Kim Drumgo Named Geisinger’s First Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Furthering Geisinger’s commitment to promote an inclusive and welcoming organization and community to all, Kim Drumgo has been named the health system’s first chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. In this new role, Drumgo will champion and guide the organization to better understand the importance and value of a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment, as well as serve as a catalyst for change at Geisinger. She will provide systemwide thought leadership, strategic direction and implementation of diversity, equity and inclusion-related programs and initiatives. “Our patients, members, employees and community deserve a safe environment that welcomes people of every race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, ability, veteran status and faith,” said Amy Brayford, Geisinger executive vice president and chief of staff. “With Kim in this new role, I’m confident that we’ll move to new heights, prioritizing and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion across all aspects of our organization — ultimately improving the health and well-being of our Geisinger family, patients, members and communities. We’re incredibly fortunate to have gained such an accomplished and committed leader to help us make better health easier for everyone.” Studies have shown that each community of people may have different health needs. These include the black community having a higher rate of diabetes; lower rates of cervical and breast cancer screenings in transgender men; and a higher rate of suicide among military veterans and active members than that of the general public. Creating an inclusive health care setting that connects with patients and their specific situation can help better address and serve the health needs of the community. “I’m thrilled to join Geisinger in this new role. The communities and patients we serve each have unique situations and needs. We know the best way to serve our diverse communities is to ensure we maintain a welcoming environment that seeks out and values different views and perspectives. We can all benefit and excel in environments where our voices are heard and our needs are met. The preservation of dignity and respect will be critical to our success.” said Drumgo. “I look forward to partnering with our Geisinger family and community leaders on these important topics. Geisinger and the communities we serve are infinitely stronger when we can harness the talents and backgrounds from each of us for the betterment of us all.” Drumgo brings over 15 years of experience in the diversity and inclusion field and has a strong track record setting DEI strategies, engaging stakeholders and driving results. She has held leadership roles in several organizations, including most recently serving as chief diversity officer for Anthem Inc., where she led more than 63,000 leaders and employees in having authentic, compassionate conversations about race, social justice and health equity. She has also held leadership roles at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. She was named to Network Business Journal’s Top 25 Women in Business and recognized for her leadership in Diversity by Profiles in Diversity Journal. Drumgo earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland.
Pandemic Inspires WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics Business Model Joseph Petro launched WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics earlier this year to modernize the commercial roofing industry through innovative diagnostic repair solutions. With 10 employees servicing 250 miles around Scranton, WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics (WRD) offers commercial services that include roof diagnostics and emergency repairs, inspections, consulting, preventative maintenance, government contracting and more. Petro, who has two decades of commercial roofing industry experience, operates under the principle that WRD never recommends a new roof be installed when expert remediation work can provide the most cost-effective solution. “I founded WRD after noticing a need for preventative maintenance and repair services to commercial roofing clients following the pandemic,” said Petro, an NEPA native. “Other roofing contractors are focused on selling their customer a brand new roof. Our model at WRD is unique, as our focus is finding a solution that will eliminate issues and prevent problems altogether – without a new roof installation.” Additional services include Project Commissioning to offer expert administrative management to third party installers on behalf of the client with documentation, oversight and insight of project process, as well as evaluating that OSHA regulations, manufacturer specifications and industry standards are being enacted. WRD works with property technicians and vendors to tie-in, install, or remove components, accessories, penetrations and units in existing roofing systems including HVAC, electrical, gas, satellites, skylights, hatches, safety provisions and more following manufacturer and industry standards. WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics is a licensed and insured limited liability commercial roofing company based in Scranton, PA. To learn more or get a quote, please visit www.waterproofrd.com.
Johnson College Now Enrolling Students in OBD II Emissions Training Class Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program is currently enrolling students into its OBD II Emissions Training class. The class will be held on the Johnson College campus starting Monday, December 13, 2021. Space is limited. To learn more or enroll, call 570-702-8979 or email continuinged@johnson.edu. The OBD II computer monitors a vehicle’s emission control systems in real-time and is capable of informing a motorist or technician of a systemic issue the moment it occurs. The system operates through a series of indicator lights, drive cycles, trouble codes, and readiness monitors. During an inspection, an emission analyzer scan tool plugs into the diagnostic connector attached to the OBDII computer and communicates with the vehicle. The OBDII computer relays to the scan tool whether it has discovered errors in the emission control systems. The emission analyzer then determines whether the car is operating in compliance with emission standards. For more information, visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-education/odbii-emissions-licensing/. The class fee of $180 is paid to Johnson College, and a study material and testing fee of $39.99 is paid directly to the PA Training Portal.
