The S. Dale High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College

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February 2010

S. Dale High Center Now Offering Executive Workshops

Beginning in March 2010, the S. Dale High Center for Family Business is offering executive workshops for members and non-members.

The first session, conducted by Mark D. Spool, Ph.D., is called "Creating and Sustaining a High-Performing Organization" and will be held Friday mornings, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. March 19, 26 and April 9. In this workshop series, you will explore what it takes to become a high-performing company .All participating companies must complete a survey before the start of the first session. Complete information on Dr. Spool's workshop, including registration form, is available on a downloadable PDF.

A four-phase course called "Finance for Non-Financial Managers," developed by the S. Dale High Center and our corporate partner, McKonly & Asbury, will be offered over two days in May. On Friday, May 7 and Friday, May 28, attendees will meet for a morning and afternoon session, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A catered lunch will be provided. Click here for a flyer on "Finance for Non-Financial Managers."

Both workshops will be held in the Entrepreneurship Center, 110 Hoover Building, on the Elizabethtown College campus. This is executive education, competitively  priced. Center members will receive a 20% discount.

Next Educational Seminar Slated

Peter Linneman, one of the most widely recognized strategic thinkers in the real estate industry, is the guest presenter at the S. Dale High Center's March 25 seminar. The event is open to Center members, partners, and guest family businesses. It begins at 8: 15 a.m. and will be held in the Susquehanna Room of Myer Hall on the Elizabethtown College campus.

Besides being business owners, many family-held firms own real estate. This seminar constitutes a special opportunity to benefit from Dr. Linneman's expertise, who will address issues such as:

  • Is this a good time to develop real estate?
  • We own land. What should we do with it?
  • We have significant wealth tied up in real estate. What are our options?
  • What is the future of real estate in this region?

He provides concise economic sense, not economic mumbo-jumbo--serious and challenging economic thinking and analysis, coupled with tangible advice.

He is the principal of Linneman Associates and also serves as the Albert Sussman Professor of Real Estate, Public  Policy, and Finance at the Wharton School of Business.

RSVP is required. Email the Center or call 717-361-1275 to reserve seating for the session. Click here for a PDF of the session flyer. Click here for a PDF of session flyer for guest family businesses.

January 2010

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S. Dale High Center Kicks Off 15 Years of Operation
with Membership Campaign in 2010
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Founded in 1995, the S. Dale High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College turns 15 years old in 2010 and is launching a six-month Membership Campaign to celebrate.

The Membership Recruitment Campaign & Committee will be chaired by Walt Legenstein, Chairman of Certified Carpet and Executive-in-Residence at the S. Dale High Center.

Walt Legenstein, along with Richard Dennis, President of Die-Tech; Jeff Good, Executive Vice President and COO of Amelia's Grocery Outlet; John Gooding, Chairman of the Gooding Group Companies; Tim Horn, Vice President of Pennfield Corporation; Justin McClure, President and General Manager of Daflure Heating & Cooling; and Rose Walmer, Chief Personnel Officer of Wenger's of Myerstown--have all stepped forward as team captains to help every Center member bring in a new member to double membership in 2010!

A larger membership means a greater professional network and more resources for programs--both of which increase the value of a Center membership.

Guest family businesses may attend either or both the March session on real estate and May session on governance at the invitation of member family businesses. All new members will be invited to an anniversary social on June 17 to celebrate with the S.Dale High Family Business membership.

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Congratulations, S. Dale High Center Charter Members!
In this 15th anniversary year, the S. Dale High Center would like to recognize the following family businesses for fifteen consecutive years of membership: GSM Roofing, The High Companies, Lobar, Inc., Pennfield Corporation, S.K.H Management Company, Schaedler-Yesco, and Transply, Inc.

December 2009

New Strategic Ownership Plans = Stronger Family Meetings in 2010

The S. Dale High Center has a new service to offer members—individualized “Ownership Strategic Plans”— to help make family meetings productive and strategically focused.

The Center has developed a user-friendly Family Perceptions Survey to obtain the data for the ownership plan. The survey takes roughly 15 minutes to complete and should be completed by each shareholder or potential shareholder over the age of 18.

The results of this electronic survey include a personalized report and explanation of results which will detail the following:

  • Key points of agreement within family members and shareholders;
  • Key points of disagreement;
  • To what extent family members agree or disagree on all points;
  • Agenda items for family meetings; and
  • What your family may have in common with great family businesses.

In order to participate, here’s what members need to do:

1. Identify one shareholder within your family business to serve as a point person.

2. The point person emails a list of names and email addresses of family members over the age of 18 (they do not have to be shareholders) who should receive a survey to marting@etown.edu.

Feedback reports will then be distributed beginning with the CFB's January 28 educational seminar. All family members who return completed surveys to the S. Dale High Center by Monday, December 21 will receive their results by January 28.

Members who have not begun the survey process before December 21 are welcome to inquire in early 2010.. Survey materials will be forwarded and the results will be compiled and distributed in the order in which requests have been received.

There is no additional cost for this new service. It was conceived as a valued-added feature of membership. 

Questions should be directed to Gale Martin, Director of Marketing and Member Relations at 717-361-1484 or email marting@etown.edu.

 

SCHAEDLER YESCO ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CORPORATE LIGHTING MANAGER

 

 Harrisburg, PA – Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc., recently announced the appointment of Stephen Shepps as Corporate Lighting Manager.  Steve’s responsibilities include lighting and lighting control designs, energy savings solutions (ESS), plan, specify, vendor alignment, and any other lighting sales initiatives.

 

“Growth of our lighting business is significant to Schaedler Yesco’s overall sales strategy and we have determined that a manager dedicated to that department will best position us for future success”, said Kurt Suchar, Vice President of Sales.

 

Steve is affiliated with IES, AEE, DVGBC, IDA, NBL, and NAILD.  He lives in York County with his wife and two daughters.  He enjoys golf, do-it-yourself projects, and spending time with his family.

 

Schaedler Yesco offers a full line of inventory, service and training solutions in the greater Central Pennsylvania market.  Their unique approach to the marketplace provides customers with solutions not typically found at traditional electrical distributors.

 

Schaedler Yesco Distribution is a leading electrical, lighting, datacomm, and industrial supplies distributor and has provided service to Central PA since 1924.  With corporate headquarters in Harrisburg, Schaedler Yesco also has locations in York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Chambersburg, Williamsport, Pocono Mountains, Gettysburg, New Oxford, St. Marys, State College, and Indiana.

 

New look for Willow Valley resort

 Source: Lancaster New Era/(Lancaster) Intelligencer Journal

Finally it's time to swing hammers instead of push papers. The $8 million renovation of the Willow Valley Resort & Conference Center began this week, after two years of planning.  To continue reading, click here.

