VOICE VALLEY of the
GSVCC Passes the Torch to New President and CEO
The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce is marking a historic milestone as we honor a legacy of service while looking toward a bright new horizon. After a distinguished tenure championing our local business community, Robert Garrett has announced his retirement as President and CEO. Bob’s departure marks the conclusion of an era defined by stability, collaboration, and a deep-seated commitment to the prosperity of our region. Throughout his tenure, he has been a steady hand for our members, building a foundation that has allowed the Chamber to thrive even during times of significant economic change.
Bob has often shared that his greatest honor was serving as the collective voice for the businesses that call this valley home. As the Chamber now pivots toward a fresh strategic focus on advocacy and workforce growth, Bob sees this new cycle as the natural and optimal time for a leadership transition. His commitment to a seamless handoff is a testament to his character, ensuring that the momentum he helped build continues to carry us forward into this next era. We are deeply grateful for his years of partnership and for the heart he poured into every initiative.
Stepping into this vital role to build upon Bob’s work is Amanda Craig Bradley, a lifelong resident of the Greater Susquehanna Valley with deep roots in multiple local communities. Amanda arrives with a profound personal investment in our community’s long-term success and a wealth of experience in economic development and stakeholder engagement. Her background in building cross-sector partnerships and her vision for a resilient regional economy make her the ideal leader to guide us through our next chapter.
Amanda’s approach is rooted in listening and trust, with her early days dedicated to hearing directly from our members about their priorities and aspirations. She is poised to act as a catalyst for growth, focusing on streamlining regional processes and strengthening the bridges between our workforce and our employers. Under her direction, the Chamber will continue to be a force multiplier—advocating for the business community and amplifying the visibility of the people who make our region great.
As we celebrate Bob Garrett’s remarkable contributions and welcome Amanda Craig Bradley, the heart of our mission remains the same: driving regional prosperity through high-impact partnerships and a strong, unified business voice. We thank Bob for his dedicated service and look forward to the innovative energy Amanda will bring to the valley.
Bob Garrett is the Chamber’s longest-serving President & CEO.
Amanda Bradley, a valley native, starts March 30th.
Just A Word...
By: Bob Garrett President & CEO, GSVCC Executive Director, LSV
Welcome Madam President Amanda
As I look toward retirement, it gives me great pleasure to share some exciting news about the future of the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce. I am delighted with the announcement that Amanda Craig Bradley will serve as the Chamber’s next President & CEO.
During my dozen years with the Chamber, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated board members, committee volunteers, business leaders, educators, and community partners who all share the common goal of strengthening the prosperity of our valley. Thinking back, to my early days as your Chamber President one of the individuals who I got to work with often was Amanda. She, her husband and family have deep roots with the Chamber.
Because of their involvement and the collective commitment of hundreds of other individuals, the Chamber has grown into a strong and respected voice for workforce development, Legislative advocacy, economic opportunity, and regional collaboration.
Leadership transitions are important moments for
any organization, and I could not be more confident about the Chamber’s future with Amanda at the helm. She brings tremendous enthusiasm, strong leadership skills, and a genuine appreciation for the role that businesses and community partnerships play in building vibrant local economies. She already embraces the Chamber’s mission and will continue to build upon the momentum that we together have created and fostered.
Serving this Chamber and this region has been one of the great honors of my professional life. The relationships built and the progress we have achieved together will always remain close to my heart.
As I pass the torch to Amanda, I also pass along my clarion call: “By working together, our best days lie just ahead.”
Amanda, I wish you every success in this important role.
All the best, my friend.
Welcome NEW Members
Cameron Hummel
Ink & Arrow Marketing Co.
Sue Greene
Keri Albright Airiam MoonWolf Group
2026 Investor Members
Bowen Agency Realtors
Bucknell University
CVC Mechanical Contractors, Inc.
Capital Power Hummel Station
Central Penn Bank and Trust
Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit
Coldwell Banker Penn One Real Estate
Contrast
Fulton Bank - Danville
Geisinger
Kreamer Feed, Inc.
M&T Bank
MC Federal Credit Union - Danville
Meck-Tech, Inc.
Members 1st Federal Credit Union
National Beef Packing Company LLP
Neema Hospitality Management
North Shore Railroad Company
PPL Electric Utilities
Penn State Schuylkill
Playworld
Board of Directors and Officers
Jeff Reber, Chair
Greg Zeh, Vice Chair
Aimee Buehner, Immediate Past Chair
Cameron Hummel, Treasurer
John Kurelja, Vice President
Bob Garrett, Secretary
Purdy Insurance Agency
Ritz-Craft Corporation
Service 1st Federal Credit Union - Corporate Center
Service Electric Cablevision
Seven Mountains Media
Shumaker Industries
Stahl Sheaffer Engineering
Sunbury Motor Company
Susquehanna Community Bank - West Milton
Susquehanna University T-Ross Brothers Construction, Inc.
