ACBiz June

Creating Nature

Champions

WE MEAN BUSINESS

BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS IS A RELIABLE PARTNER— AND THAT’S WHERE WE COME IN. WITH MEMBERS 1ST AS YOUR PARTNER, YOU’LL BE:

• CONNECTED

Online access with real‑time account monitoring

• IN CONTROL

Card controls, bill pay, ACH processing and wire transfers

• PROTECTED

Built‑in risk management and fraud alerts

• SUPPORTED

A dedicated business concierge—not a chatbot—a local, real associate ready to help you succeed

FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA. Prospective members must meet current eligibility requirements.

Bryan Johnson, Chair* SMB Associates

John Husser, Vice Chair* ACNB Bank

Judy Morley, Treasurer* The Gettysburg Cookie Co.

Sarah Sidenstricker, Secretary* Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Darlene A. Brown Individual Member

Isaac Bucher, Immediate Past Chair* Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium

Michael Cogliano, Sr.* WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital

Lisa Duffy UPMC Hanover

Shawn Eckenrode Adams County Technical Institute

Sharon Kebil-Whisler M & T Bank

Kelly Mower

Graphics Universal, Inc.

Stacey Schlosser* Biggerstaff’s Catering

Kate Shay Scott & Co. Fine Jewelers

Karen Tavenner RE/MAX Quality Service, Inc.

Becky Van der Groef Hoffman Homes

Wesley Warehime Aero Energy

Carrie S. Stuart, President* The Chamber of Gettysburg & Adams County *Denotes Executive Committee Member

CHAMBER STAFF

Carrie S. Stuart, President carries@gettysburg-chamber.org

Edith Cimino, Operations Manager edithc@gettysburg-chamber.org

Crystal Kleponis, Director of Member Services crystalk@gettysburg-chamber.org

Annie Burns, Marketing & Advertising Manager annieb@gettysburg-chamber.org

THIS ISSUE

BUSINESS BRIEFS

The bolded businesses in Business Briefs are Chamber members. Submit news to chambernews@gettysburgchamber.org by the second Tuesday of each month for inclusion in the following month’s publication.

UPMC Harrisburg has been designated a Comprehensive Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and American Stroke Association, the highest level of stroke certification, recognizing its ability to treat the region’s most complex cases. The hospital provides 24/7 advanced stroke care, including neurosurgical and endovascular procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy and aneurysm clipping. UPMC’s regional network of primary stroke centers works with EMS and Stat MedEvac to rapidly diagnose, treat, and transfer patients when needed. Since achieving thrombectomycapable status in 2024, UPMC has performed over 375 procedures. AI tools, tele-neurology, and follow-up stroke clinics support prevention, recovery, and long-term patient care.

Ralph M. Serpe, President & CEO of the Adams County Community Foundation, has been honored by the Council on Foundations with its inaugural Excellence in Community Foundation Leadership Award. The national recognition celebrates leaders who demonstrate vision, innovation, and measurable impact in community philanthropy. Serpe was recognized for his efforts to advance charitable giving legislation, grow nonprofit endowments, and strengthen community foundations nationwide. His leadership has helped expand philanthropic capacity both locally and across the country. The award highlights his long-standing commitment to building stronger communities through strategic giving, collaboration, and sustainable charitable investment.

Kara Darlington, CPA, CEO of SEK, CPAs & Advisors, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) as a director-at-large for a two-year term beginning May 1, 2026, and was formally sworn in

at the organization’s Annual Meeting & Celebration. PICPA is Pennsylvania’s largest CPA organization, representing nearly 18,000 members. With 30 years of experience at SEK—where she began as an intern in 1996 and became CEO in 2025—Darlington brings extensive leadership in assurance, advisory, and firm management. She also serves on multiple local nonprofit boards and remains active in the Hanover community.

Destination Gettysburg welcomes two new team members, Joel Huffer and Eliza McCleary.

