The Most Influential People on Business in the Greater

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April 6, 2015 • Vol. 26 • No. 14 • $2 SERVING BERKS, LEHIGH, NORTHAMPTON & SURROUNDING COUNTIES www.LVB.com

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE ON BUSINESS POWER IN THE GREATER ISSUE 2015 LEHIGH VALLEY

AL BOSCOV SEAN BOYLE KEVIN FRANTZ SEIFI GHASEMI KASSIE HILGERT ALAN JENNINGS Boscov’s Department Stores Boyle Construction Management Skepton Construction Air Products ArtsQuest Community Action Committee Page 12 Page 13 Page 10 Page 14 Page 6 of the Lehigh Valley Page 12

MARK JULIANO CHRISTA KRAFTICIAN MARK MULLIGAN BRIAN NESTER CAROLL NEUBAUER MICHAEL PESSINA Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem Spillman Farmer Architects VM Development Group Lehigh Valley Health Network B. Braun Lutron Electronics Page 10 Page 18 Page 8 Page 17 Page 16 Page 16

MARIA RODALE JON SCOTT ALAN SHUMAN BILL SPENCE JOHN M. WALSON BERNIE WROBEL Rodale Greater Reading Economic Partnership Shuman Development Group PPL Service Electric Cablevision Pagoda Electrical Page 3 Page 11 Page 4 Page 14 Page 4 Page 15

KEEP IT LOCAL FEATURES INDEX Lehigh Valley small Behind The List ...... 23 businesses have the Briefs ...... 2 fl exibility, proximity and Calendar ...... 23 resources to supply For Your Information ...... 25 services and products Off The Clock ...... 27 for the region’s large Opinion ...... 20-22 businesses, governments The List ...... 24 and organizations. Transactions ...... 25 Page 20 2 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com

These news briefs first appeared in LVB.com’s BRIEFS Daily News email. Sign up at LVB.com.

CONTRIBUTED Rendering of Hamilton Crossings, expected to open in summer 2016.

Construction starts about 6.9 percent. on $140M Hamilton Crossings If approved by the state Public Utility Construction has begun on Hamilton Commission, the increase would take Crossings, a colossal $140 million upscale effect on Jan. 1. open-air shopping center in Lower Macungie Township. The work marks the Health system cuts IT jobs first significant physical step in a project Following the implementation of its five years in the making. electronic health record system, Reading The site is between Hamilton Boulevard Health System is cutting 33 positions in and the Route 222 bypass at Krocks Road. the information technology department. The 565,000-square-foot site of two According to a statement from the abandoned mines will give way to the health system, in the last three years Lehigh Valley’s first Whole Foods and the health network’s IT division added other big-box tenants such as Costco, positions to support the comprehensive Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target, plus build and implementation of Reading dozens of retailers such as Nordstrom HealthConnect, its new electronic health Rack, Old Navy, Rally House, Designer record initiative. Now that it is up and Shoe Warehouse, Pier 1 Imports and running, fewer IT positions are needed. ULTA Cosmetics. The complex should The restructuring also addresses a shift open for business in July 2016. from the support needed to maintain legacy All retail spaces are spoken for, information systems no longer in use. said Tim Harrison, principal of TCH The reduction affected 25 employees; Development of Staten Island, N.Y. TCH the remainder transferred to other areas of and the Goldenberg Group in Blue Bell are the system or were open positions. the developers. The project will bring 495 construction Valley tops major Pa. regions jobs and, after it opens, more than 900 in post-recession job growth full- and part-time jobs, he said. While the recession hit everyone hard, it looks like the Lehigh Valley bounced PPL wants rate hike for back better than most other areas in commercial, residential users Pennsylvania. PPL Electric Utilities is requesting a An analysis by the Lehigh Valley delivery charge increase to fund ongoing Economic Corp. found that the Lehigh reliability improvements. It said this is its Valley has greater post-recession job first request in three years to increase that growth than any of the nine major charge. metropolitan statistical areas in the state. The total bill for a commercial LVEDC research specialist John customer receiving generation service Lamirand looked at job numbers from from PPL Electric Utilities and using 1,000 each of the state’s major metropolitan kilowatt-hours with a maximum demand statistical areas from December 2007, of 3 kilowatts would increase from $125.17 when the Great Recession began, and to $131.95 per month, or by 5.4 percent. compared them to figures from the first The total bill for an industrial customer quarter of 2015. receiving generation service from PPL He found that the Lehigh Valley had Electric Utilities and using 150,000 355,300 total seasonally adjusted nonfarm kilowatt-hours with a maximum demand jobs in the first quarter of 2015, or 2.81 of 500 kilowatts would increase from percent higher than the 345,600 jobs it $13,366.34 to $13,524.75 per month, or by had in December 2007. No other major 1.2 percent. metropolitan area in Pennsylvania has A residential customer using 1,000 reached that level of growth, according to kilowatt-hours per month who does not his research. shop for electricity supply would see bills The Greater Reading area had the capbluecross.com increase from $147.31 to $157.50, or by fourth highest job growth at 0.59 percent. LVB.com April 6, 2015 POWER ISSUE Lehigh Valley Business 3

MARIA RODALE, CHAIRWOMAN AND CEO, RODALE INC., EMMAUS Rodale looks to uphold legacy of family, Valley

By STACY WESCOE ing, and growing to positions such as director [email protected] of strategy in 1998. She served in functions o Maria Rodale, the Rodale ranging from leading the company’s organic publishing empire is her family living division to editor-in-chief of Organic T business. Gardening magazine. That she is a part of a long and She was elected chairwoman of Rodale’s distinguished lineage hasn’t escaped her, and board of directors in 2007. she said she is proud of the role she is playing Heading a publishing company in an in her family’s legacy – yet mindful that she is increasingly digital age is not easy, but it is a part of a much bigger picture. task that Rodale embraced. “It’s like running a relay race rather than a “The most important part of my job is lead- marathon,” Rodale said. “I can’t win alone; I ing the business into the future with integrity, only win as part of a team that came before me alignment with our mission and focus on our and will come after me.” customers and their changing lives,” she said. The chairwoman and CEO of Rodale Inc., the “We all want to make a positive difference in mother of three who lives in Bethlehem is one the world.” Maria Rodale says she wants of the most influential business people in the She has led the company’s increasing digital to lead Rodale Inc. into the Greater Lehigh Valley. Her company publishes presence while still keeping a strong hold on future with integrity. such magazines as Men’s Health and Prevention the company’s niche lifestyle print publications. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO and books ranging from “The South Beach Diet” Rodale Inc., of course, does more than pub- to “An Inconvenient Truth.” lishing. THE POWER ISSUE CLASS OF 2015 She’s not only head of a company that In 2013, the company launched the website Our third Power Issue includes leaders in publishing, construction, manufacturing and employs 1,200 people, including 800 in the www.rodales.com, an e-commerce site that entertainment – as well as developers intent on revitalizing urban cores. Lehigh Valley, she’s directly impacted many offers healthy lifestyle products from yoga All told, the 18 people chronicled in this issue are responsible for hundreds of millions of lives. If you’re eating healthier and trying more apparel to essential oils. There also is a brick- dollars annually being pumped into the Greater Lehigh Valley economy. And it’s a big reason why natural foods, for example, you can – in part – and-mortar Rodale’s General Store that opened they are in our 2015 class of the most infl uential people on the world of business in the Greater thank her tireless advocacy for organic living. a few years ago in Emmaus. Lehigh Valley. Rodale started with the family business in For previous honorees — our Power Alumni — please see Page 18 1987, working in circulation and direct market- please see RODALE, page 11

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ALAN SHUMAN, OWNER, SHUMAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP, READING

Volume 26, Number 14 65 E. Elizabeth Ave., Bethlehem, PA 18018 Restoring Reading as a gem of the East 610-807-9619 • [email protected]

By JENNIFER GLOSE Publisher [email protected] Alan Shuman, here in his office Michael O’Rourke in Reading, says every year he [email protected] • ext. 112 n Army Reserve veteran and a tries to complete a piece of his history and business graduate of Office Manager plan to revitalize the city. Cheryl Gaydos • [email protected] • ext. 100 A Penn State, Reading developer Alan Shuman has taken his childhood NEWS love of history and architecture and cultivated Editor Bill Kline • [email protected] • ext. 115 it into a lifelong mission to bring the city of Reading back to life. Staff Reporters Brian Pedersen • [email protected] • ext. 108 “I go to lengths every day to come up with Jennifer Glose • [email protected] • ext. 111 ideas to revitalize historic buildings and bring Senior Writer/Online Editor them back into productive use,” said Shuman, 45, Stacy Wescoe • [email protected] • ext. 104 one of the most influential business people in the Researcher Greater Lehigh Valley. Christopher Holland • [email protected] • ext. 110 Shuman Development Group in Reading, which Shuman founded in 1994, has redevel- DESIGN Senior Designer oped, sold and leased more than two million Emily Graf • [email protected] • ext. 101 square feet of commercial property in downtown Reading in the last 10 years. Included in his AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT VP Audience Development efforts are the 10 buildings his company bought Zander Gambill and revitalized since 2006 in the iconic Reading Audience Development Manager Outlet district, totaling about 640,000 square feet, Sherry Andersen PHOTO/CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND including a new grocery store. For subscription information and questions Last May, Shuman announced plans for a $14 bonus as the down payment and rented beds to the boards of the Greater Reading Chamber please call 888-506-5770 million commercial and residential complex for high school friends. of Commerce & Industry, Greater Reading the 120,000-square-foot Bill Mill building – the After college, Shuman moved to Reading with Economic Partnership and the Reading ADVERTISING Sales Manager last leg of the outlet revitalization. his wife and continued to buy larger and larger Downtown Improvement District Authority. Tom Vrana • [email protected] • ext. 107 In October, however, plans were abruptly properties. “I try very hard to complete a piece of a plan Senior Account Executive halted when arson destroyed the building. Shuman said his wife Marina is the one who every year to revitalize the city of Reading,” John C. Coyle III • [email protected] • ext.105 Much like a soldier who marches on, Shuman pushed him to do things that he really enjoys, even Shuman said. “At some point, a critical mass will Account Executives will restart the project this spring, bringing when the path to those things might not be easy. be achieved, and Reading will again attract the Kristen Jordan • [email protected] • ext. 106 60 construction jobs and, later, 90 or more The accomplishments while in the Army businesses and development to make it a gem of Natalia Stezenko • [email protected] • ext. 103 permanent jobs. are the ones that mean the most to Shuman, he the East Coast.” Special Inserts Account Executive Shuman entered the real estate business while said, including infantry school, Armor Officer With a guiding philosophy to “always leave things Sarah Kleintop • [email protected] • ext. 113 a student at Penn State. When he and other stu- School, Master Fitness School and Cadet Ranger better than you found them,” Shuman’s top profes- EVENTS dents could not find apartments to lease, Shuman Indoctrination Program. sional goals are to finish the Big Mill project and the Events Director found a three-bedroom townhouse the owner Shuman is vice chairman of the Pennsylvania Abraham Lincoln Hotel in downtown Reading. Wendy Berg [email protected] was willing to help finance if the student could Residential Property Owners Association and But there also is one personal goal in particu- come up with a down payment. Shuman enlisted president of the Berks County Real Estate lar that Shuman hopes to achieve. Events Coordinator Dayna Edelman in the Army Reserve, used his $5,000 enlistment Investors Association. He also has a seat on He wants to become a licensed pilot. [email protected] • ext. 109 Senior Events Designer Sara Siano [email protected] • ext. 116

JOHN M. WALSON, PRESIDENT AND CEO, SERVICE ELECTRIC CABLEVISION INC., LOWER MACUNGIE TOWNSHIP Copyright 2015 by Journal Multimedia. All rights reserved. Volume 26, Number 14. Lehigh Valley Business is protected under the federal Copyright Act. Reproductions of any part by any means or facsimiles without the express written permission of the publisher are not permitted. A major player in cable TV, communications Reprints of LVB articles are available. For licensing, reprints, Eprints and plaques, call Wright’s Media at 877-652-5295. By MELINDA RIZZO Authorization to photocopy articles for internal corporate customers are top priorities. or instructional use may be obtained from the Copyright Special for Lehigh Valley Business Clearance Center at 978-750-8400. Today’s business philosophy remains in keep- Lehigh Valley Business (ISSN 2169-219X) is pub- ohn M. Walson continues his ing with the work in 1948 of company founder lished weekly (except for the week of Christmas and one extra issue in December) by Journal Multimedia, 1500 grandfather’s founding business- John Walson Sr. Service Electric grew out of the Paxton St., Harrisburg, PA 17104-2633. Periodicals post- J principals of innovation, customer groundbreaking work competed by Walson Sr. age paid at Harrisburg, PA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Lehigh Valley service and responsiveness as presi- He set out to meet customer demand in 1948 Business, 1500 Paxton St., Harrisburg PA 17104-2633. Lehigh Valley Business services business owners, man- dent of Service Electric Cablevision Inc., based in in Pennsylvania’s hilly coal region for television agers and professionals in an eight-county region compris- Lower Macungie Township. signal reception during the new medium’s mass- ing Berks, Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Schuylkill, Monroe, northern Bucks and northern Montgomery counties. Walson is the third generation to helm Service market infancy. Subscriptions are available for $56 per year, two years for $89, and three years for $119. Electric Cable. He ascended to the post after the Then, as now, Service Electric sought to deliver Note to Readers death of his father, John Walson Jr., in 2012. better home-entertainment services to its clients. Opinions expressed in any commentary published in As the leader of a company that reaches into “Our customers want more hi-def channels this newspaper are not necessarily those of the Lehigh Valley Business. homes and companies in the Greater Lehigh and faster Internet services,” Himmelwright said Any suggestion written in material published by this newspaper is not to be regarded as advice (legal, tax, Valley, Wilkes-Barre area and Hunterdon County, of today’s landscape. investment or otherwise), and Lehigh Valley Business N.J., John M. Walson is one of the most influential Herrmann said John M. Walson and his assumes no liability for actions taken by any group or Walson individual based upon such material. business people in the region. His company offers team are involved with industry advocacy in We welcome your opinion on issues. Write to Lehigh Valley Business at the address listed above, c/o Editor. You digital cable, high-definition television, high- Tim Himmelwright, director of communica- Harrisburg and Washington, D.C. and are invest- also can e-mail your comments to [email protected]. speed Internet, digital phone and other services. tions and public affairs for Service Electric, said ed in local community service and educational Published by Journal Multimedia “They are not the largest, but they are a major the company’s top goals include keeping ahead of broadcasting. David A. Schankweiler, CEO player in the cable television and communications “the ever-changing communications world.” “Service Electric Cable’s hometown and school Lawrence M. Kluger, President industry,” said Brian Herrmann, director of com- To meet those goals, Himmelwright said, sports coverage, as well as [minor] league cover- munications for the Broadband Cable Association tracking evolving high-definition technology, the age of the [Lehigh Valley] IronPigs and Lehigh of Pennsylvania, based in Harrisburg. “They’ve kept development of faster Internet-speed platforms Valley Phantoms, rivals national network sports up with the times; they’ve grown and expanded.” and offering complete local sports coverage to offerings,” Herrmann said. Presented by:

