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
Pennsylvania's Pro-Business Momentum in 2024
The Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to working closely with our state legislators to promote a pro-business climate throughout the Greater Hanover region and across the commonwealth. In 2024, Pennsylvania has taken significant strides to enhance its business climate, much of that thanks to the efforts of our own local legislators. Several notable legislative initiatives have been enacted to foster economic growth and create a favorable environment for businesses to thrive. The Chamber would like to share a very brief overview of the progress that has been made in 2024:
Corporate Tax Reduction: The reduction in corporate net income tax rates offer significant tax relief to businesses, allowing them to reinvest savings, expand operations, and enhance competitiveness.
Regulatory Streamlining: Simplified regulatory processes facilitate business operations by reducing compliance burdens and expediting permit approvals.
Expanded Tax Incentives: Increased tax credits and incentives for research and development, job training, and energy efficiency projects stimulate innovation, skill development, and sustainable practices.
Infrastructure Investment: Significant investments in transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public transportation, improve connectivity, reduce transportation costs, and enhance the overall business climate.
Employee Savings Incentives: Pennsylvania has introduced tax credits for businesses that match employee contributions to the Pennsylvania 529 College and Career Savings Program and the Pennsylvania ABLE savings program for individuals with disabilities. This initiative encourages businesses to support their employees' long-term financial security. Beginning in January 2025, employers can take advantage of this credit while providing more meaningful benefits to their workforce.
These pro-business measures have created a more attractive environment for businesses to operate and grow in Pennsylvania. By prioritizing the needs of businesses, the state is positioning itself as a competitive destination for investment and a catalyst for economic prosperity.
We look forward to continuing to work closely with municipalities, legislators, and various state departments to foster economic growth and thriving communities throughout our region and across Pennsylvania. Join the conversations at our quarterly Legislative Luncheons or reach out to discuss how the Chamber can continue to work on behalf of your business.
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
Shaun Hoffman, Leonhardt Manufacturing Co. Inc.
Liz Johnides, The Markets at Hanover Kristin Leese, WellSpan
Drew Little, Conewago Valley School District
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Stacy Pitta, Campbell’s Snacks 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: Drew Little of New Oxford High School and Colonial Career & Tech
Tell us a little bit about the organization you work for and your role within the organization.
I am the Principal of the Colonial Career & Technology Center at New Oxford HS in the Conewago Valley School District. Conewago Valley is located in Adams County serving approximately 3700 students in grades K-12. The district size is 73 square miles. My role is to collaborate with the Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent, and High School Principal to provide leadership for the development, implementation, and coordination of the district's career and technical education programming.
What motivated you to become a member of the Board of Directors for the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce?
The Hanover Chamber empowers me to build collaborative partnerships and increase community engagement and workforce development opportunities. The Colonial Career and Technology Center is focused on aligning our educational programs with the local needs of our economy, ensuring students are developing skills that are in demand.
What value do you think the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce brings to the community and the local economy?
The chamber brings significant value to the local economy by fostering a supportive environment for businesses, encouraging economic growth, and advocating for policies that benefit the community.
What do you feel is the most impactful aspect of serving on a board for a non-profit organization?
Serving on the board provides me with a platform for civic engagement, which allows me to positively contribute to the overall social and economic well-being of my community.
What do you
enjoy about
Hanover as a community?
Hanover is my home. I love the small-town feel. We are proud of our deep roots, traditions, and work ethic.
List three (or more) of your favorite things to do in the Hanover area.
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching a Friday night football game or any sporting event, and exploring the new businesses in our downtown area.
Discover Hanover Digitally for 2025
In May of 2024, the Chamber unveiled a new and improved website for Discover Hanover®. While we are wrapping up advertising submissions for Discover Hanover® Magazine for 2025, digital options will continue to be available year-round.
The benefits of submitting an ad digitally:
Ability to change ad as desired
We understand that there may be many changes throughout the year for your organization. Digital ads will allow you to submit new ads as needed or make adjustments.
Customizable packages
Our digital options allow you to commit to as much or as little time as possible to display your organizations ad (minimum one month).
Flexible deadline
Unlike ads submitted to our annual publications, digital advertisement offers more flexibility when submitting your advertisement.
Accessibility for small businesses and non-profits
Advertising digitally will be priced monthly instead of annually, therefore offering a more affordable means of advertising with Discover Hanover® and more flexible commitment.
