Pennsylvania Treasury Launches New Portal for Tax Appeals Treasurer Stacy Garrity Launches New Portal to Simplify Pennsylvania Tax Appeals Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced the launch of the new online Tax Appeal Portal to streamline Pennsylvania’s tax appeal process. Taxpayers and tax practitioners filing appeals with the Department of Revenue (DOR) through the Board of Finance & Revenue (BF&R) can now find all applicable forms in one convenient online location. “Making the tax appeal process easier makes sense on every level,” Treasurer Garrity said. “This new tool makes it simpler and more efficient to file an appeal, and it’s a great example of focusing on how we can make government work better for the taxpayers.” To use the Tax Appeal Portal, taxpayers and tax practitioners will first create a password-protected account. Password verification is required for enhanced security. Once an account is created, users can: File a petition; Upload supporting documents; Request a hearing continuance; Request a compromise directly with the DOR; Request a mediated settlement conference (for appeals filed on or after January 27, 2025); and Take advantage of other features. Those using the Tax Appeal Portal will be able to see all petitions they have filed through the Portal and verify any documents that were previously uploaded. BF&R is an independent administrative tax tribunal, administered by the State Treasurer, responsible for the second and final level of administrative appeal (with minor exceptions) before appealing to court. Its Board consists of three members – two are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate; the third is the State Treasurer or her designee and serves as Chair. For more information about BF&R’s new Tax Appeal Portal, visit patreasury.gov/bfr.
PennDOT to Host ‘REAL ID Day’ at Tunkhannock Driver License Center To help ensure Pennsylvanians are prepared for the upcoming federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that it will hold special REAL ID service hours at its Tunkhannock Driver License Center at 600 Hunter Highway Suite 12, Tunkhannock on February 10, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. “We’re committed to ensuring our customers are ready for the REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025,” said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “By offering special hours on a day when our centers are typically closed, we’re providing an additional opportunity for those who want to obtain a REAL ID and be prepared. We are always looking for ways to provide a better service to residents and our REAL ID Days accomplishes that mission.” More than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have chosen to opt into the REAL ID program. Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning May 7, 2025, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant license/identification card, or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to: Board domestic commercial flights. Enter a military base. Enter certain federal facilities that require a federally acceptable form of ID. If you’re not sure whether a REAL ID is right for you, our REAL ID online wizard may be able to help. Federal REAL ID regulations require that PennDOT must verify the below documents: Proof of Identity: examples include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal, or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport. Proof of Social Security Number (proof must display currently legal name and full nine digits of the Social Security Number): examples include a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub. Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address: examples include a current, unexpired PA driver’s license or identification card, vehicle registration, or a utility bill with the same name and address. Proof of all Legal Name Changes (if current legal name is different than what is reflected on proof of identity document): examples include certified marriage certificate(s) issued by the County Court for each marriage, court order(s) approving a change in legal name, or adoption decree issued by your county’s family court. Note: If current name is the same as what is reflected on the proof of identity document (usually birth certificate or passport), show proof of legal name change does not need to be shown. More information about REAL ID document requirements can be found on PennDOT’s REAL ID website. When a customer gets their first REAL ID product, they will pay a one-time fee of $30, plus the applicable renewal fee (the current renewal fee is $39.50 for a four-year non-commercial driver’s license and $42.50 for a photo ID). The expiration date of their initial REAL ID product will include any time remaining on their existing non-REAL ID product, plus an additional four years, unless the customer is over 65 and has a two-year license. This expiration date structure means that the customer won’t lose time that they’ve already paid for. After the initial REAL ID product expires, the customer will pay no additional fee beyond regular renewal fees to renew a REAL ID product. After customers present the proper documentation and pay the applicable fee, customers may obtain a REAL ID-compliant product by: Receiving the product in the mail within 15 days, if application was made at a Driver License Center, such as the Tunkhannock Driver License Center. Receiving the product over the counter, if application was made at one of PennDOT’s 15 REAL ID Centers. Customers who received their first Pennsylvania driver’s license, learner’s permit, or photo ID card AFTER September 1, 2003, may already have their REAL ID documentation on file with PennDOT. These customers can apply for REAL ID pre-verification and order their REAL ID-compliant product online. For a full list of driver license centers, REAL ID Centers, and services offered, please visit the PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website and click on Find A Location. For more information on REAL ID, visit PennDOT’s REAL ID website. REAL ID is optional for Pennsylvanians, but will be required for domestic air travel and entry to certain federal facilities after the May 7, 2025, deadline. A passport will still be required for international travel. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
NEPA Youth For Christ Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Grammy-Nominated Artist Celebrate 30 years of working in the lives of teenagers and young parents with NEPA Youth For Christ. Grammy-nominated, four Dove award winner artist Brandon Heath is the special guest at the 30th Anniversary Banquet. Doors open at 5 for the silent auction. The banquet starts at 6 PM. Tickets: $45 a person Sponsorships are available.
