The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation announces the recipients of its 2026 Annual Awards, recognizing businesses, organizations and individuals whose leadership, service, innovation and community impact continue to strengthen Carbon County.

This year’s honorees will be celebrated during CCEDC’s Annual Awards Gala, “A Night in Tuscany,” on Friday, Nov. 13, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Blue Mountain Resort.

2026 Award 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.

Tickets and event information are available through the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. For more information, visit carboncountychamber.org.