To learn more, contact Marketing & PR Manager, Katie, at kbream@hanoverchamber.com.
It is the season of giving thanks! While the Hanover Chamber is always thankful to its members, no matter what time of year, it rings especially true as we near the holiday season and the end of the calendar year.
Here are some of the ways in which we like to show appreciation for the Chamber's amazing network of businesses.
Member Mondays
Each Monday, the Chamber gives a shoutout to a member organization. Whether you are a new member, a member celebrating an accomplishment, or a member that has gone above and beyond, we want to make sure you are recognized.
Complimentary Ribbon Cuttings
Our members have access to complimentary ribbon cuttings. Whether you are opening something new, expanding, or relocating, it deserves to be celebrated and we are happy to join the festivities.
Delivering Member Plaques
Member & Community Relations Manager, Jake, has
been busy delivering complimentary membership plaques to our members. These can be hung on the wall to let visitors know that you are a proud member of the Chamber and our network of organizations.
Spreading the News
If you have important news to share and want our members to know, send us the press release. We will publish it to our Member News section of our website and in our weekly e-mail. Depending on content, it may even make it to the social channels or the newsletter.
Please send all of your exciting news to Marketing & PR Manager, Katie, at kbream@hanoverchamber.com
Thank you to all of the members of the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce! It is because of your support we are able to continue to advocate for the business community and pioneer efforts towards strengthening our workforce.
Class of Leadership Hanover 2024 - 2025
Alix Haller
UPMC Pinnacle Foundation
Ben Shaw HCM Wealth Advisory Group
Brenda Wood C.H. Reed, Inc.
Castianne Herrick Campbell's Snacks
Contessa Alvarez UTZ Brands
Christopher Hulse Campbell's Snacks
Christina Brunk The Markets at Hanover
Dakota McBride Member's 1st Federal Credit Union
Dona Deseta UPMC Hanover
Erin Barton Hanover Toyota
Jessica Elder Brown Plus
Keith Troup Hanover Auto Team
Matthew Thomas Delone Catholic High School
Melissa Grigas L2 Brands, LLC
Moriah Tyler Main Street Hanover
Stephanie Pettit The Glatfelter Agency
Stephanie Werner Berkshire Hathaway
Takela Bivins UPMC Hanover
New Member Spotlight: Final Grade, Inc.
Final Grade Inc., is a local familyowned company, serving York & Adams counties and the surrounding area. Our fully functioning excavation, tree and landscaping company was started almost 20 years ago. We’ve grown this company from the ground up, starting in 2006 with just a chainsaw and borrowed pickup truck. Owner, Adam Snyder, started the company while in school at York College, earning his business degree.
From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a multiindustry company, without losing the core values that got us here. Our 3 divisions work seamlessly, and efficiently, to accomplish your outdoor property goals. Our roots as a company started in tree work, but after realizing that we had much more to offer with our equipment, we determined not to just be ordinary. We wanted to be able to answer the question of “While you’re here, can you do this?” From site preparation for new construction to moving that old shed, we have the tools and expertise you need. We welcome challenges, it’s what keeps us loving our job!
YORK COUNTY TOURISM GRANT COMMITTEE APPROVES $830,700 IN FUNDING TIMELY OPPORTUNITY GRANTS
YORK, PA – The York County Tourism Grant Committee, Explore York Board of Directors, and the York County Commissioners approved funding for four timely opportunity applications. A timely opportunity is defined as an application for a project or event that falls outside of the program’s regular two-cycle schedule. When these types of funding requests arise, the Grant Committee treats these special circumstance requests as oneoff opportunities. The Explore York Board of Directors ratified these four applications in September; they were then approved by the York County Commissioners on October 2.
Excavation— traditionally thought of as moving material with large machines. Final Grade Inc. has sought to redefine this. Our forte is using our equipment and resources to give value to residential and commercial customers. We don’t JUST move dirt and stone, we solve problems and fulfill needs with skilled operators, ideal equipment, and innovative processes.
Landscaping— while many times we work with owners to maintain and spruce up their property, another aspect of landscaping is new installs. Sometimes this involves tree trimming or removal, or excavation to prep the area for the new installation. Patios, retaining walls, bush or tree planting, mulching, and edging are a few of the new installations we provide.