Joel Huffer joins as Director of Communications and Advocacy, where he will share destination stories with national media and build local relationships to strengthen awareness of Adams County’s tourism industry. He can be reached at joel@destinationgettysburg. com. Eliza McCleary joins as Sales Specialist, supporting group tour and meetings efforts through event follow-ups, site visits, and industry newsletters. She can be contacted at eliza@destinationgettysburg.com. Together, they will help advance Destination Gettysburg’s marketing, communications, and sales initiatives while supporting continued growth in regional tourism and community engagement.

The York Water Company (NASDAQ: YORW), led by President JT Hand, reported strong first-quarter 2026 financial results, with operating revenues of $20.1 million, up $1.6 million from the same period in 2025, and net income of $4.8 million, an increase of $1.2 million. Earnings per share rose to $0.33, driven primarily by rate increases effective March 1, 2026, and customer base growth, partially offset by changes to the Distribution System Improvement Charge,

higher operating costs, and increased depreciation and interest expenses. The company invested $9.8 million in infrastructure upgrades and $470,000 in wastewater system acquisitions and plans an additional $38.1 million in 2026 capital improvements.

rabbittransit, in partnership with WellSpan Health and state and local leaders, highlighted the critical role of rural public transportation in connecting Pennsylvanians to healthcare and supporting local economies. Held at WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, the press conference emphasized how shared ride and flexible transit services help residents access medical appointments, pharmacies, and essential care—particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without vehicles. Speakers noted that transportation is a key social determinant of health, directly impacting patient outcomes and hospital sustainability. Leaders also stressed the importance of continued funding for rural transit programs, which operate in all 67 Pennsylvania counties.

Gettysburg Tours, Inc. proudly recognizes Ron Koontz for 50 years of dedicated service, marking a milestone that reflects his lasting impact on the organization since joining in 1976. Over five decades, Koontz has helped guide thousands of visitors through the Gettysburg Battlefield, earning admiration for his expertise, professionalism, and kindness behind the wheel. Company leadership praised his loyalty and mentorship, noting his role in training generations of drivers and shaping the company’s culture. His contributions

have helped create memorable visitor experiences and support the growth of Gettysburg Tours, which operates battlefield tours, charter services, and other historic attractions throughout Gettysburg.

Keller Engineers, Inc., a full-service engineering firm with offices in Hollidaysburg, State College, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, celebrated the completion of the final segment of the C&I Extension within the Ghost Town Trail in partnership with the Cambria County Conservation & Recreation Authority (CCCRA). The project completes a 32-mile continuous loop, now the second-longest trail loop in the United States and the only one east of the Mississippi River. Keller Engineers provided civil design, surveying, environmental permitting, and construction services for 2.75 miles of trail, including three major bridge and culvert structures. The project enhances regional recreation, connectivity, and economic development across the region.

The YWCA Carlisle & Cumberland County Persimmon Awards recognized women who demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and commitment to equity and community impact. This year’s George Award honoree, Sandra Musser, was recognized for her decades of service with YWCA Carlisle, where she began as a preschool teacher in the early 1980s and later served as preschool director and fund development director. Persimmon Award honorees included Whitney Baker, Judge Jessica Brewbaker, Commissioner Jean Foschi, and Trooper Kelly Smith, each honored for their contributions to education, public service, law, and community engagement. The awards celebrated their lasting impact on strengthening and supporting the region.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Strawberry Hill Foundation, Inc.

Dan Brannen – Executive Director strawberryhill.org | 717.642.5840

Let’s Meet Dan with Strawberry Hill!

Dan Brannen’s path to Strawberry Hill Nature Center & Preserve has been anything but typical. While his love for science and nature started early, his career first took him through military service and decades of nonprofit leadership before returning him to the outdoors.

