Steamtown National Historic Site Offering Paid Internship Opportunity Steamtown National Historic Site has an opening for a Community Volunteer Ambassador (CVA) – a paid 48-week internship with the National Park Service between September 9, 2024 – August 8, 2025. The park is seeking a reliable, creative, and outgoing person to join our team and with a goal to build and develop a park-wide Safety Campaign. The CVA will be responsible for producing videos, social media content, graphic design, print publications, and safety-geared programming at Steamtown National Historic Site. Additionally, they will contribute to park efforts in community outreach, volunteer service, and interpretive and educational programming.The position includes a weekly stipend of $600, limited health care/childcare benefits, housing allowance, and professional development funds PLUS eligibility for both an AmeriCorps Education Award $6,895.00 (pre-tax) AND Public Land Corps Hiring Authority upon successful completion of the program.To be eligible, applicants must be high school graduates, between the ages of 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans), a US citizen or permanent resident, and comfortable working outside for extended periods of time.Interested individuals must apply by July 7, 2024!
Keystone College Opens Pet Friendly Residence Hall Keystone College will soon have some new “residents” but it’s not accurate to refer to them as actual “students.” For the first time in its 156-year history, Keystone will offer a pet friendly residence hall as a housing option beginning in the fall 2024 semester. Tewksbury Hall has been designated as a “pet friendly residence” for students residing there. The new designation applies not only to pets, usually dogs, classified as emotional support animals, but also to other traditional, non-emotional support pets as well. The four-story residence hall has two floors of male residents and two floors of female residents. “During the last few years, we have seen a steady increase in students requesting a pet friendly residence hall option, not just for emotional-support animals but for other pets too,” said Keystone Assistant Vice President of Student Life Carlyle Hicks. “Because of that, we felt the time has arrived to offer this new option to our students.” Of course, there are specifications as to the number and types of pets’ students may bring into the residence hall, as well as other rules which must be followed. For example, each residence hall room may contain one dog, and one cat or two small caged animals such as gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Dog breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, and wolf hybrids are not permitted. Other requirements include such items as certified spay and neuter records, pet tags, and photos of each animal. Liability insurance is also recommended, and roommates must agree to having a pet in the room. So far, a few students have asked to bring their pets to campus, but Mr. Hicks expects the number of requests to increase as word of the pet friendly option spreads. “Certainly, maintaining safe and sanitary conditions is a priority and we expect students who bring pets into their room to abide by all the stipulations we have so that everyone has a positive experience, and that includes the pets themselves,” Mr. Hicks said. In recent years, emotional support animals have become important factors in the therapeutic treatment of young people, including college students. Colleges and universities have also realized, that, in addition to providing support for students dealing with documented medical conditions, pets can often provide comfort, entertainment, and friendship while boosting morale and comradery in a residence hall setting. Other colleges which have opened some form of pet friendly residences in recent years include Penn Western University/Clarion, Lock Haven Commonwealth University, Johnson & Wales University, and Stetson University, among others. “We are always willing to explore new ways to bolster our students’ educational and life experiences at Keystone. The opening of our first pet friendly residence hall is definitely something that will provide that type of beneficial result,” said Mr. Hicks.
Marywood University Sets Summer Open House Marywood University will hold a summer undergraduate open house for high school students and their parents on Saturday, July 13, 2024, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. in the Fireplace Lounge at the Nazareth Student Center on the University’s campus, and the last campus tour departs at 1:45 p.m. A complementary continental breakfast and lunch are included in the event. During the open house, prospective students can walk through the student services & organizations fair and find out how Marywood students fit in and have fun on campus. In addition, students will be able to explore various majors at an academic fair, learn more about the admissions process, visit an academic department of their choice and spend some time with faculty, as well as chat with varsity coaches and tour Marywood’s campus. For more information and to register, visit marywood.edu/openhouse, email YourFuture@marywood.edu, or call Marywood University’s admissions office at (570) 348-6234.
Allied Services Announces Promotion Allied Services Integrated Health System is proud to announce the promotion of James Cooney, HSE, NHA, to the position of Senior Vice President of Skilled Operations. In his role, James oversees the operations of the system’s skilled nursing facilities, personal care facilities, and continuing care retirement community. With over 25 years of experience in post-acute care, James brings a wealth of expertise to his position. His innovative approach to oversight and operational management has led his facilities to achieve superior outcomes, earning recognition for Excellence in Long-Term Care by U.S. News and World Report. James’s extensive knowledge of regulatory affairs and strategic policy insight has also earned him an appointment as a Board Member of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association. In this capacity, he advocates for the needs of the more than 5,000 residents and patients served by Allied Services, as well as the broader population of older adults in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Dedicated to modernizing long-term care, James is committed to providing high-quality services in upscale yet comfortable environments, tailored to the individual needs of the aging community. His efforts were recognized in 2020 when he was named one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Top 20 Business Professionals Under 40. Colleagues commend James for his persistence in staying current with evolving regulations, a quality that greatly benefits his associates.
