The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, a partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, hosted its 2025 Annual Awards Gala: Midnight in the Garden on Nov. 14 at Blue Mountain Resort.

Set against an elegant garden-inspired backdrop, guests enjoyed a memorable evening honoring outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals who make a positive impact in Carbon County.

“The Annual Awards Gala is one of our most cherished traditions,” said Kylie Adams-Weiss, Senior Vice President of the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. “Each year, we gather to celebrate the people and organizations whose dedication strengthens our communities, drives economic growth, and elevates the quality of life in Carbon County. This year’s honorees represent the very best of our county’s spirit, innovation, and collaboration.”

The 2025 ceremony recognized the following award recipients:

• 2025 Business of the Year: Trailside Events, Lehighton. This award recognizes a CCEDC member business that has demonstrated achievement and innovation in management, workplace excellence and has committed to growing here in Carbon County.

Trailside Events is a premier wedding and event venue located in Lehighton, offering a unique and picturesque space for celebrations of all kinds. Their commitment to excellence and creating memorable experiences has made them a standout business in the region. To learn more, visit their Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/trailsideeventspa/.

• Rookie Business of the Year: Nonna’s Ice Cream, Lehighton. This award recognizes a CCEDC member business that has demonstrated enthusiasm, community spirit and excellent customer service and has committed to growing here in Carbon County; two years or less in business.

Nonna’s Ice Cream brings a sweet and nostalgic touch to Lehighton with their handcrafted ice cream and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Since opening, they’ve become a local favorite for both residents and visitors, adding to the charm of Carbon County. To learn more, visit their Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/nonnaicecream.

• Tourism and Entertainment Business of the Year: Jim Thorpe Ghost Tours run by Jim Thorpe Rotary. This award recognizes a CCEDC member business that attracts guests and visitors to provide amusement, recreation, hospitality and/or culture. These businesses include: restaurants, theaters, bed & breakfasts, wineries, driving ranges and eco-tourism.

Jim Thorpe Ghost Tours, organized by the Jim Thorpe Rotary, offer an immersive experience that highlights the town’s rich history and spooky folklore. These tours have become a signature attraction for Jim Thorpe, drawing visitors from near and far to explore the town’s haunted past and vibrant downtown atmosphere. To learn more, visit https://jimthorperotary.org/

• Volunteer of the Year: Jake Boyer, Jacob’s Weissport Historical Society, based in Weissport. This award recognizes an outstanding individual dedicated to supporting CCEDC and other community organizations through volunteer work and outreach. Jake Boyer has been named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award for his unwavering commitment to preserving local history and supporting community events through his work with the Jacob’s Weissport Historical Society. His dedication and passion truly make a lasting impact on the community.

• Young Professional of the Year Award: Sharon Alexander, Carbon County Community Foundation. This award highlights a Carbon County Young Professional highly involved in CCEDC events and community programs.

Sharon Alexander has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication through her work with the Carbon County Community Foundation. Her passion for community development, philanthropy, and supporting local initiatives exemplifies the next generation of leadership in Carbon County.

• Economic Development Project of the Year: Panther Valley Blueprints Community. The award recognizes a project that significantly contributes to the economic growth, revitalization, and future development of Carbon County.

The Panther Valley Blueprints Community initiative focuses on strategic planning and community-driven revitalization, laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and a stronger future for the Panther Valley region.

• William H. Bayer Lifetime Achievement Award: Nita Nydam, 903 Landscape Supply Inc.

This award honors an individual who has made a lasting impact on Carbon County through their leadership, vision, and years of dedicated service.

Nita Nydam, of 903 Landscape Supply Inc. has been a pillar in the business community, exemplifying hard work, innovation, and commitment to the region’s economic and community development. Her contributions have left an

enduring mark on Carbon County.

This year’s sponsors included: St. Luke’s Carbon, Mauch Chunk Trust, and Lehigh Valley Hospital-Carbon, Part of Jefferson Health (Premier Sponsors), Blue Mountain Resort (Platinum Sponsor), Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning (Lounge Sponsor), St. Luke’s Carbon (Cocktail Hour Sponsor), PenTeleData (Gold Sponsor), Pocono Counties Workforce Development Area, Buckno Lisicky & Company, PA State Rep. Doyle Heffley, and Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank (Silver Sponsors), Servpro of Carbon County, Pocono Pines (Signature Drink and Lockbox Sponsor), EBC Printing & Signs (Program Sponsor), ERA Media Co. (Photography Sponsor), Sherman Productions (AV Sponsor), PPL Electric Utilities, Mary Kay, and Walmart (Event Supporting Sponsors), 903 Landscape Supply (Corporate Table Sponsor), and Galen Glen Winery (Games in the Garden Sponsor).

To learn more about other upcoming CCEDC and Chamber events, visit www.carboncountychamber.org