The Daily Item
UPMC
Weis Markets
WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital
Steve Stumbris, Region III Director
Ryan McNally, Region IV Director
Roger van Baaren, Region V Director
Malcolm Derk, Region VI Director
Chip Minemyer, Director
Stacey Napoli, Director
Beau Hoffman, Director
Stan Cary, Director
Tom Crissinger, Director
Chad Evans, Director
Justin Bainbridge, Director
Powering Innovation: Reflections on the 6th Annual Innovations Summit
On February 9th, the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted its 6th Annual Innovations Summit. This year’s Summit brought together business leaders, educators, nonprofit professionals, and public officials to explore the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence.
The success of the Summit was driven by a dedicated group of partners committed to regional progress. We are grateful to our Speaker Sponsor, Airiam, whose support helped bring dynamic insight and expertise to the main stage. Our Host Sponsor, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, provided an outstanding venue and partnership that set the tone for the day.
Special thanks go to our Founding Sponsor, Contrast, and our Executive Sponsor, InnoTek Computer Consulting, Inc., for their continued commitment to advancing technology and entrepreneurship in our region. We also appreciate the contributions of our Meal Sponsor, Fulton Bank, and our Technology Sponsor, Service Electric Cablevision, who made sure that attendees were well connected and well cared for throughout the event. Additionally, our Gift Sponsors, Bucknell University Small Business Development Center, MoonWolf Group, and Quantraic each added a thoughtful touch that enhanced the overall experience.
Judging from the post-Summit evaluations, our members are not just curious about AI; they are ready to implement it. A strong majority of attendees expressed interest in practical AI solutions training, sending a clear message: beyond theory and trends, our businesses want hands-on guidance they can apply immediately.
Several participants encouraged the GSVCC to “continue what you’re doing,” noting that the Summit striked the right balance between inspiration and actionable insight. Importantly, feedback also emphasized the need to keep beginner AI sessions separate from more advanced content as adoption grows across various sectors.
Based on member feedback, high-interest topics for future development include:
• Practical AI solutions training.
• Low-cost or free AI tools, especially for nonprofits.
• AI tools that improve workflow and efficiency.
• Ethical use of AI, particularly for small businesses.
The evaluation responses provide helpful directions for the Chamber’s staff. There was an overwhelmingly strong interest indicated toward in-person workshops and events, while little interest was expressed in one-on-one advice or office hours.
Because of our sponsors and participants, this annual Innovations Summit continues to grow as a premier gathering of forward-thinking leaders. The “Innovation Conversation” in our valley is just getting started.
GSVCC Launches New AI Toolbox for Members
The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a powerful new resource for our members: the GSVCC AI Toolbox. This exclusive digital benefit is designed specifically for business owners who may not be tech-savvy but are looking for a simple, practical way to save time and reduce costs. Powered by GSVCC member Quantraic, the toolbox simplifies complex technology into a single, user-friendly interface built for real-world application and results.
Inside the toolbox, members will find a comprehensive set of resources including an AI ROI Calculator to estimate cost savings and a Prompt Builder to help draft professional emails and marketing copy in seconds. For those unsure where to start, the AI Readiness Scorecard assesses your current business processes, while the Plain-Language Library breaks down technical jargon into clear, actionable advice. A built-in assistant named Hanna is available to guide users through the tools and answer questions in real-time.
The primary goal of this new benefit is to provide immediate value without the risk or confusion associated with new technology. By focusing on practical outcomes such as moving faster and operating more efficiently, the AI Toolbox allows local small businesses to compete with much larger organizations. This is a guided, safe way to explore automation and see how quickly these tools can make a difference in your daily operations.
GSVCC Membership Director Chad North speaks to attendees at the 6th Annual Innovations Summit about AI and its uses in the workforce.
