The Wyoming County Chamber is proud to spotlight the Lake Carey Dam Association. On Monday, June 9, 2025, the Association will host its 4th Annual Golf Tournament at Stonehedge Golf Course in Tunkhannock, an event that’s about more than a day on the greens.
4th Annual Golf Tournament June 9, 2025 Registration 8am / Shotgun Start 9am $120/ player, includes t-shirt, breakfast, lunch and dinner.
This annual event brings together community members, businesses, and passionate supporters to raise funds for two powerful missions:
The replacement of the Lake Carey Dam, a vital asset to the Lake Carey residents and community.
The support of Joint Task Force K9’s, a nonprofit that connects service dogs with veterans and law enforcement suffering from PTSD.
These trained service dogs provide more than companionship—they offer hope and healing to those carrying invisible wounds of service. Participating in this tournament, whether as a golfer or sponsor, is a way to directly support their mission and the local community.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a meaningful day on the green, registration is now open. Sponsorships are also available, offering businesses a unique opportunity to support a great cause while gaining valuable exposure.
At this tournament, you’re not just helping the dam—you’re saving lives, one dog at a time.
For more information on the event, sponsorships, and how to donate, contact Deb Tierney at:
The Changing Landscape of Business Insurance in 2025
The business insurance market in 2025 is facing significant shifts, with rising premiums and stricter underwriting. Many businesses are struggling to find affordable coverage as insurers react to economic volatility, increased claims, and financial pressures. From small businesses to large corporations, the challenge of securing cost-effective insurance is widespread.
A combination of economic, environmental, and legal factors is driving costs higher. Severe weather events, inflation, and increasing litigation risks are hardening the market. As a result, business owners face not only higher premiums but also more restrictive policy terms.
Understanding the Rising Costs of Business Insurance
One key factor behind rising insurance costs is the surge in catastrophic claims. Hurricanes, wildfires, and floods have caused billions in damages, leading insurers to raise rates. Businesses in high-risk areas face particularly steep increases.
Inflation and supply chain disruptions have also driven up the costs of repairing and rebuilding damaged properties. Materials like lumber, steel, and concrete are more expensive, and labor shortages further complicate construction efforts. Insurers factor these increased costs into policy pricing, resulting in higher premiums for businesses.
Additionally, the legal climate is contributing to increased costs. Businesses are facing a rise in lawsuits, leading to higher settlement amounts and legal expenses. The trend of large jury awards, particularly in liability cases, forces insurers to adjust pricing to account for higher claims payouts.
The reinsurance market is another major influence. Reinsurance helps insurers manage large losses by spreading risk. However, as global losses rise, reinsurers charge higher rates, passing costs down to businesses. Many reinsurers are also becoming more selective, making it harder for businesses with prior claims or high-risk operations to secure affordable coverage.
How Independent Insurance Agencies Help Businesses Navigate the Market
Amid these challenges, businesses need an insurance partner that offers tailored solutions, expert guidance, and competitive options. Independent insurance agencies are uniquely positioned to help business owners navigate this difficult landscape. Because they are not tied to a single insurer, they can shop the market for the best coverage at the most competitive rates.
Strong relationships with top carriers enable independent agents to secure policies that offer both fair pricing and comprehensive protection. They take the time to understand each business’s unique risks and provide customized solutions that align with industry needs and financial goals.
Beyond policy placement, independent insurance agencies assist businesses in implementing proactive risk management strategies. By helping companies reduce claims and enhance safety measures, they contribute to lower insurance costs. Whether through employee training programs, workplace safety initiatives, or claims reviews, these agencies empower businesses to take control of their risk exposure.
Partnering with an Independent Insurance Agency for Stability
The challenges of the 2025 business insurance market can seem overwhelming, but businesses don’t have to face them alone. Independent insurance agencies provide expert guidance, market access, and dedicated service to help companies secure the right coverage at a fair price. Their ability to negotiate with carriers and tailor risk management strategies allows clients to protect their assets without overpaying.
In a time of rising costs and uncertain risks, having a trusted insurance partner makes all the difference. Reach out to a local independent agency for a comprehensive policy review and take the next step in securing your business’s future in an evolving insurance landscape.