He earned a degree in Zoology in the early 1980s before serving four years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. After his military service, Brannen spent more than 30 years leading organizations supporting homeless, trafficked, and abused youth across the Eastern United States, from New York City to Washington, D.C., and South-Central Pennsylvania. He also earned a master’s degree in Urban Affairs along the way.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Brannen was ready for a change of pace and became Executive Director of Strawberry Hill in 2021, finally returning to his original passion for nature and conservation.

Located near Fairfield and adjacent to Michaux State Forest, Strawberry Hill offers a peaceful escape with forests, ponds, wetlands, streams, and miles of free public trails.

“Our hope is for visitors to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature,” Brannen said. Quoting Henry David Thoreau, he added, “‘I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.’”

For first-time visitors, he encourages slowing down and listening to Swamp Creek, watching dragonflies around the pond, or walking the one-mile Nature Trail. “People are often surprised by how peaceful it feels just minutes from Gettysburg,” he said.

As Executive Director of a small nonprofit, Brannen’s work changes daily. “No two days are ever the same,” he said. “One day I might be writing grants or meeting donors, and the next I’m feeding our skunk Ollie and barred owl Strix or teaching kids about bugs.”

One of Brannen’s favorite memories at Strawberry Hill involved helping safely relocate a large Timber Rattlesnake away from

BIZ BUZZ

program participants and into a safer area of nearby Michaux State Forest. Encounters like that, he says, remind visitors just how special and wild the preserve truly is.

What motivates him most is seeing children engage with nature. “They’re smiling, exploring, and discovering things they’ve never seen before,” he said. “Those experiences create lasting connections.”

Strawberry Hill continues expanding hands-on environmental education programs while improving trails and facilities to inspire future environmental stewards.

Many visitors are surprised to learn the preserve’s name comes from wild strawberries that once covered the hillside behind the pink cabin before the late 1970s. Today, that area is forested with tall conifers.

Like many nonprofits, Strawberry Hill relies on volunteers, partnerships, and community support. “Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer,” Brannen said. “But most importantly, come visit and experience it for yourself.”

Outside of work, Brannen enjoys Adams County’s restaurants, breweries, and wineries. “I need a little urban life mixed into my nature life,” he joked.

What makes Adams County such a meaningful place for conservation and outdoor recreation?

Adams County is widely known for its farmland and orchards, but we’re also fortunate to have the South Mountain landscape running right through our backyard. The forests, streams, ravines, and mountain views create an incredible balance between agriculture, conservation, and recreation.

How has being part of the local business and nonprofit community, including the Chamber, Strawberry Hill grow its mission and outreach?

Strawberry Hill partners with 70-80 organizations and businesses every year. Whether as customers, vendors, or collaborators, those partnerships are essential to our success, and being part of the Chamber helps us connect with even more people in the community.

Seton Center, Inc.

#FreshFaces

Who we are and what we do:

At Seton Center Inc., we are committed to serving each client and customer with great hospitality and respect. We believe the true meaning of charity is love. Whether the need is advocacy, information, material, or financial aid, or a great bargain in our thrift store, we strive to meet these needs with integrity so that all those seeking assistance find an experience of love and respect.

The Seton Center has three programs: Thrift Store, Outreach, and Volunteer. Under the Outreach program, we offer community services through donations and grants. Those services are community education, dental partnerships, food assistance, medical & prescription copays, and emergency financial assistance when necessary. The hope is to help our neighbors build bridges out of poverty by offering services that will educate, empower, and encourage them to move forward to a better, sustainable life. Our goal is to be the “Social Services Hub of Northern Frederick County & Beyond” and to continue to address basic human needs, build strong, healthy families, maintain the health of seniors, and provide referral services to all members of the community, especially our neighbors living at or below poverty or ALICE Report income levels. ALICE households are holding down 2-3 jobs and, due to the rising costs of living, are still unable to afford and provide food, housing, and other basic needs.

