Settlers Hospitality 8th Annual Wally Wine Fest Visitors to the Settlers Hospitality 8th Annual Wally Wine Fest, May 31-June 2, at the Waterfront at Silver Birches can soak in all the festivities lakeside. For the first time, the event will feature indoor and outdoor activities including two stages with live music. Wally Wine Fest draws thousands of attendees over three days to sample vintages from more than 100 domestic and international labels. Wineries from as far away as New Zealand, Italy, France, Napa Valley and the Pacific Northwest are represented as well as varietals grown and produced in Northeastern Pennsylvania. “Holding Wally Wine Fest this time of year allows us to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor spaces at Silver Birches,” explains Justin Genzlinger, CEO/Owner, Settlers Hospitality. “We’ll have a tent on the lakeside lawn with wine samplings and vendors to shop.” Claude Briere, sommelier for Settlers Hospitality, personally selects each wine. Briere is a renowned wine expert who travels the globe as a consultant and lecturer advising on wine selections, pairings and service. Novice wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample a variety of pours and discover which wine suits their palate. Wine connoisseurs will relish the opportunity to interact one-on-one with wine makers, restauranteurs and sommeliers who are knowledgeable in flavor profiles, can discuss the differences among wine, grapes and varietals, plus point out the notes to be enjoyed for each. Bottles of every wine featured are available for sale. With prices ranging from $10-$100, there’s something to match every taste and budget. An indoor and outdoor marketplace will overflow with fine food, gift items and decor fit for wine lovers– all available for purchase. Visitors may shop offerings from places such as Art on the Edge, which features home/wine décor. Grain to Glory will showcase its handcrafted wooden American flags. A Silent Auction benefits Lake Wallenpaupack’s Fourth of July Fireworks and features overnight stays at some of the area’s finest accommodations plus gift cards to local restaurants and businesses. Golf and spa packages, as well as boat and paddle board rentals, are also up for grabs. Satellite events at other Hawley area venues extend the Wally Wine Fest celebration. On Friday, May 31, The Settlers Inn hosts a Spring Has Sprung Wine Dinner featuring pairings with the finest flavors of the season in a five-course meal. The Settlers Inn will also offer a Bubbly Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 am. to 2:30 p.m. Visitors may savor a prix fixe brunch menu, live music and a tasting flight of sparkling wine. Glass-wine.bar.kitchen at Ledges Hotel will present a special Cali Wine Tasting Dinner menu all weekend long featuring dishes such as grilled octopus and poached pheasant paired with fine Napa Valley wines. Wally Wine Fest at Silver Birches runs from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Everyone who attends receives a commemorative wine glass. Admission is $40 in advance or $50 at the door and includes 15 sampling tickets. The sampling tickets may be exchanged for wine tastings. A $50 VIP admission allows entry to the festival one hour early and 25 sampling tickets. The $200 Platinum admission price offers early entry, increases the sampling tickets to 25 and includes a seat at the Spring Has Sprung Wine Dinner at The Settlers Inn on May 31. Admission for designated drivers is $20. Tickets are available at wallywinefest.com
Scranton Cultural Center Announces Comedian Nick Swardson This November at the Scranton Cultural Center, brace yourselves for a comedy show like no other as comedian Nick Swardson embarks on his new stand-up tour, Toilet Head. Renowned for his unfiltered humor and razor-sharp wit, Swardson promises to tackle the hard-hitting issues of our time, from the discomforts of diarrhea to the highs and lows of edibles, all the way to the enigmatic charm of Norm MacDonald. Produced by Live Nation, the 37-city tour kicks off in September making stops across the U.S., with a performance at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple on November 23 at 7:00 PM. The show will take place in the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Theatre. With a career spanning over 26 years, Nick Swardson has cemented his status as a comedy legend. From his memorable collaborations with Adam Sandler to his scene-stealing role as Terry in “Reno 911,” and his unforgettable performances in cult classics like “Grandma’s Boy” and “Bucky Larson,” Swardson’s comedic prowess knows no bounds. Not to mention his own comedic creations, including Comedy Central’s “Pretend Time” and “Typical Rick.” As he gears up for his sixth stand-up special, audiences can expect nothing short of an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, surprises, and perhaps a few unexpected smells along the way. Nick Swardson’s unique brand of comedy transcends the ordinary, offering audiences an escape into a world where hilarity reigns supreme. For a full tour schedule, visit nickswardson.net Tickets start at $48.20. Doors will open at 6:30 PM and a cash bar and concessions will be available. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning May 17 at 10:00 AM at the Fidelity Bank Box Office at the SCC in person or by calling (570) 344-1111, or via Ticketmaster. For more information or to view a full schedule of events, visit SCCMT.org.