High buys old Lancaster Holiday Inn property

Source: Lancaster New Era/(Lancaster) Intelligencer Journal

Another chapter in the saga of the former Holiday Inn at 521 Greenfield Road has come to an end. And so might its life as a hotel. Friday, High Real Estate Group announced its affiliate, High Properties, purchased the building and an adjacent parcel of land in a foreclosure sale conducted in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.  To read more, click here.

 

Amelia's Grocery Outlet opening Feb. 3

Source:  York Daily Record/Sunday News

 Amelia's Grocery Outlet plans to open a 21,000-square-foot store Feb. 3 in the Gabriel Brothers Shopping Center near Interstate 83 and Mount Rose Avenue in Springettsbury Township.

The store will sell discounted grocery, frozen, deli, dairy and produce items, according to the company.

 

November 2009

Fulton Bank boosts dominance in Lancaster County

Source: Lancaster New Era/(Lancaster) Intelligencer Journa

Fulton Bank has widened its lead as the largest bank here, new federal statistics show. Lancaster-based Fulton has 21.30 percent of all bank deposits in the county, according to the report.  To read more, click here.

 

Manheim Amelia's Grows

Source: Lancaster New Era/(Lancaster) Intelligencer Journal


This week, Amelia's Grocery Outlet is finishing up a $400,000 renovation of its Manheim store.

When it's all said and done, the store at 701 Lancaster Road, will have a new freezer aisle, produce section and cash registers as well as more than 2,000 square feet of extra retail space, company president Mike Mitchell said.  To read more click here.

 

Identity Changes

Rebranding efforts in Central Pennsylvania prudent during recession
By Paula Holzman, Central Penn Business Journal  10/16/2009 

Reed Gooding is president of Lancaster County-based GSM Roofing. Three months ago, the firm started a rebranding effort to connect its three companies under the GSM brand umbrella: Gooding, Simpson and Mackes (a roofing company that is now GSM Roofing), Gooding Delaware and GSM Industrial. To read more click here.

 

 

October 2009

"The Power of Participatory Leadership: Tools for Each Generation"

Philly CEO/Minister Offers Leadership Seminar at Elizabethtown College
on November 12, 2009

September 2009

 

Lobar to build $23M military reserve center in Scranton

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $23 million contract to Dillsburg, York County-based construction firm Lobar Inc. to build an armed forces reserve center in Scranton.  To read more from the Central Penn Business Journal, click here.

 

McKonly & Asbury has been named one of the Best Places to Work in PA for 2009!  This great achievement comes as the sixth time in seven years that McKonly & Asbury has made this challenging list. The honor, judged and bestowed by the Best Companies Group, requires innovative approaches to managing the workplace.  To read more, please click here.

 

Amelia's Grocery Outlet to open West Shore store

from Central Penn Business Journal - September 4, 2009

Amelia’s Grocery Outlet will open its first store west of the Susquehanna River on the Carlisle Pike in Cumberland County, President Michael Mitchell said. 

 

Gooding Simpson & Mackes, Inc. and GSM Industrial, Inc. earn safety recognition

from Lancaster Chamber News Extra – 9/01/2009

Gooding Simpson & Mackes, Inc. and GSM Industrial, Inc. were honored with the Specialty Contractor Award in the over 50 employees category by Keystone Chapter Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (ABC). ABC recognizes outstanding construction projects and safety programs across the region. Gooding, Simpson & Mackes, Inc. is a commercial and specialty roofing contractor and GSM Industrial, Inc. is an industrial metal fabrication producer and installer for the Mid-Atlantic region

 

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. Announced Signing of a Letter of Intent to Acquire Assets of Service Electrical Supply Company, Inc.

Harrisburg, Pa: Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc, (SYD) announced today the signing of a Letter of Intent to acquire the assets of Pittsburgh, PA based Service Electrical Supply Company, Inc.

According to Matt Brnik, President of Schaedler Yesco, “This acquisition offers us a unique opportunity to enter the Pittsburgh market with a reputable, well established company possessing solid vendor relationships and an experienced team of people.”

With headquarters in Pittsburgh, and a branch located in New Kensington, PA, Service Electrical Supply Company is a full line distributor of electrical components serving contractors, as well as commercial and industrial accounts, in the greater Pittsburgh marketplace. The company was founded in 1983.

Schaedler Yesco Distribution is a leading distributor of electrical, lighting, data communications, and industrial supplies serving Central Pennsylvania since 1924. In addition to their headquarters in Harrisburg, PA, they maintain branch locations in York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Williamsport, State College, Chambersburg, the Poconos, St. Marys, Indiana, New Oxford, and Gettysburg.

For more information, visit www.sydist.com or call 1-800-998-1621.

 

August 2009

 

Three Center for Family Business Members in Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies in Central PA!

 Congratulations to Amelia’s Inc., Pennfield Corporation and Worley & Obetz.

The Central Penn Business Journal ranked them as top 50 fastest-growing companies according to their revenue growth over a consecutive three-year period. 

 

York County Entrepreneur Headlines New Seminar Season at Center for Family Business

Tom Wolf Reclaimed a Firm in His Family for Six Generations and Expanded It During Economic Downtown of 2009.

(Elizabethtown, PA)--- York native and entrepreneur Tom Wolf will present his unique perspective on leadership transition and also explain how he grew The Wolf Organization during the recession on Thursday, September 17. Wolf’s presentation, “Escaping a Culture of Entitlement: Six Generations of Family-Based Entrepreneurship in The Wolf Organization,” is the first in the S. Dale High Center for Family Business seminar series at Elizabethtown College for 2009-10.

During his presentation, Wolf will share seven rules for guiding the succession process in a family business, how to grow your business during a recession, and tools to improve productivity and employee morale.

The event begins at 8:15 a.m. and is open and free to family businesses interested in learning more about the Center for Family Business. It will be held in the Susquehanna Room of Myer Hall.

Tom Wolf, who had served as The Wolf Organization’s president from 1985 until 2006, returned to guide the company in 2009. 

While other businesses affiliated with the building industry have retrenched during the economic downturn, Wolf expanded his operations, realizing gains in productivity and efficiency from:

  • empowering all employees to act on behalf of the company to solve problems quickly— within 24 hours—and in a manner that is satisfactory to the customer.
  • employing new SAP technology from inventory to ordering and invoicing to automates orders, tracks shipments and manages customer needs.
  • actively supporting and encouraging employees to volunteer their time and talents.