As a job seeker or entrepreneur, you know that making a great first impression is key to your success.
That’s where your headshot comes in. Your headshot is a powerful tool that can help you stand out from the competition, showcase your professionalism, and ultimately boost your career. In this guide, we’ll explore how to use your headshot to make a lasting impression and advance your career.
Choose the right headshot: When selecting your headshot, choose a photo that accurately reflects your personality and brand. If you’re a job seeker, consider choosing a headshot that’s more traditional and conservative. As an entrepreneur, you may have more flexibility in choosing a headshot that showcases your unique brand and personality.
Use your headshot on your professional profiles: Once you have a great headshot, use it across all your professional profiles, including LinkedIn, your personal website, and business cards. Consistency in your branding can help build recognition and trust with potential clients or employers.
Customize your headshot for each platform: While consistency is important, it’s also a good idea to customize your headshot for each platform. For example, you might choose a more formal headshot for your LinkedIn profile, and a more relaxed, approachable headshot for your Instagram or personal website.
Update your headshot regularly: As you progress in your career, it’s important to update your headshot on a regular basis so that it accurately reflects your current self. Update it at least every 1-2 years, or anytime there’s a significant change in your appearance or branding.
Work with a professional photographer: To ensure you get the best possible headshot, consider working with a professional photographer. They can help you capture your unique brand and personality in your photos, and provide you with high-quality, professional images that can help you stand out in a crowded job market.
Using your headshot to boost your career is all about presenting yourself in the best possible light. A professional headshot helps you make a great first impression, showcase your professionalism and personality, and ultimately advance your career. Invest in yourself and your brand by taking advantage of the Chamber of Commerce’s Headshot Session with photographer Michael Straub on March 13, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the Chamber building. Register now at wyccc.com and reap the benefits for years to come!
Wyoming County, PA – The Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone ‘A’ Rating for Woody Biomass. The Wyoming County BDO Zone is the first ‘A’ rating in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, extending a 75-mile drive from Tunkhannock, PA.
The BDO Zone Initiative is a certification and regional risk rating program that enables economic development agencies and communities to effectively and credibly disclose feedstock and infrastructure attributes and risks and promote biobased development opportunities to developers and investors around the world.
Wyoming County’s BDO Zone ‘A’ rating denotes high prospective viability of feedstock supply chain and infrastructure, and low expectations of default risk in the Zone. The region features strong capabilities to accommodate new biobased plant operations, supported by a highly productive forest products industry, ensuring a stable feedstock supply and limited competition for pulpwood due to the absence of pulp and paper facilities in the area. The zone includes a prime M1 manufacturing site spanning 104 acres, located near companies offering complementary services essential for biofuels projects.
“The ‘A’ rating for Wyoming County highlights our community’s remarkable potential to lead the way in the bioeconomy,” stated Gina Suydam, President of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to partnering with bioenergy, biochemical, and bioproduct companies to enhance and diversify our forestry resources, positioning Wyoming County as a leader in bio-based industrial manufacturing.”
Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative added, “As Pennsylvania’s first ‘A’ rating, Wyoming County is poised to transform underutilized forest resources into a significant expansion of the value-added wood products industry. The BDO Zone is ideally positioned to support biobased companies seeking top locations for large-scale biomass projects.”
To see the full BDO Zone Rating for Wyoming County, Pennsylvania please visit www.bdozone.org.
About The BDO Zone Initiative
The BDO Zone Initiative certifies regional readiness for bio-based manufacturing, creates global connections with project developers, and ignites an influx of clean energy opportunities.
A BDO Zone rating is an internationally recognized standards-based technical risk assessment of biomass feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risk with respect to the development potential of new biofuel, renewable chemical, biogas, and bioproduct plants. Investment grade ratings attract new bio-based manufacturing plants to the areas where they are most likely to succeed– and create jobs.
For more information on the BDO Zone Initiative, contact info@bdozone.org. To view all BDO Zone ratings, visit www.bdozone.org. Check out the BDO Zone LinkedIn page for news and updates.