Congratulations to the 2015 class of the Women of Influence! The award winners, chosen by an independent panel of judges, are recognized for their professional success, community involvement and advocacy for women. Lehigh Valley Business Women of Influence 2015

Laura G. Azzalina Pamela Deller Jane Brown Heft Darlene R. Pors Firstrust Bank Lehigh Valley Style City Center Lehigh Valley H.T. Lyons Contractors/ Engineers Anne Baum Amani Duncan Kassie Hilgert Capital BlueCross C. F. Martin & Co. ArtsQuest Kristine Roddick KingSpry Ann D. Bieber Barbara Green Paula Margraf Lehigh Carbon Blue Mountain Resort Community Services Kristen M. Sandel, MD Community College for Children Reading Health System Sara Hailstone Kathryn M. Brown City of Allentown Maureen O’Meara Pamela J. Shupp Concannon Wealth Management HMK Insurance Greater Reading Tina I. Hamilton Economic Partnership Lynn Collins Cunningham myHR Partner Elizabeth R. Ortiz Greater Lehigh Cedar Crest College Judith A. Harris Ann M. Williams Chamber of Commerce Penn State Lehigh Valley Norris Mclaughlin & Marcus, P.A. Hope E. Pearson New Tripoli Bank Lisa Daugherty Kate R. Hart Zayaitz Susan C. Yee Victaulic Active Data National Penn Also recognized will be the recipients of three special recognition awards

Lifetime Achievement Award Community Achievement Award Woman to Watch Award Lisa B. Fichera Andrea J. Funk Lauren E. Smith Phoebe Ministries Cambridge-Lee Industries LLC eleven. eleven. social.

Supporting Sponsors: Join us for an awards reception and ceremony on Tuesday, May 19 from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. at Cedar Crest College, Allentown.

To reserve your seats or for more information, please visit www.lvb.com/WomenofInfluence Video Sponsor: or contact Dayna at [email protected] or 610-807-9619 ext. 109.

Sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Tom Vrana at [email protected] or 610-807-9619 ext. 107. 6 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com KASSIE HILGERT, PRESIDENT AND CEO, ARTSQUEST, BETHLEHEM A driving force in building communities and urban cores By CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND staying focused on the economic development [email protected] on the South Side, and we can stay on the n organization needs someone forefront of that development and work with to guide its success and, in turn, as many partners as we can to try to inject the A drive economic development in positive energy and impact that providing arts the communities that it serves. and cultural programming can do.” That’s one vision that Kassie Hilgert has in ArtsQuest’s programming attracts visitors her role as president and CEO of ArtsQuest, from more than 40 states and many nations each the nonprofit arts and cultural organization in year, and communities large and small across the Bethlehem that annually brings about two mil- United States want to learn as much about the lion visitors – and $100 million in economic “how” of its mission as the mission itself. impact – to the Lehigh Valley. “I think there is opportunity to export “Our mission is not just promoting arts that knowledge and increase the footprint of and culture. It’s promoting arts and culture in ArtsQuest’s impact,” Hilgert said. “But more a way that promotes economic development importantly, I want us – and Bethlehem – to in a blighted area or in an inner city area,” continue to reinvent itself, whether that means said Hilgert, whose position makes her one of transforming the Banana Factory to be an the most influential people on business in the unforgettable entryway to the South Side Arts Greater Lehigh Valley. “What is so intriguing to FILE PHOTO/CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND District or developing new flagship programs me is, ‘How do you use arts and culture to drive Kassie Hilgert says ArtsQuest can increase its footprint by exporting its knowledge to communities and events that help drive tourism and visitors across the nation. additional business development?’ ” to Bethlehem’s doorstep while also offering While it’s important to have a vision, Hilgert named president and CEO of the organization With year-round programming at ArtsQuest year-round programming that continues to said it’s really important to have a horizon. that runs Musikfest and the ArtsQuest Center — something that’s only existed since Hilgert’s attract the creative class to live, work and play “A horizon lets you look out over a land- in Bethlehem. been at the organization — consistently bring- here. We all win when that happens.” scape of the community that you serve and be “That’s pretty amazing when you think about ing foot traffic to Bethlehem’s South Side, busi- And that’s a reflection of what ArtsQuest able to find pockets that you can fill,” she said. it,” Hilgert said of ArtsQuest’s economic impact, nesses in the downtown are generating new means to the Lehigh Valley. Hilgert, who started at ArtsQuest in 2008, “because I don’t think people necessarily think streams of revenue. “I couldn’t be more excited about the oppor- was appointed senior vice president of market- of an arts and cultural nonprofit as a driving “We’re really revolving our next several years tunities ahead of us, not just as an organization, ing and advancement in 2010. Last July, she was force in building communities and urban cores.” around sustainability,” she said. “We’re really but as a growing city and region,” she said.

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8 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com MARK MULLIGAN, CEO, VM DEVELOPMENT GROUP LLC, EASTON AND FLEMINGTON, N.J. Do what’s right for the building; the rest falls into place By BRIAN PEDERSEN [email protected] ark Mulligan does not hail from a traditional background in com- M mercial real estate. He grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and spent 10 years in Manhattan, where he earned a master’s degree in opera from The Julliard School and was performing at night in the city. But during the day, he began buying apartment buildings and slowly his love for commercial real estate development was nurtured. Mark Mulligan, He now lives in Frenchtown, N.J., not far from here in his office in where his company, VM Development Group LLC Easton, has shown a has an office, with a second location in Easton. commitment to the city’s revitalization. It’s the city by the Jersey border that Mulligan sees as the greatest untapped resource for development in the region. With a solid group of well-designed buildings with large windows, expansive storefronts and attractive, historic architecture, Mulligan has found adaptive reuse and redevelopment to be his company’s forte. PHOTO/CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND He formed VM Development with business maximize its potential. ers to take an active stance and invest in the Work is underway to transform the historic partner William Vogt in 2009 and soon after “My guiding principle is, do what’s right city by taking on numerous projects. It’s clear to Wolf building into 50 upscale residential units, started work on Pomeroy’s Lofts. It was the first for the building. If you do that, the rest falls see why Mulligan is one of the most influential ready for delivery by the fall. For the Silk Mill, big commercial project in the city in quite some into place,” Mulligan said. “The investor makes business people in the Greater Lehigh Valley. construction on the buildings should start by time that took an older unused blighted proper- money for the firm. Everyone does really well He was not content to rest on this one project May. It will be a multimillion dollar mixed-use ty and transformed it into a commercial space when you do the right thing for the property.” and saw additional redevelopment opportuni- project that has been in the works for years, with two active restaurants on the ground floor Since tackling the Pomeroy’s Lofts project ties. He bought several more Easton properties including 150 residential units and multiple and upscale apartments on the floors above. several years ago, and more importantly, seeing through his investors, including the Governor spaces for retail and artist users. When he first spotted the site, Mulligan it through, Mulligan has demonstrated a com- Wolf building, Alpha Building, National Building “I enjoy doing what I’m good at,” Mulligan saw the opportunities the building offered and mitment to the city’s revitalization. And he also and the Silk Mill complex, the latter of which said. “What I am good at is looking at a prop- decided to split the structure in two parts to was bold enough to be among the first develop- consists of more than 20 properties. erty and knowing what to do.”

LEHIGH VALLEY BUSINESS MAY 4 - MAY 8, 2015 SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

It’s no secret that small businesses are drivers of innovation, economic growth and job creation. They create most of the nation’s new jobs, employ about half of the nation’s private sector work force and provide half of the nation’s nonfarm, private real gross domestic product.

With this impact in mind, Lehigh Valley Business is pleased to announce Small Business Week — which will be held on May 4-8, in conjunction with National Small Business Week. This special issue will celebrate

SPECIAL the achievements and the importance of small business in the Greater EDITION Lehigh Valley region.

www.LVB.com

SERVING BERKS, LEHIGH, NORTHAMPTON & SURROUNDING COUNTIES

May 12, 2014 • Vol. 25 • No. 19 • $2.00

Publication Date: Cover Space Reservation: Inside Space Reservation: Small Business Week MAY 4, 2015 APRIL 2, 2015 APRIL 20, 2015 THE CHANGING FACE

OF SMALLThe new look o BUSINESSsmall business: minorities, displaced corporate workers and thoseshop who atchoose home to set up Contact your account representative at 610-807-9619 for more information.

65 E. Elizabeth Avenue, Suite 700 | Bethlehem, PA 18018 Phone: 610-807-9619 | FAX: 610-807-9612 | www.LVB.com Conﬁ dence in your bank means growing your business at the speed of your ambition.

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You can do more for your business when you’re conﬁ dent in your bank. It means we get to know how your company works so we can offer a product that’s exactly right for you whether it’s a loan, line of credit or checking account. You also have access to a wealth of expertise to keep you focused on doing what you love: growing your business. Work with us and get banking conﬁ dence you can count on. 10 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com MARK JULIANO KEVIN FRANTZ PRESIDENT, SANDS CASINO RESORT BETHLEHEM PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, SKEPTON CONSTRUCTION INC. BETHLEHEM PENNSBURG Listening, Providing learning, clear a ‘true expectations partnership’ By MELINDA RIZZO By BRIAN PEDERSEN Special for Lehigh Valley Business [email protected]

nyone can talk, but it takes a evin Frantz, president and chief powerful leader to listen. operating officer of Skepton A Mark Juliano, president of K Construction Inc. believes a true Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem, partnership is the key to success said being a good listener is the most critical in the industry, approaching each project and Juliano Frantz tool in his kit. client, with a strong commitment. “You don’t learn by talking, but you can “We’re taking stock of what needs to be His philosophy and leadership role – along ful, in addition to being completed on time learn an awful lot by listening,” said the man refreshed and changed on the property and with 24 years working in all areas of construc- and within budget, it must meet the owner’s who oversees more than 1,800 employees. investing in that,” he said. tion, including industrial, commercial and parameters, criteria and goals,” Frantz said. Since last summer, Juliano has presided Understanding the industry, its customers institutional – help to make Frantz one of the “We believe in responsible commercial con- over the $800 million Sands Bethlehem com- and marketing are part and parcel of doing a most influential business people in the Greater struction by providing our clients with a true plex on the 126-acre former Bethlehem Steel good job, according to Juliano. Lehigh Valley. partnership on general construction, construc- property. Leading one of the top-performing “After that, it’s about listening to employees After finishing his degree in industrial busi- tion management and design-build projects casino resorts in Pennsylvania – and one with and customers, and making sure expectations ness management, Frantz spent several years and consistently delivering exceptional results expansion plans – makes the longtime gam- are clear,” said Juliano, who previously served working as a finish carpenter and layout fore- – on time and within budget.” bling executive one of the most powerful peo- in senior management roles in Atlantic City man before working as a job superintendent at His top goal for 2015 is to continue the ple in business in the Greater Lehigh Valley. and Las Vegas. Skepton, managing complex school construc- company’s focus on integrating cutting-edge “We’ve been here five years now, and we have Sands Bethlehem includes the casino resort, tion projects. The company promoted him to technology into every stage of construction to a grasp of what works well, what our customers The Outlets at Sands shopping, restaurants, vice president of field operations and then to position the company as a top contender in like and what they don’t like,” Juliano said. 14,000-square-foot event center and 300-room his existing role – after many years developing a competitive, ever-changing industry. This In 2015, reinvesting money into the proper- hotel. The casino, which opened in 2009, has more best practices and streamlining construction initiative also includes a strong commitment ty by developing “restaurant product, facilities than 3,000 slot machines and 200 table games. processes. to train his team of 60 employees in best prac- and casino amenities our customers want,” are “My guiding philosophy in business is the at the top of Juliano’s to-do list, he said. please see JULIANO, page 15 belief that in order for a project to be success- please see FRANTZ, page 25

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www.KeithMuccilli.com (732) 888-3439 [email protected] LVB.com April 6, 2015 POWER ISSUE Lehigh Valley Business 11 JON SCOTT, PRESIDENT AND CEO, GREATER READING ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP, READING Helping an ‘amazing community that is rich in culture’ By JENNIFER GLOSE an amazing community that is rich in culture.” the number of jobs created through GREP initia- [email protected] It was Scott’s time volunteering and working for tives. In addition, Scott hopes that GREP will visit astering the French horn at a young a mental health association in the 1980s, though, at least 50 existing businesses next year to consult age, Jon Scott at 9 already was in a jazz that truly changed his life, he said. His role was to with them on expansion projects and help them to M band, and at 14 he was the only child lead the association’s fundraising and public rela- network and connect with other businesses. playing in the all-adult Westchester tions efforts, with a mission to help mentally and “Think you can, think you can’t,” Scott said. “In Symphony Orchestra in White Plains, N.Y. physically handicapped children. most cases, you’ll be right. And attitude is everything.” And as much as his family thought he would “I was always taught to give back something,” His greatest accolade, Scott said, is trying to be a become a professional musician, Scott chose a dif- he said. good husband and father. ferent path to success. For eastern Pennsylvania, At the top of his list of professional goals is to And, yes, his top personal goal is to “start play- thankfully he did, as Scott now sits at the helm of the increase the number of development projects and ing the French horn more.” Scott Greater Reading Economic Partnership, an organization that has facilitated 154 economic development projects and attracted, retained or grown more than 12,220 jobs in Berks County. With help from Scott, GREP was launched in 2004 as the Berks Economic Partnership, with the former musical prodigy becoming its president and CEO at the start – and becoming one of the most influential LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMY people on business in the Greater Lehigh Valley. “Both of my parents created a pretty good work ethic for me,” said Scott, 64. Lehigh Valley Economy Growing up in the small New York town of at a glance Tarrytown, Scott obtained a political science degree at a glance from Kalamazoo College in Michigan and thought about attending law school. Eager to start working, though, Scott sold insurance for a while and spent years volunteering and working for a mental health BY association – before beginning a long career for Time TOTAL EMPLOYMENT INDUSTRY Warner Cable Inc. POPULATION 658,477 Scott’s career landed him in six states in seven Construction 3.85% Other 5.14% years, including when he arrived in Reading in 1989 TOTAL to become the president of Time Warner Cable’s east- HOUSEHOLDS 245,478 Financial Trade, ern Pennsylvania division. Activities Transportation After 10 years in Reading, Scott was relocated by 5.13% & Utilities Time Warner, but something about Reading made him 23.92% and his family want to return and make it their home. “We chose to come back to Reading because we GDP Leisure really, really loved it,” Scott said. “It’s the people. It’s $34.338 Billion and Hospitality 11.23% Education and Health RODALE Services continued from page 3 Exports 22.72% $4.3 Billion Manufacturing 11.82% Rodale has authored several books, including her Professional and 2010 title, “Organic Manifesto: How Organic Farming Business Services 16.19% Can Heal Our Planet, Feed the World, and Keep Us Other Includes: Other Services, Information, Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Safe,” written to help take confusion out of the organ- and Hunting, Natural Resources & Mining ic produce world. Technology Patents Count from 2000-2013 She has won a number of awards, including in 2004 the National Audubon Society’s Rachel Carson 4,359 Award and in 2007 the United Nations Population *Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton MSA Median Per Capita Fund’s Award for the Health and Dignity of Women. Household Income: Income: She co-chairs the Rodale Institute board and is a member of the board of Bette Midler’s New York Restoration Project. $57,510 $28,595 While her company’s presence in New York is UNEMPLOYMENT RATE important, Rodale, like those before her, has kept the 5.3% company’s base in the Lehigh Valley and Emmaus. “The Lehigh Valley is our home, where our roots are, and it is an important part of our history and story,” she said. “It’s convenient to New York City, LABOR FORCE: 335,400 which is also part of our history and story. … “[The Lehigh Valley] is also just a lovely place to stay in touch with the real world and raise families and stay close to nature.”