The Wolf Organization, which comprises Wolf Distributing Company and Baublitz Advertising, was founded in 1843, and has been in the family for six generations. It began with one store selling dry goods and lumber on the Banks of the Susquehanna River in rural Pennsylvania and has matured into a $200 million enterprise stretching from New England to the Carolinas.

Wolf Distributing Company is the largest distributor of kitchen cabinets in the United States and a leading distributor of decking and railing materials, fiber cement siding, and other building products. Wolf handles up to 65,000 kitchen and bath orders per month from its 320,000 square-foot kitchen and bath warehouse in York, Pa., which holds the largest single inventory of assembled cabinets in the country.

Baublitz Advertising is a full-service marketing firm that has served clients in the building materials and construction industry since 1976.

In 2007-08, Wolf served as Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue  and is credited with oversight of the implementation of Act 119 which converted the Commonwealth's corporate tax from its antiquated settlement system to an assessment system.

 

Lobar Lands $17M Contract


Lobar Inc. recently received a $17.3 million contract for the design and construction of a facility in Montour County for the U.S. Army.
Source: Central Penn Business Journal.  To read more click here.

 

July 2009

 

York Candymaker Returns as The Warrell Classic Company


The company formerly known as Classic Caramel is back in business making candy as The Warrell Classic Company, and is looking for about five more employees as it gears up to supply customers. To read more of this article from the York Daily Record, click here.

 

APPRENTICES GRADUATE FROM JAMES CRAFT & SON, INC. PROGRAM

First apprentice graduate from 1969 still works at the company

 

James CRAFT & Son, Inc., a family-owned and operated mechanical contracting company, announces four new graduates from its apprenticeship program. Plumbing program graduates include Nathan Cooper of Dover, Drew Doxzon of Stewartstown, and Collin Roache of York. Ryan Mundy of Manchester graduated from the sheet metal apprenticeship program.

James CRAFT & Son’s apprenticeship program was registered in 1962 and the first apprenticeship program was completed in 1969. CRAFT’s first graduate, Phillip Shelley, graduated as a plumbing apprentice on May 23, 1969, and continues to work at James CRAFT & Son today as a foreman.

An apprenticeship program is a structured system of training, combining classroom instruction with year-round, on-the-job training for occupations in skilled trades and crafts. The Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. offers apprentice training; however, some members, such as James CRAFT & Son, choose to conduct their own programs to provide personalized and company-specific training for future employees.

Family-owned and operated for more than 100 years, James CRAFT & Son services businesses in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia in the areas of HVAC, plumbing, electric, sheet metal fabrication, service, design/build, and custom fabrication. James CRAFT & Son, Inc. has locations in York Haven and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. For more information, please visit www.jamesCRAFTson.com.

For more information on apprenticeship programs in Pennsylvania, please contact Judith Rich at the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, Harrisburg, at 717/221-4576.

 

OBAMA STIMULUS PACKAGE AT WORK IN HARRISBURG:  DAFLURE HEATING AND COOLING AWARDED MECHANICAL CONTRACT FOR FIRST ZERO ENERGY HOME IN CAPITAL CITY

Daflure Heating and Cooling, one of Harrisburg’s oldest and most respected HVAC companies, has been awarded the mechanical contract for the first zero energy home in the Capital City by the Tri-County Housing and Development Corporation. Ground has already been broken and construction has begun in The Mount Pleasant Homes Development located in the South Allison Hill community in the city of Harrisburg.

According to Justin McClure, owner and president of Daflure, the home should have low-to-net zero energy costs, at the end of a year.

“The development has 25 homes planned with this first one being a ‘green home,’” said McClure. “A green home means that between the thermal energy, solar energy and the proper placement on the lot, the home will have low energy costs to zero energy costs, making the home insulated from future energy increases.”

McClure noted that he is working with the team spearheaded by Tri County Housing to develop the mechanical engineering plan. In addition to Daflure and Tri-County Housing, the team includes the City of Harrisburg, the Municipal Partner; S&A Homes, General Contractor; Timothy A. Allen, AIA, Architect; and Skelly and Loy, Engineers.

“Heating and cooling a home is 65-75% of the energy costs. This home will be constructed with the primary heating and cooling device, the most efficient, closed-loop geo-thermal system possible combined with the best building envelope design. The building envelope includes insulation values that exceed the code required R values,” said McClure. “The self-contained geo-thermal system utilizes an environmental friendly antifreeze solution and will harness the earth’s constant 54 degree ground temperature to heat the home in winter. In the summer , the unit will discharge the heat into ground as well as heat the domestic hot water during all seasons!”

The placement of the home on the lot is just as important when it comes to the placement of the Solar PV (Photovoltaic) Panels. The home is placed to get the most benefit from the sun with the pitch of the roof at maximum efficiency.

“The home needs to face south and also be in a tree-free area so there is no ‘shadowing’ on the solar panels,” he added. “The solar panels follow the pitch of the roof, the higher the pitch the more efficient in winter and the lower pitch, the more efficient in the summer time. We will set the panels between 35-45 degrees on this home.”

According to Christopher Rockey, President of the Board of Directors for the Tri-County HDC, it was the Solar PV panels that were a major deciding factor in awarding the contract to Daflure.

“Daflure recently expanded their HVAC business to include Solar P.V. Systems, an important factor in the bidding process. Plus, they are a respected, 30-year-old family firm in the Harrisburg area,” said Rockey.

Daflure is recognized in the top 1 percent nationally for residential heating and cooling companies. With years of mechanical engineering education under his belt, David McClure saw an opportunity in 1979 to provide a high level of heating and cooling service and installation for the Harrisburg area. Based on those high standards, he and his wife, Sheryl, built The David F. McClure Company into a successful company.

“My dad was out turning wrenches, then he got the business to the point where he wasn’t working in the business, he was working on the business,” Justin McClure said. “While he trained and expanded his number of employees, my mother raised their four kids, the next generation of heating and cooling entrepreneurs. One of the reasons we’ve been around for this long is that we have co-workers who’ve bought into our company’s values. We work together like a business family.”

While David F. McClure’s two oldest sons, Justin and Jared, focused on adding renewable energy resources to the family business over the past decade, growth opportunities presented themselves across new markets. Therefore, David F. McClure was strategically renamed Daflure Heating and Cooling in 2005. The name change to Daflure Heating and Cooling opened new pathways for market expansion and customer service possibilities. Daflure, like David F. McClure, continues to be the standard for heating and cooling services that meet consumer demands and set quality expectations for the market place.

“Finding new ways to provide our customers with energy saving solutions, technical expertise and value driven products, is what has allowed us to be one of the few vendors who can provide such a cutting edge product like Solar PV and Zero Energy Systems,” said Justin McClure.