Tree Service— With nearly two decades of experience, we get the job done safely and effectively. Our tree crew works side by side with our landscaping and excavation crews, for everything from lot clearing to major property improvements. From small stumps to large tree removals, leave it up to us, we will go out on a limb for you!
“The York County Tourism Grant Program represents more than an investment in local events and tourism initiatives," said President Commissioner Julie Wheeler. "It's a pledge to strengthen our local economy. These initiatives bolster the tourism industry by creating jobs and supporting our local businesses."
The Explore York Tourism Grant Program was established in 2017. The purpose of this program is to support initiatives designed to enhance York County's billion-dollar tourism industry. Funded initiatives should aim to draw visitors from outside of a 50-mile radius, thus generating overnight hotel stays and additional economic impact through restaurant visitation and other travel & tourism related expenses.
The following timely opportunity grants were awarded:
1. Accountability for Life – Central PA Football Combine & Recruiting Kickoff ($15,000).
2. Accountability for Life – 2025 York Mega Practice ($35,000).
3. Tyrant Wrestling – 2024 East Penn Duals ($22,000).
4. Explore York – Sport Court Rental ($758,700).
"Sports tourism, through our Sport York initiative, is big business for Explore York and York County. Investing in high-quality sport court flooring is essential for attracting top-tier competitions," said Laura Wagner, President of Explore York.
Read the complete article at https:// business.hanoverchamber.com/news/
EXPLORE YORK & YORK
COLLEGE OF PENNSYLVANIA
WIN BID TO HOST DIVISION
III MEN'S BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
YORK, PA – Explore York & York College of Pennsylvania were awarded the bid to host the Division III Men's Baseball Championship in 2027 & 2028 at WellSpan Park.
This six-day championship projects more than 25,000 visitors and an estimated economic impact of $1 Million. This event, typically held in June, was previously hosted for 18 consecutive years in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
"Being selected to host the NCAA Division III Baseball Championships is a tremendous honor for our community," said Laura Wagner, President of Explore York. "This event not only highlights our dedication to sports tourism, but also brings significant economic and social benefits.”
The NCAA sports committees made the selections of host sites based on criteria that included the ability to create an outstanding experience for student-athletes, along with adherence to NCAA sport-specific bid specifications. Forty states plus the District of Columbia were selected to host at least one NCAA championship event, with Florida garnering the most with 22. Pennsylvania and Texas are tied for second with 20.
Wagner added, “From supporting our local businesses, hotels, and restaurants, this event will create growth opportunities and showcase York County to visitors from across the country. I’m proud of our team and the effort our community put into
securing this bid. I'm excited to see the lasting impact this event will have on our region."
Check out our offical video that helped us secure this competitive bid: NCAA Bid Video
For more information about the event, or to read the official NCAA Press Release, visit: NCAA announces more than 240 host site selections | NCAA.com.
From top-notch competition on the field to amazing local attractions off the field, Explore York will ensure visitors will enjoy an unforgettable time in York County. #NCAA #ExploreYorkPA #HaveitPlayedHere
UPMC INSTALLS ‘HOPE BELL’ FOR THOSE FACING CANCER IN INFUSION CENTERS ACROSS CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Oct. 2, 2024) —
The UPMC Pinnacle Foundation recently installed seven “Hope Bells” in UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion centers in central Pennsylvania, an alternative to the traditional end-of-treatment bell that allows patients to celebrate various miles in their journey, from regaining appetite to attending family events.
The Hope Bell was conceptualized by Aleecia Munchel, BSN, RN, a UPMC infusion nurse, in collaboration with her late patient Barbara Gutshall, who passed away after a courageous fight with breast cancer.
“The Hope Bell gives voice to the small victories that mean so much to our patients,” said Munchel. “It’s a symbol of resilience and joy in the face of incredible challenges. The
bell represents a milestone, a moment of triumph over adversity. It is a reminder that even in the toughest times, there is hope and strength within us all.”
The Gutshall family funded the installation of the Hope Bell at UPMC Community Osteopathic in Harrisburg, where Barbara received her treatment. Inspired by the initiative, the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation further funded the installation of Hope Bells in all UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion centers across central Pennsylvania, extending the reach of this meaningful project.
A dedication ceremony was held at UPMC Community Osteopathic, honoring Barbara’s memory and the generous donation from her husband, Don Gutshall. The event was attended by family, friends, and the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion team.
