Geisinger Employees Begin Receiving Second Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Geisinger’s health care heroes are now receiving their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Wednesday morning, exactly 21 days since vaccine doses first were given within the health system, employees returned and rolled up their sleeves to get their second dose. In three weeks Geisinger has ramped up to the point of more than 1,000 vaccines per day over the past week, totaling approximately 12,000 people with their first dose of the COVID vaccine. When people get their first doses, they’re scheduled immediately to receive their second dose. Receiving that second dose is a critical step in the COVID vaccine process. Both doses are necessary to trigger the immune response needed to develop an immunity level against COVID- 19. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center nurse Tara Skutack was the first health care worker to receive the second vaccine dose on Wednesday at the hospital. “I received the COVID vaccine for my family and patients,” Skutack said. “I’m excited for a better and healthier future. So far, I’m feeling great.” Resident physician Muhammad Sabih Saleem, M.D., said he received the vaccine as a step in moving forward, and as someone who cares for COVID patients. “I currently work in the intensive care unit and see COVID patients every day,” Saleem said. “It’s up to us to take this first step forward so that everyone else will join us when the vaccine becomes available to them. I feel relieved after getting the vaccine — we have been waiting for it for a long time. It’s a step towards a better future.” Geisinger has been receiving the Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna vaccines at facilities over the past few weeks. The Pfizer vaccine was received first, and front-line employee vaccines began on December 16. Both vaccines require two doses, with the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine requiring a second dose 21 days after the first, and the Moderna vaccine requiring a second dose 28 days after the first. Emergency medicine physician Luke Sullivan, D.O., said his family was a major motivator for why he received the vaccine. “I got the COVID vaccine so I could safely take care of my patients and remain healthy while doing so,” Sullivan said. “I also got it for my 2-year-old, my wife who works in healthcare, and my elderly parents, who I haven’t been able to see. It feels awesome to have received my second dose and I look toward the future.” In line with state guidelines and recommendations, Geisinger has been focusing on vaccinating its employees and healthcare workers. Geisinger is in the process of reaching out to EMS personnel and community providers to coordinate their vaccines, in alignment with the PA Department of Health order to use 10 percent of the vaccine supply to vaccinate those in Tier 1A. The vaccine is being administered as quickly as it can, but is completely dependent on supply, staffing and the logistics with distribution. While it’s expected to be well into the year until the vaccine becomes widely available to the public, Geisinger is working to make it easy to receive both COVID vaccine doses, including making the vaccine available at no cost to patients. With more shipments of the vaccines making their way to Geisinger and many in the community receiving the vaccine, Geisinger continues to encourage the preventive measures that have been stressed to help stop the spread of the virus as it’s expected to be well into the summer before vaccines are readily available for all community members. Everyone, including those who receive the vaccine, should continue to properly wear a mask, avoid group gatherings, maintain physical distancing and practice proper handwashing. For answers to questions about the vaccine, visit the Geisinger COVID-19 vaccine resources center at geisinger.org/COVIDvax. CUTLINES: Skutack COVID vaccine: Nurse Tara Skutack receives the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre. Skutack was one of the first Geisinger front-line healthcare workers to receive the first dose of the vaccine on December 16. Nurse Alison Krakosky administered this second dose. Abbas COVID vaccine: Resident physician Sayeda Abbas, M.D., receives the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday morning. Given by nurse Alison Krakosky at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Abbas was one of the first Geisinger employees to receive a COVID vaccine when it was first available on December 16. Saleem COVID vaccine: Resident physician Muhammad Sabih Saleem, M.D., receives the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes- Barre. Saleem, one of the first front-line health care workers at Geisinger to receive a first dose, received this second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine from nurse Alison Krakosky. Sullivan COVID vaccine: Geisinger emergency medicine physician Luke Sullivan, D.O., rolls up his sleeve to receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday. Sullivan received the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine from nurse Alison Krakosky.