Senator Bob Casey Visits NEPIRC United States Senator Bob Casey visited the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) on November 23rd to recognize the organization’s recent attainment of a Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the world’s largest association of economic development organizations and practitioners, for its COVID-19 Response, Readiness & Recovery services for regional manufacturers. Those services enabled manufacturers to avoid 1,700 layoffs and 4,661 temporary job furloughs during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After touring NEPIRC’s Innovation Space 3D Lab, Multimedia Studio, Leadership Learning Center, Manufacturing Showcase and corporate offices, Senator Casey met with NEPIRC staff, federal stakeholders and regional manufacturing executives to discuss the business environment that NEPIRC’s clients are facing and review the positive impact that NEPIRC has had on the manufacturing sector across northeastern, northern and north central Pennsylvania. During the meeting, Senator Casey also shared insights regarding the recently passed American Rescue Plan, Infrastructure Investment Act, Jobs Act, and Build Back Better Plan and spoke about their impacts upon our bridges, roads, mass transit systems, broadband infrastructure and overall economy. “The Senator’s tour and discussion with our regional manufacturing leaders evidenced his strong commitment to our manufacturing economy and his eagerness to implement policies and programs that accelerate their growth and strengthen their long-term competitiveness,” said Eric Joseph Esoda, NEPIRC’s President & CEO. “We’re delighted to have had him visit us to recap various federal initiatives to create manufacturing jobs and stimulate our industrial economy,” he added. Attending Senator Casey’s visit were NEPIRC staff, Eric Joseph Esoda, President & CEO, Drew Mackie, EVP & CFO, Dale Parmenteri, Vice President of Consulting Operations, and Chelsey Coslett, Manager of Marketing & Stakeholder Engagement, Rikki Riegner, Executive Director of PA MEP, and members of NEPIRC’s Board of Directors, such as Grace McGregor Kramer, McGregor Industries, Inc., Garry Hartman, Cheetah Chassis Corporation and Bruce Daniels, Medico Construction Equipment/Action Lift, Inc.
Human Resource Center Lifesharing Provider Shannon Guinard Receives Excellence in Lifesharing Award Shannon Guinard, HRC-affiliated lifesharing provider to Janice, was recently awarded the Excellence in Lifesharing Award for the entire NEPA region. Lifesharing is a unique residential solution that pairs individuals with disabilities with a local lifesharing provider for long-term in-home daily support. Providers welcome individuals into their homes and facilitate a nurturing family dynamic, offering both support to the individual and a place to live. When submissions opened for the Excellence in Lifesharing Award, HRC Lifesharing Coordinator, Margie, nominated Shannon with pride. For over two years, Shannon Guinard has been a lifesharing provider to Janice. In that short time-frame, Shannon has prioritized Janice’s continued progression in various facets of her life, adapting to and overcoming the many roadblocks the COVID-19 global pandemic threw their way. In Margaret’s nomination essay, she details the adaptations Shannon made to ensure Janice received the necessary support and structure throughout their time together. Important implementations such as twice daily walks, promoting healthy eating and cooking, punctual attendance to ZOOM meetings, structured crafting opportunities, and emphasis on continued socialization were key in helping Janice find fullness in her life. Today, Janice is thriving! She works four days a week at Himalayan Institute and once a week at the law office of local lawyer, J.T. Howell. She was also an active participant in the 2021 Special Olympics, taking part in every competition via ZOOM. With Shannon’s encouragement, structure, and support, Janice has enjoyed being an active member of her community. With gratitude, Janice remarks, “we will be family forever.” Pictured:Back row (L to R): Darlene Glynn (HRC CEO), Margaret Cosgrove (HRC Lifesharing Coordinator and nominator), Shannon Guinard (lifesharer and award recipient), and Bridget Delemarre (HRC Lifesharing Coordinator).Front row (L to R): Susan Philpot (mother to award recipient and additional support provider) and Janice Rudy (HRC lifesharing participant).
