
Success Stories Shine at Lebanon Valley Chamber's Breakfast Event
The Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its annual breakfast event, drawing over 150 attendees to celebrate local businesses, agriculture, and community ties. With keynote speaker Scott Sechler, chairman of Bell & Evans, attendees were treated to inspiring stories that highlighted the rich history and promising future of Lebanon County.
Keynote Highlights: Feeding Families with Local Success
Scott Sechler took the stage with an engaging presentation titled “The Business of Feeding Families: A Local Success Story.” Here, he shared insights into the growth of Bell & Evans, a company that started as a small family farm and has blossomed into a nationally recognized brand known for its high-quality poultry products. His narrative underscored the importance of local workforce efforts, emphasizing that the company’s success is deeply rooted in the community. “We’re a family business, and our people are our most valued asset,” he stated, inspiring many entrepreneurs with his story.
Honoring Agricultural Legacy: The Donmoyer Farm Story
This year's event included the prestigious Century Farm Award, presented to Donmoyer Farm for its impressive 119-year legacy. This accolade is given to farms that have been family-owned for a century or more, marking a significant achievement in preserving agricultural heritage. The Donmoyer family has worked diligently to maintain the farm’s operations, staying true to traditional practices while also planning for the future. They are currently collaborating with the Lebanon Valley Conservancy and the Ward Burton Foundation to secure the farm’s legacy by safeguarding its development rights.
Networking and Community Engagement: The Heart of the Event
The annual breakfast serves more than just a meal; it creates a vibrant space for networking among local business leaders, community members, and agricultural partners. Many attendees shared stories of collaboration between farms and businesses, fostering a spirit of unity that is essential for community growth. Such events highlight the necessity of supporting local enterprises and the importance of forging strong community bonds.
Investing in the Future: Local Economic Development
The Lebanon Chamber’s efforts are not only about celebrating the past; they are also about paving the way for future opportunities. Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis has been advocating for micro and midsize businesses in the area. This focus on economic development is crucial, especially in rural locations, where nurturing smaller businesses can significantly impact local economies.
Community Impact: Why Local Matters
For many residents of Lebanon Valley, the success of local businesses like Bell & Evans and Donmoyer Farm is more than just financial news; it resonates on a personal level. “When we support local, we're also investing in our neighbors and our communities,” remarked one attendee, emphasizing the essence of local pride. As the event unfolded, attendees felt a renewed sense of responsibility to uplift and support their local economy.
Future Insights: What’s Next for Lebanon Valley?
The collaborations and partnerships highlighted during the event signal a promising future for Lebanon Valley. With initiatives to preserve agricultural land and a community-driven focus on supporting local enterprises, residents can expect continued growth. Networking events like these pave the way for innovations, collaborations, and sustainable practices that not only honor the past but also embrace the future.
As you journey through Lebanon County, remember the significance of local businesses and the impact they make on your community. Engage with your neighbors, support local farms and businesses, and invest in the stories that shape your town.
If you’re eager to learn more about the efforts taking place in Lebanon Valley and how you can contribute, stay connected with the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce. They regularly hold events aimed at fostering community engagement and business development.
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