NAMI Collaborates with Owl & Friends to Provide Support for Maternal Mental Health The expression ‘bundle of joy’ is often used in reference to a newborn baby, but for many women, it is not joy that’s being experienced, instead, it’s perinatal or postpartum depression or another mood disorder. NAMI Northeast Region PA (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and the newly opened business Owl & Friends in Wayne County are collaborating to offer parents the opportunity for education, support and community all in one place. NAMI Northeast Region has been offering its Momma Bears support group meetings at no cost to individuals affected by pre- and postnatal mental health struggles since February of 2022, and has recently teamed up with Owl & Friends so meeting attendees can be in a space created specifically for parents of children who are ages infant to 5 years old. On Thursday, February 13, NAMI’s Momma Bears support group will begin meeting at Owl & Friends, 809 Main St. in Honesdale at noon and continue to meet there on the second Thursday of every month. NAMI’s Executive Director Marie Onukiavage said, “Helen Keller’s quote ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,’ reflects the truth in our collaboration with Owl & Friends and what owner Ashley Springer has created in this space: ‘a community hub for growth and fun.’ NAMI wants anyone who is struggling with pre- or postpartum mental health to know that they are not alone, and mental health recovery through support and education is possible.” Support groups like these are vital given that in the U.S., 1 in 5 women experience a mental health disorder in the months before or after giving birth — and the vast majority of them never get care, according to an article published to the Association of American Medical Colleges website in December of 2023. Owl & Friends grew out of founder Ashley Springer’s search for connection with other moms and activities for her three children who are 4 months, 4 and 6 years old in one convenient location. With her four-month-old child napping on her chest, Springer said, “I was spending time trying to find events on Facebook and driving all around to different places and I was using too much mental energy and time in the car.” In addition to helping parents save energy and time by having one central location for activities, drop-in playtime, and support group meetings, Springer said the ability to connect with other moms is crucial. “I found that I needed to get out to talk to people, to feel like a human being, not a milk machine. I was inspired to create a place that feels like home and isn’t just a class, it’s a community where you can talk to other people going through what you’re going through,” Springer said. In addition to the monthly Momma Bears support group meetings that are open to the public, NAMI will offer monthly workshops for Owl & Friends’ members beginning on February 27. NAMI Services Leader and Momma Bears facilitator Katie Spencer said, “To be located where moms and families gather for community and support for their growing families aligns with NAMI’s mission of helping and supporting individuals and families find hope, support, and education. We are grateful for this collaboration and are looking forward to helping pregnant and postpartum moms feel heard, validated, and supported.” Owl & Friends will have a soft opening for the public to visit starting February 15 with a grand opening party scheduled for March 1. Follow Owl & Friends PA on Facebook for upcoming events. To learn about all of NAMI’s resources to help individuals living with mental illness and their families, visit NAMINEPA.org and follow NAMI NEPA on Facebook and Instagram.
