Three local students were awarded over $2,000 at Lebanon County’s first Civics Bee in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and The Civic Trust.
After submitting their civics essays, 17 middle school students competed, answering 20 multiple-choice questions. The top 5 scores moved on to round 3 – an oral Q&A. All school districts and some private schools had representation.
First place and $500 went to Blake S., Annville-Cleona School District; second place and $250 went to Delany G., Palmyra Area School District; and third place and $125 went to Owen D., Annville-Cleona School District.
The Pennsylvania Treasury was on hand to conduct unclaimed property searches and award $500 to each winner in a 529 college plan.
Special thanks to the Lebanon School District for the use of their facilities and the incredible support from their staff.
Our winners will now compete on the state level with the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry this Friday, June 12!
Military Pets Share Honored at Military Appreciation Breakfast
Recently, we presented the General Frank Smoker Beyond the Call Award to Military Pets Share. This amazing non-profit is devoted to easing the economic challenges faced by Military and Veterans in need by providing pet necessities and improving their pets’ health and well-being.
A special Lifetime Achievement Award was presented posthumously to Jack Cantwell, who passed away earlier this year. Jack was a dedicated member of our Veteran and Military Committee and was heavily involved in our Chamber.
Updates were presented by Fort Indiantown Gap and the VA Medical Center. The Chamber is proud to support and celebrate the region’s local military and veterans.
Class of 2026 Excellence in Education Awards
May marked the 35th Excellence in Education Ceremony.
The Lebanon Valley Chamber honored the top 5% of graduating seniors from Annville-Cleona School District, ELCO School District, Cornwall-Lebanon School District, Lebanon County Career & Technology Center, Lebanon School District, New Covenant Christian School, Northern Lebanon School District, Our Lady of the Cross School, and Palmyra Area School District.
Students selected an educational mentor to honor and submitted a paragraph about their mentor’s impact on their education. Student essays and photos are available online here.
The State of the County is Strong
May marked the Chamber’s 4th annual State of the County, featuring five memorable presentations and a small business panel.
Speakers included Jay Green, who presented on the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail; Dr. Jilian White, who presented on the state of health in the county; Dr. James MacLaren, who presented on the impact of LVC on our region; Brianna Laliberte, Lebanon County Department of Emergency Services, presented on emergency preparedness; and Michelle Brummer, who provided an update on the county’s comprehensive plan. The small business panel included Jamie Richardson, JW Safety Management & Training, Inc.; Doug Eby, Beef Jerky Experience Hershey; Allison Leitzel-Williams, Leitzel’s Jewelry.
The entire slideshow and additional resources are available here.
Chamber Day at the Capitol
This annual event brings together Chambers from across Pennsylvania for a day of advocacy and discussion on issues. Organized by the PA Chamber of Business & Industry and the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals, the program tackled some of the most pressing topics shaping our state’s future, including:
- The PA State Budget
- Data Centers & Energy
- AI Usage & Policy
The Lebanon Valley Chamber brought a delegation of 4, including Board member Marisela Fuster, Public Policy Council members Ed Kercher and Steve Goodhue, and chamber president Karen Groh.
Welcome New Members!
Please join us in welcoming these organizations to the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce. By becoming members, they are investing in their success while building meaningful connections throughout our community.
- Pennsylvania Furniture Mission
- Coldwell Banker – Eva Leese
- The Pennsylvania Treasury
- Bronzed by Erin
- Holey Truth Body Arts
- Fleet Repair Solutions
- TownePlace Suites Lebanon
- Windmill Art Studios
- Lancaster Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
- JEVS Human Services
- Michael Sechman Team – Keller Williams Realty
- Layser Energy Solutions
- Kutztown Small Business Development Center
- TBG Storage – Annville Lebanon
Scholarships
Six Lebanon County high school graduates were honored with $1,500 scholarships by the Lebanon Valley Chamber Foundation for a total of $9,000 in awards. Winners included Kaden Beamesderfer and Haylee Mullen from Northern Lebanon High School; Jesslyn Risser and Kate Crawford from Cedar Crest High School; Riley Zettlemoyer from Palmyra Area High School; and (not pictured) Ryan Gunderson from Annville-Cleona High School.
The Lebanon Valley Chamber Foundation has given out more than $150,000 in scholarships since its inception. Scholarships are awarded with an emphasis on students pursuing high-demand careers and enrolling in regional schools.
Unlocking Untapped Talent
The Chamber recently hosted a panel of workforce experts representing the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, the Lebanon County Correctional Facility, and Becoming You Mentoring.
The discussion focused on programs, resources, and support services available to employers interested in hiring reentrants, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. Attendees gained valuable insight into workforce development initiatives, learned how to access specialized talent pools, and connected with organizations that can provide ongoing support and practical solutions to address a variety of workforce needs.
Join Us for a Taste of Summer
An annual favorite, a Taste of Summer is an evening full of flavor, fun, and networking where local food, drinks, and good vibes come together for one unforgettable night. Attendees sample cocktails and appetizers from a variety of regional purveyors. Mock tip money is provided to vote for your favorite appetizer and cocktail. Over $1,200 is awarded to the winners of Best Appetizer and Best Cocktail. A special Favorite Dessert contest is awarded by Chef Brian Peffley. Attendees must be 21 to attend.
This event is open to the community, so feel free to bring a guest, coworkers, or friends! Details can be found here.
Hanging with the Lebanon Ironmasters
Chamber staff spent “Lebanon County Weekend” as the Lancaster Stormers became the Lebanon Iron Masters.
Networking at Noon
Our next Networking at Noon is June 26 at 12:00 pm in the Chamber office. To register, please use this link.
Women in Business Committee
The Chamber’s Women in Business Committee holds a variety of workshops and networking opportunities. Recent programming included “What I Wish I Knew When I Started in Business” and a morning mixer at The St. James Players.
For details about upcoming events and programs, please visit here.
What do our members say?
“The Lebanon Valley Chamber consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to a welcoming and inclusive environment for its members and the broader community. Their team is approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in building meaningful connections among local businesses.
What stands out most is their proactive and dedicated approach to supporting small businesses. The Chamber actively advocates for its members, promotes local economic development, and works diligently to create opportunities that help businesses thrive. Their efforts make a tangible impact on the strength and vitality of the local business community.
Overall, the Lebanon County Chamber of Commerce is an invaluable resource and a true partner to businesses looking to grow and succeed. I have been to many of their events and enjoy collaborating with them and others.”
– Pandora Mazzo, Reading Area Community College.
Do you have questions about our chamber? Call 717-273-3727 or visit lvchamber.org.