SEND YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO: lehighvalley.org [email protected] Information current as of 4/2/15. 12 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com AL BOSCOV ALAN JENNINGS CHAIRMAN AND CEO, BOSCOV’S DEPARTMENT STORES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY READING BETHLEHEM Dedicated Driving growth to Reading’s to help the improvement underserved By JENNIFER GLOSE By JOE MCDONALD [email protected] Special for Lehigh Valley Business

he guy has more energy than a o one ever accused Alan 50-year-old.” Jennings of wearing rose-colored “T That is what Reading entre- N glasses. preneur Jack Gulati said about As head of the Community 85-year-old retail mogul Al Boscov, his long- Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley, a non- Boscov Jennings time friend. profit based in Bethlehem, he has an unbur- Boscov sits at the helm of Boscov’s GoggleWorks luxury apartment building, Imax nished view of how the have-nots and the depressing economic data coming out of Department Stores, the retail chain dynasty Theater, Panevino Rustic Italian Cuisine and working poor subsist below the poverty line in the cities. started in Reading in 1911 by his father, Goggleworks Center for the Arts. Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton. “A lot of people who are working are still Solomon Boscov. The chain has grown to Boscov, along with investors such as Gulati, At least on the surface, the city landscape is poor,” said Jennings, who has been with more than 40 stores across the mid-Atlantic in December broke ground on a 208-room looking better, thanks to generous tax breaks CACLV since 1980, the last 25 years as its and annually tops $1 billion in revenue. Double Tree by Hilton, across from Santander that have attracted developers to Easton and executive director. But Boscov’s work doesn’t stop there, yet Arena, on the 700 block of Penn Street. The especially Allentown. The numbers tell it all. In Allentown, one in another reason why he is one of the most hotel is scheduled to be completed in September. “Lehigh Valley is working at it,” Jennings 10 residents lives in poverty, according to the influential business people in the Greater “He has dedicated his whole life to the said. “I try every day, all day long to get our CACLV website. Lehigh Valley. improvement of the city of Reading,” Gulati community to do differently for those who get “The problem is we are becoming an In 2001, Boscov started Our City Reading said. “He really cares, and without his direct left out.” increasingly stratified society, and more and as a nonprofit to renovate old homes in involvement, I think Reading would have to do A coalition builder, Jennings works with more people are understanding this is not a Reading and make them affordable for first- a lot of legwork to get there.” businesses and governments in driving eco- great thing,” Jennings said. time homebuyers and to develop the city to Boscov and Our City Reading now are nomic growth in underserved communities. It’s Despite reports to the contrary, Jennings bring quality jobs. To date, Our City Reading taking on their next redevelopment proj- why he is considered one of the most influential said, the economy and housing in par- has renovated 550 homes. ect – the city-owned, five-building prime people on business in the Greater Lehigh Valley. ticular never really recovered from the Great Our City Reading also helped to devel- However good the collective intentions of op a block in downtown Reading with a please see BOSCOV, page 13 everyone, though, they are not changing the please see JENNINGS, page 17

888-506-5770 www.LVB.com LVB.com April 6, 2015 POWER ISSUE Lehigh Valley Business 13 SEAN BOYLE, PRESIDENT, BOYLE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, SOUTH WHITEHALL TOWNSHIP A vision to build the iconic, creative By BRIAN PEDERSEN Blue Grillhouse in Bethlehem Township Boyle said his company has been lucky to [email protected] and Melt Restaurant and Torre, both in the survive and even grow in what sometimes is rowing up in the construction industry, Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley. Late a difficult economy. Sean Boyle found enjoyment and satis- last year, Social Still opened in Bethlehem, “Continued, steady growth is probably G faction in the work at an early age. marking the city’s first distillery and another our goal,” said Boyle, who credits his staff. Which is a good thing for both Boyle example of Boyle transforming a vacant, “I think it’s the quality of our people; hav- and the Greater Lehigh Valley, the home to many of blighted structure into a productive use. ing good people translates to good services his company’s projects for businesses, nonprofits and The company also is completing the for our clients …,” Boyle said about this com- municipalities. Easton City Hall and Transportation Center, pany’s success. “There are always bumps along With a clear, confident vision, selective process for a large commercial and municipal project the road – there are going to be problems choosing projects and strong attention to detail cou- underway in Easton. along the road – but we’re here to solve them.” Boyle pled with a focus on employee and client satisfaction, Boyle is one of the most influential business people in the region. His father began Boyle Construction in 1977, and Sean began as a laborer and carpenter for a couple of years. Rising through the ranks, eventually becoming foreman, superintendent and project manager, he finally took over management and operations of the company in 1996, followed by taking full ownership two years later. Since then, Boyle has been responsible for building some of the most iconic and creative projects in the Lehigh Valley, including two SteelStacks projects in Bethlehem – the Levitt Pavilion, an outdoor venue at the base of the blast furnaces completed in 2012, and the Hoover Mason Trestle, an elevated pedestrian platform under construction. He described those projects as once in a lifetime, since old steel stacks are rare. “We’ve been fortunate to work for a lot of different companies, a lot of long-term clients,” Boyle said. Those companies include Crayola, Sharp Pharmaceuticals, Computer Aid and OraSure Technologies, all big names in the region. Steady growth is another sign of success. Boyle Construction has about 50 employees and moved to a location on Hausman Road in South Whitehall Township after outgrowing an office in Lehigh Valley Industrial Park IV in Hanover Township, Northampton County. “I’m proud of the people we have working here at #FundsFor Boyle,” Boyle said. “It’s obviously rewarding to go out and pitch your projects. It’s really great to be a part of so many great projects in the Lehigh Valley.” Boyle also built several high-profile restaurants, the future including Hamilton Kitchen & Bar in Allentown,

You had a dream of one day running your own business. BOSCOV That day is now, but you need a safety net—something continued from page 12 to keep you up and running while the business grows. property on the 400 block of Penn Street, known as National Penn is there to grow along with you. With Penn Square. “He [Boscov] is the most competent and most loans, lines of credit and advisors to help your business deserving of the contract,” Adam Mukerji, executive director of Reading’s Redevelopment Authority, said in blossom, you can keep your passion alive and thriving. a previous interview with Lehigh Valley Business. “He has been the biggest benefactor for the city of Reading.” Find out more at nationalpenn.com/fundsforbiz The Penn Square buildings can be used for retail, office or residential, Mukerji said. “With his [Boscov’s] energy and ability to do things, I think Reading is going to get there,” Gulati said.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ADVERTISING, Equal Opportunity Lender CALL 610-807-9619 X107 OR EMAIL Subject to Bank’s normal underwriting criteria [email protected]. 14 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com SEIFI GHASEMI, CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AIR PRODUCTS, TREXLERTOWN ‘True profit-and-loss accountability’ at Air Products By STACY WESCOE and-loss accountability.” [email protected] During the first quarter after the shakeup, eifi Ghasemi oversees more profits were up, according to the company’s than 20,000 employees, includ- income statement. Ghasemi reported the com- S ing 3,800 in the Lehigh Valley, pany had net income of $335 million, up 17 and operations in more than 50 percent from the first quarter of fiscal 2014. nations, serving customers across a wide range “These results clearly demonstrate our of industries from food and beverage, health people’s focus on safety, cost and serving our and personal care to energy, transportation and customers in the new organization,” he said. semiconductors. “Despite economic uncertainty, we are greatly It’s why the chairman, president and CEO of encouraged by these results, and the team is Air Products – a world leader in gas and chem- focused on the actions we can control to deliver ical manufacturing and sales – is one of the on our commitment.” most influential business people in the Greater Before Air Products, Ghasemi was chairman Lehigh Valley. and CEO of Rockwood Holdings, a global leader Before taking on his new role last July, in inorganic specialty chemicals and advanced Ghasemi had been on the Trexlertown-based materials, a position he held since 2001. company’s board of directors and arrived at the Ghasemi also spent nearly 20 years with company as a highly experienced global busi- The BOC Group, an industrial gas company ness leader. now part of Linde AG. There, he held positions “Air Products is a unique, global business including director of the Main Board of BOC with leading market positions in key regions CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Group; president of BOC Gases Americas; and Seifi Ghasemi spearheaded a restructuring at Air Products that helped lead to a 17 percent and a well-balanced geographic footprint,” increase in income. chairman and CEO officer of BOC Process Ghasemi said at his appointment. “I am excited Plants Ltd. and Cryostar. by the many significant growth opportunities start of the company’s fiscal year in October. operations and reorganized business segments Ghasemi took the reins of Air Products after that lie ahead, driven by energy, environmental The reorganization, which many referred to on a geographic basis. the tenure of chairman, president and CEO, and emerging markets.” as a complete shakeup of the corporate struc- Five-hundred jobs were eliminated, and John E. McGlade. McGlade had been with the He quickly made major changes, including ture of the 75-year-old company, looked at Air Ghasemi put into place a system that he company for nearly 40 years, ascending to the a large-scale restructuring which began at the Products’ businesses worldwide, decentralized described at the time as creating “true profit- top role in 2008.

BILL SPENCE, PRESIDENT, CHAIRMAN AND CEO, PPL CORP., ALLENTOWN Leading PPL through a transformative time By STACY WESCOE ply division, PPL Energy Supply, which will be decades,” Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski said. [email protected] combined with the competitive generation busi- “As evidence of that commitment, PPL put its or many people in eastern ness of another company, Riverstone Holdings, name on our new arena. Pennsylvania and beyond, every to form a new publicly traded company called “Bill Spence has continued that partner- F time they turn on their lights, Bill Talen Energy. ship during his tenure while guiding PPL to Spence is affecting their lives. It’s a plan, Spence said, “designed to unlock even greater heights. We are grateful for his As president, chairman and CEO of significant value for our shareowners.” [Spence’s] leadership.” Allentown’s PPL Corp. – one of the largest util- In his annual earnings report for 2014, The PPL name isn’t just on the new arena. ity companies in the nation with $11.5 billion Spence spoke of his confidence in the plan. The company has a downtown headquarters, in revenue last year – Spence is one of the most “Our supply business performance was very PPL Tower, highlighting the skyline as the tall- influential businessmen in the Greater Lehigh strong in a turbulent market in 2014, providing est building in Allentown, alongside the newer Spence Valley. further evidence that Talen Energy will be an PPL Plaza, where many of the company’s 2,300 of the city’s new ice hockey arena – PPL Center. All totaled, the PPL family of companies important, resilient player in the U.S. merchant Lehigh Valley employees work. Some fear the stability of the NIZ without it. delivers electricity and natural gas to about 10 power sector,” said Spence, who was named Therein lies the rub. No decision has been made on where Talen million customers in the United States and the president and CEO in 2011 and chairman in With the spinoff of Talen, Spence is facing will locate, and with an active lease in place at United Kingdom, and Spence oversees assets 2012. a major decision. Will Talen stay where PPL PPL Plaza, a decision likely is a couple of years of $43 billion covering generation, marketing, In fact, he said, following the spinoff, he Electric Utilities now operates in PPL Plaza away. distribution and transmission subsidiaries in expects that PPL should achieve compound or move to another location in Allentown or But so far Spence’s guidance has brought both nations. annual earnings growth of 4 to 6 percent Bethlehem? nothing but good news for the company. Spence, who joined PPL in 2006, is head- through at least 2017. That decision could have a huge impact far The past three years, PPL has nearly doubled ing PPL at a dramatic time, making decisions But beyond its supply of electricity, PPL has beyond his own staff. its asset base and increased annual revenues and changes that will affect hundreds of the been an Allentown and Lehigh Valley corporate PPL Plaza is in the city’s Neighborhood by 70 percent, according to its latest financial company’s employees and perhaps the face of fixture for nearly 100 years. Improvement Zone and is one of the anchor report. Meanwhile, PPL has grown its dividend Allentown’s downtown. “PPL has been a committed partner of properties providing revenue used to cover debt by 53 percent since 2005. The company is spinning off its energy sup- the city and a huge presence downtown for payments on the bonds to finance construction Spence’s track record is solid.

