Pocono Farms Country Club Association, Inc. Awards Scholarships

At their Member-Member Memorial Dinner held on 7/23/21, the Pocono Farms Country Club Golf Scholarship committee awarded 4 Pocono Farms graduating seniors with a total of $5,500 in scholarship funds. The scholarship applicants were scored on their academic record, extracurricular involvement, community service, and their personal interview. Of all the applicants, Nikayla Phillips, Brianna Joseph, and Tyler Mui received the highest scores and were each awarded a scholarship. Emily Lesh was also awarded the Neil P. Carlson Memorial Scholarship.

Pocono Farms Country Club Association has been awarding scholarships to deserving high school seniors since 2004 with a total of over $66,500 awarded during that time. Contributions to this fund are made by individual members through various golf outings held throughout the golf season, along with personal donations made. Scholarships have also been awarded through funds set up memorializing past golf members of the Club that gave so much of their time and effort to the Club.

Golf is an integral part of the community at Pocono Farms.  The golf scholarship committee and the golf members are proud to award these scholarships to these deserving high school seniors.

Performance Construction Services, Inc., A Quandel Company, Merges with Subsidiary, Susquehanna Supply Company

Performance Construction Services, Inc., a Quandel Company, announces their merger with subsidiary, Susquehanna Supply Company, to form Performance Construction Company. Integrating the two companies offers an established history of heavy civil contracting and construction services solutions to their clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic market.

Performance Construction Services, Inc. began in 1995 as the self-performing provider for Quandel Construction Group and has evolved over the years as a general contracting company specializing in heavy concrete, bridges, dams, and water and wastewater treatment plants. When Susquehanna Supply Company joined the Quandel family of companies three years ago, Performance Construction Services, Inc. added a long history of bridge construction, some of the most visible bridge projects in Northcentral and Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Over the past three years, both Performance and Susquehanna Supply were managed by the same management team and shared many of the same administrative, labor, and equipment resources. The merger of Performance and Susquehanna Supply will allow them to:

  • more effectively manage their business, their manpower, and their equipment to provide heavy civil contracting and construction service solutions to their clients, and
  • continue to be a regionally recognized heavy-civil construction company implementing innovation and technology in water and wastewater, bridges, dams, concrete, and site development.

“With the merger of these two companies into Performance Construction Company, we are in a stronger position to offer our clients construction solutions they need to address the challenges they face,” said Jerome Urban, president and chief executive officer of Performance Construction Company. The merger positions us to focus our combined industry experience and resources to help clients generate new value and succeed in today’s increasingly competitive market.” As they move forward together under one name, Performance Construction Company, they continue to deliver resilient, flexible solutions that improve their clients’ operations. While their name is changing, their core values remain the same – safety, integrity, exceptional service, commitment to excellence, and team. They are committed to leading, making a difference, and building a better future.

Pittston Resident Selected as Hometown Scholar Endorsed by the Wright Center

The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education has announced that Moriah Bartolai, Pittston, has been selected as this year’s Hometown Scholar and will attend A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA).

She becomes only the second area resident – and second Wright Center-endorsed candidate – to enter The Hometown Scholars program. 

As a Hometown Scholar, Bartolai’s training at ATSU-SOMA will be unique from other medical schools. After spending her first year on campus in Mesa, Arizona, she will return to Scranton, training in the classroom while also rotating through The Wright Center for Community Health’s clinical settings at least once a week. Bartolai, 23, began her studies this month.

Through a partnership with A.T. Still University, The Wright Center’s Hometown Scholars Program targets and recruits future physicians, dentists and other medical professionals from Northeast Pennsylvania who want to serve as an aspirational example for young people in our region.

The program was created to support the applications of compassionate, community-minded individuals interested in becoming a doctor or other medical provider who want to serve the region they grew up in.

Along with meeting the rigorous requirements to apply to medical school, a Hometown Scholar must spend time in a community health center and receive the recommendation of a community health center leader. In Bartolai’s case, her endorsement came from Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and chief executive officer of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education.

“Moriah is dedicated to becoming a highly skilled, compassionate primary care osteopathic physician and healthcare leader who will both serve and advocate for vulnerable populations, communities and humanity,” said Dr. Thomas-Hemak. “Notably, she is to become a first generation physician.”

Bartolai, a 2016 alumna of Scranton Preparatory School, began working at The Wright Center’s Mid Valley and Scranton practices last year, serving as a medical scribe. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, she earned a bachelor of science degree in microbiology.

“I’m excited and thrilled for this Hometown Scholars opportunity,” she said. “When I received the call, I realized I would finally be able to move forward in achieving a major milestone … a milestone I’ve been working towards for the last few years.”

One of about 160 medical students in ATSU-SOMA’s Class of 2025, Bartolai will gain exposure to clinical settings sooner than many of her counterparts at other medical schools, which typically don’t offer clinical rotations until the third year.

“It does give you a leg up,” said Bartolai. “I’m going to get a lot more patient experience than I would at any other medical school.”

The Hometown Scholars program at ATSU-SOMA was developed to address the workforce needs of the nation’s community health centers, which provide affordable care to traditionally underserved populations, including low-income individuals and people who face other barriers to healthcare.

