancasterChamber.com

27

OUT&ABOUT GRAND OPENINGS & RIBBON CUTTINGS

PEACE OF MIND HEALTH GROUP

Open House 313 W. Liberty Street, Ste. 237, Lancaster, PA

LUXE LAUNDRY

Grand Opening 1357 Fruitville Pk., Lancaster, PA

LCA GRAND OPENINGS In partnership with Lancaster City Alliance and CRIZ (City Revitalization & Improvement Zone), the Lancaster Chamber has been honored to be a part of welcoming these new businesses into the Lancaster City business community.

Gracefully

Age

at Home

Discover how Landis at Home can help you thrive in the comfort of your own home.

Ready to Assist You or Your Loved Ones with:

ROCKY SPRINGS CAROUSEL ASSOCIATION 118 N. Water St., Suite 105, Lancaster, PA LANCASTER PICKLE COMPANY 318 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA RINCON LATINO RESTAURANT CAFÉ 255 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA GEM’S BODEGA & CAFÉ 155 N. Ross St., Lancaster, PA

28 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

Personal Care Home Tasks Respite Transportation Companionship Memory Care 1001 E. Oregon Rd, Lititz PA 17543 LandisAtHome.org | 717-384-2938

NEW

Members

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS AND PARTNERS TO THE LANCASTER CHAMBER The Lancaster Chamber is thrilled to welcome these businesses to our network. Because of businesses that choose to be Members and Partners, we are able to fund powerful initiatives that are vastly changing the landscape of business. Now more than ever, your support is truly helping to shape the future of business and making Lancaster County a thriving community for all.

We are grateful for the many businesses choosing to invest with us and our mission!

Meet some of the new Members and Partners below: DECEMBER 2025

JANUARY 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

Members Interstate Fleets Fluid Conditioning Products, Inc. Rumer Insurance Women’s Travel Odysseys, LLC Lancaster Travel Places LLC Stone Independent School The Brunner Group Lancaster Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Ruppert Landscaping Edward Jones-Financial Advisor: Matthew Perrotti MPH Business Solutions WoodSpring Suites-Lancaster Brubaker Brothers Inc.

Members Drumore Estate Stonecrop Wealth Advisors Wellness Merge Physical Therapy Summit Service Solutions KPMG 717 Homebuyers Davison Associates My City Lending Tone Tailors C. White Marketing Coldwell Banker Realty Hershey Wakeen & Company Penncore Consulting Homewood Suites by Hilton Pennwood Development Group Peace of Mind Mental Health Group, PLLC Galaxy Wearhouse LLC Unique Style Design Embodied Wisdom Institute LLC The 9 Collective Power Packs Project Treese Media Group Tee Got You LLC

Partner Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company Members BSH Talent Solutions Bethany Children’s Home Red Wing Shoes Terra Pharm, Inc. RKG Real Estate, LLC Cintas Tera Technology Consulting LLC Potentiality Therapy Services Magnetic Consulting Bursera Capital E&E General Contracting The Joint Chiropractic Lancaster, PA Woolley Outdoors Meredith L. Stabley DMD Family Dentistry Brewcore Labs LLC Thrive Relievus Pain Management Sparkle Squad of Harrisburg-Lancaster Engage Global Sunday’s Bloody Mary Mix ClayHouse Arts

LancasterChamber.com

29

Upcoming EVENTS April 2026

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Membership 101: Engaging with the Chamber [Virtual]

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Monthly Mixer at ProCare

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

WIB Connect—Hosted by C&J Catering

Friday, April 24, 2026

Coffee & Connections at Lancaster County Firemen’s Association, Inc.

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Wake Up to the Issues: Healthcare Policies

May 2026

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Manufacturing Roundtable: Capital, Credits & Incentives

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Membership 101: Engaging with the Chamber [Virtual]

Thursday, May 14, 2026

YPN Lunch with Leaders at Annie Bailey’s

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Lattes & Leadership

Friday, May 22, 2026

Ag Issues Forum

Friday, May 22, 2026

Lancaster Chamber Open House at 115 East King Street

Thursday, May 28, 2026

154th Annual Dinner

June 2026

Friday, June 5, 2026

Get Connected: Speed Networking

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Small Business Roundtable

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Membership 101: Engaging with the Chamber [Virtual]

