• Welcome: Marshall Snively

Marshall Snively welcomed everyone to the meeting and noted the tremendous turnout. He thanked everyone for attending and reminded everyone that the Merchant meetings are designed as a place where Lancaster City’s small business community can connect, share ideas, and support one another. He expressed his hope that everyone would make this a regular stop on their calendar. We encourage you to bring along a fellow business owner or colleague next time.

He also noted a small but meaningful change at our coffee station. Moving forward, we’ll be using a water dispenser during our Merchant Meetings as part of our effort to create a more sustainable environment for these gatherings. For those who bring reusable containers, there is a water-refill station on the ground floor of the Ware Center. We will continue exploring additional ways to make these meetings more environmentally conscious while still creating a welcoming experience for everyone.

Marshall Snively recognized our Legacy Sponsors for their consistent support that sustains the mission of Lancaster City Alliance – events like these and monthly merchant meetings would not be possible without their generous commitment. 

David Aichele thanked our community partners. Appreciation was expressed to Millersville University at The Ware Center for their continued support of Lancaster City’s small business community and for hosting the monthly meetings. Thanks were given to Discover Lancaster for sponsoring the gatherings.

Elspeth Moffat reviewed the Great Meeting Guide with the group to ensure a successful meeting. She also shared a brief refresher on these meetings.  The monthly Merchant Meetings are focused solely on supporting, informing, and connecting Lancaster City businesses and programs. Attendance and presentation opportunities are prioritized for those who own or represent businesses, community programs, and services located within the City. Those attending from outside Lancaster City are welcome, provided their participation aligns with supporting and serving businesses and programs within Lancaster City.

• Special Announcements

  May City Update
  Kristen Simon, Bureau Chief of Tourism for Lancaster City, and Ruby Mundock, Social Media and Tourism Marketing Manager for the City of Lancaster, shared updates on events, programs, and initiatives that will benefit our small business community. View their full presentation here.
  
  

  Pride Month
  Calli Nordgard from Lancaster Pride shared highlights of the exciting events planned throughout the City in celebration of Pride Month — including the 18th Annual Pride Festival. Calli was excited to announce that this year the Festival will be able to use all of Penn Medicine Park, with plenty of room on the field for the vendors and entertainment. Pride Month kicks off with a flag raising on Monday, June 1, at Lancaster City Hall! Learn more and stay updated on Lancaster Pride here.
  
  

  Downtown Lancaster Business & Experience Survey

  Jeremy Young shared information on the Downtown Lancaster Business & Experience Survey.  He encouraged everyone to take part in the Downtown Lancaster Business & Experience Survey. The survey explores what people love most about Downtown Lancaster, what they would like to see more of, and what challenges may prevent them from spending more time downtown.

  The survey is open through Friday, June 12, and participants can enter to win either a $50 Visa Gift Card or $50 in Downtown Dollars. Your feedback truly helps shape future conversations, investments, and initiatives in Downtown Lancaster. Complete the survey in English. La encuesta también está disponible en Español.
  
  

  VELOCITY 2026

  Colleen Wagner was excited to officially announce the return of VeloCity 2026 — happening Thursday, September 24 at Tellus360! VeloCity is Lancaster City Alliance’s largest fundraiser of the year — and without question one of the hottest tickets in Lancaster City. This year’s theme is Lancaster – Stronger Together, and we already have some exciting surprises in the works that we can’t wait to share with you.

  We’d like to recognize and thank the sponsors who have already stepped forward in support of VeloCity 2026:

  • LNP Media Group as our Media Sponsor
  • GEMs Catering as our Restaurant Competition Sponsor
  • VeloCity Partner Sponsors: Barley Snyder and CARGAS
  • Friends of VeloCity sponsors Benchmark Construction and Orrstown Bank

  VeloCity 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities are now open! Explore the available levels of support and discover how your business can be part of one of the City of Lancaster’s most anticipated and premier events of the year. Sponsoring VeloCity is a powerful way to increase brand visibility, connect with key business and community leaders, and help fuel an event that celebrates Lancaster’s growth, innovation, and vibrant future.

  To learn more about how your business can shine at VeloCity 2026, contact Colleen Wagner, Vice President of Administration & Relations, Lancaster City Alliance, at cwagner@teamlanc.org
  
  

  Milestone Awards Meeting – June 10, 2026

  We will be hosting our Milestone Awards Merchant Meeting on Wednesday, June 10, from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. in Freedom Hall at the Lancaster County Convention Center. This special celebration of legacy, resilience, and community impact will honor more than 50 small businesses and community partners whose longevity, dedication, and contributions continue to help shape the City of Lancaster. Special thanks to our generous hosts and sponsors, the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority, for their valued support in helping make this meaningful celebration possible. Registration is now open.
  