The new legislation—the stimulus packages from both the federal and state—are assisting to make the Development possible. The funding sources on this project are: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Homeownership Choice Program Funds, Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, Affordable Housing Program Funds, City of Harrisburg HOME Funds, PA DCED Elm Street Funds, Reinvested HOME Program Income, Dauphin County Act 137 Funds and Homebuyer Down payments and mortgages.

“The Mount Pleasant Homes Development will make an immeasurable impact in the South Allison Hill community and the City of Harrisburg,” said Rockey. “It will produce high quality and affordable for-sale homes for residents and will infuse funds into the local economy through the use of local suppliers and contractors. It will fight blight, increase the local tax base and create homeownership opportunities in concert with the neighborhood’s strategic plan.”

Daflure Heating and Cooling offers free energy assessments to residential homeowners. More in-depth Energy Audits for heating and cooling systems are available for a nominal fee. For more information on Daflure Heating and Cooling, telephone 717.774.9480 or 717.697.6052, or write Daflure Heating & Cooling, 22 8th Street, New Cumberland, PA 17070 or visit the web at www.daflure.com.

Click Here to learn about how you can take advantage of a 30% tax credit by utilizing Solar & Geothermal energy in your home.

 

JAMES CRAFT & SON AWARDED DAWN FOODS CONTRACT

Dawn Food Products, Inc., York, Pa., has awarded James CRAFT & Son, Inc., York Haven, a $220,500 contract to replace the existing heating and cooling equipment in its office and production areas with high-efficiency heating and cooling units.

Andrew S. Leh and Stewart L. Gross estimated the project. Eric Miller will serve as James CRAFT & Son’s project manager at the job site

Family-owned and operated for more than 100 years, James CRAFT & Son services businesses in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia in the areas of HVAC, plumbing, electric, sheet metal fabrication, service, design/build, and custom fabrication. James CRAFT & Son, Inc. has locations in York Haven and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. For more information, please visit www.jamesCRAFTson.com.

American-owned and family-operated, Dawn currently supplies a complete line of quality, consistent mixes, bases, icings, glazes, fillings, frozen dough, par-baked and fully baked products and equipment to the food industry, worldwide.  For further information, please visit www.dawnfoods.com.

 

Hursh Painting Co., Inc. Celebrates 30 Years in 2009

Hursh Painting Co, Inc., a three-year member of the S. Dale High Center for Family Business, is celebrating 30 years as one of the area’s premier painting contractors with a brand new corporate look and logo.  Happy anniversary, Hursh Painting – founded in 1979 by Morris and Ruth Ann Hursh – and congratulations on your fresh new look!  Click here to see more.

 

Family Business Center at Elizabethtown College Adds Personnel to Expand Scope of Operations

New Executive Director is International Family Business Expert; New Marketing Director Also Joins Center Staff

(Elizabethtown, PA)--- A nationally known expert in family enterprise and entrepreneurship, Michael N. McGrann, has been named Executive Director of the S. Dale High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College. His appointment marks a significant expansion of operations in order to provide increased services to existing members as well as to attract new members.

“The importance of family businesses cannot be understated.  They are responsible for more than half of the Gross Domestic Product of the United States, and they create a majority of the jobs in this country. They are the dominant form of enterprise worldwide, outperforming non-family businesses in nearly every long-term measure,” McGrann said. “Our family businesses are vitally important to our economy. Our goal is to give them the tools, the support, and a strong network to succeed at every level–as a management team and as a unified family group.”

 McGrann has extensive experience working with family businesses on issues such as leadership transitions, developing accountability structures, empowering next generation teams, building unified shareholder groups, and identifying the unique characteristics of a family business that can produce a competitive advantage. He previously served as an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship and as assistant director of Babson College’s Institute for Family Enterprise. Prior to his work at Babson, Mike co-managed an academic center at the Wharton Enterprising Families Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania. He is also a founder and principal of the Telos Group.                                                                                     

He holds a BA in economics from Cornell University, an MBA from the Wharton School of Business, and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.

McGrann also has a faculty appointment at Elizabethtown College as the Sara Lodge Executive-in-Residence for 2009-10, and will share his business acumen with the College community through classroom instruction; formal presentations; internal publications; and informal meetings to expose the students and faculty to current business practices, issues, and opportunities.

The S. Dale High Center also appointed Gale Martin in a new post as director of marketing and membership. Martin was previously the director of marketing and communications at Alvernia University in Reading and associate director of College Relations at Elizabethtown College. She has an MA in Business Management and a BS in Education from Penn State University.

McGrann and Martin will join long-time director and Elizabethtown College executive Mary Beth Matteo in offering family businesses an innovative curriculum and unique programs on a range of issues to increase their competitiveness.

 

June 2009

 

GSM Industrial Focuses on Marketing and Sales

GSM Industrial has launched a new branding initiative and website in an effort to create a more recognizable face in Lancaster County and throughout the region.  The main goals of the initiative are to: 

  1. Use the new website to present a clear picture of the full range of GSM Industrial’s capabilities to past and current customers.
  2. Give GSM Industrial a more obvious presence and keep them on the top of their customer’s minds.
  3. Create a better awareness of the synergistic relationship between GSM Industrial and Gooding, Simpson & Mackes Roofing, who are also in the process of a branding initiative (more to come later).

In a similar effort, GSM Industrial announces the hire of Brian Dombach to the position of Outside Sales Representative.  Brian comes with 16 years of sales experience and a mechanical aptitude that makes him a strong fit for the industrial fabrication and installation industry, and his fun and inquisitive personality makes him a great addition to the team.  To read more, click here

 

 

April 2009

 

Wolfgang Candy Company’s Steve Schmid to Focus on Brand Building

YORK, PA., April 29, 2009 – Wolfgang Candy Company’s Managing Partner, Steve Schmid is transitioning into a new and challenging role tasked with building Wolfgang’s national presence. 

Steve’s primary focus will now be on expanding the distribution of Wolfgang Candy Company’s brands and strengthening and building the company’s retail presence throughout the country.  Steve will manage the national network of brokers working with the company, in addition to having responsibility for direct accounts and managing Wolfgang’s distributor channel.

“We’re seeing tremendous opportunity and sales growth from our branded products, and it makes strategic sense to have a member of our senior management team focus entirely on accelerating our national sales while managing existing and future retailer relationships,” says Benjamin McGlaughlin, President and CEO of Wolfgang Candy Company, Inc.“

“We are launching several new products this year into the national retail channel - Skipjacks® and Jungle Jacks® being two products that first appeared this year at the Winter Fancy Food Show - and so far acceptance by the trade has been very encouraging,” says Steve. “We have been pleased with the early sales commitments and believe that now is the perfect time to focus on strengthening our branded business and broadening the distribution.”