Keystone College Provides Update on its Future On Friday, May 17, 2024, Keystone College announced that it is in the final stages of executing a letter of intent and funding agreement with a strategic partner to create a new partnership that will provide Keystone with a roadmap for a long-term path forward. While details of the agreement are not yet public, the day-to-day operations of the College and its academic mission will remain essentially unchanged. Both parties felt that discussions had crossed a critical point which would allow the College to announce that an agreement is imminent. Any agreement will be subject to the final approval of the College’s accreditor, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which will be notified of the parties’ intentions as soon as the signed agreement is finalized. Approvals from the Pennsylvania Department of Higher Education and the United States Department of Education will also be necessary. During the review period, which may take up to a year, Keystone intends to continue uninterrupted operation of classes, as well as all other college activities and intercollegiate sports, and continues to accept and enroll freshman and transfer students for the Fall 2024 semester. Keystone will conclude its current academic year with its 153rd commencement on Saturday, May 18, on campus. “Keystone College is absolutely thrilled to reach this point in our discussions with our strategic partner,” said Keystone President John F. Pullo, Sr. “For the past several months, we continued to say we were hopeful that an agreement with an innovative partner could be reached while fulfilling every obligation to our accreditor to prepare for closure, should that be necessary. We are so thankful to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends who continued to believe in us as well as to the educational partners that are included in our teach-out plan. Since its founding in 1868, Keystone’s motto has been “Progress Through Effort” and we continue to work long and hard to secure a positive outcome so we can look to the future with promise and optimism. The agreement is just the beginning as there will be much work to do on our path forward in the days ahead. But we do have a path forward and we intend to work very closely with Middle States to ensure successful continuation of operations.” On May 15, the College submitted all of the necessary components of an “implementable teach-out plan” and institutional status report as requested by MSCHE. That plan is under review by MSCHE. “This partnership agreement demonstrates the need for innovation and forward-thinking in today’s highly competitive educational market,” said Tim Pryle, Vice President of Enrollment, Institutional Advancement and Marketing. “With a continued decline in college-age population, and other challenges, many colleges and universities across the nation, including Keystone, will continue to find themselves in financially difficult situations. The need to find and develop strong partnerships with organizations willing to share responsibilities, goals, and missions is becoming increasingly more important, even critical. We believe we have found just such an innovative and dedicated partner and are grateful to join with them on our journey.”
HNB Announces Application to Open New Office The Honesdale National Bank (HNB), in demonstration of its continued commitment to provide the power of community banking services to Northeastern Pennsylvania, announced its intentions to open a new location in Moscow, Pennsylvania. HNB has filed its official application to the Office of the Comptroller of Currency (OCC) to open a banking office at 330 N Main Street, Moscow PA 18444. “HNB is happy to announce our plans in Moscow to provide community banking services,” stated Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO at HNB. He continued, “Moscow is a natural extension of our current footprint. The opening of a local office will allow us to best invest in and support the needs of local residents and businesses so we may continue to grow together.”
Lackawanna College Announces Police Academy Cadet Graduation The Lackawanna College Police Academy will graduate the full-time Class 261 of Hazleton during the ceremony. The graduating classes includes 29 total cadets, who will begin their careers in law enforcement. Director of Police Academy Operations Kevin Mahoney will welcome those attending and present certifications to the cadets during the ceremony. Guest speaker Jenny Roberts, Esq. Assistant U.S. Attorney, will attend the ceremony to speak to the cadets. Tuesday, May 14 at 6:00 p.m. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Lackawanna College Peoples Security Bank Theater, Angeli Hall, 501 Vine St., Scranton, Pa. Media are requested to RSVP prior to attending the event. Contact Eric Eiden, media relations coordinator eidene@lackawanna.edu or 570-961-7807.