Jordan Solomon is Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative and President of Ecostrat (www.ecostrat.com). He can be reached at jordan.solomon@ecostrat.com. Ecostrat is the North American leader in biomass due diligence for biofuels, renewable chemicals, biogas, and bio-product project development and finance.
Since December, we’ve been working behind the scenes with Jason Ebey of YGM to bring exciting new opportunities to our members. Now, the wait is almost over!
We’re THRILLED to introduce GROW, a bold new way to restructure chamber resources to elevate your business, build meaningful connections, and support local initiatives!
Launching Mid-February! “With GROW, businesses will have unparalleled opportunities to shine—from increased visibility to game-changing partnerships,” says Chamber President Gina Suydam.
At the helm of this exciting initiative is GROW Chair Bill Ruark, Owner of Meshoppen Stone, who shares: “As part of the vibrant regional business community, I wholeheartedly support the mission of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce to fuel growth—not just for our local economy, but for every business.”
With GROW, businesses of all sizes can tap into the Chamber’s powerful network—whether that means reaching new customers, enhancing brand recognition, or getting involved in programs that align with your company’s mission.
Why GROW?
Customized marketing opportunities tailored to YOUR business
Meaningful connections with local leaders
Unmatched visibility through high-profile Chamber programs
A stronger, more connected business community
Starting February 25, 2025, chamber advocates will contact local business leaders with tailored opportunities to help you THRIVE!
“We’re excited to help businesses, especially smaller ones, identify the Chamber programs that resonate most with their mission and customers,” adds Chamber Chairman Neil King. “This initiative is a fantastic way to get involved and grow!”
Together, we’re building a future where businesses GROW stronger, together.
The Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in our community, supporting local businesses and driving economic growth. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that our members receive the resources, advocacy, and opportunities they need to thrive. This year, the Chamber team has been actively engaged in various projects and programs designed to empower businesses and strengthen our community. Leading these efforts is Gina Suydam, whose work in economic development is paving the way for a brighter future. One of Gina’s key initiatives has been securing a BOD Zone ‘A’ rating for Woody Biomass Development, an achievement that could open new doors for sustainable industry development in the region. But her focus doesn’t stop there; Gina has also been organizing industry roundtables, bringing together leaders to discuss pressing issues and collaborative solutions. As the Chamber looks ahead, she’s busy with planning the 2025 budget, carefully strategizing the financial priorities that will keep the organization and its members on solid footing. Gina’s passion for leadership extends beyond business and economic matters. She’s also involved in programs aimed at cultivating future leaders, such as Leadership Wyoming and the YOU Youth Leadership Program. These initiatives aim to inspire and prepare the next generation of community and business leaders. Her efforts to recruit new members are expanding the Chamber’s network, ensuring that the organization continues to grow and diversify.
Meanwhile, Allison Schultz is the driving force behind the Chamber’s communications and event planning. She manages the production of IMPACT Magazine, the Chamber’s key publication that keeps members informed about local business news, upcoming events, and success stories within the community. Her work extends to coordinating all advertising efforts, including the widely read Thursday e-newsletter that keeps members connected. Event planning is another area where Allison shines. She organizes numerous Chamber events throughout the year, providing members with valuable networking opportunities. The Chamber’s Midsummer Mingle has grown into a popular event, hosted at a different venue each July and consistently drawing a great crowd. Some of the educational program iniatives is Reality Check, a student financial literacy program that equips young people with the tools they need to make smart financial decisions. As the holiday season approaches, Allison is at the forefront of promotions aimed at boosting local businesses, including the Chamber Gift Check program and the Shop Small Business campaign, which encourages holiday shoppers to support local merchants.
The smooth day-to-day operations of the Chamber wouldn’t be possible without Lindsay Shepherd, who manages a range of administrative tasks essential for keeping things on track. From updating membership records to processing dues and handling accounts payable, Lindsay’s attention to detail ensures that the Chamber runs efficiently. She also oversees conference room reservations, making sure that members have access to meeting spaces when they need them. The work of the Chamber team doesn’t end with these formal roles. They are always available to assist members in a variety of ways, from streamlining processes and connecting businesses with local vendors to advising on strategies for reducing tax liabilities. Their efforts have also helped businesses expand their marketing reach through Chamber platforms, increasing visibility and driving growth. This year has been one of action, engagement, and forward-thinking for the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. Whether it’s through strategic economic initiatives, dynamic event planning, or behind-the-scenes administrative support, the Chamber team is committed to empowering local businesses and fostering a vibrant community. Their dedication continues to make a difference, helping our members not just succeed, but thrive.