Today the program is helping to create a pipeline of exceptional, community-minded medical and dental students who are committed to serving in America’s health centers.

Educational opportunities are available for aspiring physicians, physician assistants and dentists. To learn more about these Hometown Scholars opportunities, please contact The Wright Center’s Office of Clerkships at 570-591-5132 or email howellse@thewrightcenter.org.

Human Resources Center, Inc. Becomes NADSP Members

Human Resources Center, Inc. is becoming a NADSP Member organization with the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), which demonstrates a dedication to Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), other employees, and people receiving services. Through NADSP Membership, HRC is taking proactive steps to invest in staff development and allocate resources to elevate the status of DSPs, by providing the tools needed for success in their work.

“As a member of NADSP, we can now offer our direct support professionals an increased opportunity to expand their knowledge and to further develop new skills sets as they support individuals with disabilities,” says Darlene Glynn, HRC’s CEO.

HRC is initiating its NADSP Membership in 2021, which will continue throughout the calendar year. HRC will use NADSP Membership to advance its mission to serve and support individuals with disabilities in the Northeast Pennsylvania region.

“Especially in the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it’s critical that we show DSPs that they are essential,” says Joseph Macbeth, President and Chief Executive Officer of NADSP. “NADSP Membership means that organizations are going from praise to promise – not just acknowledging the work of DSPs, but especially providing tangible support and advocacy.”

HRC is a 501(3)c nonprofit organization based in Northeast Pennsylvania providing support and services to individuals with disabilities in Wayne, Pike, Carbon, Monroe, Lackawanna, and Susquehanna counties. Established in 1973, HRC began as a passion project to serve an underrepresented group of the community by promoting inclusion and acceptance. Over four decades later, HRC has grown into a devoted institution of over 400 caring and qualified individuals with a shared goal in mind: serve and support.

With its NADSP membership, employees of HRC will be able to access a robust library of archived webinars on subjects important to DSPs, receive e-newsletters, take advantage of discounted rates for the NADSP E-Badge Academy and the annual NADSP Conference, as well as apply a 10% discount for NADSP Training offerings. Along with these member benefits, HRC will be featured on NADSP’s website, highlighting their dedication to the people they employ, and the in turn, the people they support

Greater Scranton YMCA Helping Youth Achieve a Healthy Weight

September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, and as children and families start their new school-year routines, it’s a perfect time to reflect and refresh your family’s healthy habits. Many families, though, need support changing their habits together in order to help children who are overweight or obese reach and maintain a healthy weight. That’s why the Greater Scranton YMCA — a leading community-based organization dedicated to improving health — wants to help families through improved eating habits and increased physical activity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of obesity affects about 13.7 million, or one in five U.S. children and adolescents. Obesity can increase risk for health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and some cancers. Here in Pennsylvania, 14.5 percent of youth ages 10 to 17 have obesity, giving the state a ranking of 26 among the 50 states and D.C., according to the State of Childhood Obesity.

“Experts are more aware than ever that families need support to change their eating and physical activity habits,” said Trish Fisher, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “At the Y, we’re happy to partner with families and offer support as they work to incorporate changes to help kids grow up at a healthy weight.”

The Y also encourages families to talk with their health care providers about their children’s health. “You cannot determine whether a child is at a healthy weight simply by looking at them,” explains Fisher. “Working with a health care provider ensures that families receive the proper guidance when it comes to health and their children.” The Greater Scranton YMCA is helping families improve their health and help youth grow up at a healthy weight through incorporating daily physical activity into early childhood education and school age programming, as well as through youth and family memberships, swim lessons, youth sports and more.

While outside support is key, developing healthy habits begins at home. The following tips are some great ways to incorporate healthier eating habits and more physical activity and into your daily family routine:

  • Eat & Drink Healthy: Make water the drink of choice and encourage everyone to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables by offering two or three colorful options at every meal. As a family choose a new fruit and veggie every week to taste together.  Place a full pitcher of water on the table during meals and allow children to pour their own water. Keep full water bottles available in the car and back packs.
  • Play Every Day/Go Outside: Children should have at least an hour a day of unstructured play outside (when possible) and break a sweat at least three times a week by getting 20 minutes or more of vigorous physical activity. Join your children in games that get your hearts pumping and bodies moving.
  • Get Together: Eat as a family as frequently as possible. Involve kids in meal planning, preparation and clean up. In addition, adults should take a break from electronics and spend one-to-one time each day with their kids, enjoying one another’s company.
  • Reduce Recreational Screen Time: Time spent in front of a television, computer, tablet, cell phone or video games should be limited to two hours or less per day. Make a family plan to reduce screen time at home (i.e. turn off screens during meals, charge electronics/screens in the kitchen overnight, go for a walk after a meal, set a timer to remind you to power down the screen).
  • Sleep Well: Kids and adults need to keep a regular sleep schedule; unwind together in the evenings by reading a book or listening to soft music to ensure the body is preparing for sleep. Kids are growing and need 10-12 hours of healthy sleep per night and seven to eight hours for adults.