Fun Fact About Me: I’m a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

CHAMBER CHAT

Reserve Your Spot in the 2026–27Adams County Living

We’re excited to announce that the 2026–27 edition of Adams County Living is now in production, and we are officially accepting Insertion Order Forms from Chamber members interested in advertising in this full-color community guide in 10,000 print copies and an online edition.

Advertising in Adams County Living is an exclusive Chamber member benefit, giving your business premium exposure. In addition to the printed guide, advertisers also benefit from inclusion in the digital edition hosted year-round on our website for even greater reach.

A variety of ad sizes are available, with pricing ranging from $400–$1,200. Businesses looking for a more budget-friendly option may also choose an Enhanced Listing for $300.

Important Deadlines: Space Reservation Due: July 31, Camera-Ready Artwork Due: August 31, Payment Due: October 30, Publication Release: November 28.

If you have questions or would like additional information about advertising opportunities in Adams County Living, please contact Annie Burns at annieb@gettysburgchamber.org.

ADVOCACY UPDATES

AI-GENERATED CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE MATERIAL A REAL THREAT

REPRESENTATIVE CATHERINE WALLEN

One of the first votes I had the honor of casting as a new member of the General Assembly was in support of legislation that would strengthen protections for children victimized by AI-generated sexually explicit images.

Sadly, this bill is the result of two instances of teenage students who created artificial intelligence-generated “deepfake” images of female classmates. These images were then shared with other students. Instead of contacting police immediately, the schools chose to conduct their own internal reviews before contacting law enforcement.

House Bill 2474 would remove uncertainty about reporting obligations and ensure law enforcement becomes involved immediately. Mandated reporting should mean just that. Mandated reporting of suspected child sexual abuse material, including AI-generated content.

Specifically, the bill would require schools and other mandated reporters to immediately notify law enforcement when they become aware of suspected child sexual abuse material involving AI-generated “deepfake” images. The bill, which is now in the Senate, aims to prevent delays that can allow harmful material to continue spreading and additional victims to be targeted.

As a mother and grandmother, this issue struck a chord with me, as I am sure it does with you. I look forward to it becoming law.

HOUSE APPROVES ALICIA’S LAW TO PROTECT KIDS FROM ONLINE PREDATORS

REPRESENTATIVE DAN MOUL

I was pleased to join my House colleagues in unanimous support of legislation that would create a state grant program to help law enforcement find, investigate and prosecute internet predators who target children. Alicia’s Law is named for Alicia Kozak, a Pittsburgh-area girl who was abducted in 2002 at the age of 13 by a man she met online. It was one of the first documented cases of its kind in the country. Alicia survived and has spent years advocating for stronger protection so other children don’t go through what she did. House Bill 1098 would establish the Investigation and Prosecution of Internet Crimes Against Children Program within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The program creates a state-level funding structure to fund law enforcement task forces made up of state and local prosecutors dedicated to investigating and prosecuting online crimes against minors; supplement federal funding for task forces combating child sexual exploitation online; and train task force members on the latest techniques for detecting, investigating and prosecuting these crimes. The bill is now pending consideration in the Senate.

Sandpiper Counseling Services, LLC

#FreshFaces

Who we are and what we do: Sandpiper Counseling Services, LLC is a husband and wife, Gettysburgbased virtual therapy practice supporting teens and adults (13+) across Pennsylvania. We specialize in Autism, ADHD, and the unique emotional wellness needs of first responders. Our mission is to provide accessible, affirming care that helps people navigate challengtes, build resilience, and feel understood.

Mission:

Our mission is to provide compassionate, client-centered mental health care rooted in authenticity, resilience, and connection. We encourage and empower clients to navigate the shifting tides with courage, clarity, and self-compassion. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive space where each individual can explore, heal, and improve their emotional well-being.

What we love about the Adams County community: We love the Adams County community for its unique blend of smalltown diversity and rural tranquility. The area’s rich history adds depth and meaning to everyday life, while its vibrant food culture—farmers markets, orchards, local restaurants, and craft beverages—creates a warm, welcoming sense of place. It’s a community rooted in tradition, connection, and genuine local pride.