-octoberGibson O’Mealy LEWISBURG
-octoberErica Stauffer MEADOWBROOK
-decemberGrayson Barner LEWISBURG
-decemberMadison Krissinger LINE MOUNTAIN
-decemberMadeline Fasnacht MEADOWBROOK
-decemberIan Hall MIDD-WEST
-decemberWilson Abram MIFFLINBURG
-decemberEvalin Owens NORRY CHRISTIAN
-decemberAbigail Watkins SELINSGROVE
-decemberLily Persing SHIKELLAMY
-decemberJacob Hornberger SUN AREA TECH
-januaryElla Sofia Markunas LEWISBURG
-januaryBreann Reed LINE MOUNTAIN
-januaryGrace Ask MEADOWBROOK
-januaryMatthew Hunsberger MIDD-WEST
-januaryLaura Darrup MIFFLINBURG
-januaryOlivia Heise MILTON
-januaryEthan Bennett SELINSGROVE
-januaryKelsey Persons SHIKELLAMY
-januaryIsabelle Walter SUN AREA TECH
Home is where your health is
One of the best things about living here? High-caliber healthcare is as close as your next-door neighbor. Physicians conducting the latest cancer clinical trials are also youth soccer coaches. Nurses whose expert care kept your dad comfortable also maintain hiking trails. That’s why Geisinger is committed to keeping world-class care local. Because community is more than a place. It’s people, connections and shared purpose.
GSVCC and SUN Area
Technical Institute Host Multi-District Career Fair
The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the SUN Area Technical Institute and sponsored by Central Susquehanna Opportunities (CSO), hosted the Multi-District Career Fair on Thursday, March 5th, 2026. Held at Susquehanna University’s James W. Garrett Sports Complex, the event brought together high school students from Selinsgrove, Lewisburg, Midd-West and SUN Area Technical Institute. Students engaged with 49 participating businesses and post-secondary institutions, including local organizations like Geisinger, Playworld, Zartman Construction, and many more.
The fair showcased a variety of career paths ranging from advanced manufacturing and healthcare to skilled trades and public service. By providing these pathways, the MultiDistrict Career Fair helped the region’s next generation of talent explore new possibilities and take their first steps toward meaningful local careers.
RECENT RIBBON CUTTINGS
High school students from across the valley gather at the Garrett Sports Complex for a day of networking with local businesses and organizations
Mount Carmel Senior Living Community held their ribbon cutting for the Mount Carmel Personal Care on December 10, 2025.
7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee’s in Shamokin Dam official ribbon cutting took place on December 17, 2025.
Members 1st Federal Credit Union hosted their ribbon cutting at their Lewisburg Giant Food Store location on January 8, 2026.
Photo Credit: Justin Strawser, The Daily Item
Susquehanna Valley Country Club’s 1919 Restaurant and Pub held their official ribbon cutting on January 28, 2026.
Spring In The Susquehanna River Valley
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Springtime in the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley. The region is gearing up for outdoor adventures with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, paddling, fishing, off-roading and more. While you are making plans to get out and about, be sure to check the calendar of events at VisitCentralPA.org; more likely than not, there is something fun happening in the river valley! Below you will find a sampling of our Spring events, but plan to check the calendar often; we are adding new events every day. Or better yet, sign up to receive our e-weekly newsletter, “This Week in the Susquehanna River Valley” so that you never miss out.
April 1 – The “April Bloom” Easter Masterclass at Blooming Meadows Farm, Watsontown
April 1 – The Art of Bonsai with Carl Achhammer Jr. at the Weis Center for Performing Arts at Bucknell University, Lewisburg
April 2 – Sensory-Friendly Egg Hunt at Milton Public Library
April 3 – 2026 Lewisburg Arts Festival’s Featured Artist Exhibition: Scratchboard Art of Lynn Kibbe
April 4 – Annual Adult Easter Egg Hunt at Four Friends Vineyard & Winery, Montgomery
April 4 – Kitties with Kiddies at Bloomsburg Children’s Museum
April 4 – The Seven Wonders, a Tribute to Fleetwood Mac at the Albright Center for the Arts, Sunbury
April 7 – John Holiday LIVE at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove
April 7 – Repasz Band at the Community Arts Center, Williamsport
April 9 – Circa: Humans 2.0 at Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell University, Lewisburg
April 11 – King Lear at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove
April 11 – Discover Selinsgrove Chocolate Stroll
April 12 – Spring Artisan Market at Lewisburg YMCA at the Miller Center
April 15 – America 250PA Mobile Unit at Joseph Priestley House, Northumberland
April 15 – Make a Lavender Wreath at Blooming Meadows Farm, Watsontown
April 19 – Run for Your Money – Kentucky Derby themed fundraiser at Whispering Oaks Vineyard, Sunbury
April 24 – The Uptown Music Collective presents Tapestry: The Songs of Carole King & Friends at the Community Arts Center, Williamsport
April 25 – Lewisburg Arts Festival
April 26 – Moo Moos & Mimosas at Whispering Oaks Vineyard, Sunbury
May 2 – Makerfest at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds
May 2 – Susquehanna Valley Chorale’s POPS Concert: The Best of 30 Years, Part 2 at Weber Chapel, Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove
May 8 – BTE Improv at Alvina Krause Theatre, Bloomsburg
May 9 – 2nd Annual Beef and Brew Block Party, Sunbury
May 9 – Mount Carmel Spring Fling!