  

  Member Introductions

• Carole Kirchner, let the group know that all were invited to the SoWe Annual Block Party on Saturday, June 13
• Elyse Pollock, Donor Relations Associate, Lancaster Public shared the Library Summer Reading Calendar with the group and asked them all to save the date for the Big Book Sale at F&M on June 20, 21, 22.
• Lindsay Bretz Morgan, Assistant General Manager at the Belvedere Inn, invited all to the Saturday, June 20, After Pride Party.
• Tyler Graham, of Tyler Graham Studio, was excited to share that he will be serving as DJ at the 18th Annual Pride Fest and also as one of the featured performers!
• Austin Carter, Jess Callahan, of Pocket Books Shop, will have a full line-up of Pride reads and events coming soon!
• Quinn Sullivan, General Manager at Seasons Olive Oil (36 W. King Street), offers a 15% discount to anyone who mentions that they are part of the Lancaster City Alliance Merchant Meetings.
• Tony Gorick, Sales & Marketing Manager at Decades Lancaster, thanked Lancaster Pride, Lancaster City Alliance, the City of Lancaster, and the many community partners present for their unwavering support of the LGBTQ+ community. He reflected on how profoundly different life might have been—for himself and for so many others in his community—if this level of acceptance, visibility, and support had been available to them as children. His heartfelt remarks served as a powerful reminder of how meaningful community support can be in shaping lives and creating a more inclusive future.
• Alex Dwyer, Lancaster City Alliance Special Projects Manager, shared information about the Façade Improvement Grant Program, which helps support property and business owners in preserving and enhancing the visual character of the City of Lancaster. She encouraged anyone who lives in the City of Lancaster, owns property, or operates a business within the city to reach out to learn more and see if they may qualify for grant funding through this valuable program.
• Steve Walter, President, TCW • GAV announced that they would be hosting a Microsoft Co-Pilot for Business Class on Wednesday, June 24, from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m. The class will demonstrate how to adopt Co-Pilot with confidence, clarity, and control. Learn more and register for this FREE event.
• Jason Allgire, Development Manager, Assets Lancaster, was proud to share that his wife, Janae, is opening a mental health therapy practice serving ages 12 and up. All Seasons Wellness will be located at Urban Arts House (430 W. Orange Street). Lancaster City Alliance is excited to host a ribbon-cutting celebration for All Seasons Wellness on Thursday, June 11, at 11:30 a.m. – all are welcome
• Abby Bear, Executive Director of the Demuth Museum, wanted all of the attendees to know about the Kids Summer Sketch Book club. Running from a Launch Party on First Friday, June 5, to Saturday, August 29. Learn more here!
• Justina Latura, co-founder of Vine Bar, urged all of the attendees to mark their calendars for Saturday, September 26, 2026 – the celebration of Capital Day in the City of Lancaster. Lancaster served as the de-facto Capital of the United States on Saturday, Sept. 27, 1777 – during the height of the Revolutionary War – as the British marched on Philadelphia. It only lasted for one day, but sometimes one day is all it takes to make history. Follow @lancastercapitalday and visit lancastercapitalday.org
• Jessie Tuno, Assets Women’s Business Center Manager, offered valuable information about the Business Essentials Loan, which provides $500–$2,500 at 0% interest to help entrepreneurs plan for and cover essential business expenses. Explore all of the details here.
  
  

• Member Spotlight: Shumaker PDT

  The Member Spotlight was presented by Jason Konopinski, Marketing & Engagement Manager for Shumaker PDT, who helped share more about the company’s work, impact, and continued commitment to supporting organizations, businesses, and events that strengthen our region.

  One of the most exciting events Shumaker PDT will help bring to life this year is Lancaster City Alliance’s VeloCity2026, happening September 24 at Tellus 360. If there is one team that knows how to elevate an atmosphere, transform a space, and create a show-stopping experience, it is Shumaker PDT. We have no doubt they will help raise the roof, light up the energy, and absolutely slay the runway for what promises to be an incredible evening.

  View the full presentation here.
  
  

• Special Presentation: Meet the Mayor

  Lancaster City Alliance was honored to welcome Mayor Jaime Arroyo as our featured presenter for a special Meet the Mayor session at the May Merchant Meeting. Tailored to the City of Lancaster’s small business community, Mayor Arroyo shared his strategic priorities and vision for building a stronger, more inclusive Lancaster through economic growth, government efficiency, community investment. He expanded opportunities for residents and entrepreneurs alike.

  View the full presentation here.
  
  

• Special Presentation: Lancaster Central Market – Where History Meets Economic impact

  Lancaster City Alliance was honored to welcome Melissa Ressler, the new and dynamic Executive Director of the Central Market Trust, for a special presentation at our May Merchant Meeting, Lancaster Central Market: Where History Meets Economic Impact. Melissa offered valuable insight into how Lancaster Central Market continues to be far more than a historic destination—it remains a cornerstone of the City of Lancaster’s economic and community vitality.  

  View the full presentation here.
  
  

• MIM Committee Report: Kathlene Carroll Sullivan

 If you would like a “COMING SOON” sign for a City of Lancaster small business, you can request one here.
 If you are interested in a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for your City of Lancaster small business, please complete the request here.

• Closing Comments: Marshall Snively

Marshall Snively thanked everyone for their attendance this morning. He encouraged everyone to mark their calendars for the next Merchant Meeting on June 10, 2026.   

Next Meeting: June 10 | 8:30am | Lancaster County Convention Center
Freedom Hall • 25 S. Queen Street