Food and Fire BBQ Depot Grand Opening Taphouse is excited to invite you to the grand opening of its 3rd location, called the Food & Fire BBQ Depot, opening on December 8, 2021! Located at the Public Market in Steamtown, Food & Fire BBQ Depot will be offering a one-of-a-kind BBQ experience in an easy grab-and-go fashion for lunch lovers! December 8th will be our official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, including members of our local chamber of commerce, local dignitaries, and members of our community. Food & Fire BBQ ~ Taphouse originated in Binghamton, New York, and is the culmination of a dream shared by co-owners Jose Moreira, Dan Polhamus, and Jeff Tiderencel. They instantly fell in love with Northeastern Pennsylvania upon touring for expansion, and quickly found a “home” in Moosic! Their staff is experienced in providing world-class service with delicious food, great drinks, and an amazing atmosphere! When they were met with the opportunity to expand into Scranton, they immediately jumped on board. Their passion for the food industry is unparalleled and they plan to bring the same high-quality food and service to their location at the Market in Steamtown. They will be featuring a rotating array of American-style food favorites, including hand-crafted sandwiches, their signature smoked gouda mac and cheese, mouthwatering BBQ combos and platters and so much more for those that want a taste of southern luxury, within the time frame of a lunch hour. Food & Fire BBQ Depot at the Public Market in Steamtown is centrally located. Its location is the perfect place to purchase a gift card or order catering for your lunch meetings, office parties, holidays, or weddings! Food & Fire BBQ ~ Taphouse’s mission is simply to provide the best quality food and service to all patrons, and they are excited to do so in the Electric City! For more information, please check them out online at FoodFireBBQ.com. We encourage you to join us on December 8th for samplings and to celebrate our grand opening.
The Dime Bank Contributes to the Wayne County Library Pictured: Tracy L Schwarz, System Administrator of the WLA; Jessica Kjera, Outreach Coordinator; Deborah Unflat, The Dime Bank Vice President Marketing; Melanie Seagraves, The Dime Bank Vice President and Newfoundland Area Public Library Treasurer; Stacy Gager, Assistant Vice President Deposit Operations and WCPL Board Member. The Dime Bank recently contributed $30,000.00 to the Wayne County Public Library (WCPL) toward approved innovative educational programs. The libraries of Wayne County strive to support students in the three local school districts, as well as homeschooled students, to ensure they get the help they need to improve their grades, increase their confidence, and encourage them to expand their educational explorations. This donation, which was made through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, will provide funds for several programs such as Learning@theLibrary and Teen Tech@theLibrary. Both include the purchase of Tutor.com, Teen Health and Wellness, Learning Express Library, Core Concepts (Biology, Chemistry, Periodic Table), PowerKnowledge (Earth/Space, Physical, & Life Science), and Prenda Coding. In addition, some of the funding is allocated for after school Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematic, and Arts programs. Along with holding enriching programs within the walls of the library, Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Kjera, heads out into the schools and the community. She teaches STEAM programs and familiarizes students/families with the awesome selection of E-resources, fun, and learning they have access to with their library card. Jessica has recently transitioned into the roll with the assistance of retiring long time outreach coordinator, Mary Fritz. Another portion of the funding supports AWE computers for K-2nd grade students and hybridization of library programs which allow libraries to do virtual as well as in person programs. WCPL Director Tracy L. Schwarz said, “The resources provided by The Dime Bank kept families connected during the Covid shutdown and beyond. The funding helped keep Tutor.com and other STEAM related online resources running for families who were forced to teach their school aged students at home. It also provided a set of laptops, microphones, lighting, speakers, and all the items required for each of the seven libraries to go virtual with programs as needed. The funding helped provide Make and Take STEM and Craft kits that families could pick up and use to learn from home. Thank you! There is no way our libraries could’ve kept county families connected, nor could we have supported the schools as much as we did during the shutdown without this funding from The Dime Bank. EITC funding is vital to keep up with online resources and provide lerning and teen tech at our libraries.” Stop in at any of the seven Wayne County Libraries to sign up for a library card to access the wide variety of free e-resources available through their website www.waynelibraries.org. The EITC program, which is administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, provides a tax rebate program. The Dime Bank is dedicated to supporting education in our communities through the sponsorship of many different programs and venues. If you are passionate about your future, choose The Dime Bank as your financial partner. Community banking yields community benefits. For more information on The Dime Bank, visit www.thedimebank.com.