Chamber Board presents staff with gifts for appreciation.
In today’s fast paced and evolving workplace environment, employers face numerous challenges in their efforts to remain competitive and successful. One method of establishing an essential edge is through upskilling. Upskilling is a strategy that involves investing in the development of an employee’s skill and knowledge. And upskilling not only benefits employees by enhancing their professional growth but also proves to be an asset for employers by fostering a skilled, engaged, and more productive workforce.
When a company is willing to invest in employee development, it shows genuine interest in growing people and helping them succeed…on the job and in life. By investing in upskilling programs, employers enable their workforce to stay current with industry trends and advancements in technology. As employees acquire new skills and knowledge, they become more adept at their roles and develop the necessary proficiency to handle new tools and cutting-edge systems. This adaptability translates into a more agile and future-proofed organization with increased productivity and efficiency among staff. Upskilling provides a way for employees to handle complex tasks with confidence and competence, leading to higher-quality outputs and better results for the organization.
Upskilling can be a winning strategy, enriching the career prospects for employees while contributing to the long-term success and prosperity of the employer. Embracing upskilling as a fundamental aspect of talent management can position organizations for growth and excellence in today’s dynamic and competitive business environment.
Investing in your employees helps attract and retain quality talent and further shows your employees you are interested in their professional and personal well-being. A competitive employee benefits portfolio is another way to invest in your employees.
The Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at wyccc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.
With a plate full of stressful workdays, restless children, and the mundane tasks of adult life, most parents settle into the comfort of a safe and predictable day-to-day routine. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with this lifestyle, it unfortunately prevents many adults from daring to pursue dreams which venture far from this comfortable path. Stacy Miller, Wilkes-Barre native and Tunkhannock resident of 16 years, is a woman determined to show that taking the leap may be risky but is always more fulfilling in the end.
Stacy Miller’s journey began at GAR high school in Wilkes-Barre, PA, where she started dating her husband of 19 years. After high school, Stacy pursued higher education at Luzerne County Community College and Misericordia University. She then achieved her doctorate at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. After all of her extensive studies, Stacy is now a forensic nurse practitioner, being just one of around 600 in the country to hold her certification, and teaches nursing courses at Vanderbilt and Scranton University, all while taking care of a full house of four children. Last month, Stacy added a fresh (and large) hunk of meat to her plate: a new wedding dress boutique in Tunkhannock. Dubbed Lillian Mae Atelier, the boutique is infused with passion and pure glee. “I was thinking about the happiest moments of my life,” Stacy expresses, “and my children being born and my wedding day are what came to mind.”
After joking about not wanting to endure more years of schooling to become a midwife, Stacy’s eye’s sparkled as she reminisced on the blissfulness of being a bride: planning, dress shopping, actually getting married, and the genuine love present throughout the whole process. It was a no-brainer for Stacy to bottle up all of that wedding joy and unleash it into a storefront; thus, Lillian Mae Atelier was born. Stacy thought of the idea for the store just a year and a half ago; before she even had her hands on a location though, she was already reaching out to designers, learning about the bridal industry and making connections to hopefully stock their designs someday. She was also busy curating a name for the shop, which she describes as a combination of her two daughters’ names, Lillian and Madelyn (nicknamed “Maddy Mae”). About six months after tossing the idea of Lillian Mae around, Interfaith Friends moved to a new location and their downtown storefront went on the market. While the inside of the store was painted a large assortment of rainbow colors and didn’t quite embody the elegance of a bridal boutique just yet, Stacy had a vision.
With the support of her husband, parents, children, and friends, Stacy’s dream boutique eventually came to fruition, with Stacy herself designing the inside of the shop and her husband completing all of the exterior construction.
“I’m so very blessed because he really goes above and beyond to make my dreams come to life,” Stacy reflects.