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SEND YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO: [email protected] ProvidentPA.com 16 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com CAROLL NEUBAUER MICHAEL PESSINA CEO AND CHAIRMAN, B. BRAUN OF AMERICA AND B. BRAUN MEDICAL INC. PRESIDENT, LUTRON ELECTRONICS CO. INC. BETHLEHEM COOPERSBURG A mission Quietly ‘you have innovating to love’ and growing By BRIAN PEDERSEN By JENNIFER GLOSE [email protected] [email protected]

s the leader of a 176-year-old ultivating a 35-year career with company that generated $1.4 the world’s leading lighting- A billion in North American sales C solutions manufacturer, in 2013, Caroll Neubauer, CEO Michael Pessina today sits in his and chairman of B. Braun Medical Inc., is one Coopersburg company’s top seat. Neubauer Pessina of the most influential business people in the Pessina worked his way through the ranks Greater Lehigh Valley. With operations in 60 nations, the com- and in 2012 was promoted to president of leaders behind that innovation and corpo- A federal medical device excise tax halted pany’s global headquarters are in Melsungen, Lutron Electronics Co. Inc., which since the rate growth for more than three decades,” its plans for a new corporate headquarters Germany. In the United States, B. Braun’s pri- mid-20th century has been blazing the trail Cunningham said. “We are fortunate that both – and is costing B. Braun $13 million a year – mary manufacturing facilities are on Marcon in the lighting-control industry. Leading a Mike and Lutron call the Lehigh Valley home.” yet the company still is primed for progress. Boulevard in Hanover Township, Lehigh company that has 1,500 employees and 2,700 With a bachelor’s degree in electrical engi- With North American headquarters in County, and in Irvine, Calif. worldwide patents and produces nearly 17,000 neering from Lafayette College and a Master Bethlehem, B. Braun will expand its medical An attorney, Neubauer began with B. Braun different energy-saving products for more than of Business Administration from Lehigh manufacturing operations in the Lehigh Valley in 1988 in Melsungen, where he was a legal 100 nations around the globe makes Pessina University, Pessina is a licensed professional and sees strong, continued economic growth assistant to the chairman, CEO and owner of one of the most influential business persons in engineer in Pennsylvania and certified senior despite fierce industry competition and new the company, Ludwig Georg Braun. the Greater Lehigh Valley. quality engineer through the American federal mandates. Three years later, Neubauer was promoted to “Lutron is by far the greatest quiet business- Society of Quality. He also is a member of Neubauer leads more than 5,500 employees the B. Braun global management board, starting success story in the Lehigh Valley,” said Don the Association of Manufacturing Excellence, at B. Braun’s North American headquarters, his fast-track career with the organization. Cunningham, president and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers, four manufacturing facilities on the continent Neubauer, whose dual role is chairman and Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. Institute of Electrical and Electronics and 25 pharmacies nationwide. CEO of B. Braun of America and B. Braun In the U.S. alone, Lutron’s products annu- Engineers and the board of governors of the The German-owned company develops and Medical Inc. of Bethlehem, has overseen all ally save an estimated 10 billion kilowatts of National Electrical Manufacturers Association. sells infusion therapy and pain management electricity, or about $1 billion in utility costs. devices, products and passive safety devices. please see NEUBAUER, page 25 “Mike Pessina has been one of the key please see PESSINA, page 25

Join us for the 2015 Healthcare Heroes When awards breakfast and ceremony. During Tuesday, the awards ceremony, finalists will be April 14, 2015 recognized for their heroic actions and the winner in each category will be revealed! Time Reserve your seats online at www.lvb.com/events 8am – 10:30am Contact Dayna Edelman with questions at LocaTion [email protected] or 610-807-9619 ext. 109. DeSales Congratulations to the 2015 Healthcare Hero finalists! *Finalists listed alphabetically University Education HEro Donna Henry Easton Hospital PHYsician of tHE YEar WomEn’s HEaltH Joetta Clark Diggs The Hillside School Judy Kline Basil Ahmed and WEllnEss HEro Center Joetta Clark Diggs Michael Pechulis Phoebe Ministries Lehigh Valley Health Network Amy Albert Sports Foundation, Inc Lehigh Valley Health Network Donna Kukor Jose Amortegui Pocono Medical Center David Hersh Stephen Wilson Easton Community St Luke’s University Health Network Elizabeth Chang Share Our Strength’s Cooking Matters/ Easton Hospital Care Center Abby Letcher Pretty Mama St. Luke’s Hospital Health Network Larry Wiersch Lorillie Soleta Neighborhood Health Centers Breastfeeding LLC Sweety Jain Cetronia Ambulance Corps Good Shepherd of the Lehigh Valley Coordinated Health Lehigh Valley Health Network Charles G. Wolfe Rehabilitation Network Peter Rovito Joseph Russo Allen Smith A.B.E. Dental Emily Stephens Peter F. Rovito, M.D., General St. Luke’s University NovusACS Robert Zentz St. Luke’s University and Bariatric Surgeon Health Network Jerry Werner Fellowship Community Health Network Maggie Solimeo Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network Stephanie Stezenko Feet First Podiatry lifEtimE acHiEvEmEnt innovation HEro Lehigh Valley Health Network aWard WinnEr Education HEro – David Bub voluntEEr of tHE YEar organization Colon and Rectal Institute PHYsical tHEraPY/ Jean Achey Frank Miller-Keystone Blood Center Musa Tangoren rEHabilitation cEntEr Miller-Keystone Blood Center Phoebe Ministries Pocono Medical Center of tHE YEar Ada Chandler Hyland Pocono Medical Center Neighborhood Health Centers Advent Speech and Easton Area Community Center Good Shepherd of the Lehigh Valley Feeding Therapy Paul Fenstermacher Rehabilitation HEaltHcarE ProfEssional Phoebe Ministries Physical Therapy at St. Luke’s Luther Crest Senior Living Community Network of tHE YEar Robbins Rehabilitation Anne Frantz Thomas Balshi nursE of tHE YEar Tannersville Physical Therapy Fellowship Community Pi Dental Center Krisna Connors & Wellness Major Sponsor: Supporting Sponsor: Video Sponsor:

Sponsorship Opportunities Available! Contact Tom Vrana at 610-807-9619 ext. 107 or [email protected] LVB.com April 6, 2015 POWER ISSUE Lehigh Valley Business 17 BRIAN NESTER, PRESIDENT AND CEO, LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK, SALISBURY TOWNSHIP JENNINGS Guiding region’s largest employer continued from page 12 Recession of 2008. through sea of change in health care “I think it’s getting a flat line,” he said. The poverty rate and wages, he noted, are key By JENNIFER GLOSE as acting president and CEO,” William Hecht, indicators and “they are not moving in a way [email protected] LVHN’s chair of the board of trustees, said at they should.” fter spending much of his health the time. “… He was the right person to serve Weakness in the housing market is just as stub- care career as an emergency as LVHN’s president and CEO and to guide born, and there are signs there is no end in sight. A room physician, Reading native our organization through the ever-changing “The next generation thinks very differently Dr. Brian Nester worked his health care landscape.” than their parents and grandparents and how they way to the top – at the helm of Lehigh Valley A graduate of Philadelphia College felt about buying a home, and seeing it appreciate Health Network, the largest employer in the of Osteopathic Medicine and Columbia in value was the gold ring,” Jennings said. Greater Lehigh Valley. University, Nester is a certified physician “This new generation doesn’t see having a Nester, 53, arrived at LVHN in 1998 as executive through the American College of career in the same place and are not inclined the associate vice chair, research director and Physician Executives. He is chairman of the to buy a house and stay in the same place,” he director of the emergency department for board of the Lehigh Valley Physician Hospital said. “They are not drawn at all by the seduc- Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg. He now Organization and is on the board of the tion of that. The market is starting to look very leads the network as president and CEO of a Hospital and Healthsystem Association of different.” staff of more than 13,000, with four hospitals Pennsylvania. None of this dims Jennings’ enthusiasm. and 12 health care centers throughout Other key accomplishments for Nester “Opportunities come and go,” he said. the region, making him one of the most while at LVHN were in 2003, when he was “Allentown is looking like the stronger of the influential people on business in the Greater named senior vice president for physician three [Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton]. Lehigh Valley. practice network development, and in “No one would have said that a year or two He was put in several key roles during 2007, when his role expanded to include ago,” he said. his tenure at LVHN, including as research oversight of Health Network Laboratories So what keeps Jennings running? program director and director of medical and the formal cultivation of inter-hospital “My guiding philosophy is to help everyone education for the Muhlenberg campus. In July relationships. understand we are all in this together,” he said. FILE PHOTO/JENNIFER GLOSE 2014, upon the retirement of president and Lehigh Valley Health Network president and Those new responsibilities included the CEO Dr. Ronald Swinfard, Nester was named CEO Dr. Brian Nester chairs the board of the formation of AllSpire Health Partners, a acting president and CEO. Lehigh Valley Physician Hospital Organization. consortium of seven hospital systems in New After a nationwide search, LVHN in Jersey and Pennsylvania aimed at addressing November appointed Nester as president and leadership and instilled confidence quality, population health and business FOR INFORMATION ABOUT CIRCULATION, and CEO. in both the board and LVHN’s senior efficiencies. Reading Health System also is a CALL 888-506-5770. “Dr. Nester displayed exceptional foresight management team over the past four months member of the consortium.

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United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley UnitedWayGLV.org 18 Lehigh Valley Business POWER ISSUE April 6, 2015 LVB.com CHRISTA KRAFTICIAN DIRECTOR, SPILLMAN FARMER ARCHITECTS BETHLEHEM A love of architecture, the face of sustainability By JENNIFER GLOSE hired her in 1990 as an intern. [email protected] A graduate of Hoexter College in Germany hen Christa Kraftician was grow- with a degree and license in architecture, ing up in Mendeen, Germany, she Kraftician worked for two firms in her home W had a thirst for drawing, a love country. She then moved to the United of historic and industrial archi- States and continued her education at Drexel tecture and a constant passion for conserving University, obtaining another degree and CONTRIBUTED PHOTO energy. license in architecture. In mentoring young architects, Christa Kraftician says she wants to see others excel, too. Today, Kraftician takes those passions and After becoming an intern at Spillman, incorporates them into her role as director at Kraftician moved up the ranks to become a important sustainability is.” Valley Green Building Council. She is involved Spillman Farmer Architects in Bethlehem, lead- project architect and an associate, received Besides being the face of Spillman, her duties in the Lehigh Valley group for Urban Land ing a team of architects in the oldest and largest certification in Leadership in Energy and include overseeing and leading the charge of a Institute, an independent global nonprofit firm of its kind in the Greater Lehigh Valley. It’s Environmental Design, and five years ago was number of architectural projects. She also keeps providing leadership in the responsible use of a team that has designed numerous historical named director. She was instrumental in start- communication flowing with clients and helps land and in creating and sustaining thriving and industrial sites and some of the first sus- ing LEED projects at Spillman and is widely to maintain a good working relationship. communities. Kraftician also is past president tainable energy projects in the region, making considered to be one of the region’s leading What Kraftician loves the most, though, is to of Commercial Real Estate Women Network her one of the most influential people on busi- experts on LEED design. help mentor young architects in the company. Lehigh Valley. ness in the Greater Lehigh Valley. “I hear that I impact the community for my “I am at the part of my life when I want to Kraftician’s guiding philosophy is seeing “When I came here, I was very fortunate passion for sustainability and that I am the face see others excel, too,” she said. opportunities and taking them. that Bob Spillman gave me a chance,” Kraftician of sustainability,” Kraftician said. “And that is In addition to her duties at Spillman, “When you see it, you go after it,” she said. said of when the company’s founder and owner gratifying. I hope it pushes people to know how Kraftician is on the board of the Delaware “You have to be open all the time.”

Today marks our third Power Issue. POWER ALUMNI Here are previous Power Issue honorees:

DECEMBER ELLEN HORAN JEFF PARKS JOE BRAKE JACK GULATI DR. RONALD 2012 Then: President Then: Then: Then: Owner, SWINFARD and CEO, President, President, Reading Royals Then: President GREG BUTZ Greater ArtsQuest ABARTA Now: Same and CEO, Then: President Reading Now: Retired Beverage East Lehigh Valley and CEO, Alvin Chamber of as president; (Coca-Cola Health Network H. Butz Inc. Commerce & now Executive Bottling Co. Now: Retired Now: Same Industry Director of of the Lehigh Now: Same ArtsQuest Valley) Foundation. Now: Same

DON TONY IANNELLI J.B. REILLY CHERI FREEH DAVID LOBACH CARL WILGUS CUNNINGHAM Then: President Then: CEO, City Then: Principal, Then: Chairman Then: President Then: President and CEO, Center Lehigh Hutchinson, and CEO, and CEO, and CEO, Greater Lehigh Valley Gillahan & Embassy Bank Pocono Lehigh Valley Valley Chamber Now: Same Freeh PC for the Lehigh Mountains Economic of Commerce Now: Same Valley Visitors Bureau Development Now: Same Now: Same Now: Same Corp. Now: Same APRIL 2014 ROBERT DAVID JAINDL RICHARD JAMES CLINT DICK DeSALVIO Then: Owner, ANDERSON GENTILE MATTHEWS YUENGLING Then: President, president and Then: President Then: President Then: President Then: Owner, Sands Bethworks general man- and CEO, and CEO, and CEO, D.G. Yuengling Gaming LLC ager, Jaindl St Luke’s Northstar Reading Health & Son Inc. Now: Senior Farms LLC University Construction System Now: Same Vice President Now: Same Health Network Management Now: Same – Development, Now: Same Inc. Wynn Resorts, Now: Same Las Vegas

SCOTT FAINOR JOHN E. ROBERT BARBARA JAY SIDHU Then: President McGLADE BEARD GREEN Then: Chairman and CEO, Then: Then: President Then: and CEO, National Penn Chairman, and CEO, UGI President, Blue Customers Bancshares Inc. president Utilities Inc. Mountain Ski Bancorp Inc. and National and CEO, Air Now: Same Area & Resort Now: Same Penn Bank Products and Now: Same Now: Same Chemicals Inc. Now: Retired from Air Products; on board of directors of Bunge Limited, White Plains, N.Y.