Step Inside a Snow Globe for Greenhouse Dining at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen The weather outside may be frightful, but inside the greenhouse it’s delightful. Diners at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen will now get to see Paupack High Falls in a whole new light. Greenhouses and igloos were recently installed on the decks at Ledges Hotel overlooking the river gorge for socially distanced outdoor dining throughout winter. Made of polycarbonate material, the four greenhouses measure 8 x 12 and can accommodate up to eight people for private dinners. Electric heaters keep things cozy while vents at the roof and over the door allow for natural air flow. “As the weather turned cold, we knew we needed to reimagine dining yet again,” explained Justin Genzlinger, Owner/CEO of Settlers Hospitality. “The greenhouses and igloos serve a practical purpose, but also enable us to offer our guests a new, unique experience. At night the greenhouses are illuminated and dining with a 360-degree view of the surrounding gorge- it really is a magical atmosphere.” Guests in the greenhouses will enjoy a prix fixe menu served family style. There are two dining packages available- standard and deluxe. Both options boast a four-course meal featuring some of the signature fare from Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. The cheese/charcuterie board, a perennial favorite among diners at the restaurant, will get things started. The second course will bring a farmhouse salad and roasted garlic hummus. Depending upon the package, entrée options for the third course range from Bistro Steak and Sautéed Shrimp to Pan Seared Duck and Diver Scallops. The final course features an assortment of hand selected desserts. Upgrades are also available such as a French Onion Soup Hot Pot for the table. Greenhouses may be reserved for dinner seven days a week. There’s a $350 minimum per greenhouse and a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to hold a reservation. Glass-wine.bar.kitchen also added to its outdoor dining options with the introduction of igloos. Setup on the deck overlooking the falls, there are two heated igloos that can accommodate up to four people for a la carte dining. The restaurant is open seven days a week for indoor dining, outdoor dining on the enclosed deck and take-out. Menus are available at ledgeshotel.com For more information, check out SettlersHospitality.com.
Lackawanna College Assigns Key Leadership Role Lackawanna College President Dr. Jill Murray has named Stephanie Decker as the Associate Vice President of Social and Economic Impact and a member of the President’s cabinet. Decker previously served as the Executive Director of Social and Economic Impact and as the Program Director for the Lackawanna College Kiesendahl School of Hospitality. In this role, she assisted in the creation of new associate degree programs and the region’s only bachelor’s degree in restaurant and foodservice management. Under her leadership, her colleagues opened the student-run restaurant, 409 on Adams, which distinguished Lackawanna’s School of Hospitality as a school of choice for students to advance their careers in the hospitality industry. Decker has served in a leadership role on specialized teams dedicated to driving the formation of new and innovative programs at Lackawanna College, including the region’s first collegiate esports program and ecommerce initiatives. Additionally, she guided her leadership team in transitioning the College’s cafeteria from a retail-style foodservice program to a full-service, high-end cafeteria, which now serves students and the college community. She assisted in the development and execution of the College’s Food for Thought program, The Giving Room and the College’s fellowship program.
Marywood University Wraps Up Its “Making Spirits Bright” Campaign Successfully Marywood University’s answer to encouraging prayer, sharing gifts, and uplifting people through November and through New Year’s Day is a success. Marywood University began its festivities in November with its “Making Spirits Bright,” initiative, prior to students leaving campus to finish the remainder of their semesters online. The students desire to help plan and share in the holiday event, which has become such a special part of their Marywood experience, was the catalyst for campus representatives to gather with students and find creative, community-minded solutions. The timeline also connected to the spirit of Marywood’s sponsors, the IHM Congregation, who celebrate their Founders’ Month in November. Marywood University’s Community Christmas Card Writing project yielded nearly 5,500 Christmas cards that were delivered to 18 different groups locally, nationally and internationally. Participants included 17 clubs and campus organizations, 2 athletic teams, 21 additional individual students, 58 staff members, 20 departments, 5 faculty, 1 retiree, the retired IHM sisters living at Our Lady of Peace residence, and 97 students at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Elementary School, Dunmore, Pa. Recipients of the Community Christmas Card Writing project included Marywood Heights residents, Our Lady of Peace residents and staff, NativityMiguel School students and staff, the Gino Merli Veterans Centers residents and staff, St. Francis Commons residents and staff, Regional Hospital staff, Moses Taylor Hospital staff, Geisinger CMC staff, St. Joseph’s Center residents and staff, Friends of the Poor staff, the children in Big Friends Little Friends after-school program, and active/deployed military members. Marywood University also collected a record number of gifts this year, thanks to the generosity of the “Making Spirits Bright” initiative. More than 160 gifts were provided to local children/teens through Friends of the Poor, 73 gifts were provided to Marywood Heights residents, and 146 items for persons experiencing homelessness were donated to the Keystone Rescue Mission. Marywood University’s “Making Spirits Bright” kicked off its campaign with an Outdoor Tree Lighting and Blessing of Nativity. Student groups typically create ornaments for the tree, but, since it was an outdoor event this year, the student organizations decided to participate in campus decorating efforts with Marywood’s Grounds/Maintenance staff. Campus decorating was completed by 18 volunteers who contributed 54 hours of service to decorate campus. Marywood University continues its “Making Spirits Bright” project through New Year’s Day. The “Light Up Campus” drive through light display will remain in place through the New Year. Additionally, Marywood University’s award-winning, student-run radio station, WMFM 91.7, will continue its traditional community gift of broadcasting commercial-free Christmas music, 24/7 through News Year’s Eve. And, Marywood University’s concerts, events, mass, and chats can be accessed, at youtube.com/watch?list=PLNBU0ru7D18C-3quPrCUVwxt2FTeHZD6I&v=r_pZAXVqVO4&feature=emb_title. To check out all of Marywood University’s “Making Spirits Bright” initiatives, please visit marywood.edu/article/2020-Making-Spirits-Bright.