May 9 – Wine Shine Taco Palooza at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds
May 10 – MOMosas, Live Music and Bloom Bar at Fero Vineyards and Winery, Lewisburg
May 13 – Flower Resin Coasters Make and Take at Blooming Meadows Farm, Watsontown
May 15-17 – Middlecreek Valley Antique Association Spring Show, Selinsgrove
May 15-17 – World of Fae Festival, Milton
May 16 – Uncork the Past Wine Festival, Watsontown
May 16-17 – Central Pennsylvania Fiber Festival, Lycoming County Fairgrounds
May 19 – Williamsport Symphony presents Orchestral Wonders at the Community Arts Center, Williamsport
May 23 – 20th Annual Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts, Shamokin
May 29 – Nittany Antique Machinery Spring Show at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, Centre Hall
May 30 – Heart of Lewisburg Summer Craft Fair
May 30 – Lewisburg Spring Triathlon
June 10-13 – Hillbilly Fever Days, Beavertown
June 13 – Riverside: 250th Festival and Fireworks
June 18 – Catawissa 250th Celebration
June 20 – Summer Daze Festival, Milton
June 26-27 – Union County Veterans’ 4th of July Celebration, Lewisburg
And don’t forget about these Recurring Events:
All You Can Eat Snow Crab Thursdays at Buddy Boy Winery and Restaurant, Duncannon – every Thursday
Beginner Belly Dance Spring Series at Artisan Alley Fine Art Gallery, Shamokin –Mondays through April 20
Crosscutters Baseball 100th Year Anniversary of Historic Bowman Field, Williamsport
– Opening Day June 1
Facebook Live Shows from Norry Treasures – every Monday
Farmstand Fridays at the Lewisburg Children’s Museum – Fridays through May 29
First Friday in Sunbury at STEAM Innovation Labs
First Sunday Program of Music and Words at Joseph Priestley Memorial Chapel, Northumberland
Jazz Night in Lewisburg! at the CommUnity Zone – 1st Wednesday of month
Karaoke at the Inn at Watson Inn, Watsontown – every other Wednesday
Knoebels Amusement Resort 100th year anniversary – opening day April 25
Lewisburg Farmers Market – every Wednesday
Open Studio Sessions from the Lewisburg Arts Council – every Tuesday
Punchlines! Comedy Open Mic Night at Art Academy of Milton – 1st Wednesday of month
Qigong Class at Lewisburg YMCA at the Miller Center – every Monday
Selinsgrove Farmers Market – every Saturday until November 14
Sunday Brunch at Nomad Distilling Co, Williamsport
Sundays: Free Live Music at Lost Mined, Shamokin
Swing Dance Socials at Artisan Alley Fine Art Gallery, Shamokin – 3rd Friday of month
Thursday Trivia Night at Spyglass on the Ridge, Sunbury – every Thursday
Williamsport First Friday presented by Lycoming Arts
Youth Open Mic Poetry Night at The Otto Bookstore, Williamsport – 1st Thursday of month
There is so much happening in the Susquehanna River Valley; be sure to visit us often at VisitCentralPA.org for details and new events.
Lewisburg Arts Festival (April 25, 2026) brings together 100 artists and makers along Market Street in Downtown Lewisburg. From fine art to folk art, contemporary to classical, the Lewisburg Arts Festival proudly showcases creativity in all its forms.
transplant
The UPMC kidney transplant team at UPMC Harrisburg now offers kidney transplant evaluation services at UPMC Williamsport. Experts from one of the top kidney transplant programs in the region can now see patients in-person, close to home. The clinic provides transplant evaluations to patients with advanced, progressive, or complicated kidney disease who may benefit from kidney transplantation.
For more information, visit: UPMC.com/NCPAKidney.
Kidney Transplant Evaluations
UPMC Williamsport
700 High St., 2nd Floor
Williamsport, PA 17701
UPMC Kidney Transplant Program
UPMC Harrisburg
205 S. Front St., 8th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17104