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CVBA Announces Award Winners at Annual Meeting

The Cumberland Valley Business Alliance (CVBA) recognized two outstanding leaders at its Annual Meeting sponsored by WellSpan Health this morning, celebrating individuals whose achievements, service, and dedication have strengthened the region’s business community

Garon Gembe, President of Graphics Universal, was named the 2025 Business Person of the Year. With
nearly four decades in the printing industry, Gembe has led Graphics Universal through significant
growth, technological advancement, and expansion into new markets. Under his leadership, the
company has seen more than 200% sales growth, invested in state-of-the-art digital capabilities, and
cultivated a workplace culture known for loyalty and long-term commitment.

Gembe’s has played a central role in local education initiatives, including the founding of the
Greencastle-Antrim Education Foundation, and continues to support youth programs, community
events, and regional economic development. His leadership, integrity, and community-minded spirit
earned him this year’s top business honor.

“Garon represents the very best of our regional business community—visionary leadership, a strong
commitment to people, and a deep belief in service,” said CVBA President Stephen Christian. “His
impact is felt not only within his company, but across the entire Cumberland Valley.”

The CVBA also announced Grace Waller as the 2025 Ambassador of the Year. Owner of What a Wallerful
Feeling Company and publisher of Chambersburg Neighbors and Shippensburg Neighbors, Waller is
known for her reliability, warmth, and steady commitment to building connections across the business
community. She is a constant presence at CVBA events, a dedicated volunteer, and a leader in
organizing quarterly service projects that support local nonprofits.

Waller also serves on the board of Network Ministries and is widely recognized for her generosity,
community spirit, and positive influence throughout the region.

The Annual Meeting brought together business leaders, community partners, and CVBA members to
celebrate the organization’s milestones and honor individuals who exemplify its mission of
strengthening the Cumberland Valley’s economic vitality.

In addition to networking and breakfast, guests also heard from guest speaker David Thomas of Matrix.
Thomas discussed recent investments and developments throughout the county as well as growth along
the I-81 corridor

The Cumberland Valley Business Alliance is a partnership between the Chambersburg and Greencastle-Antrim chambers of commerce. CVBA is the largest business advocacy organization in Franklin County with more than 800 members. It is committed to the prosperity of its members while enhancing the quality of life in the Cumberland Valley area. For more information, visit CVBAlliance.org.

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Fred Allen Blocher 1943-2026

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Frank Charles Henry 1945-2026

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Who We Are

The Franklin County Free Press, established by Vicky Taylor in 2019, emerged as a beacon of local journalism for the residents of Franklin County. Under Vicky's leadership, it quickly became an essential source of news, particularly at a time when major newspaper publications were increasingly overlooking local coverage.

On January 1, 2022, the torch was passed to Nathan Neil and his firm, Neil Publishing, LLC. Neil, a local entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Chambersburg, shares Vicky's fervent commitment to both the community and the world of local journalism.

Rooted in the heart of Franklin County and powered by its residents, the Franklin County Free Press continues to bridge the gap, ensuring that the local stories, events, and issues that matter most to the community remain in the spotlight.