“We are introducing our latest branded item, EVES®, at the All Candy Expo in May,” adds Steve. “It is a line of luxurious cookies topped in chocolate and I have already had a great deal of positive feedback from the trade. I am excited to have the opportunity to concentrate on the branded aspect of our business and know this focus will pay off.”  

See Wolfgang at Booth #2245 at the All Candy Expo in Chicago and Booth #4558 (PA Pavilion) at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York.

 

Ride It Down--Legally.  Top attorneys advise on downsizing tactics by Ted Byrne of Lancaster Business 2 Business April 2009 issue

There's a fact of life, expansion's easy, contraction's hard.  Lancaster County business lives on a ratchet . . . we can pop up, but there are teeth that keep us from dropping back--or at least it's really hard to take tiny steps down.  It's the odd reader right now who has not contracted a business, is in the process of contracting, or who's not seriously considering a downsizing plan.  Worse yet, virtually no one's sure that they've completed whatever downsizing they might need.

So I called the lawyers.   

Click here to continue reading this article which quotes John Reed and Mark Smith, partners at Barley Snyder, LLP, Corporate Partner of the Center for Family Business.

 

Certified Carpet Celebrates 60 Years

Certified Carpet is celebrating their 60th Anniversary.  The company started in 1949 at 210 W. Grant Street in Lancaster.  They have been at their current location 1855-65 Columbia Avenue for 54 years.  All three divisions work out of the Columbia Avenue location; Flooring, Cleaning, Mats.  When It’s Certified, You’re Satisfied! 

 

Schaedler Yesco Celebrates 85 years

Congratulations to Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. for being in business for 85 years!  They are a fourth generation family business and the largest electrical distributor headquartered in Central PA.  Schaedler Yesco has been listed in the Central Penn Business Journal’s Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies for three consecutive years and in the Best Places to Work in PA for four consecutive years.  They are the 2008 CPBJ Business of the Year for companies employing 101 or more employees

 

March 2009

 

Scott Heintzelman, aka The Exuberant Accountant and Partner at McKonly & Asbury, one of our Corporate Partners, attended our past two sessions and wrote some good summaries of them.  If you missed these meetings or would just like a review, check out Scott’s blogs.  For the January session, “Who Will Lead, and How?” presented by Dr. Myron A. Harvey of Human Capital Consulting, click here.  And for the March session, “Don’t Make Business Decisions with Your Heart or Family Decisions with Your Head” presented by Howdy Holmes of Chelsea Milling, click here. 

 

February 2009

 

Schaedler Yesco Announces Appointment of New Branch Manager

Harrisburg, PA – Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc., recently announced the appointment of Greg Schaedler as Branch Manager for the Harrisburg, Lebanon, and Pocono Mountain facilities.

 Greg, a fourth generation member of the Schaedler family business, has held various roles within the company that include sales, counter expansion and purchasing.

 “This change continues to support our focus on future business opportunities including branch locations in new geographical areas”, said Kurt Suchar, Vice President of Sales.

 Schaedler Yesco offers a full line of inventory, service and training solutions in the greater Central Pennsylvania market.  Their unique approach to the marketplace provides customers with solutions not typically found at traditional electrical distributors.

 Schaedler Yesco Distribution is a leading electrical, lighting, datacomm, and industrial supplies distributor and has provided service to Central PA since 1924.  With corporate headquarters in Harrisburg, Schaedler Yesco also has locations in York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Chambersburg, Williamsport, Pocono Mountains, Gettysburg, New Oxford, St. Marys, and State College.

 

January 2009

 

Walt Legenstein of Certified Carpet is named 2009 Executive-in-Residence at the S. Dale High Center for Family Business

The S. Dale High Center for Family Business is pleased to announce the appointment of Walt Legenstein as the Center’s 2009 Executive-in-Residence.   Legenstein is Chairman and CEO of Certified Carpet of Lancaster.

The Executive-in-Residence program is designed to bring a senior family business executive to the Center, to provide new expertise and leadership for its programs.  Legenstein, whose company has been an active member of the organization for over ten years, will work with the Center to strengthen programs to better meet family business needs, involve new businesses, and head a membership drive.   Legenstein will serve concurrently with S. Dale High, who was named the first Executive-in-Residence in 2007.

 “Our company, and our family, have benefited from the programs at the Center,” says Legenstein.  “This is my opportunity to give something back to family businesses in our region.  I’m excited about what we can do here at the Center, especially in these economic times.”

 Legenstein has served in many roles in the Lancaster Community, including past Chair of the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, Past Chairman of the Board of United Way of Lancaster County and Past Chairman of the Board of Lancaster Catholic High School.   He also serves on the boards of A Woman’s Concern, Inc., Lancaster Catholic High School, and EDC Finance.  Legenstein has been honored with a number of awards from organizations such as Hall of Fame, Business of the Year by the Central Penn Business Journal, Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Boy Scouts and Community Service Award by the Rotary Club of Lancaster.

 

George Hurst Winner of George C. Delp Award

George Hurst of Oregon Dairy Farm was honored with the George C. Delp Award at the 32nd Annual Agriculture Industry Banquet hosted by the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry in November.  This is Lancaster County’s most prestigious award recognizing an individual for his outstanding dedication and commitment to preserving and enhancing agriculture in Lancaster County. 

 

December 2008

 

Wolfgang Berries Ship to Vietnam for January 2009

York, Pennsylvania. (December 16, 2008) Wolfgang Candy Company Managing Partner Mike Schmid announced today that Wolfgang Candy have shipped their All-Natural Dark Chocolate-Dipped Plump & Juicy Whole Fruit Berries to another Asian market—Vietnam. Earlier this year, Wolfgang Candy sold its chocolates to retailers in Japan and Singapore. The 1,500 pounds of delicious fresh whole Dark Chocolate Berries will arrive in Vietnam in mid-January, thanks to the sales success of Ron Davis of Bell Export Foods. Mr. Davis is exporting 300 cases of Wolfgang Berry pouch and clamshell packages to three Vietnam Fivimart stores. He shared, “Fivimart is the largest retailer in Vietnam. We anticipate that Wolfgang’s fresh whole-fruit Berry Chocolates will be in demand by Fivimart’s other 15 supermarkets once the Vietnamese customers taste these high quality chocolates.”