“You are all the real heroes,” said Don Gutshall. “For all that you do, for the countless hours you spend, and for the compassion you show to all those patients and families that you take care of, we are deeply grateful. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and your impact is immeasurable. Thank you for being the pillars of strength and hope in our community.”
The installation of the Hope Bells symbolizes the unwavering support and compassion that UPMC Hillman Cancer Center provides to its patients and their families. As these bells ring out in celebration of each milestone, they echo the enduring message that hope and courage are ever-present.
To recognize her visionary Hope Bell project, Munchel was awarded the prestigious HOPE Award for 2023-
2024 by UPMC.
The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. had approximately 40,000 patient visits for medical oncology and infusion in 2023, averaging close to 100 appointments per day. It is one of just 56 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides cutting-edge treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit UPMCHillman.com/ CentralPA
BROWN PLUS RECEIVES 2024 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
Leading regional accounting and advisory firm, Brown Plus, is proud to announce that it is the recipient of The Pennsylvania Municipal League’s (The League) 2024 Community Partnership Award. Brian Marchuck, Audit Principal at Brown Plus, and Eric Wendler, Director of Business Development at Brown Plus, proudly accepted the award at The League’s 2024 Municipal Leadership Summit in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on Friday, October 11.
The Pennsylvania Municipal League is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization representing participating municipalities across Pennsylvania who share The League’s municipal policy interests. The League aims to help strengthen and empower effective local government through advocacy, education and support for its members.
Brown Plus has been a proud supporter of The Pennsylvania Municipal League for over 12 years. In 2023, the Firm joined The League’s Business Leaders Network, which promotes the exchange of ideas between corporate leaders and community leaders to strengthen local government, encourage economic competitiveness and promote corporate/civic engagement.
“We are so thankful to receive this year’s Community Partnership Award from The Pennsylvania Municipal League,” said Brian Marchuck.
“For more than a decade, Brown Plus has been a proud supporter of the League, and recently, we have been honored to join The League’s Business Leaders Network. Similarly to The League, our mission is to help people achieve extraordinary outcomes, through the services we provide and the support we give to our local communities. Having served the government industry for more than 30 years, we understand the opportunities and obstacles that local governments are facing today. We truly enjoy helping governmental entities see what’s possible to achieve their goals with a wide array of outsourced accounting, attest and advisory services.”
Brian is a key leader of the Brown Plus Government Practice, which provides a wide array of attest and advisory services to local governments, authorities and instrumentalities across the MidAtlantic region. For over 30 years, governmental entities have trusted Brown Plus to provide exceptional service for their audit, outsourced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) consulting, payroll, bookkeeping and
other accounting and advisory needs.
“Congratulations to Brown Plus for receiving the 2024 Community Partnership Award,” said John Brenner, Executive Director of The League. “They have been an active member of The League’s Business Leaders Network and are always working to help local communities make wise financial decisions.”
To learn more about the Brown Plus Government Practice, visit https:// www.brownplus.com/industries/ government/.
To learn more about The Pennsylvania Municipal League, visit https://www.pml.org/.
UPCOMING UPCOMING events events
4TH QUARTER LEGISLATIVE ROUNDTABLE
Friday, November 1, 2024 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Ballroom on Broadway | 1649 Broadway, Hanover, PA
$30 Member Rate, $45 Community Rate | Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
WELLSPAN HEALTH RIBBON CUTTING
Thursday, November 7, 2024 | 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
WellSpan Health and Surgery Center | 1227 Baltimore St, Hanover, PA
Complimentary to attend | Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
WORKFORCE SUMMIT 2024
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 | 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Ballroom on Broadway | 1649 Broadway, Hanover, PA
$40/Member Rate, $70/Community Rate | Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
MEMBERSHIP MIXER - DAWG GONE BEES
Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Dawg Gone Bees | 7 Center Sq, Hanover, PA
Complimentary to Members | Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
LUNCH & LEARN HOSTED BY GRIT AND GOALS MAGAZINE
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Ballroom on Broadway | 1649 Broadway, Hanover, PA
Complimentary to attendees | Register at hanoverchamber.com/ events/calendar
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Dexter Bateman, MD Medical Director, WellSpan Total Joint Program
Jovito Angeles, MD Hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder specialty
Aubrey Ashie, DO Total joint replacement, trauma specialty
Kyle Fink, MD Shoulder, Orthopedic Sports Medicine specialty
Gunnett, DO Knee and hip specialty