Clarks Summit University Celebrates 92nd Commencement Clarks Summit University celebrated graduates in their 92nd Commencement on May 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. in the Recreation Center on their Clarks Summit campus. CSU’s graduating class earned degrees in 50 programs of study, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral. 92nd Graduating Class 158 graduates were celebrated. The class represented a breadth of academic achievement with 16 different degree types, from associate to doctoral. 161 degrees were conferred across 50 programs of study, including business, counseling, education, organizational leadership, biology, health sciences, ministry and theology. Members of this graduating class hail from 27 states and 10 different countries, including Ethiopia, Japan, South Africa, United Kingdom and Brazil. First Program Graduates Among the graduates were the first graduates of CSU’s Master of Business Administration program. CSU launched the program last fall, and it has earned the distinction of “Best One-Year MBA” by Forbes Advisor. These first graduates completed their MBA online in less than one year. The first graduates with an undergraduate major of Intercultural Entrepreneurship were also part of this graduating class. The first graduates of the Master of Business Administration program are joined by faculty members. CSU president James Lytle, D.Min., speaks at the university’s 92nd Commencement. Commencement Service The invocation was given by Dena Cambra, M.Ed., vice president for Marketing and Communications. Assistant professor Brian Deschaine, M.Ed., read Colossians 1:9–14. The Concert Choir sang “Elijah Rock,” arranged by Roger Emerson, and “Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed,” by Keith and Kristyn Getty and Ed Cash, arranged by James Koerts. William Higley, Ph.D., vice president for academics, presented the candidates for graduation. CSU president James Lytle, D.Min., conferred degrees and spoke a prayer of dedication before the audience sang the university hymn, “Holding Fast the Faithful Word,” by Vera Stilwel and W.S. Miller, arranged by David Harris. Dr. Lytle also introduced the commencement speaker, Aaron Marshall, M.A. Commencement Speaker Marshall is the chair of CSU’s Board of Trustees. He spoke on the Colossians passage, challenging graduates to “Live a Worthy Life.” A two-time Clarks Summit University alumnus (’96, ’19), he is also the managing partner of TEAMMarshall LLLP. Marshall has served in pastoral roles and as past president and CEO of BCS, a technology deployment company. Aaron and his wife Jaye T. live in Arkansas and have three children. The couple started the JLE Marshall Endowment for Pediatric Oncology in 2011 to assist in bringing pediatric cancer treatment to Northwest Arkansas. Passionate about helping those experiencing homelessness, Aaron helped establish New Beginnings Village, providing a micro-shelter “bridge housing” community and access to services and programs which holistically help residents. Aaron Marshall, M.A., gives the commencement address at Clarks Summit University’s 92nd Commencement. In his volunteer role as community shepherd at Fellowship Bible Church of NWA, Aaron administrates small group ministry. He serves on the board of Arkansas Children’s Hospital Northwest and is president of the board of New Beginnings Northwest Arkansas. An instructor and two graduating scholar-athletes celebrate during CSU’s 92nd Commencement. Student Testimonies Students from various degree levels were selected to give graduate testimonies. Juan Izquierdo, from Kissimmee, Florida, majored in Biology and Biblical Studies. He said, “It’s been an honor to serve and represent this school academically and athletically. As I look back and reflect on my journey, I can see a man that has grown spiritually in tremendous ways.” Emma Mitten, from Largo, Florida, graduated with Highest Honor with majors in Intercultural Entrepreneurship and Biblical Studies. “I think the biggest way in which I’ve learned from my time here is in the opportunities I have been given, and the people that God has placed in my life,” she said. “From day one, I’ve been challenged by my professors, my RD [resident director], and my friends to always obey God in the things He is calling me to do, even if I’m not too comfortable doing it.” Luke Tice, a Pastoral Ministries and Biblical Studies double-major from Wyalusing, Pennsylvania, graduated with High Honor. He said, “Praise God for all he has done, is doing, and will continue to faithfully do in and through all of us here at CSU. I have the opportunity to take some of the best, most practical classes, meet some of the most solid, Christ-following people, and experience some of the most truthful, heartfelt ministry in my time here.” Kristin Charles represented Master of Education graduates, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a focus in Curriculum and