Mr. Schmid is thrilled that Wolfgang Candy’s American-made chocolates will soon be satisfying the palates in the rapidly growing Asian marketplace of Vietnam. He said, “We are delighted to work with Ron Davis as he understands the products Asian consumers are seeking, specifically high quality foods like our American-made Wolfgang chocolates. Wolfgang’s Berries offer antioxidant-rich, flavor-rich sweet dark chocolate that Asian consumers truly appreciate. I am confident that the customers of Vietnam’s first-rate Fivimart stores are going to keep coming back for more exceptional Wolfgang Chocolate products in 2009!”

 

2008 Best Places to Work in PA

 

The December 5 Central Penn Business Journal contained the 2008 Best Places to Work in PA.  Among the 50 Best Large-Sized Places to work in PA were member Lobar Construction Services, Inc. and corporate partners Glatfelter Insurance Group and Fulton Bank.  Congratulations to these three businesses for being great places to work!

 

November 2008

 

Schaedler Yesco Recognized as Business of the Year

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. (SYD) is proud to be recognized as Business of the Year for companies employing 101 or more employees.  The award was presented on November 3, 2008 at the fifth annual Central Penn Business Journal Business of the Year Awards gala.

 Finalists are a select group of companies who have achieved notable growth, success and demonstrated strong leadership both in their industries and communities.  Eligible nominees are for-profit entities headquartered or with significant operations in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and/or York County.

 

From Family to Family, Wegmans Stores Now Stocking Wolfgang Candy

York, Pennsylvania. (November 12, 2008) Wolfgang Candy Company in York, Pennsylvania, is delighted to stock shelves with delicious Wolfgang chocolates in nine Wegmans stores throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region, Mechanicsburg, Downingtown, State College, Easton, Bethlehem, Warrington and Allentown in Pennsylvania and Woodbridge and Fairfax in Virginia. Robert Wolfgang, II, Senior Partner, said, “Wolfgang Candy is delighted that so many Wegmans stores are selling Wolfgang Chocolates. While we are always creating innovative products like our all-natural dark chocolate berries, our traditional quality brand is what keeps consumers coming back for more.”  The two family-run companies share a long tradition of family-focused value for their customers. Wolfgang Candy Company, founded in 1921, and Wegmans, founded in 1915, both grew up in an era when one-on-one customer service was an absolute necessity in operating a thriving business.

Wolfgang Candy and Wegmans succeeded though the generations in large part due to the technological innovations and economic conditions of the 1920s and 30s. Striking similarities to that era are facing today’s food consumers: nutritional quality, food safety, value for the hard-earned dollar and trust in brands they have come to cherish like Wegmans and Wolfgang Candy. Wolfgang Candy’s president, Benjamin McGlaughlin, reflected, “Wolfgang Candy’s family-owned and family-run tradition has helped position us to build relationships with businesses who share our vision for quality, innovation and customer service. Wegmans epitomizes these values and we are excited for the relationship with them.”

 

October 2008

 

Central Penn Business Journal's Forty Under 40

Congratulations to member, Craig Deimler, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Deimler and Sons Construction, Inc. of Harrisburg for making Central Penn Business Journal's Forty under 40 List!

Wolfgang Candy Company Increases Shipments to New Asian Market

 York, Pennsylvania. (October 23, 2008) Wolfgang Candy Company in York, Pennsylvania, has again captivated the taste buds of the Orient. A shipment of Wolfgang’s All-Natural, Dark Chocolate-Dipped Berries, (Raspberries, Blueberries and Cranberries) are on their way to the Singapore thanks to international exporter, Wenderella Wade of WW International from American Canyon, CA, in her sale of the anti-oxidant rich, high quality Berries to one of Singapore’s largest retailers, NTUC Fairprice.

Nancy Scherr, of L&S Sales, from Moraga, CA, who has promoted sales of Wolfgang Candy products throughout the Western United States has served as the broker for Wolfgang on this sale. Ms. Scherr was delighted that these unique whole fresh fruit chocolates would be a smart product for Ms. Wade to include in her sales to international markets. Scherr shared, “Wolfgang Chocolates have been a fast favorite among our West Coast customers, so it makes perfect sense that Singapore chocolate lovers who value high quality foods would welcome Wolfgang Berries.”

Wenderella Wade, who founded WW International nine years ago, has had significant success through understanding what international palates fancy from American foods. She said, “I often export chocolates and dried fruits to my overseas customers. When I discovered Wolfgang’s Berries were already being shipped to Asian markets, I was delighted to sample the fresh, whole Wolfgang Berries in their natural juices. Asian consumers desire foods with exquisite taste and high quality ingredients, and that is exactly what the Wolfgang Berries provide.”

Wolfgang Candy Managing Partner, Mike Schmid, said, “Wolfgang is honored to work with these two smart business women who recognize that the delicious, all-natural homemade taste of Wolfgang Berries is the perfect product for discerning food consumers both near and far.”


 

B&R ELECTRIC COMPANY IN ST. MARYS PA IS NOW A DIVISION OF SCHAEDLER YESCO DISTRIBUTION

 Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. (SYD) is proud to announce the acquisition of B&R Electric Co. located on 26 Railroad Street in St. Marys, PA.

 B&R Electric Co., a Division of Schaedler Yesco, is a 15,000 sq. ft. facility comprised of a counter/storefront, warehousing, and a fully-staffed office.  The Allen Bradley inventory in this facility expands the Rockwell sales area for Schaedler Yesco into the counties of Elk, Cameron, Jefferson, and Clearfield.

The St. Marys location will offer delivery to Construction, Industrial, OEM, and Commercial customers in Elk County and the surrounding areas. The branch will mirror the capabilities available from other SYD locations, including UPS daily service, same day emergency delivery, after-hours emergency service, easy ordering options via phone, fax, email, or web order entry, consultation, and design services, inside sales/counter service, and training.

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, headquartered in Harrisburg, is a leading electrical, lighting, datacomm, and industrial supplies distributor that has provided service to Central Pennsylvania since 1924.  Their branch locations are located in York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Williamsport, State College, Chambersburg, Pocono Mountains, New Oxford, and Gettysburg.

 

SCHAEDLER YESCO ACQUIRES H&S SUPPLY (ELECTRICAL DIVISION)
DISTRIBUTOR ADDS NEW OXFORD & GETTYSBURG LOCATIONS

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. (SYD) is proud to announce the acquisition of H&S Supply, a wholesale distributor of lighting and electrical fixtures, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning with locations in New Oxford and Gettysburg, PA.  Schaedler Yesco purchased the lighting and electrical fixtures portion of the business, while SYD’s joint venture partner, APR Supply (plumbing & HVAC), acquired the HVAC and plumbing assets.

