"A Night in Tuscany:" The 2026 Annual Awards Gala

Join the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation for A Night in Tuscany, our 2026 Annual Awards Gala on Friday, November 13 — an elegant evening inspired by the warmth, beauty and timeless charm of the Italian countryside.

Together, we’ll celebrate the businesses, organizations and individuals whose leadership, dedication and impact continue to strengthen Carbon County. Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, games, dinner, entertainment and awards as we recognize those helping our community grow and thrive.

Set against a backdrop of Tuscan-inspired ambiance, candlelight and la dolce vita, this signature celebration is an opportunity to raise a glass to another year of connection, progress and community.

An evening inspired by Tuscany, and a celebration inspired by Carbon County.
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Join us in celebrating our 2026 Annual Awards Recipients: 

• Business of the Year — Ampal, Inc.: Ampal, Inc. is recognized for its longstanding commitment to manufacturing excellence, innovation and continued investment in Carbon County. Based in Palmerton, the company has built a global reputation while remaining deeply rooted in the local community and committed to its workforce.

• Rookie Business of the Year — La Familia Kitchen: La Familia Kitchen is recognized for the energy, entrepreneurial spirit and sense of community it has brought to Lehighton in a short period of time. The family-owned business has quickly established itself as a welcoming local destination while investing in the community it serves.

• Tourism Business of the Year — Asa Packer Mansion: Owned by the Borough of Jim Thorpe, the Asa Packer Mansion is recognized for its enduring role as one of Carbon County’s most treasured historic attractions. Through preservation, engaging tours and thoughtful stewardship, the Mansion continues to strengthen heritage tourism and Jim Thorpe’s reputation as a premier destination.

• Michael Harleman Arts & Entertainment Business of the Year — Magic 105.5 FM: Magic 105.5 FM is recognized for its longstanding role in informing, entertaining and connecting listeners throughout Carbon County and the surrounding region. Its local programming, community coverage and support of area businesses and events have made it an important voice in the community.

• Young Professional of the Year — Emma Hope: Emma Hope is recognized for her leadership, professionalism and commitment to the Panther Valley community through her role as Community School Coordinator for Panther Valley School District. Her work connecting students, families, educators and community partners exemplifies the collaborative leadership this award celebrates.

• Volunteer of the Year — Mike Meining, VALOR Clinic Foundation: Mike Meining is recognized for more than a decade of extraordinary service to veterans and individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Through his leadership with VALOR Clinic Foundation and its Stand Down initiatives, he has helped connect thousands of individuals each year with critical resources and support.

• William H. Bayer Lifetime Achievement Award — Patrick H. Reilly: Patrick H. Reilly is recognized for a career defined by leadership, integrity and deep commitment to Carbon County. Through five decades in banking, longtime leadership of Mauch Chunk Trust Company and extensive civic and nonprofit service, his impact on the region has been both significant and lasting.

• Economic Development Project of the Year — Palmerton Public Market: Palmerton Public Market is recognized for its innovative approach to job creation, entrepreneurship and downtown revitalization. By creating a shared brick-and-mortar destination for multiple small businesses, the project is helping lower barriers to entry while creating new economic opportunities in Palmerton.

• Member of the Year — Andreas Plumbing, Heating & A/C: Andreas Plumbing, Heating & A/C is recognized for its outstanding engagement, partnership and support of CCEDC and the broader Carbon County business community. Its active participation, support of local initiatives and commitment to building strong relationships exemplify what it means to be an engaged Chamber member.

• Community Champion Business Award — PenTeleData: PenTeleData is recognized for its longstanding commitment to philanthropy, community involvement and corporate citizenship. Through charitable giving, sponsorships, volunteerism and support of local organizations, the company continues to make a meaningful investment in the communities it serves.

• Nonprofit of the Year — Family Promise of Carbon County: Family Promise of Carbon County is recognized for its compassionate work supporting families experiencing housing instability and homelessness. Through shelter, case management, community partnerships and access to critical resources, the organization helps families move toward greater stability and independence.

• Chairman’s Award — Steven R. Serfass: Steven R. Serfass is recognized for a career and legacy of service spanning the legal profession, public service, civic leadership and community development in Carbon County. His professional contributions, coupled with his instrumental leadership in helping shape the future of health care in the county through Blue Mountain Health System, reflect a broad and lasting impact on the region.

Congratulations to all 2026 Awardees - we look forward to celebrating with you! 


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Interested in sponsoring this event? Contact Kylie Adams-Weiss at kadams@carboncountychamber.org.


Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change! If you need to cancel, please let us know at least 1 week in advance. After our counts are finalized with our partners, and we’re unable to provide refunds or credits. We appreciate your understanding and continued support of Chamber events!