Sporting a classy black and white storefront and a white and wooden interior, the dress shop came to be the perfect blend of contemporary boho and chic elegance, creating a warm, welcoming environment for any bride-to-be.
The atmosphere especially compliments the trendy rental and event styling boutique just down the street, Chippy White Table. Along with Monzie’s Floral Design and The Mayflower Florist in town, Tunkhannock is shaping up to be a place where one can source their entire wedding locally! This kind of community spirit is exactly what Stacy is hoping for with Lillian Mae. She desires the dress shop to be a store that other people travel to see, a destination boutique.
“I want other people to love Tunkhannock just as much as I do,” Stacy says. Even though she is juggling four kids and a full-time job, Stacy Miller found a way to pursue her passion project. Despite the dress shop introducing its own additional hurdles for Stacy, such as navigating social media, she has found that through positive support and determination, anything can be done. When asked to give advice to those who are unsure of taking the leap to start their own business, Stacy encourages, “As long as someone is passionate, there is no failure. Even if the business is not successful, you learn so much through the project about yourself and relationships. Investing in yourself is never a bad thing.”
PACP Announces 2024 Chamber of the Year Award Recipients
The Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP) recognized their 2024 Chambers of the Year during their Chamber Professionals & Leadership Conference held this week at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square in Lancaster, PA.
In addition to recognizing organization excellence, the PACP Chamber of the Year Award focuses on acknowledging one or more significant achievements or accomplishments that a chamber has initiated, stimulated, and/or led in its respective service area at some point during the past 18 months. Organizational excellence is evaluated in the areas of membership, programs, planning, and finance.
The Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce received the prestigious award in the category of chambers with under 700 members. The Wyoming County Chamber recently formalized a partnership with the Wyoming County Community Alliance, a 501c3 organization dedicated to strengthening the community. This alliance, which promotes innovation, integrity, diversity, and collaboration, allows the Chamber to engage in community initiatives that significantly enhance our residents’ well-being and quality of life. The Alliance and the Chamber secured over $300,000 in the past 3 years through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program for community planning and projects, economic development, and student engagement. The Neighborhood Assistance Program allows businesses passionate about the proposed projects to receive tax credit for their contributions and keeps these tax dollars in our local community. The Chamber is grateful for Coterra Energy for providing this funding for our projects over the past 2 years.
Gina Suydam says, “This award acknowledges the dedication and commitment of our members to build a thriving and vibrant community. The Chamber is honored to accept this award for all Wyoming County Chamber members.”
In addition to the Chamber of the Year recognition, Allison Schultz was acknowledged for her 5 years of service to the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. Allison began her career as the Chamber’s Marketing & Events Coordinator and now serves as the Director of Chamber Engagement. Gina Suydam was thanked by PACP for her service as the 2024 President of the PACP Board of Directors. Suydam
remarked that evening, “We, Lindsay Shepherd, Allison Schultz, and I, are a small but mighty team who love Wyoming County and work hard to create a vibrant county where our businesses thrive.”
On behalf of the Wyoming County Commissioners, I am pleased to inform you that the County has entered into a strategic partnership with Penn’s Northeast.
Penn’s Northeast is the region’s leading economic development agency. Its main goal is to attract quality employers to Northeastern Pennsylvania by acting as an easy one-stop shop for businesses looking to expand or locate in our region. We will collaborate with the County Commissioners and the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce to accomplish this goal. As the first point of contact, Penn’s Northeast promptly provides regional information to potential prospects by identifying buildings or sites, supplying demographic and workforce data, creating connections with economic development groups and workforce partnerships, and organizing site tours in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Therefore, we need your help identifying any properties – land and buildings- that can potentially house a new business. We will work with you and your realtor to market these sites for business attraction at no cost to you. Viable leads are passed on to our local partners, and we will work with you as needed.
Please feel free to visit our website for more information about Penn’s Northeast – www.pennsnortheast.com I look forward to hearing from you and, most importantly, receiving property submissions. Please copy Gina Suydam gina@wyccc.com on any property submission; she is your county partner in economic development. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this partnership in greater detail, please do not hesitate to contact me.