With the addition of New Oxford and Gettysburg, Schaedler Yesco (electrical) and APR Supply (plumbing & HVAC) now share seven facilities, expanding a unique concept to customers. This gives customers of the two companies the ability to find a large assortment of products needed for their projects in one convenient place. The business model is the first of its kind in Central Pennsylvania. As a result, customers of the two companies will experience a level of service that surpasses that of competitors.

 The two prominent, independent wholesale distributors headquartered in Central Pennsylvania – in addition with Industrial Piping Systems (pipe, valves & fittings) – opened their first joint facility in Chambersburg, PA in October 2006. 

Wolfgang Candy Company Assures Consumers of Product Safety

Member Wolfgang Candy Company in York, Pennsylvania, assures customers that Wolfgang Chocolates are manufactured under high standards of quality controls. In the wake of fears resulting from the melamine-contaminated milk in China, Wolfgang Candy Company’s Robert L. Wolfgang, III, Managing Partner, Food Safety and Quality, said, “Wolfgang Candy has made Safety and Quality a primary focus of our manufacturing operations. Wolfgang Candy aggressively analyzes, addresses and documents potential vulnerabilities and risks of food contamination.”

Mr. Wolfgang assured customers, “Wolfgang Candy food suppliers do not purchase, import, or use any milk ingredients sourced from China. We join our suppliers’ commitment in working with the National Confectioners Association and would strictly follow FDA’s actions if Food Safety issues were to arise.”

Mike Schmid, Managing Partner, said, “Our heartfelt wishes extend to everyone touched by the tragedy of the contaminated milk from China. Sad circumstances like this contamination make our ever-vigilant efforts toward food safety even more stringent. We want our delicious Wolfgang chocolates to be savored by loyal customers who are confident that Wolfgang products are as safe as they are creamy, rich and irresistible.”

 

The Contribution Revolution: Letting Volunteers Build Your Business

Scott Clark, Intuit's cofounder, challenges traditional companies to follow the lead of internet superstars--and of innovative peers such as Honda, Procter and Gamble, and Hyatt--in tapping the contributions of countless people beyond their organizations.  Read the article from Harvard Business Review and listen to the podcast.  Click here.

September 2008

 

Wolfgang Candy Company Hosts PMCA Chocolate School

 Chocolate Makers from Around the World Gather at Wolfgang’s 88-Year Old-York, Pennsylvania, Original Chocolate Factory to Learn from Leading Experts

 York, Pennsylvania. (September 30, 2008) Wolfgang Candy Company in York, Pennsylvania, is once again hosting a prestigious group of national and international chocolate chefs and manufacturers for a four-day course in “Chocolate and Compound Manufacture and Use,” offered through the Pennsylvania Manufacturing Confectioners’ Association, PMCA. From, Tuesday, October 28 through Friday, October 31, 2008, chocolate students will review the science of chocolate and compound manufacturing, chocolate-making, specialty chocolate manufacturing and quality control processes. In addition to the Wolfgang Candy Factory hands-on experience, the attendees will tour the Blommer Chocolate Company and Readco Kurimoto.

Wolfgang Candy’s Managing Partner, Michael Schmid shares that he is honored to host this seminar again, saying, “PMCA programs attract premiere chocolate manufacturers from all around the world. Their courses provide fabulous opportunities to learn techniques and best practices from one another and to develop vital relationships with other quality-driven manufacturers.”

Robert L. Wolfgang III, Managing Partner, Food Safety and Quality, explained, “Most importantly, I think PMCA’s chocolate school provides Wolfgang machine operators and technicians with the theory and science behind what they do every day. It gives them yet a more fundamental appreciation for their craft.”

Yvette Thomas, Administrative Director, PMCA, said, “There is no training to match the live experience in a production facility, and in-plant training represents the most relevant, student preferred and most valuable educational experience. Wolfgang Candy Company has hosted PMCA’s Chocolate course for many years, helping to make it one of the association’s top course offerings. Companies, like Wolfgang Candy Company, who graciously open their doors to these students are helping to secure the transfer of quality information and training to future generations of confectioners and are helping to maintain the health and integrity of the industry.”

Schmid reflects, “Hosting PMCA’s Chocolate School is the quintessential experience for Wolfgang Candy to interacting with some of the foremost chocolatiers in the craft.”

 

August 2008

 

On August 1st the Central Penn Business Journal listed the “Top 100 Privately Held Companies”.  Many of our members were listed.  In the Top Ten were The High Companies and Worley & Obetz Inc.   In the Top Fifty Fastest Growing Companies were B. R. Kreider & Son, Inc.; Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. and Worley & Obetz Inc.   The Warrell Corp. made the list of “Biggest Jump in Ranking”.  The article “Confectioners Expand Product Lineups, Despite Rising Costs” highlighted members Wolfgang Candy Company, Inc. and The Warrell Corp.  Congratulations to our members who made “The List”!

June 2008

 

Schaedler Yesco Announces Vice President Appointment

Harrisburg, PA  – Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc., recently announced the appointment of Kurt Suchar as Vice President of Sales.

Kurt, former Director of Industrial Automation and Industrial/OEM Sales, has additional responsibilities that include the overall planning and direction of the growing Industrial/OEM, Contractor, Commercial, and Government markets, in Schaedler Yesco’s Central PA geographical territories.

 “This change will allow us to better focus on future business expansion opportunities including new geography/branches, as well as acquisitions and company resource utilization”, said Matt Brnik, President.

 Schaedler Yesco offers a full line of inventory, service and training solutions in the greater Central PA market.  Their unique approach to the marketplace provides customers with solutions not typically found at traditional electrical distributors.

 Schaedler Yesco Distribution is a leading electrical, lighting, datacomm, and industrial supplies distributor and has provided service to Central PA since 1924.  With corporate headquarters in Harrisburg, Schaedler Yesco also has locations in York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Chambersburg, Williamsport, Pocono Mountains, and State College.

May 2008

Center for Family Business member Walt Legenstein of Certified Carpet along with his three sons were recently profiled in the May 25, 2008, Lancaster Sunday Newspapers BOOMers special insert section. The article’s focus was on succession planning and “passing the torch” to the next generation. Click here to read the full article.

April 2008

A Must Read!

Looking for the latest on the power of family businesses?  Published in 2006 by the Harvard Business School Press, Miller and Miller’s Managing for the LONG RUN is a text written for business managers using family controlled companies as the model for success.

 The authors describe how family controlled firms outperform all other firms in:

  • Revenue Growth
  • Market valuations
  • Return on Assets
  • Return on Equity
  • Total Shareholder Returns

 

The book studies 40 family companies including Cargill, Nordstrom, S.C. Johnson, Hallmark, Michelin, Estee Lauder, Tyson Foods and IKEA, to name a few.  Best yet, the authors explain how some of the apparent “quirkiness” of family businesses actually holds the key to success and provides a model that other non-family businesses should adopt if they want to manage for the long run.