PennDOT: New Law Will Improve Pennsylvanians’ Ability to Obtain ID, Update CDL License Requirements The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today said that a new state law will provide opportunities that will give Pennsylvanians experiencing homelessness the ability to be issued a free identification card and Pennsylvanians with visual impairments improved access to obtain a driver’s license and will help improve roadway safety through updated commercial driver’s license requirements. “This new law makes significant changes to increasing many of our residents’ independence, ultimately enhancing their quality of life,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. Act 131 of 2020, which Governor Tom Wolf recently signed into law, makes it possible for Pennsylvanians experiencing homelessness to be issued a free initial photo ID or renewal. Individuals will be required to apply in person at a PennDOT Driver License Center and must meet identification and other requirements. Additional information can be found on the Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov. This section of the law is effective January 25, 2021. Additionally, Act 131 provides for a safe program that will allow eligible individuals to use bioptic telescope lenses to help them to qualify for and obtain a driver’s license. Bioptic telescope lenses are authorized for use in at least 28 other states and are designed to help individuals meet visual acuity standards who otherwise wouldn’t be able to obtain a license. PennDOT is currently developing the program’s training and licensure process and will implement the program on the effective date of this section of the legislation, which is September 27, 2021. Act 131 will also update requirements and restrictions for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, including reporting requirements for convictions and violations. In addition, this law will also bring Pennsylvania into compliance with upcoming federal CDL regulations, which will include a lifetime disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for human trafficking convictions. These sections of the law will become effective on various dates starting in early 2021. For more information on Driver and Vehicle Services, please visit www.dmv.pa.gov. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services. Follow PennDOT on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PennDOTNews, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaDepartmentofTransportation.
Keystone College Professional Development Institute Calendar of Events Effective Remote PresentationsOnlineJanuary 14, 2021 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.Fee: $50Learn public speaking techniques in the remote landscape of business today. The program explores best practices for organized remarks and presentations that will engage and impact your audience. Providing Exceptional Customer Service in the Remote WorkplaceOnlineJanuary 27, 2021 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.Fee: $50This program will examine some of the basics that your organization should be asking of your service employees to make a positive difference with your customers. A series of valuable team relationship programs are offered on Fridays in January. The content will lead a participant through effective communication, maximizing collaboration, and creating an environment of accountability in the virtual workplace environment. Participants can enroll in a single program of interest or receive a 10% discount for enrolling in the series of three programs. From the links below, you will be able to choose one, two, or all three courses. Building Trust and CommunicationOnlineJanuary 15, 2021 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.Fee: $50In this one-hour program, participants will learn best practices to foster an environment of transparent communication, build trust, along with actionable skills for working through difficult conversations. This program is ideal for management of all levels, from those well practiced to the newest hire. Improving Team Relationships in a Virtual Environment (1)OnlineEnroll in 1, 2, or 3 programs best suited to you or your team’s professional development needs.There is a 10% discount when you register for all 3 programs at the same time. Engage your team! Collaboration (2)OnlineJanuary 22, 2021 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.Fee: $50The need for collaboration in 2020 and beyond is real and has been a buzz in different industry settings. In this one-hour program, participants will discuss the pitfalls and ways to build a collaborative environment in a safe way. Creating Accountability in a Virtual Environment (3)OnlineJanuary 29, 2021 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.Fee: $50 This one-hour program will provide attendees with 5 actionable keys to creating and maintaining an environment of accountability in the new remote work environment. Discover tools to foster an environment of collaboration and ensure team success. Moving Projects Forward in a Remote Environment OnlineFebruary 11 and 18, 2021 – 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.Fee: $100Learn best practices on managing remote project team members and guiding them as they move your projects forward. Register today by visiting www.keystone.edu/pdi or by contacting 570-945-8621 or pdi@keystone.edu. Course dates and times may be subject to change due to availability.