Mohegan Pennsylvania, Love is in the Air Valentine’s Day specials available Friday, February 14th – Sunday, February 16th; The Lalas to headline the Keystone Grand Ballroom on Friday, February 14th Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and so is the opportunity to treat that certain someone to delicious food and drink specials at Mohegan Pennsylvania. Specials are offered Friday, February 14th through Sunday, February 16th. Those looking for the full Valentine’s Day experience can also catch The Lalas take over the Keystone Grand Ballroom for an equally hilarious and sexy show at 9:00pm. The Hive Taphouse will feature a special $75 dinner that includes an appetizer to share, choice of soup or salad, two entrées, and a decadent desert to share. The app choices are Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Classic Shrimp Cocktail, or Margherita Flatbread followed by either a House salad, Classic Ceaser Salad, or Lobster Bisque. The main entrée offers guests either a Neptune’s Kiss: Twin jumbo lump crab cakes with cognac stone ground mustard aioli, Cupid’s Steakhouse; 12-oz. carved prime rib of beef served with classis au jus and horseradish cream sauce, or The Love Shack: Twin pan-seared European chicken breasts with a porcini mushroom and caramelized onion demi-glace. To finish the meal, guests can choose either a Fresh Wild Berry Shortcake or Triple Chocolate Cake to share. The Hive Taphouse will also feature a Queen of Hearts Martini, a Peach Pomegranate Mimosa, and sparking wine by the glass or bottle as their Valentine’s Day inspired drink specials. Over at Molly O’Sheas, guests can enjoy a four-course dinner for two. This $69 special dinner includes an appetizer to share, choice of soup or salad, two entrées, and a mouthwatering desert to share. The app choices are Peel & Eat Shrimp, Sausage and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms, or Crabby Dip with Toasted Pretzel Dippers followed by either Molly’s Beef & Mushroom Soup, a Classic Caesar Salad, or a Pub Side Salad. The main entrée offers guests either Prime Rib served with baby carrots, Guinness gravy and red skin mashed potatoes, Honey Bourbon Glazed Pork served with brussels sprouts & bacon and red skin mashed potatoes, or Beer Brined Roasted Chicken served with a side of sweet corn and red skin mashed potatoes. To finish the meal, guests can choose either Sweet Strawberries or Cheesecake to share. Molly O’Sheas will also feature Lovers Knot, Kiss me I’m Irish, and sparkling wine by the glass or bottle as their drink specials. Those looking for more of an Italian Mediterranean-influenced menu can head over to Rustic Kitchen where they’ll be featuring two appetizers and two entrées. To start, guests can choose between Fried Fresh Mozzarella ($14) which consists of fried fresh panko & herb crusted mozzarella with an arugula salad & marinara and a Berry Burrata Salad ($15) which is made up of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, burrata, and toasted pecans over mixed greens in an orange poppyseed dressing. For the main course, guests have the option of Surf & Turf ($75) which consists of a 7oz. filet mignon and an 8oz. Brazilian lobster tail with a béarnaise sauce and drawn butter, served with grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes or Cajun Shrimp & Crab Pasta ($42) featuring house-made pappardelle pasta with jump lump crab and shrimp in a Cajun roasted pepper cream sauce. Slice’d will also be getting in on the Valentine’s Day specials action by offering a Heart-Shaped Cheese Pizza with a choice of two toppings and a Sinfully Chocolate Desert Pizza which consists of Nutella spread, chocolate chips, marshmallows, and strawberry garnishes. Those looking to fall in love with Mohegan Pennsylvania’s Valentine’s Day entertainment can head over to the Keystone Grand Ballroom for The Lalas, one of the best in burlesque. Doors for this special Valentine’s Day performance open at 8:00pm and the show kicks off at 9:00pm. Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased with Momentum Dollars and all other forms of payment at the Mohegan Pennsylvania Box Office located at the Hotel Front Desk, subject to availability. Guests must be 21+ to attend this show. For more information about Valentine’s Day at Mohegan Pennsylvania, visit the Mohegan Pennsylvania website.
Misericordia University, Transfer to Finish Your Master’s Degree Misericordia makes it easy to transfer your existing graduate credits and finish your master’s degree! Make it a goal for 2025. Did you start your graduate education journey but get sidetracked along the way? Finish your master’s with our flexible MS in Professional Practice! Finish your journey—become a Master in your education and rise up in the workplace. Master’s in Professional Practice, Transfer Your Graduate Credits, Finish Your Master’s, Don’t Waste Those Credits! To learn more, please visit https://www.misericordia.edu/graduate-education/professional-practice/
Jeannine Luby’s Donor-Advised Humor Fund Distributes Grant to Abington Library The Scranton Area Community Foundation recently awarded the Abington Community Library with a grant from the donor-advised Humor Therapy Fund developed in 2005 at the request of Jeannine Luby, who initiated the idea for this fund as part of her graduate work at Marywood University. The goal of the Fund is to help area nonprofits spread therapeutic humor and laughter to their clients, employees and/or community members. Luby continues to raise money for the Fund annually and advises on grant disbursement each year. The Abington Library received this year’s grant to fund their ‘Laughter Lab’ project to be held in April for teens in the Abington community. Teens will benefit from the opportunity to connect, express their humor and creativity, and experience stress relief from humor and laughter as they learn comedy improv from instructors at Scranton Improv and Comedy and stress-relieving laughter yoga that will be donated by Luby from her business Laugh to Live! Participants of the Laughter Lab will also receive humor toolkits and have an opportunity to show off their improv skills in a comedy performance that will be follow the April workshop at a later date. Past recipients of The Humor Therapy Fund grant include: Boys and Girls Clubs of Northeastern Pennsylvania, NAMI Northeast Region PA, Goodwill Industries of Northeast PA, Serving Seniors, Meals on Wheels, Volunteers in Medicine, and Laughing At My Nightmare. To donate to the Fund or learn about how your nonprofit can apply for next year’s grant, visit: https://safdn.org/the-humor-therapy-fund/.