 One reviewer from the Columbia Business School, John O. Whitney, writes “This groundbreaking study demonstrates how companies with strong family traditions outperform the market year after year.  Danny and Isabelle Miller have made a magnificent contribution to management literature.  It will change how you think about your job.”

 But, some of this, we knew already?  Didn’t we?

March 2008

TWO CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA DISTRIBUTORS TO CO-HOST TRADE SHOW FOR MANUFACTURING, CONSTRUCTION, AND COMMERCIAL CLIENTS

 Harrisburg, PA – Member Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. and Industrial Piping Systems will co-host a trade show on April 15 & 16, 2008 at the Radisson Penn Harris Convention Center in Camp Hill, PA free of charge to businesses in the greater Mid-Atlantic region.

 Over 90 manufacturers will showcase thousands of products and solutions from each distributor’s line of product offerings including electrical, lighting, industrial automation, and datacomm products (Schaedler Yesco) along with pipe, valves, and fittings (Industrial Piping). The two-day event will also include over 65 technical seminars and hands-on labs focusing on industry specific issues including NEC Code changes, personnel safety, EPAct, and more.  Attendees will also learn more about “GREEN” for Pennsylvania from special exhibits, seminars, and Schaedler Yesco’s Energy Solutions Services Team. For more information or to register for the event, attendees can visit www.sydist.com.  To request an event program, please send your mailing address to email stshudy@sydist.com. Schaedler Yesco Distribution, a leading Electrical, Lighting, DataComm Networking, and Industrial Automation supplies distributor has provided service to Central Pennsylvania for over 80 years.  Phone: (717) 233-1621; Fax: (717) 233-1626; Web: www.sydist.com

 

February 2008

10 Facts About The Family Owned Business* from the Cox Family Enterprise Center at Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA:

  • 80% of the world's businesses are family owned.
  • In the past five years, Americans have started mare than 3 million family businesses.
  • Family-run businesses account for half of the nation’s gross domestic product.
  • Nearly 35% of family-owned businesses are Fortune 500 companies including Ford, Wal-Mart and Anheuser-Busch.
  • Approximatley 60% of all public companies in the US are family controlled.
  • Family-owned businesses account for 60% of total US employment, 78% of all new jobs, and 65% of all wages paid.
  • Many family businesses were started after WWII.
  • There has been a significant increase in new family businesses since September 11, 2001.
  • More than 25% of family firms expect the next CEO to be a woman.
  • More than 30% of all family owned businesses survive into the second generation.

*Based on research we have conducted every year since 1985.

You can now purchase Wolfgang candy when you check-out at Linens 'n Things.  Click here to read the Chocolate Tymes.

February 8, 2008

Gary Houck from Houck Group, Inc. pointed out this slideshow on wgal.com.  Houck Group is dismantling a Gettysburg monument that was damaged by lightening. The monument will be repaired and then rebuilt.  Click here to read more.

January 2008

The ABC Extreme Makeover- Home Edition project in which Hursh Painting Co. Inc. participated will be featured Sunday, January 20, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. and will be shown on Harrisburg and Philadelphia ABC stations.  ABC Channel 2, Baltimore will have a one hour "behind the scenes" show which will air at 7:00 p.m.  Phil Hursh, president of Hursh Painting Co., Inc. said, "The project was a lot of fun, so tune in and watch!  And yes, the riding barn and the house were really done in 6 days!!!!!!!"

December 2007

John W. Lloyd, President and CEO of our sponsor, MANTEC, Inc., wrote an article titled, What Happens when the Leadership Leaves?  The articles asks the question, “Where is the next generation of company leadership going to come from?”  Click here to read more about the question  that all family businesses must answer.

November 2007

Recommended Reading: for a fun exploration of Leadership, Creativity and Team Building, read Benjamin Zander’s The Art of Possibility.  An acclaimed author and lecturer to business leaders, Zander is the highly regarded conductor of the Boston Philharmonic, who has been featured on 60 minutes and by the BBC.  In his book, Zander uses the metaphor of conducting to discuss managing big egos, helping players to work as a team, and inspiring greatness.  It’s a fun and interesting read!

 Member company Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. was recently named as one of the Top Fifty Fastest Growing Companies in Central PA.  Click here to read more.

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. was also named one of the Best Places to Work in PA, for the fourth consecutive year.  Click here to read more.

Congratulations to Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. for these well-deserved awards!

October 2007

 Wolfgang Candy Company Provides Sweet Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Click here to read more.

Member company, Yurchak Printing, Inc. has moved into a new location in Landisville, PA.  Click here to read all about it.

September 2007

The Central Penn Business Journal announced the recipients of the 2007 Top Fifty Fastest Growing Companies.  Two of the Top Fifty winners were Center for Family Business members - #3 Worley & Obetz and #26 Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc.  Congratulations!!

Center for Family Business member James Craft & Son, Inc. welcomes fifth generation, Jessica L. Craft into the company.  Click here for further details. 

Wolfgang Candy stars on the Food Network on September 10.  Click here to access their newsletter .

August 10, 2007

The Central Penn Business Journal showcased the Center for Family Business in the article "Elizabethtown College reaches out to family-owned firms".  Find an e-copy by linking to the journal's website www.centralpennbusiness.com and typing the title in the search bar. 

August 2007

Congratulations to Lobar Inc's on its 40th anniversary  The Eichelbergers say their greatest strength is their people, many of whom have worked for them for 10 , 20, and 30 years.  Article appears in The Central Penn Business Journal .  To read the article go to http://www.centralpennbusiness.com/

Congratulations to Fulton Bank who is celebrating 125 years in 2007.  They began in Lancaster County and have expanded to 11 other counties with more than 90 locations.

The Family Business Advisor featured an article entitled "Mom in the MIddle"  by John L. Ward, co-founder and principal of the Family Business Consulting Group, Inc.  Click here to read the article.

July 12, 2007: Our New Look

The Center for Family Business has undergone rebranding with North Star Marketing. From a brand new website to a new dynamic logo, the look reflects our goals for the future and our commitment to serving family businesses.

July 2007

Laird Norton Tyee, a wealth management firm, has completed the 2007 Family Business Survey. The comprehensive survey monitors the state of family businesses while tackling tough issues through the compiling of statistics and best practices. The purpose of the study is to gain invaluable insight into the American family business landscape. As stated by Laird Norton Tyee, "It’s an acknowledgement of the past, a close-up on the present, and a roadmap to the future for anyone who cares about family-owned businesses." More information and a downloadable PDF of the survey results are available at www.familybusinesssurvey.com.