20 Lehigh Valley Business OPINION April 6, 2015 LVB.com A chance to invest in local suppliers – and our community Chicken or the egg? This age-old conun- drum has found many applications, and local MEET THE BUYERS 2015 sourcing is one of them. What: Biennial expo connecting area small-business suppliers of products and services needed Which comes first, the by area large businesses, governments and organizations. innovative small business When/where: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (registration at 8 a.m.) on Thursday, Oct. 22, at ArtsQuest Center at that provides a desired prod- SteelStacks, Bethlehem. uct or service – or the larger Fee: $25 for suppliers. business with a need to fill? Information: www.lvmeetthebuyers.com. (Beginning in May, information about buyers will be Lehigh Valley small busi- made available on the website.) nesses, with their flexibility EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS Sally PHOTO COURTESY OF MEET THE BUYERS EXPO STEERING COMMITTEE and proximity, are great Six educational seminars will be held in advance of the Oct. 22 expo. The workshops are free; advance Handlon resources for local sourc- The fi rst Lehigh Valley Meet the Buyers Expo registration is required. For more information, visit www.lvmeetthebuyersworkshops.eventbrite.com. in 2013 at ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, ing. Although they can’t April 16 (8-10 a.m.) – At Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce, Whitehall. Bethlehem. anticipate what another business might need, May 20 (1-3 p.m.) – At Northampton Community College Fowler Center, Bethlehem. they certainly can react quickly once a need is If you represent a municipality or govern- June 18 (3-5 p.m.) – At Northampton Community College Fowler Center, Bethlehem. known. ment-related organization, being thrifty with July 23 (3-5 p.m.) – At Nazareth Art Center, Nazareth. And, the last time we checked, clairvoyance Aug. 20 (10 a.m.-noon) – At Pennsylvania CareerLink Lehigh Valley, Allentown. taxpayer dollars is essential – but so is reinvest- is not a typical requirement for being a small- Sept. 24 (5-8 p.m.) – At Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce, Whitehall. ing in your community, wherever possible. business owner! If you believe in contributing to the eco- Local sourcing doesn’t mean settling for Note: All but one of the workshops will emphasize how to maximize the “Meet the Buyers” nomic viability of our community and are lesser quality. However, you may find you have experience. The June 18 seminar will focus on positioning to work with the federal government. interested in finding new, inventive and entre- fewer shipping costs, better turnaround and preneurial solutions for your business require- the ability to have a personal connection with ity. Changes in market necessitate supply chain As a CEO or procurement professional, ments, add local sourcing to your procurement your supplier. adjustments.” based on company direction, it is common to requirements. This requirement could be a For a small business, local sourcing can These adjustments can be more easily sup- leverage your time by working with groups that dollar amount, a percentage of the company’s allow businesses to grow in ways that can foster ported locally than with a buying group or can meet your supply chain requirements: cor- overall spending or based on specific product/ a niche market or provide expanded opportuni- overseas shipment. porate headquarters, buying affiliations or the service requirements. ties. The bottom line can mean more employ- Internet alliances. ment opportunities, additional local spending ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS and expanded business opportunities. The Lehigh Valley has a history of entrepre- BENEFITS OF BUYING LOCAL As a smaller business willing to expand to As a larger business or organization, having neurial and small-business impact. Our industri- However, that is only one part of the busi- meet the needs or as a larger business getting a quality local source for products or services al park concept was created by a group of small ness operating cycle. Another is having a the word out, where do you begin? can provide better turnaround, and perhaps, business owners in the mid-1950s concerned viable community in which to operate and find It takes time to communicate and establish a thorough entrepreneurial enhancement, a bet- about the future of our manufacturing base. employees. relationship. ter product or services. The Lehigh Valley maintained its economic Are these group or overseas sources helping To help move along that timeline, a collabo- According to bellwethercrop.com, “Finding based better than most Rust Belt locations to strengthen the community that houses your ration of 10 business organizations is planning cost-effective local sourcing can give you some because our small businesses were diversified business operation, supplies employees and variety in your product lineup and greater agil- and kept the economy moving forward. provides quality of life for you and your family? please see HANDLON, page 26

TAKING STOCK: As buzz builds, potential for a windfall with Cuban bonds Dear Mr. Berko: What do you think of World Bank was elected to lead that nation. Fortunately, Canada’s policy regarding Cuba buying the Cuban 4.5 percent bonds issued Before 1993, Vietnamese debt was selling at 10 is not determined by a warren of rabid expatri- in 1937, which came due in 1977 and sell cents on the dollar, and after the embargo was ates residing in Miami who live in their memo- for about 10 cents on the dollar? Now that lifted, that debt was settled at 30 cents. ries of the past 56 years. President Barack Obama If you have a relative in Canada, he can buy has begun to normalize WRITING OFF DEBT the 77s for you, but be mindful that family relations with Cuba, I The list of settlements during the past 50 members are often the worst people with whom think those bonds could years is impressive. Since 1956, the Paris Club to conduct a business transaction. And recog- pay off, especially if the has brokered 430 debt agreements with 91 nize that this transaction would also involve embargo were to be lifted. nations, totaling nearly $600 billion. currency risk when you convert U.S. dollars Seeing as they sell for Last July, Russia agreed to write off Cuba’s If things fall into place, owning into Canadian dollars to buy the 77s. 10 cents on the dollar, $32 billion of Soviet-era debt, reducing Cuba’s Malcolm for $10,000 I could buy foreign debt (bonds and loans) to $19 billion. Cuban bonds could be as TALKS UNDERWAY Berko bonds with a face value Last December, Obama decided to restore bright as the beach in Havana. Existing law dictates that before the U.S. of $100,000. What do you diplomatic relations with Cuba. Resultantly, can lift its embargo against Cuba, that nation think? — C.W., Kankakee, Ill. some of Cuba’s debt, particularly the 4.5 percent must reach a settlement with U.S. corporations Batista bonds you mentioned, became attractive. can’t own Cuban assets.) whose businesses were seized by the Castro Dear C.W.: While the U.S. was imposing The ban can be lifted by Congress, but government in 1960. sanctions on Iraq, Iraq’s sovereign bonds traded POTENTIAL BIG RETURN Miami’s ridiculously bombastic and sadly con- If Cuba wishes to become a player in the between 10 cents and 11 cents on the dollar. Fidel Castro defaulted on the bonds in 1960. fused Cuban community continues to define world of finance, those business debts must be After the U.S. invasion, a settlement was negoti- Now some speculators suggest they’re attractive. U.S. policy regarding Cuba and won’t allow it. settled by the London Club. Then Cuba must ated by the Paris Club at 32 cents on the dollar. These bonds, called 77s because of their engage the Paris Club to negotiate bond settle- The Paris Club, an informal group of inter- 1977 maturity date, may, in the future, be CANADIAN CONNECTION ments between Cuba and other governments national officials, assists debtor nations in settled between 26 cents and 48 cents on the A legitimate way to own the 77s is to buy the that have lent money to Cuba. coordinating their debt solutions with creditor dollar, giving speculators a potential return of unimpressive Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund There’s quiet talk that Raul Castro has met with nations, helping them settle their sovereign 180 to 490 percent. (CUBA-$9.27), a $27 million closed-end fund Paris Club and London Club members, which is debt. And the London Club helps nations settle And yes, the 77s could be an excellent spec- that owns, among other Latin investments, why there seems to be an interest in the 77s. loans that were extended to debtor nations by ulation, though too rank for my blood. But you Cuban bonds with a $1.6 million face value. private banks and corporations. can’t buy those bonds, because a silly 18-year- A reader whose family lives in Canada Florida-based Malcolm Berko regularly dispenses Liberian debt, which was selling at 3 cents old statute prevents U.S. citizens from investing told me that his brother bought the 77s in his financial advice. You may address questions to him on the dollar in 1991, was settled at 21 cents in or owning Cuban assets. (Americans can Canadian brokerage account. Canadians have at P.O. Box 8303, Largo FL 33775, or by email at when a new president who had worked for the own assets in Syria, Somalia and Iran, but they been allowed to travel to Cuba for years. [email protected]. Creators Syndicate Inc. LVB.com April 6, 2015 OP-ED Lehigh Valley Business 21 Getting things done all about priorities and rhythm We all have great ideas and plans. But actu- and prioritize/limit them. ally moving on them is really hard (it really isn’t, Goals are like aspirin – one or two OK; but we make it that way). three or four questionable; five, six or seven Why? unhealthy; eight or more – coma. Same thing Because you can’t do with goals – too many and you go into a coma. everything. (Yes, nothing new there, but we all get RHYTHM OF ACCOUNTABILITY caught up in it.) Achieving your goals comes down to focus There are three resources and accountability. everyone has in limited sup- Limit your goals to the critical few. Break Tom ply: time, money and peo- them down throughout the quarters to chip Garrity ple. And the most critical away at achieving them. resource is time. It doesn’t Ensure that everyone on the team under- matter how much money or how many people stands the goals, knows what to do to reach you have, you cannot get any more time. them and knows whether progress is being made One of the first lessons of strategic planning is toward them. Create a rhythm of accountability that the toughest part of strategy is not deciding Limit the goals you target at any one with targets, a dashboard and review dates. what to say “yes” to, but rather what to say “no” to. time to the critical ones; it gives a Great execution comes from being able to Focus and priorities are where success lies. better chance of success. predict, plan, do and adjust in order to adapt to Companies that are growing have graduated what life throws at you. to a place where what used to work great might companies or individuals fail in execution is Your day job includes those urgent tasks that not work so well anymore. They have either that they either try to do too much at one time, must be done simply to keep an organization Tom Garrity is managing partner of Compass Point already encountered problems that they do not or they are not accountable to deliver results for alive. The day job occupies the vast majority of Consulting LLC in Bethlehem. He is a certified coach feel equipped to solve, or their natural sense which they signed up. every employee’s day; it never goes away and it with Gazelles International and a certified exit plan- has gone on alert, and they believe danger is cannot be ignored. It will hunt you down and ning adviser with the Exit Planning Institute. Compass around the corner. BEWARE OF TOO MANY GOALS find you if you try to avoid it. Point provides growth and business transition consult- The foundation of execution is focus, priori- Here is the reality: your day job does not go The only way to execute on new, important ing to small- and medium-sized businesses. He can be tization and accountability. The reason so many away. goals is to separate those goals from the day job reached at 610-336-0514 or [email protected]. Courage helps build trustworthy, sustainable relationships The success we experience in our personal venting them from failing in the first place, and Complacency starts to threaten a relationship and professional lives is strongly influenced by KEY TAKEAWAYS then rebuilding them as soon as possible, if and when we don’t address or confront the other our ability to build, maintain and restore rela- The success we experience in our when they do fail. person directly and quickly regarding our disap- tionships. personal and professional lives is strongly Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher, pointment. Instead, we theoretically throw up The more effective we are influenced by our ability to build, maintain said: “You don’t develop courage by being our hands and say “it shouldn’t be this difficult.” with these skills, the more and restore relationships. happy in your relationships every day. You Don’t start down a path that could have been effective we will be at lead- “You don’t develop courage by being develop it by surviving difficult times and chal- avoided. Make the time to apply a little extra ing and guiding others, and happy in your relationships every day. You lenging adversity.” effort and communicate more information up the more pathways we will develop it by surviving difficult times and Even if the translation from Greek to English front. Let people know what you are thinking create for success. challenging adversity.” – Epicurus, Ancient is skewed by time and interpretation, Epicurus’ and what you expect from them. We develop an endless Greek Philosopher connection between courage and relationships Bonnie Sussman- number of relationships in Check in with your relationship-building helps us realize that opportunities for personal TAKING A PULSE ON YOUR SKILLS Versace and around our workplace skills by asking the people you lead, and growth and development lie in how we handle Check in with your relationship-building – employees, peers, custom- work closely with, to identify your abilities. difficult times and challenging adversity. skills by asking the people you lead, and work ers, vendors, industry alliances and community. The trick is to not become complacent in closely with, to identify your abilities. Some of these relationship are developed out of selected outside of “communication” were our relationships, or reliant on others to deal The question might sound like this: “What need, and some by choice. “trust” and “respect.” with the challenges and fix the problems. Take skills do I demonstrate well in my relationships But every sustainable relationship, personal Survey participants also felt “alignment of the lead and be courageous in your efforts to with the people I work with, and in what areas or professional, takes time and a conscious core values,” “flexibility,” “patience” and “team- bring people back to the basics – communica- do I need to improve?” effort to cultivate. work” were key elements in their workplace tion, trust and respect. Let those who participate in this exercise When we accept personal accountability to relationships. help hold you accountable for enhancing what create healthy relationships in the workplace, it You may think this all sounds like too much TOO COMPLACENT TO COMMUNICATE? you do well, and what you need to improve. It usually means we have open and honest com- work, and you may be right. But, the guess here Our busy, and sometimes overwhelming, will make them feel more connected to you, munication forging a foundation of mutual is that already you are using all or most of these lives make it easy to become complacent, espe- and they will learn from the experience. trust and respect with each other. When we use elements in your relationships. cially with the people with which we spend the these skills on a consistent basis, we diminish The question is: Are you using them consis- most time. Bonnie Sussman-Versace – business leader, the risk of alienating others. tently? Once this happens, we start making assump- entrepreneur and principal of Focused LLC in If not, what steps can you take to become tions that others know exactly what we want Wyomissing – is dedicated to developing leaders, APPLYING THE BASICS consistent and ensure alignment instead of and expect from them. And when they don’t enhancing cultures and improving performance for In a recent survey, I asked – “Aside from starting down a path of alienation? come through with the results, we are disap- business growth and prosperity. She can be reached open and honest communication, what are the pointed and annoyed. at [email protected] or 610-301-2194. other elements of a good relationship in the ADD A DASH OF COURAGE workplace?” When relationships fail, it usually can be The respondents represented people from 21 traced to a misunderstanding triggered by WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? industries in a broad range of leadership posi- assumptions and ineffective communication. We encourage readers to write and submit letters to the editor for possible publication. Please tions, and in small to large for-profit and not- Unfortunately, failed relationships lead to include your name, telephone number and address, and keep the letter to 250 or fewer words (brevity often is nearly as important as the message). We reserve the right to edit letters. for-profit businesses. mistrust, poor behaviors and performance, lack Email your letters to [email protected]. Please indicate in the subject line that you are submitting a Although, many of the responses were the of engagement, employee turnover and lost letter to the editor. same or similar, the top two words people opportunities. Our greatest challenges are pre-