Grey Towers Heritage Association Partners with Delaware Valley High School Grey Towers Heritage Association is now partnering with Delaware Valley High School to benefit students, parents, teachers and GTHA. “We’re proud and privileged to announce that Grey Towers Heritage Association is now working closely in collaboration with Delaware Valley High School to create opportunities for students to develop their talents, volunteer in community organizations, and gain credits for community work,” states Eileen Smith, President of GTHA. Students will have opportunities to apply their skills in social media and other areas by partnering with GTHA to publicize and participate in GTHA events. “We want to spread the word, especially to students and their parents, that Grey Towers isn’t just a beautiful castle on a hill, but a place that invites all community members to take advantage of the natural beauty of the mansion grounds,” explains Emma Ciancio, Editor-in-Chief of DVHS’s Del.Aware school paper. “Through our print and online versions of the school paper, the Del.Aware team will be helping Grey Towers Heritage attract teens and their families to hike year-round and engage in community events featuring art, music, and history in a fun, natural environment spanning 102 acres.” “We’re proud of our students for accepting the invitation to team with GTHA,” adds DVHS Principal Louis DeLauro. “Engaging in these activities provides new opportunities for our students to participate in community life and in some cases, earn credits for doing so. This also shows well on resumes and applications for colleges and jobs.” For more information about Grey Towers Heritage Association and student volunteer opportunities, students and parents may visit greytowers.org or speak to Emma Ciancio at the school.
The Greater Scranton YMCA Provides Tips and Programs During Heart Month February is American Heart Month, and with recently published research indicating blood pressure control has worsened in both men an woman since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Greater Scranton YMCA urges our community members to make their health a priority by getting a blood pressure screening. Blood pressure guidelines from American Heart Association indicate that nearly half of all Americans (46 percent) have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is often referred to as “The Silent Killer” because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms. While high blood pressure and heart disease are serious conditions, the good news is a healthy heart is an achievable goal through lifestyle changes such as regularly monitoring your own blood pressure, lowering sodium intake, eating healthier, and getting more physical activity. Getting help can be as easy as contacting the Y and taking part in The Greater Scranton YMCA is continuing its increased availability of the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program – which is part of the CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program. The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps adults at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles to help reduce their chances of developing the disease. Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and people with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or suffer a stroke as those who do not have it. The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program provides a supportive environment where participants work together in a small group to learn about eating healthier, increasing their physical activity and making other behavior changes with the goal of reducing body weight by 7 percent in order to reduce their risk for developing diabetes. A trained Lifestyle Coach leads the program over a 12-month period. Increased physical activity and moderate weight loss not only reduce diabetes risk, but also have an impact on lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. In addition to monitoring your blood pressure, reducing sodium intake is a great way to keep your heart healthy. Per the American Heart Association (AHA), too much sodium in your system puts an extra burden on your heart and blood vessels. In some people, this may lead to or raise high blood pressure. Everyone, including kids, should reduce their sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day (about 1 teaspoon of salt). Having less sodium in your diet may help you lower or avoid high blood pressure. “While there are many ways to keep your heart healthy, making a conscious effort to tackle your blood pressure and decrease sodium intake are two quick, effective ways to prevent heart disease,” said Brandon Whipple, Senior Program Director, Greater Scranton YMCA. “No matter what your heart health goal is this year, the Y has a variety of resources to help you get started and achieve them.” The Greater Scranton YMCA offers a community of diverse individuals who can support all people in meeting their health and well-being goals. Learn more by visiting https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/ or stopping into the Y.