FNCB Bank Auditor Receives Credential FNCB Bank, locally based since 1910, today announced that Stephanie McDonald, Staff Auditor, was recently awarded the Certified Internal Auditor (“CIA”) professional cedential conferred by the Institude of Internal Auditors. The Institute of Internal Auditors is the only globally recognized internal audit certification, and the CIA designation is the optimum way to communicate knowledge, skills and competencies to effectively carry out professional responsibilities for any internal audit anywhere in the world. In adding the CIA credential to her accomplishments, Stephanie will stand out and demonstrate she is: A credible and trusted internal auditor. A true expert who understands and can apply the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. A stronger, more competent professional who is knowledgeable in organizational governance. Committed to the profession of internal auditing and equipped for career-advancing opportunities. Differentiated from her peers. Ms. McDonald joined FNCB Bank in 2010 and has held several positions including Marketing Assistant and Purchasing Coordinator. Ms. McDonald is a graduate of Scranton H.S., Luzerne County Community College and King’s College where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree. She resides in Throop, with her husband, Jim, and son, Dylan. About FNCB Bank FNCB Bank, locally-based since 1910, continues as one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s premier community banks — offering a full suite of personal, small business, mortgage and commercial banking solutions with industry-leading mobile, online and in-branch products and services. FNCB remains dedicated to the communities they serve with an on-going mission to make your banking experience simply better. Voted Best Bank and Best Place to Work. Named one of the top 200 Community Banks in America. For more information on the BauerFinancial 5-Star rated FNCB, visit www.fncb.com.
Geisinger Recognized for Diversity Practices Geisinger has earned designation as an “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC). The designation was awarded in the HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), released in May. Of 1,065 healthcare facilities that participated in the HEI 2024 survey and scoring process, Geisinger is just one of 462 organizations to receive this designation. The recognition speaks to Geisinger’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices and creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for patients, members and employees. Among several categories, Geisinger scored high for its DEI practices listed below: Bias elimination and welcoming interactions: Geisinger recently established a systemwide policy to address issues related to patient and visitor misconduct. Geisinger’s Office of DEI hosts a monthly education and training session for all staff focused on SAFER, a model that helps guide employees when responding to verbal or physical harassment and discriminatory behavior. Electronic Health Records (EHR) sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data: In 2019, Geisinger clinicians started gathering SOGI information in its EHR platform, Epic. This effort has been ongoing to better understand patients’ healthcare needs, address health disparities and provide high-quality care to everyone. Pronouns in EHR: In 2019, Geisinger also started collecting patients’ pronouns in Epic, along with veteran status and other demographic information, which helps clinicians better meet patients’ individual needs. Comprehensive benefits for domestic partners: Geisinger provides medical coverage and other health benefits to domestic partners of benefits-eligible employees, as long as shared residence is proven. Employee resource groups: Geisinger’s officially recognized LGBTQ+ employee resource group Geisinger — People Ready for Inclusion, Diversity and Equality (G-PRIDE) exists to foster a welcoming, caring and inclusive environment for employees of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions. Community engagement and support: Each year, Geisinger supports, participates in and sponsors several LGBTQ+-related events and initiatives in communities across its service area. “We’re honored to be acknowledged by the HRC’s HEI for our ongoing commitment to promote inclusivity and equity at Geisinger,” said Kim Drumgo, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “This achievement reminds us of the positive impact we can make together by being champions of humanity and making a difference in the lives of others.” This year’s HEI comes as LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely as non-LGBTQ+ adults to be “treated unfairly or with disrespect by a doctor or healthcare provider” in the last three years, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. The impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation combined with a history of discrimination in healthcare settings has the potential to cause even more LGBTQ+ people to delay or avoid seeking healthcare, which makes the HEI even more salient for those looking to find LGBTQ+-inclusive care.
NEPA Philharmonic to Perform at Jaya’s Annual on the Roof On Thursday, July 4th, at 9 AM, Hilary Steinberg of Jaya Yoga in Clarks Summit, and the Marketplace at Steamtown will sponsor the eleventh annual Yoga on the Roof, which includes one hour of yoga accompanied by live music played by Philharmonic musicians. The yoga practice will be followed by treats compliments of Maximum Zen. This event is a favorite way to launch to Independence Day celebrations and benefits the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic’s educational and outreach programs. A five-minute mediation led by Lisa Rigau will open the event. Leading the yoga practice will be Jaya Yoga’s owner Hilary Steinberg, and instructor Lily Mackarey. Featured musicians are Leah Valenches, Juliet Valenches, and Peter Brubaker. Yoga on the Roof is a unique event in Northeastern Pennsylvania, taking place on the morning of the holiday overlooking historic downtown Scranton. Participants are invited to pre-register at nepaphil.org until Tuesday, July 2nd. Walk ins are welcome. All are asked to arrive by 8:45 AM on Thursday, July 4th, rain or shine. A donation of $20 is requested. The Philharmonic projects that directly benefit from Yoga on the Roof are Music in our Schools, Meet the Maestra, Young People’s Concerts, a juried mentoring program for talented high school music students, musical performances in senior living centers and a new initiative for tots in regional libraries. Pre-registration is also available by calling the Philharmonic at 570.270.4444. For additional information about Yoga on the Roof, please contact hilary@jayayogastudio.com. The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic is a fully professional symphony orchestra performing in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties. Music Director and Conductor is Mélisse Brunet. For additional information about the Philharmonic, sponsorship opportunities, and concerts, please call (570) 270-4444.