SEND YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO: [email protected] 22 Lehigh Valley Business OPINION April 6, 2015 LVB.com Mitigating the risks when using independent contractors There are benefits and risks to using indepen- state governments have increased their arsenals ing in lower cost of compliance and less expo- dent contractors, and it is critical that an employer to find misclassifications of independent con- sure to lawsuits. know them before hiring one. It is equally critical tractors. ICs facilitate expansion and contraction of to minimize the risks. Beginning in 2007, the IRS encouraged the workforce. Understanding the con- people who believe they have been misclassi- Among the disadvantages: cept also includes what it is fied as independent contractors to pay only the Lack of direction and control. to be an independent con- employee’s portion of the employment taxes. Lack of continuity. tractor and the governmen- Eligible employees may use Form 8919, Potential for lawsuits seeking redress for tal programs that may result Uncollected Social Security and Medicare Tax on injuries otherwise covered by workers’ compen- in more scrutiny for those Wages, to pay the employee’s shares and have the sation insurance. who use them. taxes credited to their Social Security records. Proceed with caution: The Risk of governmental audit and misclas- Barry An independent contrac- The IRS initiated a comprehensive nation- IRS, Department of Labor sification resulting in increased federal taxes Furman tor is a worker who is free wide employment tax examination program (unless relief is available under a liberal provi- from the employer’s right to, in part, identify employers who misclassify and many state governments sion known as Section 530), increased state of direction and control, as well as free from their workers. Since 2007, the IRS has been taxes and benefit entitlements. actual direction and control, over the manner entering into agreements with states to share have increased their arsenals in which he provides his services. information regarding misclassification. to ﬁ nd misclassiﬁ cations of Despite the increased governmental scrutiny This is the common law definition. It is and the risks of misclassification, there are steps applied by the Internal Revenue Service and by PARTIAL RELIEF independent contractors. that an employer can take to avoid misclassifi- most states, including Pennsylvania. The IRS has a new program called the cation of workers. It is not the definition used by the U.S. Voluntary Classification Settlement Program. These include having a self-audit of the Department of Labor under the Fair Labor It provides taxpayers with an opportunity to relationship can be structured to avoid or mini- relationship with the guidance and advice of Standards Act or by other states. Instead, they reclassify their workers for federal employment mize the risk of reclassification and ICs can counsel, making decisions and adjustments as use tests known as the economic substance and tax purposes with partial relief. generate significant costs and tax savings. recommended in the audit, and having an inde- the ABC test, respectively. The Department of Labor hired more inves- Among the benefits of using ICs: pendent contractor agreement that addresses The IRS determines whether the employer tigators and expanded its misclassification pro- The employer probably saves money. the common law factors and other federal and has the right to direction and control by analyz- gram to investigate companies that have mis- Benefits, office space and equipment, retire- state laws and, particularly, negates the right to ing 20 factors. classified employees and failed to pay overtime. ment plans, employees’ share of Social Security, exercise direction and control over the manner These factors, in turn, are categorized as State unemployment tax divisions are more Medicare taxes, state unemployment compen- in which the IC provides his services. behavioral control, financial control and the frequently determining that workers classified sation insurance and workers’ compensation type of relationship contemplated and include as ICs should be reclassified as employees. insurance are not provided, paid for or contrib- Barry Furman is a principal of Kaplin Stewart in supervision, instruction, training, reports, eval- Often, an audit of the employer will follow uted, as applicable. Together, these payments Blue Bell in the corporate and business planning, uation, financial risk of loss, paying one’s own an unemployment compensation benefits claim and contributions could cost 30 percent or trust and estates and taxation groups. He has expenses, investment in equipment, purchasing and result in unemployment tax for all similarly more. counseled a wide range of business clients regard- supplies and holding oneself out to the public situated ICs of the employer being assessed. ICs often have special expertise, which ing health care, tax, corporate, employment and as being in business, an IC agreement, benefits results in increased efficiency and requires no real estate law in matters such as entity forma- and issuance of Form 1099. PROS AND CONS direct supervision and training. tion, business structuring, acquisitions, financing, Why, then, have ICs? ICs are not protected by many laws that licensing, regulatory issues, contract negotiations FEDS ARE TAKING AIM Despite increased scrutiny, using indepen- protect employees from such matters as dis- and estate planning. He can be reached at bfur- The IRS, Department of Labor and many dent contractors is permissible under law, the crimination and wrongful termination, result- [email protected]. When writing a business plan, first identify the problem

When we don’t understand something, we amounts of money. If there is no problem, then perhaps it is best tend to be afraid of it. And when we are afraid You’re not launching a business or a non- to categorize your business idea as a hobby. of something, we avoid it. profit in order to fail. You want to succeed and Don’t misunderstand, there is nothing wrong Take, for example, the succeed in a big way. with hobbies – but hobbies generally satisfy business plan. your own needs and not the needs, desires or When we think business DEFINING THE PROBLEM problems of others around you. plan, we think of a 30-page We start with the most basic question – what So, the first part of any business plan begins chart-filled document, is the problem you are trying to solve? with articulating a problem that needs solving spreadsheets, accountants, You spent time in and around your neigh- or a need that requires a solution. lawyers and lots of money borhood and noticed a few things that are Take time to put down on paper the problem being spent. lacking. as you see it. Give it as much detail as possible. Philip But it doesn’t have to be PUT IT IN WRITING There isn’t a decent coffee shop anywhere You should be able to delineate the issue in two Gentile that way. It’s time to demysti- close to you. There is no place to get a decent or three paragraphs. All businesses need a plan. fy the business plan. Perhaps sandwich at a reasonable price. There’s no place Once you are able to describe in detail the The plan should be in writing. then it won’t seem so daunting to do, and you’ll Start by identifying the problem you want to have some family fun. Where is one to get a problem then, and only then, can you articulate see the benefits of putting a plan on paper. to solve. decent cigar in town? your solution. At its essence, a business plan is nothing more Keep your plan simple. Perhaps you’ve been searching in the mar- than answering a few questions in key areas. kets for a particular item to meet a particular For 25 years, Philip Gentile of Bethlehem advised Once you answer those questions, then you need but have not been able to find it. You hear and counseled businesses, governmental agen- can flesh out your answers and provide backup plan. If they don’t, they won’t be in business for your friends talking about a particular problem cies and nonprofit entities. Most recently, he to your assumptions. You can find spreadsheets very long or they won’t reach their full potential. but there isn’t anything that exists to solve the has launched a writing service, helping clients for the number-crunching at a variety of places A business plan is a critical tool for the busi- situation. You need a gizmo to make life a little find their voice in a very loud world. He can be on the Web. ness owner because it demands that the owner bit easier. reached at [email protected] or via his The length and detail of your plan will ask poignant questions about the business and website (www.pgentile.com). depend on who is going to see it – a bank, fam- rationally assess the answers to those questions. DETAILS ily or for your eyes only. Without such a process, the business will wan- Whatever the problem you see, whatever the der aimlessly and likely crash and burn – leav- desire not being satisfied, whatever the need SEND YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO: VITAL TOOL ing the business owner demoralized and likely not being met – there is an opportunity for you [email protected] All businesses, including nonprofits, need a also owing banks, friends or family significant to provide the solution. THE LIST Largest Lehigh Valley Employers: Page 24

LApril 6, 2015ists • www.LVB.com & leads Next week’s list: Security Firms, Restoration Companies CALENDAR BEHIND THE LIST WITH JOHN BROWN, NORTHAMPTON COUNTY EXECUTIVE Wednesday, April 8 Held by: Greater Lehigh Valley Ad Club Summary: The wisdom of “we” Foster growth, enhance quality of life Where: Northampton Community College, Fowler Southside Family The economy of the Greater Center, 511 E. Third St., Bethlehem Lehigh Valley is one of the strongest Time: 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. in the nation. With many major proj- Cost: Free for members, $15 nonmem- ects already developed and more in bers; includes lunch the pipeline, growth is expected to Contact: 610-365-7916 or continue behind local decision mak- www.aaflv.com ers and government leaders. Wednesday, April 8 Having a strong leader at the fore- Held by: Vistacom front of any business or organization Summary: Vistacom Tech Expo 2015 is imperative to success. John Brown, Where: Vistacom, 1902 Vultee St., Northampton County executive, is in Allentown his second year of a four-year term, Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and he expects to see a continued Cost: Free resurgence in the county and beyond. Contact: Brian Varano at 484-661- Brown is featured in this week’s 5700 or www.vistacominc.com “Behind the List” to talk about his role as county executive and what he Wednesday, April 8 expects for Northampton County. Held By: Lehigh Valley Toastmasters Summary: Enhance Leadership and Lehigh Valley Business: How long Public Speaking Skills have you been the Northampton Where: Christ Church UCC, 75 E. County executive and what are your Market St., Bethlehem primary duties and responsibilities Time: 7-9 p.m. in this role? Cost: Free John Brown: I took office in January Contact: [email protected] or 2014. I am just starting the second lvtoastmasters.org year of a four-year term. As county executive, I am the Thursday, April 9 chief executive officer and adminis- Held by: Open Door Public Relations PHOTO/CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND trative official of the county. John Brown, Northampton County executive, is in his second year of a four-year term. Summary: Boost your brand Where: YoFresh, 4642 Broadway St., My core responsibilities are to Allentown oversee the day-to-day operations, pre- we were able to return $17 million administration is the Community It will also develop the fresh-food Time: 10-11:30 a.m. pare the annual financial budget and to the general fund, the equivalent to Investment Partnership Program. system along with the many partners, Cost: $16 in advance, $20 at the door execute all of the county’s ordinances. 19.8 percent of the real estate taxes This program is designed to take a such as Penn State Extension and the Contact: Rita Guthrie at 610-703- I oversee the departments of the county collects annually. comprehensive approach to commu- Nurture Nature Center. 5878 or [email protected] Administration, Human Resources, Additionally, the approved 2015 nity revitalization. This will involve AgConnect connects farmers and Fiscal Affairs, Community and budget is $17.3 million less than the grants for community planning and agribusinesses with business resourc- Monday, April 13, and Tuesday, Economic Development, Court 2014 budget. improvement, implementation and es, training and financing to grow April 28 Services, Human Services, Public operations as well as job creation and their business. Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania Works, Corrections, Sheriff, Coroner, LVB: What is the county’s role in economic infrastructure. Manufacturers and Employers Emergency Management Services, economic development, and how are We also have two business-loan LVB: What industries do you think Association Office of the Public Defender and you trying to bring more business to products as part of the program. We would be a good fit for properties Summary: Team leadership skills Office of the Solicitor. the county? will be using $1 million of the casino that could be redeveloped in the training Brown: The county’s role is to strate- table games funds we receive to Slate Belt? Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the LVB: What have been some of the gically leverage resources that foster invest in our communities and busi- Brown: It is not necessarily the type 80’s Road, Hazleton biggest hardships and opportunities economic growth and enhance the nesses. We want to ensure they have of industry but that they pay a sus- Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. that you’ve encountered in the years quality of life for our citizens. Our the county support to leverage other tainable living wage to their employ- Cost: $306 members, $612 nonmem- that you’ve been county executive? effort involves both community and available public and private resourc- ees. If a new employer is going to pay bers Brown: Coming into office, I knew economic development because it es, strengthen workforce and entre- wages that require a person to still Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ the finances of the county were in takes both strong communities and preneurial opportunities, support depend on government assistance to maea.biz dire straits. The general fund, which vibrant businesses to attract and business expansion projects and cre- survive, that does not help the com- had a balance of $68 million in 2008, retain business in the county. ate a region where businesses want to munity. Certainly in that category Tuesday, April 14 and Monday, had been depleted to $11.1 million The resources we can leverage come because it has the infrastruc- [sustainable living wage] would be April 20 Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania by January 2014 due to years of include federal, state and county ture, amenities and quality of life that manufacturing, food and beverage Manufacturers and Employers habitual overspending. If this pat- funding along with technical assis- is worthy of their investment. processing and high-value business Association tern was not interrupted, the county tance for comprehensive planning in We will also be launching the services. Summary: Train to retain workshop would not have sufficient money our municipalities, especially those “AgConnect Northampton County Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the to meet its operating needs going that lack access to such resources. Partnership” to bring all the COMPILED BY CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND forward. resources available to our agricul- please see CALENDAR, page 26 Immediately, the administration LVB: What are some notable eco- tural and related business to the began systematically analyzing all nomic development and business- same table. This new approach will departmental processes, vendor con- related projects that the county has strengthen the economic impact MORE AT LVB.COM SUBMITTING ITEMS tracts, insurance programs and capital in the pipeline for 2015? of the Northampton County food Video: John Brown talks Email calendar items two weeks in projects for ways to reduce expendi- Brown: The first major economic system and make an investment for about economic opportunity in advance to [email protected] tures. As a result, by the end of 2014, development initiative of my ag-related business growth. Northampton County. 24 Lehigh Valley Business THE LIST April 6, 2015 LVB.com Largest Lehigh Valley Employers Ranked by Lehigh Valley employees