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

WIB Empower

Thursday, June 11, 2026

Selling Series: Why Your Prospecting Message Isn’t Landing

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Monthly Mixer at WTM Digital

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

HR Roundtable

Thursday, June 25, 2026

Wake Up to the Issues

July 2026

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Membership 101: Engaging with the Chamber [Virtual]

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Monthly Mixer at Indoor City

Tuesday, July 21, 2026

HR Roundtable

Thursday, July 23, 2026

YPN Experience Lancaster

Friday, July 31, 2026

Lancaster Chamber Open House at 115 East King Street

August 2026

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Manufacturing Roundtable

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Non-Profit/CBO Roundtable

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Membership 101: Engaging with the Chamber [Virtual]

Thursday, August 13, 2026

YPN Lunch with Leaders at Per Diem

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Lattes & Leadership

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Lancaster Chamber Membership Celebration Picnic

Thursday, August 27, 2026

New Manager Academy In-Person Sessions Kick Off

30 | LANCASTER Thriving! | Spring 2026

We are so grateful for the continued support and commitment from our Member businesses!

Please take note of our Members who are celebrating milestone anniversaries as members of the Lancaster Chamber for the months of January, February, March & April.

Member Anniversaries Lancaster Chamber Member as of 5 YEARS (‘21)

20 YEARS (‘06)

45 YEARS (‘81)

Savencia Cheese USA LLC Mary Bowman Advoz: Mediation and Restorative Practices Koble Systems, Inc. Burns Tree Service LLC Snell Engineering Consultants Stonebridge Financial Group Entech Engineering, Inc. Drayer Physical Therapy Bering Real Estate Company The Performance Group Clinic For Special Children Patient First FJD Partners LLC DBA Frisco’s Chicken ACG Acquisition, LLC KBM Consulting LLC I: Train Studios

TFB Hospitality Daniel Baum Company Shady Maple Smorgasbord & Banquet Center Lancaster Mennonite School SDR Mechanical, Inc. IComm, LLC Smilebuilderz

Derck & Edson, LLC The Salvation Army

10 YEARS (‘16)

Better Business Bureau of Metro Wash. DC & Eastern PA Belco Community Credit Union Susquehanna Insurance Allegiance Staffing Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

Tranzact Inc. Lancaster Truck Repair GR Mitchell, Inc. The Foundation of the Economic Development Company

15 YEARS (‘11) Warwick Township Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery, LLC RKL ESolutions LLC Sahd Metal Recycling Hertzler Electric, Inc. Omega Systems The Amish Village Trans Equipment Co. Inc. Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA)

25 YEARS (‘01) True Edge Performance Solutions, LLC Davcon Relocation Services/Agent Wheaton Worldwide Moving Ephrata National Bank Hourglass RJW Industrial Group, Inc. Smoker Gard Associates LLP

30 YEARS (‘96)

35 YEARS (‘91) First American Abstract of PA Peiffer Machine Services SCORE Lancaster Chapter No. 16 Alder Health Services Dale Carnegie Training

50 YEARS +

Stoner, Inc. Blakinger Thomas Kingsway Realty The Standard Group Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health JC Snavely & Sons, Inc. Lancaster Truck Bodies Star Dental Division DentalEZ Group Westfield Insurance Comcast Business - Keystone Region Lancaster Orthodontic Associates Stauffers of Kissel Hill Kegel’s Produce Bird-In-Hand Corporation Armstrong Relocation Company Dutch Gold Honey, Inc. Lift-All Company, Inc. Fulton Bank, N.A. PPL Electric Utilities MWG Administrators (Lancaster) Lamar Outdoor Advertising Keystone Chapter Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. WGAL-TV AAA Central Penn UGI Utilities, Inc. Warfel Construction Company Wells Fargo

40 YEARS (‘86) Staffing Service USA WNC CPAs & CONSULTANTS, LLC

LancasterChamber.com

31

Donate Long BFF Road Trips Lounging at the Beach The Joy of a Wedding Toast Girls Nights Father-Daughter Dances Hearing that First Cry A Shoulder to Lean On Snuggly Bedtime Stories

Life.

Moments like these are possible because someone said yes to organ donation.

As one of the leading transplant centers in the country, UPMC has helped thousands of people receive the gift of life through organ, tissue, and living donor transplant programs.

You can change someone's future simply by becoming an organ donor. Register at UPMC.com/DonateLife.