YOUR HOME’S ANNUAL PHYSICAL: WHY A HOME HEALTH INSPECTION MATTERS

Written by HouseMaster

Most of us understand the value of an annual physical. Even when we feel fine, we still show up—blood pressure gets checked, labs are run, and small concerns are caught before they become big problems. A home health inspection serves the same purpose for your house.

Your home works hard every day. It protects you from the elements, keeps you comfortable, and quietly supports daily life. Like our bodies, homes age, experience wear and tear, and sometimes develop issues that aren’t obvious on the surface. A home health inspection is simply a way to check in and make sure everything is functioning as it should.

Looking Beyond the Surface

When something hurts in our body, we notice. But many health issues develop silently. Homes are no different. A small roof leak might not show up on the ceiling right away. Electrical systems can slowly degrade. Moisture can build up behind walls or in crawl spaces long before it causes visible damage.

Safety Is Part of Health

Health exams aren’t just about illness; they’re also about safety and risk prevention. For homes, that means checking items like electrical grounding, ventilation for fuel-burning appliances, stair safety, and moisture control. These details help reduce risks associated with fire hazards, indoor air quality issues, and accidental injuries.

A healthy home supports the well-being of the people inside it. Comfortable temperatures, proper airflow, and dry spaces all contribute to a healthier living environment—much like good sleep, nutrition, and exercise support physical health.

“Homes don’t come with instruction manuals, and they rarely speak up when something is wrong.“

A home health inspection takes a whole-house view—roof, structure, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, insulation, ventilation, and more. It’s not about finding fault; it’s about understanding condition. Think of it as listening to the heart and lungs, checking reflexes, and reviewing lifestyle habits—all rolled into one appointment for your home.

Early Detection Saves Stress

Doctors often say, “The earlier we catch it, the easier it is to treat.” The same principle applies to homes. Minor maintenance issues are usually manageable and affordable. Left unaddressed, they can evolve into costly repairs or safety concerns.

A loose handrail, a slowly leaking pipe, or an aging water heater might not feel urgent today, but identifying these early gives homeowners the chance to plan repairs rather than react to emergencies. Preventive care—whether for people or property— tends to be less stressful and less expensive.

Not Just for Buying or Selling

Many people associate home inspections only with real estate transactions, but a home health inspection can be useful at many stages of homeownership. Long-time homeowners may benefit from periodic checkups, especially as systems age. New homeowners can use an inspection to learn how their home works and what maintenance to expect over time.

Just as a doctor helps you understand your body, a home inspection helps you understand your house—its strengths, its vulnerabilities, and what kind of care it may need next.

Peace of Mind Is the Real Benefit

At the end of a physical exam, most people walk away feeling informed—even reassured. A home health inspection offers the same peace of mind. Knowing what’s working well and what deserves attention allows homeowners to make thoughtful decisions rather than guess.

Homes don’t come with instruction manuals, and they rarely speak up when something is wrong. A home health inspection gives them a voice—helping homeowners listen, learn, and care for one of their most important investments.

After all, a healthy home, like a healthy body, supports a fuller and more comfortable life.

OUT & ABOUT

CHAMBER EVENTS

JUNE 8

Finance Committee Meeting | 8 a.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 8

Wine Festival Committee | 11:30 a.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 9

Executive Committee | 8 a.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 9

Lunch n Learn: Adams County Literacy Council 12 p.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 11

County Connections Breakfast | 8 a.m. at The Bridges Golf Club

JUNE 11

Governmental Affairs Committee | 12 p.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 18

Membership Mixer | 4 p.m. at Renn Kirby Chevy

JUNE 19

Golf Outing | 8 a.m. at The Bridges Golf Club

JUNE 23

YPR | 3 p.m. at the Seminary Ridge Museum & Education Center

JUNE 23

Tuscany Group Trip Meeting | 6 p.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 24

Ambassador Committee Meeting | 11:30 a.m. at the chamber office

JUNE 25

Chamber Board of Directors Meeting | 8 a.m. at the chamber office Know?