Rank Name Local employees Top local executive(s) Website F-T/P-T local Local/total locations Services provided Address Title(s) Phone employees Headquarters Year established LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK 13,552 Dr. Brian Nester www.lvhn.org 10,807/2,745 12/12 Four hospitals in Lehigh, Northampton and Luzerne counties, 12 health 1200 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., P.O. Box 689 President & CEO 610-402-8000 Allentown centers in four counties, primary and specialty care physician practices, 1 Allentown, PA 18105 1899 pharmacy, imaging, home health services and lab services, preferred provider services through Valley Preferred ST. LUKE'S UNIVERSITY HEALTH 8,652 Richard A. Anderson www.slhn.org 5,642/3,010 156/156 Nonprofit, regional, integrated health system providing care in the Greater NETWORK President & CEO 484-526-4000 Bethlehem Lehigh Valley region for nine counties in Pennsylvania as well as in 2 801 Ostrum St. 1872 western New Jersey; comprised of six hospitals and 150 ambulatory care Bethlehem, PA 18015 locations; medical school; school of nursing AIR PRODUCTS 3,800 Seifi Ghasemi www.airproducts.com 3,800/0B 8/8 Atmospheric, process and specialty gases, performance materials, 7201 Hamilton Blvd. CEO 610-481-4911 Trexlertown equipment and technology 3 Allentown, PA 18195 1946 DORNEY PARK & WILDWATER 2,587 Brad Marcy www.dorneypark.com 87/2,500 1/11 Amusement park with roller coasters, Planet Snoopy, family rides, KINGDOM Vice President & General 610-395-3724 Sandusky, Ohio Wildwater Kingdom, live entertainment and dining 4 3830 Dorney Park Road Manager 1884 Allentown, PA 18104 LEHIGH COUNTY 2,542 Tom Muller www.lehighcounty.org 1,963/579 1/1 County government 17 S. Seventh St. County Executive 610-782-3010 Allentown 5 Allentown, PA 18101 1812 PPL CORP. 2,300 William H. Spence www.pplweb.com 2,300/0B 1/DNR Delivers electricity and natural gas to customers in the United States and 2 N. Ninth St. Chairman, President & 610-774-5858 Allentown United Kingdom, owns more than 18,000 megawatts of generating 6 Allentown, PA 18101 CEO 1920 capacity in the United States and sells energy in U.S. markets NORTHAMPTON COUNTY 2,105 John A. Brown www.northamptoncounty.org 1,663/442 8/8 County government 669 Washington St. County Executive 610-559-3000 Easton 7 Easton, PA 18042 1752 B. BRAUN OF AMERICA/B. BRAUN 1,912 Caroll H. Neubauer www.bbraunusa.com 1,912/0 3/7 Clinical nutrition compounding, drug preparation and delivery, infusion MEDICAL Chairman & CEO 610-691-5400 Bethlehem pumps, irrigation urology solutions and sets, intravenous sets, catheters 8 824 12th Ave. 1957 and accessories and solutions, drugs, needles and syringes, renal therapy Bethlehem, PA 18018 LEHIGH UNIVERSITY 1,849 Kevin Clayton www.lehigh.edu 1,705/144 1/1 Institute of higher education 27 Memorial Drive West Interim PresidentC 610-758-3000 Bethlehem 9 Bethlehem, PA 18015 1865 PHOEBE MINISTRIES 1,769 Scott Stevenson www.phoebe.org 1,254/515 11/14 Long-term care, short-term and outpatient rehab, home and community- 1925 Turner St. President, CEO & Chief 610-435-9037 Allentown based services, memory support and dementia care, independent living, 10 Allentown, PA 18104 Financial Officer 1903 personal care, skilled nursing care, respite care, TeleHealth, adult day services, education, caregiver support, senior affordable housing, pharmacy services, mental health services NORTHAMPTON COMMUNITY 1,744 Mark Erickson www.northampton.edu 467/1,277 2/2 Higher education, youth programs, workforce training, consulting COLLEGE President 610-861-5300 Bethlehem 11 3835 Green Pond Road 1967 Bethlehem, PA 18020 AVANTOR PERFORMANCE 1,700 John M. Steitz www.avantormaterials.com 1,700/0B 2/10 Performance materials and chemistries MATERIALS President & CEO 855-282-6867 Center Valley 12 3477 Corporate Parkway, Suite 200 1867 Center Valley, PA 18034 LUTRON ELECTRONICS CO. INC. 1,500 Michael Pessina www.lutron.com 1,500/0B 1/1 Lighting controls and systems, motorized shading devices 7200 Suter Road President 610-282-3800 Coopersburg 13 Coopersburg, PA 18036 1959 GOOD SHEPHERD REHABILITATION 1,446 John Kristel www.goodshepherdrehab.org 938/508 36/47 Rehabilitation services offering a continuum of care for people with NETWORK President & CEO 610-776-3100 Allentown physical and cognitive disabilities and specializing in assistive and 14 850 S. Fifth St. 1908 rehabilitation technology Allentown, PA 18103 KIDSPEACE CORP. 1,395 William Isemann www.kidspeace.org 1,167/228 19/42 Psychiatric hospital, inpatient, residential, education, foster care and 4085 Independence Drive President & CEO 610-799-8000 Schnecksville community-based services and programs to children, adolescents and 15 Schnecksville, PA 18078 1882 families NATIONAL PENN 1,277 Scott V. Fainor www.nationalpenn.com 1,155/122 78/127 Banking, investment, insurance and trust services 645 Hamilton St. President & CEO 800.822.3321 Allentown 16 Allentown, PA 18101 1874 SACRED HEART HOSPITAL 1,201 John Nespoli www.shh.org 860/341 1/1 Behavioral health, cancer care, emergency services, imaging services, 421 Chew St. President & CEO 610-776-4500 Allentown women's services, orthopedics, rehab services, senior services, primary 17 Allentown, PA 18102 1912 care, cardiovascular and stroke care, surgical services CRAYOLA LLC 1,200 Mike Perry www.crayola.com 1,065/135 2/5 Manufactures crayons, markers, paint, etc. 1100 Church Lane President & CEO 610-253-6272 Easton 18 Easton, PA 18044 1885 MACK TRUCKS INC. 1,040 Roger Johnston www.macktrucks.com 1,040/0B 2/3 Construction, highway and refuse truck production 7000 Alburtis Road Senior Vice President 610-966-8980 Greensboro, N.C. 19 Macungie, PA 18062 1975 OLYMPUS CORP. OF THE AMERICAS 954 Nacho Abia www.medical.olympusamerica.com 950/4 2/200 Medical and surgical products, gastrointestinal endoscopy, minimally 3500 Corporate Parkway President, Olympus Corp. 484-896-5000 Center Valley invasive surgical products and accessories, life science imaging systems, 20 Center Valley, PA 18034 of the Americas 2006 advanced research, clinical/educational microscopes and research/ educational digital imaging systems, industrial measurement and imaging instruments, industrial research, engineering, test, inspection and measuring instruments, cameras and audio products, digital cameras and voice recorders COUNTRY MEADOWS RETIREMENT 934 Bonnie Mfarej www.countrymeadows.com 565/369 3/10 Provides independent living, personal care, memory support services, COMMUNITIES - ALLENTOWN Executive Director 610-395-7160 Hershey restorative care and home care 21 430 Krocks Road 1986 Allentown, PA 18106 LEHIGH CARBON COMMUNITY 926 Ann D. Bieber www.lccc.edu 258/668 6/6 Community college serving Lehigh, Carbon, Schuylkill and surrounding COLLEGE President 610-799-2121 Schnecksville counties offering more than 90 programs of study, including health care, 22 4525 Education Park Drive 1966 information technology, criminal justice, education and business Schnecksville, PA 18078 administration LAFAYETTE COLLEGE 840 Alison Byerly www.lafayette.edu 760/80 1/1 Institution of higher education 730 High St. President 610-330-5000 Easton 23 Easton, PA 18042 1826 RODALE INC. 800 Maria Rodale www.rodale.com 800/0B 1/2 Healthy lifestyle publishing company 400 S. 10th St. Chairwoman & CEO 800-848-4735 Emmaus 24 Emmaus, PA 18098 1930 MUHLENBERG COLLEGED 758 Peyton R. Helm www.muhlenberg.edu 504/254 1/1 Institute of higher education offering programs in 40 majors in the 2400 Chew St. President 484-664-3100 Allentown humanities, fine arts, social sciences and natural sciences, in addition to 25 Allentown, PA 18104 1848 pre-professional programs in areas such as pre-health, pre-law, pre- theology, business and education

DBA-doing business as DNR-did not respond NA-not applicable Researched by Christopher Holland The Lehigh Valley Business list of Largest Lehigh Valley Employers is limited to those in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Information came from the individual companies and other LVB research. To access the Lehigh Valley Business online database, visit www.LVB.com/lists. Surveys available at www.LVBlists.com. Published April 6, 2015. B Could not differentiate between full-time and part-time employees C John D. Simon to become president on July 1 D Also has the Wescoe School of Muhlenberg College LVB.com April 6, 2015 FOR YOUR INFORMATION Lehigh Valley Business 25

BUSINESS NOTES GOOD DEEDS achieved outstanding clinical out- received two recognitions, including facility in Bath. The aggregate value Muhlenberg Greene Architects The Bon-Ton Stores Inc., which comes for 12 consecutive months, the CEO Circle Award, which recog- of the lease renewal is about $300,000. Ltd. of Wyomissing is moving. The is based in York and has retail loca- including patient satisfaction higher nizes the top 25 centers in the U.S. Amy Hawley represented the landlord firm will be open in its new office at tions throughout the Greater Lehigh than 92 percent. and Canada with the highest sales and the tenant in the transaction. 955 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 101, as of Valley, said it raised more than $4.3 The national real estate firm, volume from the previous year, and NAI Summit of South Whitehall March 30. The move marks the com- million for local nonprofit orga- Sperry Van Ness, recognized Tom the Million Dollar Award for sur- Township said Mike Adams, senior pany’s 95th year in business. nizations and the American Heart Skeans, managing director of passing $2 million in annual sales. vice president, recently repre- Pocono Raceway in Long Pond Association through its semi-annual SVN|Imperial Realty in Hanover The Boy Scouts of America, sented owner HAF Inc. in lease extended its long-term partnership Community Days event. In the pro- Township, Lehigh County, as a new Minsi Trails Council, said Anthony transactions for two properties in with Paciolan, a provider of ticket- motion, nonprofit groups signed up member of its Partners Circle. The J. Biondi of Merchants Bank in Bethlehem. The transaction was with ing, marketing automation and fan to sell savings booklets and got to award is given to those agents across Bangor will be honored with the Tradesmen International for more management solutions to more than keep the donation. the nation who generated more than Good Scout Award. Biondi will be than 2,500 square feet of flex space 500 live entertainment organiza- $550,000 in gross commissions per recognized by Scouts, friends, family, at 2450 Brodhead Road. Tradesmen tions. Paciolan is a subsidiary of the HONORS year. Skeans is ranked No. 34 of 1,200 business and community leaders for International is a skilled-workforce Philadelphia-based sports and enter- Grand View Health and the SVN advisers named in 2014. his achievements and service to the recruiting firm. The second transac- tainment firm Comcast-Spectacor. Grand View Wound Care Center in Fastsigns of Lehigh Valley in Slate Belt-Nazareth community. tion was with East Coast Flooring Gateway Ticketing Systems of Sellersville celebrated the Center of Allentown was named one of the for more than 4,500 square feet of Gilbertsville has been selected by The Distinction Award. The award was top centers out of more than 570 REAL ESTATE flex space at 2483 Baglyos Circle San Diego Air & Space Museum as given to the Grand View Wound locations worldwide at the 2015 Hawley Realty Inc. of Hanover in Bethlehem. East Coast Floor the venue’s new ticketing and access Care Center by Healogics Inc., the Fastsigns International Convention, Township, Lehigh County, brokered Distribution is a full-service whole- control provider. The museum has nation’s largest provider of advanced recently held in Dallas, Texas. The a lease renewal for AIM National sale distributor of flooring materials. more than 250,000 annual visitors. wound-care services. Grand View locally owned and operated business Leasing Co. for its 9,600-square-foot COMPILED BY STACY WESCOE TRANSACTIONS Documents on file in Lehigh County Issam Elias bought 502-504.5 N. Front St. Felix Jimenez bought 606-610 N. Jordan BETHELHEM $150,000. Parcel 642718260048. government offices listed these recent from Francisco Irizarry for $118,000. Parcel St. from Diomedes Matos-Arias for $19,000. Broad Ventures LP bought 1130-1134 W. real estate transactions. Information 64074436360. Parcel 640714820585. Broad St. from Penn Business Credit LLC for MACUNGIE listed for each transaction lists the Hamilton Property bought 1133 W. Exchangeright Net Leased Portfolio bought $150,000. Parcel 642718049752. Dealbrook LLC et al. bought 185 W. Main municipality, seller, buyer, address, Hamilton St. from Alicia Reynoso for 1701 Hamilton St. from Primax Properties LLC Broad Ventures LP bought 1126 W. St. from CVM Associates LP for $569,929. parcel, date of sale and sale price. $120,000. Parcel 549689454233. for $1,856,060. Parcel 549741025180. Broad St. from Penn Business Credit LLC for Parcel 547379040586. Unless otherwise noted, the property has a commercial use. 138 N. 9th Street LLC bought 139 N. Ninth KLV Properties LLC bought 2895 Hamilton $150,000. Parcel 642718145763. St. from Walter Chwastyk for $141,000. Parcel Blvd. from Mark Eisner for $362,000. Parcel Broad Ventures LP bought 1122 W. NORTH WHITEHALL TOWNSHIP 911 Group LLC et al. bought 4345 ALLENTOWN 549790589580. 548684922540. Broad St. from Penn Business Credit LLC for Independence Drive from Robert J. Jurchenko Jessmik Rivera bought 301-303 N. Eighth Polanco Investments Inc. bought 421- Thomas Bui bought 1869 S. Fourth St. $150,000. Parcel 642718242800. for $950,000. Parcel 546942837028. St. from Jessnia Cordero for $12,000. Parcel 423 W. Tilghman St. from Carlos Delgado for from Joseph Beck for $250,000. Parcel Broad Ventures LP bought 1124 Raspberry 549919878. $170,000. Parcel 640714153357. 640652752974. St. from Penn Business Credit LLC for please see TRANSACTIONS, page 26

of a 6,000-square-foot dining facility, ing as general contractor for the $60 hall renovations to building an entire for more than 20 years, another sign FRANTZ Canova Commons in Tompkins Hall, million project for 5,000 students in campus for Northampton Community of success. continued from page 10 at Cedar Crest College in Allentown. three buildings. The company con- College, we approach each project “I think it comes down to good Workers built the facility while class- structed the buildings with materials with tenacity and attention to detail. people doing the right thing at the tices and the highest safety standards. es were in session in a fully occupied and technologies to achieve Leadership Our most important project is the one right time, every time,” Frantz said. Notable projects have been com- building. in Energy and Environmental Design we haven’t completed yet.” “I’m extremely fortunate to have pas- pleted along the way. Also, Skepton finished the Silver certification. Frantz said his company has had sionate, dedicated and talented con- Most recently, Skepton was con- Northampton Community College “Every project is equally impor- very low turnover, and many of its struction professionals make up the struction manager in the renovation Monroe Campus in Tannersville, serv- tant to us,” Frantz said. “From dining employees have been with Skepton Skepton Construction team.”