Geisinger’s Scranton, Wilkes-Barre Hospitals Welcome First Babies of 2021 Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center recently greeted their first newborns of the new year. Liam Antoniotti was born at 8:11 a.m. on Jan. 1 at Geisinger Community Medical Center’s Childbirth Center in Scranton. He is the son of Tori Kerschner of Elmhurst, and Liam arrived weighing 6 pounds, 7.7 ounces, and measuring 19 inches. Kamden Maurer was born at 7:40 p.m. on Jan. 1 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre. He is the son of Mikenzee Sims and Anthony Maurer of Plymouth, and Kamden arrived weighing 4 pounds, 7.2 ounces, and measuring 18 inches. Emma Rose Usavage was born at 8:51 p.m. on Jan. 1 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. She is the daughter of Andrea Boedecker and Tom Usavage of Plymouth, and Emma arrived weighing 7 pounds, 8.7 ounces, and measuring 18.5 inches.
Geisinger Receives Donation for Fresh Food Farmacy™ Program Area families will get the gift of nutritious food, thanks to The GIANT Company’s gift to Geisinger’s Fresh Food Farmacy™ program. Because the COVID-19 pandemic has strained on food banks and food-insecure families across the state, the $200,000 gift from The GIANT Company will help sustain and expand the program. Education, diet and wellness coaches and assistants give Fresh Food Farmacy patients and families a “whole health” approach to their nutritional needs. Geisinger also plans to offer more wellness coaching through an app that will be created for patients of the program. Through partnerships with local food organizations the Fresh Food Farmacy provides fresh, healthy food to patients and their families for up to 10 meals per week. Patient education is also an important factor in the program, which addresses two key factors, including food insecurity and uncontrolled diabetes. Patients in the program have shown remarkable results with weight loss, lower blood pressure and improved measurements of triglycerides and cholesterol. Recent data shows that Fresh Food Farmacy patients have collectively achieved nearly $1.5 million in healthcare savings. “The GIANT Company’s gift will help us to reach even more patients and their families,” said Allison Hess, vice president of health, Geisinger Steele Institute for Health Innovation, said. “For example, we plan to expand to include patients with conditions other than diabetes. There are many disease states that show improvement in patients who eat healthy, fresh foods. And with the results we’ve seen with patients who have diabetes, we look forward to exploring those new avenues.” The GIANT Company has a long history of generosity to Geisinger and Children’s Miracle Network at Geisinger. Early this year, GIANT provided $250,000 in donations for COVID relief to five children’s hospitals including Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital. The company also provided meals for many of Geisinger’s frontline workers during the pandemic. “Working with our incredible network of community partners, we continue to bring our new brand platform, For Today’s Table, to life in the communities we serve,” said Nicholas Bertram, president of The GIANT Company. “Like The GIANT Company, Geisinger believes that every family should be able to share a healthy meal. Since its launch, their Fresh Food Farmacy program has helped remove barriers to accessing nutritious, good-tasting food and we are honored to be able to support its expansion, bringing it to even more families.” Since 2017, Geisinger’s Fresh Food Farmacy has provided more than 706,000 meals to 4,828 families in the Lewistown, Shamokin and Scranton areas. To make a donation to the program, visit donations.geisinger.org and select Fresh Food Farmacy in the dropdown menu.