Treasurer Stacy Garrity Applauds Senate for State Tax Appeal Reform Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity applauded the Senate for its bipartisan approval of Senate Bill 1051 yesterday, pro-taxpayer legislation sponsored by Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21) to streamline and improve the process of resolving tax disputes with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (DOR). SB 1051 will allow the Board of Finance and Revenue (BF&R) to accept late-filed applications in certain circumstances and to create a new independent, mediated settlement process for taxpayers as an alternative to the formal and lengthy court appeals process. “The current tax appeal process tends to be bureaucratic, cumbersome and inflexible,” Treasurer Garrity said. “It’s a huge burden on too many individuals and businesses with legitimate tax appeals – we need to improve this process. Sen. Hutchinson’s legislation will create an even playing field for Pennsylvania taxpayers, and it will help tax issues get resolved more quickly. I applaud the Senate for approving this commonsense, taxpayer-friendly legislation.” “My colleagues and I have found that, sometimes, the Department of Revenue can get a little overzealous when interpreting applicable tax law,” Sen. Hutchinson said. “Senate Bill 1051 gives taxpayers a little more time and some options when responding to assessments by the Department, while also benefiting our Commonwealth by resolving tax issues sooner and allowing tax liabilities to be collected more quickly. Plain and simple, SB 1051 is a taxpayer protection proposal that makes a complicated system clearer, simpler and taxpayer-friendly – it’s a win-win for all parties.” SB 1051 is supported by numerous organizations, including the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the NFIB, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), and the Pennsylvania Society of Enrolled Agents. A companion bill, House Bill 1994, was introduced by Rep. Tim Briggs (D-29). Currently, taxpayers who disagree with a final decision made by DOR have a 60-day deadline to appeal the decision to BF&R. That often leads to cases being dismissed on a technicality rather than being decided on their merits. SB 1051 will allow BF&R to accept late-filed applications if good cause is shown by the taxpayer and neither party would be prejudiced. The bill also empowers BF&R to create an independent settlement process, which will allow more tax disputes to be resolved without a final Board decision – thus reducing litigation costs for taxpayers. Under current law, BF&R has no authority to direct a mediated settlement process. Treasury estimates that up to 500 cases annually could be resolved under this process. BF&R receives approximately 4,200 appeals annually. The Board must resolve each appeal within six months of its filing, absent an extension request; otherwise, the underlying DOR decision is upheld. Currently, only about 13 percent of eligible appeals are resolved through settlement prior to an appeal before the Commonwealth Court. 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. The 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.
Scranton Counseling Center New Psychological Assessment Hire Scranton Counseling Center recently hired Dr. Allison to provide Psychological Assessment services. Dr. Allison is a licensed psychologist and a graduate of Marywood University. She enjoys a variety of work-related activities including providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment for many types of presenting issues and engages in supervision of psychological trainees. She also has specialized training and experience in the treatment of serious mental illness and is a big proponent of the recovery model. Prior to joining the Scranton Counseling Center team, Dr. Allison worked at a community mental health agency outside of Kansas City, Missouri.
Keystone Mission’s Day of Planting Sprouts New Beginnings Keystone Mission’s guests, volunteers, and staff gathered to sow the fruits of their labor on May 31 to celebrate a day of planting for the Seeds of Hope Community Garden. This joyous occasion marked a milestone in the program’s journey to benefit the Scranton community by providing access to healthy foods, the ability to cultivate new relationships, and the promotion of fellowship among neighbors.The success of this day wouldn’t have been possible without the efforts of numerous other volunteers who selflessly contributed their time and energy. “This has been a culmination of a lot of hard work and over six weeks of planning,” said Michael McAllister, a Seeds of Hope volunteer. McAllister donated numerous hours and resources to make the project possible. “This is going to be great!” Reggie, a guest from Keystone Mission’s Pathfinder Vocational Program, eagerly joined in the planting activities. His excitement mirrored the anticipation shared by all participants, especially those facing homelessness. Seeds of Hope represents an opportunity for personal growth and self-sufficiency. By actively participating in the planting process, individuals like Reggie become not only recipients but also contributors to the garden’s success.
