Lehigh Valley Elite Network — 2026 Business KICK-OFF Event (15th Anniversary). Thursday, January 29, 2026 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Texas Roadhouse — 4463 Southmont Way, Easton, PA 

The Lehigh Valley Elite Network kicks off 2026 and celebrates 15 years of building community and commerce. This signature event welcomes an impressive lineup of business and nonprofit leaders who will share real-world insights on entrepreneurship, mentorship, health advocacy, arts leadership, and regional brand engagement. Our gatherings are designed to cultivate meaningful professional relationships, drive business growth, and foster collaborative opportunities. Within a structured yet welcoming environment, business owners, sales professionals, and nonprofit leaders can connect with industry peers, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative strategies for expansion.

What to Expect
• Diverse Networking — Connect with professionals committed to building strong, mutually beneficial alliances.
• Actionable Development Tactics — Acquire practical methods to elevate brand visibility, client engagement, and revenue.
• Digital Reach — Learn to leverage LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, and Alignable to broaden your professional influence.
• Expert Insights — Guest speakers will address current economic trends, marketing initiatives, and proven business best practices.
• Collaborative Atmosphere — Participate in productive discussions that foster meaningful connections and real follow-up.

Event Details
• Fee: $20 (includes lunch)
• Payment Methods: $20 cash, check, $21 Cash App, or PayPal accepted at the door
• RSVP: Not required — the event is open to all professionals

Participant Benefits
• Establish enduring professional contacts and long-term referral sources.
• Enhance networking and public-speaking skills through structured introductions and guest presentations.
• Receive guidance and practical resources from seasoned local leaders.
• Maximize results through strategic digital-content sharing and timely follow-up.

Additional Presenters (featured at the KICK-OFF)

Beth Clausnitzer — Producer, The Hail Mary (A Channel Of Peace)
Beth Clausnitzer will present details about The Hail Mary Red Carpet Premiere screenings on February 21, 2026 at three Lehigh Valley venues: Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas (11:00 AM), Bethlehem Catholic High School Auditorium (3:00 PM), and The Roxy Theatre (7:00 PM). The Hail Mary is a warm-hearted comedy written and directed by Daniel Roebuck about second chances, unlikely friendships, and the power of believing in something bigger than yourself. The premiere spotlights and supports local storytelling that brings people together through laughter, hope, and shared experience.

Darin Barron & Hayden Craddolph — Haydenfilms Institute 
We’re pleased to welcome Darin Barron and Hayden Craddolph from Haydenfilms Institute. Hayden Craddolph has served as Executive Director of Haydenfilms Institute since 2011 and leads the Haydenfilms Agency, crafting campaigns and building audience connections for filmmakers and clients at all levels. With 15 years of industry experience, Hayden holds an MS in Electronic Media from Kutztown University and a Certificate in Film Studies from UCLA Extension. Haydenfilms Institute empowers, educates, and funds independent and student filmmakers worldwide. Its Haydenfilms Online Film Festival showcases diverse, innovative cinematic work from emerging talents and connects filmmakers with peers, audiences, and industry opportunities. HFI also partners with local businesses, nonprofits, and schools—strengthening community ties through student programming, festivals, and collaborative media projects. Darin and Hayden will share how film festivals, student media, and media campaigns can amplify local brands, engage audiences, and create partnership opportunities.

Taylor Fenton & Logan Nace — Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Managers, Corporate Ticket Sales)
Special guests Taylor Fenton and Logan Nace from the Lehigh Valley IronPigs will discuss how the IronPigs build community, drive attendance, and partner regionally through promotions and fan-first experiences at Coca-Cola Park. The IronPigs celebrate the Lehigh Valley’s steelmaking heritage and are known for strong community ties and outstanding attendance—making them a proven partner for promotions, community engagement, and large-scale events. Expect practical ideas you can adapt for events, marketing, and community engagement—plus quick takeaways to jump-start your Q1 plans.

For more than a decade, Texas Roadhouse Easton has been our preferred venue—offering exceptional service, a welcoming atmosphere, and high-quality meals that create an ideal setting for collaboration. Learn more and view past event highlights at LehighValleyEliteNetwork.com.

We look forward to your participation.
Michael Madden
CEO & Founder, Lehigh Valley Elite Network