The Holiday Season Shines at Settlers Hospitality Settlers Hospitality helps light up the holidays with a host of festivities that capture the magic of the season. Celebrations at The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel, Silver Birches, the Hawley Silk Mill and Hotel Anthracite deliver the quintessential traditions, flavors and entertainment of Christmastime in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Candlelight Christmas, December 3 through 5, at The Settlers Inn ushers in the most wonderful time of the year. The annual event is a signature celebration and an eagerly anticipated festivity in the Pocono Mountains Lake Region. Guests are greeted with live music and décor that features natural greens, artisanal and handcrafted decorations and an offering of mulled wine or syllabub. Horse and carriage rides plus an oversized gingerbread replica of The Settlers Inn enhance the festive atmosphere. A lavish holiday meal features entree such as sirloin au poivre and garlic and thyme braised lamb shank among other delectable options. Indulgent dessert choices include peppermint pillow baked Alaska, chocolate yule log and English toffee pudding. There are two weekends to enjoy the festivities and fineries of Winterfest Brunch at The Settlers Inn. The event December 4-5 and 11-12 features live music by Julie Eschler and harpist Kristy Chmura accompanied by a prix fixe menu of holiday inspired fare. Guests may enjoy the celebration from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. each day. Shoppers to the Winterfest Artisan Fair on December 11 and 12 can wrap up their gift list with the purchase of distinctive finds. Vendors fill the Hawley Silk Mill offering fine artisanal goods and unique gifts. The marketplace operates from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. An outdoor ice bar at Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery will help get visitors in the holiday spirit. From December 10 through 12 order specialty cocktails served on a High Noon ice bar handcrafted by Sculpted Ice Works. Set a course for The Waterfront at Silver Birches on December 12 to enjoy Breakfast with Santa. Savor a bountiful meal, take photos with Santa Claus and soak in the merriment. Purchase a gingerbread house and spend some time creating your masterpiece. The Jolly Old Elf also makes a special appearance at Hotel Anthracite in Carbondale on December 12. Families are invited to Brunch with Santa from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for a festive meal and an opportunity to take photos with Santa Claus. New Year’s Eve celebrations run the gamut from elegant and intimate to laid-back and lively. There are two ways to send off 2021 at The Settlers Inn. The Undercroft provides a cozy setting for a Masquerade Ball from 8-11:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy an elaborate farm to table meal and live music. Upstairs in the dining room, guests may linger over a special holiday menu while listening to live piano music by Dan Bradley. Ring in 2022 in the Pioneer City. New Year’s Eve Dinner at Kōl Steakhouse features a delectable prix fixe menu from 5-10 p.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Bash at The Waterfront at Silver Birches. A buffet meal, DJ music and dancing lead up to a balloon drop at midnight and champagne to toast the start of 2022. New Year’s Eve at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen is cool and casual. Festivities include live music by Eric Rudy, hors d’oeuvres, champagne and a special tasting menu. Enjoy early seating until 7 p.m. and late seatings after 8 p.m. Welcome the first day of 2022 with a New Year’s Day Brunch at The Settlers Inn. The holiday meal features a prix fixe menu, live piano music and bottomless mimosas. Beloved traditions and time-honored tastes ensure the merry making goes on this holiday season. For more information, visit settlershospitality.com
Blippi the Musical to Resume North American Tour with a Special Stop in Wilkes-Barre Today, children’s YouTube sensation Blippi announces additional cities on the tour across North America, with a date in Wilkes-Barre on March 8th at 6pm at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza. Blippi The Musical is set to bring the vivacious, energetic, and educational children’s character from the screen to the stage for an all-ages extravaganza of fun, dancing, singing and meeting amazing new friends onstage. Tickets for Blippi The Musical go on sale Friday, December 3rd at 10am with fan club pre-sales beginning today. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the NBT Bank Box Office at Mohegan Sun Arena. Fans can visit blippithemusical.com now for tour dates, ticket information and one-of-a-kind meet and greet packages. Follow Blippi The Musical social media for pre-sale access and exclusive tour content. Blippi The Musical brings the energetic and loveable character Blippi off the screen and onto the stage with world-class production, audience engagement and amazing music. Children across the world have quickly taken to Blippi’s charismatic personality and innovative teaching lessons. In the live show they will continue to learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along with this one-of-a-kind show. In just a few years since his inception, Blippi has become a global sensation with over 34 million YouTube subscribers and one billion views per month. Blippi is also available on some of the largest premium streaming services such as Hulu, Amazon Prime, Roku, Virgin Media and Kidoodle. In November 2020, Round Room Live and Moonbug Entertainment released the Blippi The Musical Cast Recording for download and streaming on all major music streaming platforms. The original North American Tour Cast Recording features 13 family-friendly songs from the live show. Fans can download or stream the cast recording using this link: https://moonbug.lnk.to/BLive.