Instruction. She earned her undergraduate degree at Grove City College and is from Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. “I am grateful to God for all that He has taught me along the way and for the chance to step into the classroom each day to do what I love. I now have renewed energy and the resources I have needed to teach with excellence,” she explained. She completed her degree over 21 years and admitted, “I had wondered if it was too late to finish this degree, but I was reminded that it is never too late to pursue the dreams God has put on our hearts.” Donna Oakes, from Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, earned two degrees from CSU through the Accelerated Counseling program—her Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Master of Science in Counseling. The South African native shared how her story has changed from someone who failed in high school, had no hope for the future and had suicidal thoughts to someone who was supported by God and others to earn both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in counseling. “Who I am today is a stranger to my yesterdays. You are looking at someone who believed she was intellectually unable to complete high school, much less college. You are looking at someone who believed she had no hope for her future…and now look, here I am. Here I stand with my hands raised high to a Savior that saved my soul and rewrote the story of my life. I am surrounded by people who have been instrumental in changing the course of my life.” Emily McLean, hailing from Ontario, Canada, earned her Master of Divinity from CSU’s Baptist Bible Seminary. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Ministry focus. “Throughout all the challenges and blessings and chaos, the grace of God and the discipline of seminary homework deadlines kept me in the Word and brought me back to Its truth again and again and again.” She said, “At the time that I began my seminary degree, I could never have pictured myself on this day, at 31, seven years later. And yet, God knew the work that He was preparing me for even then. He used His living and active Word to equip and challenge and sanctify me, one course at a time.” Ryan Day, a three-time CSU graduate from Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, earned his Doctor of Ministry degree with a Pastoral Ministry focus. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a dissertation: “Training Deacons who Dare to Make a Difference.” A high-school student who attended Teen Leadership Conference and eventually earned his bachelor’s, master’s and now doctoral degrees at CSU and Baptist Bible Seminary, Day describes the university as “a special place where God can change your life.” He continued, “I want to thank the faculty here at Baptist Bible Seminary for your unwavering commitment to both truth and love—the truth of the Bible and the love of your students. I praise God today for the incredible impact that CSU and Baptist Bible Seminary have had on my life.”
Misericordia University Offers Summer Camps for Students Misericordia University offers a variety of camps during the summer for students of all ages. From Career Exploration Camps for high school students to Sports Camps and a Performing Arts Camp for any age group, there is something for everyone! To explore all that our summer camps have to offer, please visit: https://www.misericordia.edu/campus-community/university-camps utm_source=google&utm_medium=pmax&utm_campaign=pacesetter_expressway_pmax&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwuJ2xBhA3EiwAMVjkVGmjP4i7Z3d3kbBlssdefXihoSC2OZqSLJLqaspqhbs8eQ5NhXcJ9RoCkeUQAvD_BwE
The Honesdale National Bank Supports School District The Honesdale National Bank has recently made a $5,000 contribution to the Susquehanna Community School District via Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. The funds will go towards financial education programs in the school district. HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “We are happy to support The Susquehanna Community School District as they enhance their educational programs.” He continued, “The best way to get our future generations prepared for the next step in life, is providing access to critical financial lessons and resources.” The mission of the Susquehanna Community School District is to nurture an educational environment that will develop life-long learners who will be successful participants in an ever-changing world. Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. has been administering EITC since 2003. They have over a decade of experience and have provided millions of dollars in funding to support thousands of students. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237. Pictured (L to R):Tina Verrastro, Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager, Ted Radu, Assistant Trust Officer, along with students and staff of the Susquehanna Community School District.