member of the board of the Lehigh PESSINA Valley Partnership, a consortium of TOUT YOUR SUCCESS [email protected]. Please That is the mission of our continued from page 16 the region’s top employers that seeks NEWSMAKERS include the date, time, venue, editorial page, where we to drive economic development. He Send announcements about description, registration reserve space for letters from Pessina’s milestone moments at is a trustee at DeSales University and new hires, promotions and information and cost. our readers. We welcome Lutron include in 2000 when he was chairs its audit committee. board appointments to your ideas on issues facing appointed to senior vice president, The idea for Lutron Electronics [email protected]. Save OFF THE CLOCK businesses in our region. in 2002 when he was promoted to began in the late 1950s in a make- images at 300 dpi in JPEG or We print reader-submitted Please limit letters to 250 executive vice president and chief shift lab in New York City. By 1961, TIFF format. event photos of galas, words. Sign your name, and operating officer, and in 2009 when the company was incorporated and receptions and other include a telephone number he was named president of the office developed its first invention – a FOR YOUR INFORMATION business events. Email where you can be reached. of product development. Pessina also simple rotary dimmer that can still Email your announcements of images to [email protected]. Lehigh Valley Business also is a member of Lutron’s executive be found on many dining-room walls business openings, contracts, Save images at 300 dpi accepts longer opinion pieces board and advisory council. today – marking the birth of the relocations or real estate as JPEG or TIFF files. Send of up to 750 words In the community, Pessina is a lighting-control industry. transactions to stacyw@lvb. caption information, including and expert columns. com. Releases should include the name, date and location Email letters, columns and the municipality in which the of the event. Identify people op-ed submissions to helps, as well,” he told Lehigh Valley company is located. from left to right. We reserve [email protected]. NEUBAUER Business in a previous interview. the right not to publish all continued from page 16 “Don’t forget that to just about PROMOTE YOUR photos. COMPLETE A SURVEY everybody in the company, you are EVENT If you need a survey to North American operations since a mentor, so act that way.” he added. CALENDAR SHARE YOUR OPINION appear in one of our lists, 1996. “It’s a responsibility you have to love. Send your free and low- A vital service of any email Chris Holland at What motivates Neubauer to lead? It’s a special responsibility you really cost business event listings newspaper is to provide a [email protected]. “First of all, I like responsibility have to trend toward.” three weeks in advance to place for people to be heard. and I like people. That makes leading easy. Putting a smile on your face 26 Lehigh Valley Business • April 6, 2015 LVB.com

Women and Minority Business and prepare for the expo, six pre- to have a “buyer’s table,” and registra- Sally Handlon, president of Handlon HANDLON Opportunity Council is expanding its expo workshops will be held before tion is open on a first-come, first- Business Resources, is chairperson of continued from page 20 mission to become LVEDC’s Local September in locations throughout served basis. the Women and Minority Business Sourcing Council – a council which the Lehigh Valley. The workshops are In addition to the opportunity to Opportunity Council of the Lehigh the second Lehigh Valley Meet the will continue to foster the interaction free; advance registration is required. spend a few minutes with potential Valley Economic Development Buyers Expo on Oct. 22 at ArtsQuest within our business community to Small businesses can register online suppliers during the expo, buyers also Corp. In that role, she also chairs Center at SteelStacks in Bethlehem. encourage local sourcing opportuni- to attend the Oct. 22 expo at www. can participate in a “matchmaking” the biennial Meet the Buyers Expo This biennial event was introduced in ties beyond the biennial expos. lvmeetthebuyers.com; the fee is $25. session at the conclusion of the expo. Steering Committee, a collaborative October 2013 and has had a significant For Lehigh Valley procurement This additional session will provide effort of 10 area agencies and impact. PRE-EXPO WORKSHOPS professionals/buyers, there is a lim- interested buyers with up to 10 min- organizations that support the In addition, the Lehigh Valley To assist small business in under- ited number of tables available on utes with four to five suppliers to business community. She can be Economic Development Corp.’s standing the procurement processes Oct. 22 at SteelStacks. There is no fee address special needs or requirements. reached at [email protected].

Cost: Free Association nonmembers TRANSACTIONS CALENDAR Contact: [email protected] or Summary: Access II – Intermediate Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ continued from page 25 continued from page 23 lvtoastmasters.org Where: MAEA training room, 250 maea.biz Norwegian Plaza, Pottsville SOUTH WHITEHALL TOWNSHIP 80’s Road, Hazleton Thursday, April 23 Time: 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, June 3 4203 Tilghman LLC bought Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Held by: Berkshire B2B Affiliates Cost: $102 members, $204 Held by: Open Door Public Relations 4203 Tilghman St. from Domenico Cost: $413 members, $826 Summary: Affordable Care Act – nonmembers Summary: Steps for generating new Mazzela-Dibosco for $470,000. Parcel nonmembers practical application and compliance for Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ business 547696300713. Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ business owners maea.biz Where: City View Diner, 1831 MacArthur Matthew Robinson bought 1737 Neva maea.biz Where: Inn at Reading, 1040 N. Park Road, Whitehall St. from Frank Adams for $125,000. Parcel Road, Wyomissing Monday, May 4 Time: 9:30-11 a.m. 549725156030. Industrial. Wednesday, April 15 Time: 6:30-9 p.m. Held by: Urban Land Institute Cost: $16 in advance, $20 at the door Held by: Construction Specifications Cost: Free Summary: Build Lehigh Valley – Lehigh Contact: Rita Guthrie at 610-703-5878 COMPILED BY THOMAS RANCE Institute Contact: Brian Klein at 610-781-8270 Valley annual development report or [email protected] Summary: Architectural and or [email protected] Where: The Barristers Club, 1114 W. Documents on file in Construction Expo Walnut St., Allentown Thursday, June 18 Northampton County government Where: Holiday Inn, 7736 Adrienne Thursday, April 23 Time: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Held by: Open Door Public Relations offices listed these recent real Drive, Breinigsville Held by: Valley Networking Cost: Free Summary: How to craft a killer elevator estate transactions. Information Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Summary: Business connecting with Contact: 800-321-5011 or http:// speech listed for each transaction lists Cost: Free businesses philadelphia.uli.org/events Where: YoFresh, 4642 Broadway St., the municipality, seller, buyer, Contact: www.csiexpo.com Where: Regus, 3477 Corporate Parkway, Allentown address, parcel, date of sale Suite 100, Center Valley Friday, May 8 Time: 10-11:30 a.m. and sale price. Unless otherwise Thursday, April 16 Time: 6-9 p.m. Held by: Lehigh Valley Business Cost: $16 in advance, $20 at the door noted, the property has a com- Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania Cost: Free, includes appetizers Coalition on Healthcare Contact: Rita Guthrie at 610-703-5878 mercial use. Manufacturers and Employers Contact: www.valleynetworking.net Summary: Annual conference or [email protected] Association Where: DeSales University, 2755 BANGOR Summary: Overview and updates on Sunday, April 26 Station Ave., Center Valley Fridays, June 19, 26 Frank Comunale Jr. bought 119 Market Affordable Care Act Held by: Business and Professional Time: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania St. from Kalman Panczer for $34,200. Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the Women’s Club Cost: Free for members, $100 for Manufacturers and Employers Parcel E9NE2A-7-12. 80’s Road, Hazleton Summary: Equal pay day networking nonmembers Association Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. celebration Contact: Wendy Manarino at 610-317- Summary: Psychology in the workplace BETHLEHEM Cost: $38 members, $76 nonmembers Where: Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, 0130 or [email protected] Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the Orion Real Estate Group III LLC bought Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ 432 Walnut St., Allentown 80’s Road, Hazleton 207 W. Fourth St. from CNJ Investment maea.biz Time: 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Group LLC for $1.1 million. Parcel P6SE1A- Cost: Free Held By: Lehigh Valley Toastmasters Cost: $306 members, $612 17-1A-1. Fridays, April 17, 24 Contact: Marcia Leonard at 610-657- Summary: Enhance Leadership and nonmembers Triple Net Investments XXXV LP bought Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania 2593 Public Speaking Skills Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ 1025 Feather Way from Lehigh Valley Manufacturers and Employers Where: Christ Church UCC, 75 E. Market maea.biz Industrial Park Inc. for $1,506,200. Parcel Association Monday, April 27 St., Bethlehem COMPILED BY JENNIFER GLOSE P7-22-2-4C-1. Industrial. Summary: Supervisory development Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania Time: 7-9 p.m. certificate training, Part II Manufacturers and Employers Cost: Free LOWER SAUCON TOWNSHIP Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the Association Contact: [email protected] or Black River Farms bought 3868 Route 80’s Road, Hazleton Summary: Planning, organizing and lvtoastmasters.org 378 Highway from Apex Mortgage Corp. for Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. prioritizing work $90,000. Parcel Q6NW2-2-15. Cost: $306 members, $612 Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the Fridays, May 22, 29 TOUT YOUR nonmembers 80’s Road, Hazleton Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania SUCCESS NAZARETH Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Manufacturers and Employers NEWSMAKERS Orwig Property Management 131 maea.biz Cost: $158 members, $316 Association Send announcements about South Main St. LLC bought property on nonmembers Summary: Psychology in the workplace new hires, promotions and Main Street from Second National Bank Wednesday, April 22 Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ Where: Top of the 80’s, 3 Top of the board appointments to of Nazareth for $500,000. Parcel J7SE3A- Held by: Open Door Public Relations maea.biz 80’s Road, Hazleton [email protected]. Save Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 9-12B. Summary: Social media mistakes images at 300 dpi in JPEG or Where: City View Diner, 1831 MacArthur Tuesday, April 28 Cost: $306 members, $612 TIFF format. UPPER MOUNT BETHEL Road, Whitehall Held by: Lehigh University nonmembers Mount Bethel DG LLC bought 2319 Time: 9:30-11 a.m. Summary: Health care symposium Contact: 570-622-0992 or drobbins@ FOR YOUR North Delaware Drive from Arthur P. and Cost: $16 in advance, $20 at the door Where: Lehigh University Mountaintop maea.biz INFORMATION Contact: Rita Guthrie at 610-703-5878 Campus, 111 Research Drive, Betty Pysher for $175,000. Parcel C11SE4- Email your announcements 2-22. or [email protected] Bethlehem Thursday, May 28 Time: 2-6 p.m. Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania of business openings, contracts, relocations or UPPER NAZARETH TOWNSHIP Wednesday, April 22 Cost: Free Manufacturers and Employers real estate transactions to MBD Oil LLC bought property on Held By: Lehigh Valley Toastmasters Contact: Linda Wismer at 610-758- Association [email protected]. Releases Nazareth Road from Nishan Investment Summary: Enhance Leadership and 5867 or [email protected] Summary: Access III – Mastering LLC for $900,000. Parcel K7-18-3. Public Speaking Skills Where: MAEA training room, 250 should include the Where: Christ Church UCC, 75 E. Market Thursday, April 30 Norwegian Plaza, Pottsville municipality in which St., Bethlehem Held by: Northeast Pennsylvania Time: 1-4 p.m. the company is located. Manufacturers and Employers Cost: $102 members, $204 COMPILED BY THOMAS RANCE Time: 7-9 p.m. LVB.com April 6, 2015 OFF THE CLOCK Lehigh Valley Business 27 PEOPLE: after hours, out and about, and other noteworthy sightings

Bank supports rehabilitation of homes in Allentown The Provident Bank Foundation gave $5,000 to Alliance for Building Communities of Allentown to support the rehabilitation of three vacant, blighted homes in the city’s center. Through the Affordable Housing Program, ABC selects, acquires and renovates vacant, blighted properties. The properties are then sold or rented to low- to moderate- Car dealers support Leukemia & Lymphoma Society income families that have attended classes on budgeting and home Area car dealers supported ‘Laps for Leukemia’ at a two-hour Bank helps Allentown community center ownership. Pictured from left: Mike D’Aversa, Alliance for Building endurance race at Lehigh Valley Grand Prix in Allentown to ben- The Provident Bank Foundation gave $2,500 to the Neighborhood Communities; Teresa McNish, Alliance for Building Communities; Klyda efit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Teams included ones from Center of Allentown for programs that help youth from pre-kindergarten Hutchins, regional manager, Provident Bank; Gerry Alfano, president Faulkner Chevrolet, Faulkner Cadillac, Faulkner Subaru, Ciocca Subaru, to high school with reading and math. Pictured from left: Karen Berard, and CEO, Alliance for Building Communities; Jane Kurek, executive Brown Daub KIA, Major Hyundai, Nazareth Ford and Adams Outdoor executive director, The Neighborhood Center; Jane Kurek, executive director, Provident Bank Foundation; Jonathan St. George, relationship Advertising. The winning team (pictured) for the second consecutive director, The Provident Bank Foundation; and Klyda Hutchins, regional manager, Provident Bank; Brad Fatzinger, vice president, Alliance for year was Faulkner Chevrolet, while $7,150 was raised. manager, Provident Bank. Building Communities.

Meals delivered to seniors in Lehigh County St. Luke’s earns top 100 hospital award Businesses including Alvin H. Butz Inc. and TD Bank helped ‘Community Champions’ Richard A. Anderson, St. Luke’s University Health Network’s president and CEO, accepted the network’s third 100 Top Hospitals deliver meals to homebound clients in Lehigh County as part of the 2015 March Award from Truven Health Analytics on March 27. Truven Health Analytics has an office in King of Prussia and specializes in for Meals – an annual nationwide celebration of Meals on Wheels. Community improving health care quality and access and reducing costs for health care organizations. St. Luke’s was recognized in the ‘major Champions advocates and provides programs to support the financial health and teaching hospitals’ category. Pictured from left: Joel Fagerstrom, executive vice president and chief operating officer, St. Luke’s; safety of its partner communities. Pictured from left: Michael Dee, office of State Donna Sabol, vice president and chief quality officer, St. Luke’s; Frank Ford, president, St. Luke’s Allentown Hospital; Anderson; Rep. Dan McNeill; Michelle Stuart, Lehigh Valley Health Network; Alta Mercado, Carol Kuplen, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer, St. Luke’s University Hospital - Bethlehem Campus; Dr. Jeffrey Jahre, office of State Sen. Pat Browne; Ed Hozza, Whitehall mayor; Anne Episcipo, Alvin senior vice president of medical and academic affairs, St. Luke’s; and Jean Chenoweth, senior vice president for performance H. Butz; Bert Daday; the Rev. Jeff Brinks, United Church of Christ Greenawalds; and improvement and the Top 100 Hospitals program at Truven Health Analytics. Terra Roper, TD Bank.

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145 20 minute drive from Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton Lehigh Valley 476 International 22 Airport 10 minute drive to the LV International Airport Bethlehem For information Call the team at ISP Office Solutions today Allentown 15 minutes to Blue Mountain Ski Resort ENTERTAINMENT and put our experience to work for you! about advertising 1+ Acre Lots Geo Thermal Heating & Cooling Bethlehem Roger Latzgo 610-767-7120 call 610-807-9619 OPEN HOUSE every Sunday afternoon from 1-4, Piano, Guitar, Vocals www.rogerlatzgo.com x107 or email or call 570-992-9259 to schedule a tour. [email protected]. DIRECTIONS: Rt 22 to 145 N Right on Blue Mountain Drive for 4.7 miles Right on 946 E, Right on South Mink Road, 1st Right on Buckskin Lane. 610-865-8182 • www.ispofficesolutions.com (GPS 3351 Buckskin Lane, Danielsville PA) Own YOur Piece Of the Lehigh VALLeY’s future.

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Local Business Owners:

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