Geisinger Publishes Series for Heart Month—Signs of Heart Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore Signs of heart disease may show up unexpectedly. But these clues should lead you to your doctor’s office. By: Gregory Yost, D.O., interventional cardiology, Geisinger Bleeding gums may not seem like a serious issue. But if it becomes chronic, you might be surprised to hear that it can be a clear warning your heart isn’t working as it should. While pressure or tightness in the chest and a rapid, irregular heartbeat are primary signs of heart disease, there are other symptoms that can be less obvious — yet just as dangerous. And ignoring these subtle signs of heart disease can lead to serious heart trouble, like a heart attack or stroke. Identifying all signs of heart trouble and then responding to them is key to help prevent heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Even if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get a symptom checked out — especially if you have risk factors for heart disease. Preventing heart disease is an important step in living a long, healthy life. 6 subtle signs of heart disease Chest pain that may radiate to the neck, jar or arms, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and numbness set off alarm bells that will send most of us straight to the doctor’s office. But not all heart problems come with clear warning signs. If you have some of these lesser-known signs of heart disease, don’t wait to contact your provider. Waiting puts you at higher risk for a serious heart event to occur. Exhaustion and weakness While exhaustion alone isn’t a sign of heart disease, chronic exhaustion and weakness can be, especially if you’re getting sufficient rest. Your energy levels are directly related to blood flow and oxygen levels. A healthy heart constantly pumps oxygen-carrying blood through your body. But if there are underlying problems with your heart, it might not work as efficiently. As a result, you may begin to feel tired after routine activities — or even confused. Because oxygen isn’t reaching your muscles and brain as it normally does, weakness and fatigue become obvious. If you’re often feeling exhausted and weak, even with sufficient rest, consult with your healthcare provider to find a cause. Swollen feet Swollen feet are a more subtle sign of potential heart concerns. In fact, your socks and shoes can make it difficult to notice your feet are swollen in the first place. But why would your feet swell if you have heart problems? Because your heart regulates blood flow, and slow blood flow can cause pressure to build up in your legs, leading to edema. Edema is the buildup of fluid in the body’s tissues. Typically, edema related to heart problems can be seen in the legs and feet. Any sign of heart failure or reduced function is serious, so talk to your doctor if you notice swelling in your feet. Dizziness, light-headedness, and shortness of breath Slow blood flow and low oxygen levels in the brain and lungs can lead to feeling dizzy, light-headed and short of breath. And it’s especially important to notice if you have these symptoms without rigorous activity. If activities, like going up the stairs or going about your daily life, consistently make you dizzy or out of breath, don’t ignore them. Dizziness and being out of breath are both examples of your body telling you that you need more oxygen. Migraines Migraines are intense headaches that are bad enough on their own. Some research suggests migraines with auras may be linked to heart problems, but more studies are needed on the connection between these health issues. If you have migraines with auras, take note of any new changes in symptoms of your headache. Newly developed weakness in your arms during a migraine could be a sign of heart disease. Swollen and bleeding gums Swollen or bleeding gums may not be the biggest indicator of heart health, but studies show a possible correlation. Recent research has revealed that your mouth can show your heart health. In fact, some of the same bacteria found in your mouth can be found in your heart. So, if you have high levels of bacteria and swelling in your mouth, it’s wise to get your heart checked, too. While the relationship between heart health and oral health isn’t clearly understood, consistent swollen and bleeding gums could be a sign of heart issues. Sweating Sweating while exercising is normal. Breaking out in a sweat while watching TV is not. We sweat to keep our body temperature at a regular level. So, why would you sweat when you aren’t active or it’s not hot outside? Heart failure makes pumping blood more difficult, so your heart must work harder. When your heart struggles to pump blood consistently, it generates heat. To compensate, your body starts sweating to keep your body temperature normal. If you’re having serious episodes of sweating when you shouldn’t be, talk to your doctor. Many of these symptoms alone aren’t signs of heart disease, but chronic issues can be or at least a sign of an underlying condition. It’s a good idea to get regular checkups — and live a heart-healthy lifestyle — to take the pressure off. Heart disease risk factors All these subtle signs are even more important to report if they’re combined with other heart disease risk factors, such as if you: Are overweight or obese Smoke, use drugs and alcohol Have a high level of stress Eat a diet high in sodium and saturated fat Don’t exercise regularly Have a family history of heart disease Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol Have diabetes If any of these heart disease risk factors apply to you, talk to your doctor to create a heart health plan. Awareness is the first step in managing your heart health. While genetics do play a role in heart disease, there are risk factors that can be reversed by taking the proper steps and precautions. Left untreated, heart disease can cause a heart attack — when blood flow is severely reduced to the heart. Watch for the subtler symptoms that can indicate a possible heart condition. If you have them, be sure to tell your healthcare provider. When you bring these issues to their attention earlier, they can screen you for heart disease — and plan to keep your ticker going strong for the long haul. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance.