You can post your upcoming events to our Community Calendar. Simply log onto your member portal, available at gettysburgchamber.org by clicking on “Log In Here” on the homepage. If you don’t know your business username and password, give us a call at 717.334.8151 or email crystalk@ gettysburg-chamber.org. From your member portal, select “Submit an Event,” then enter all the details. It’s that easy!

To view the calendar, visit gettysburgchamber.org.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

JUNE 2

5:30 p.m. | Flohr’s Community Dinner

Flohr’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 717.334.3992| flohrslutheran.org

JUNE 6

16th Annual Race Against Poverty South Central Community Action Programs, Inc. 717.334.7634 | sccap.org

JUNE 11

7 p.m. | Pilates Yoga Fusion Wike Counseling Services 717.220.3336 | wikecounselingservices.com

JUNE 12

3-7 p.m. | FunFest 2026

Adams County Library System 717.334.5716 | adamslibrary.org

JUNE 19 - JULY 4

Come From Away Totem Pole Playhouse 717.352.2164| totempoleplayhouse.org

JUNE 20

New Oxford’s Antnual Market on the Square New Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce 717.624.2800| newoxford.org

JUNE 21

12-5 p.m | Garden Tour East Berlin Area Community Center 717.259.8848 | ebacc.org

JUNE 27

9-2 p.m | Sheppard Farm Pop Up Shop Sheppard Farm on Apple Hill 717.634.8101 | sheppardfarmonapplehill.com

JUNE 30

8-9:30 p.m. | Strawberry Moon Hike & Sound Meditation Strawberry Hill Nature Center & Preserve 717.642.5840 | strawberryhill.org

NEW MEMBERS

Green’s Removal Service, LLC

Matthew Green Hanover, PA 17331

717.331.7273

Matthew_green41@yahoo.com

https://sites.google.com/view/717-331-7273/home Homes & Real Estate

Green Stripes Lawn Care LLC

Ryan Green Hanover, PA 17331 443.974.1501

greenstripeslawncare25@gmail.com Services

Jester’s Computer Services

Ayse Stenabaugh

105 W Main St., Ste. 1 Fairfield, PA 17320 717.642.6611

customerservice@jesterscomputers.com jesterscomputers.com Services

Littlestown Auto Care Center

Alan Crouse

89 N Queen St. Littlestown, PA 17340 717.359.4854

service@littlestownautocare.com littlestownautocare.com Services

Mountain Spies

Chris Hill

450 Percher Rd. Fairfield, PA 17320

240.731.4289

chris@mountainspies.com mountainspies.com Tourism

MEMBER RENEWALS

30-39 Years

Americana Souvenirs & Gifts Moritz Machine & Repairs, LLC

Spectra-Kote Corporation

20-29 Years

Biggerstaff’s Catering Heritage Assembly of God Church Keller Engineers, Inc.

Kime’s Cider Mill, Inc. Monumental Photography Packaging Corporation of America Quail Valley Golf Club Schmuck Lumber Company Inc.

10-19 Years

Adams County Christian Academy Adams County Farmers Market

Adams County Habitat for Humanity Aflac

Cumberland Township iNet Technology Group

Leer Photography and Design Wide Open Communications

1-9 Years

Amblebrook at Gettysburg Master Association Bollinger Construction, Inc. Brightspeed Business NEGLEY’S WATER

Sale Ready Solutions Silverback Benefits Group Willow Designs & Fabrication

1382 Biglerville Rd. | Gettysburg, PA 17325

717.334.8151 | FAX 717.334.3368 info@gettysburg-chamber.org www.gettysburg-chamber.org

OFFICE HOURS

Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.