To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s youth and family programs, please contact Brandon Whipple at (570) 828-3116 or bwhipple@greaterscrantonymca.org, or visit the Greater Scranton YMCA’s website at www.greaterscrantonymca.org.

The AZEK Company Participated in Backpack Giveaway

The AZEK Company participated in McNichol’s Plaza Elementary School’s Annual Back to School Fair in the south side area of Scranton, PA.

Together with other local business and community organizations we were able to ensure that each of the 300 students received a new backpack, school supplies and other essential items and information.

McNichol’s Principal Mina Ardestani said “What a privilege it is to work in such a giving community. We can’t thank you enough for the generosity of so many. Our students are ready (and so are we) to get back to school!”

HNB Supports Northern Tier Industry & Education Consortium

The Honesdale National Bank was once again authorized to make approved contributions under the Commonwealth’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program. HNB designated $5,000 of their approved allotment to the Northern Tier Industry & Education Consortium (NTIEC), located in Dimock, PA. The funds, donated by HNB, will support educational programs for area youth.

HNB President & CEO David Raven stated, “The missions of NTIEC are not only important for local youth, but the progress of the region through training and education.” He said, “We are glad that we can contribute funding for this program to continue to serve our area.”

Debra Tierney, Educational Coordinator/Administrative Systems Leader, Northern Tier Industry & Education Consortium, said, “NTIEC is so grateful to the Honesdale National Bank for their generous donation to help our students.” She continued “The support we received from the Honesdale National Bank will assist us in running our three week-long summer career experience programs in agriculture, healthcare and energy & oilfield. These summer programs help students explore careers available in NEPA in these three sectors.”

La Festa Italiana Set for Labor Day Weekend in Scranton

La Festa Italiana is back!

After the event was cancelled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, La Festa is returning and will be held Labor Day weekend (Friday through Monday, September 3-6, 2021) on Courthouse Square in the heart of downtown Scranton, Pa. Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

The festival committee is collaborating with the Lackawanna County Commissioners and the Mayor of Scranton’s Office to plan the event. COVID vaccines, masks and hand sanitizers will be available at no charge.

A variety of vendors will be offering great Italian food and other items, and continuous live entertainment will be featured. There is no admission charge. This year’s presenting sponsor is the Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Also returning this year are The Bronx Wanderers, La Festa’s main act on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. Festival patrons will recall these talented guys from previous appearances. They have been performing in Las Vegas for several years.

The Bronx Wanderers deliver a “Back to the Future” high-octane ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s rock n’ roll experience featuring the infectious energy of the music that skyrocketed classics like “American Graffiti,” “Happy Days” and “A Bronx Tale” to immediate success. Weave that nostalgic adrenalin into a soundtrack of the greatest hits of rock n’ roll replicated in a way that only a master record producer can achieve. 

Among the many other acts that will perform are The Cameos, comedian Uncle Floyd Vivino, Frank Sinatra tribute (Chris DiMattio), Dean Martin Tribute (Andy DiMino from Las Vegas), a Connie Francis tribute featuring Nikki Rasmus, Gene Dempsey Orchestra, Old Friends, Flaxy Morgan, Popstar Drive, Mike Lanza, The Luongo Brothers, The Wanabees, Daddy-O and the Sax Maniax, The Exact Change, Gerard Mayer Band, the Mark Montella Project featuring Erin Malloy, La Festa’s principal Italian tenor Michael Castaldo, Ballet Theatre of Scranton performing Italian-Folk street dances, plus many others including jugglers, magicians, street acts, favorite local bands and dance groups. 

The annual Mass in Italian will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 5, in the Cathedral of Saint Peter, located one block from the festival site. The Mass will also be televised live by CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton.

Fireworks presented by Dickson City Hyundai will be displayed on Sunday night.

For more information, the complete entertainment schedule and updates, visit the festival website.

La Festa Italiana will literally hit the ground running with the Ninth Annual Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk on Saturday, Sept. 4, at 10 a.m. The race is being sponsored by the Scranton Chapter of UNICO, the Italian-American service organization, and proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Northeastern Pennsylvania Christmas Party and West Scranton High School Scholarship Program. Pre-register by September 1 online!

PS Bank Supports Lackawanna Trail School District

PS Bank is proud to support the Lackawanna Trail School District for the 2021-2022 academic year with a charitable contribution of $5,000. PS Bank is an ardent supporter of the district as well as the greater Factoryville, Nicholson, and Dalton community.

In acceptance of the monetary donation, Business Manager Keith Glynn said, “The money provided by PS Bank over the past few years has helped to provide resources for sports and music in the classroom where budgets may not have been able to stretch.  For this year, we will be using the funds to buy a district-wide license for Kami which is a digital learning platform tool to help our educators create engaging and interactive materials in a virtual environment.”

The relationship between Lackawanna Trail and PS Bank extends beyond annual donations in support of students. “Lackawanna Trail is extremely grateful for the relationship with PS Bank. On top of the great financial services provided through the local branches, the bank has strived to meet the needs of our organization and has been a great tool for us in our financial planning strategies,” said Glynn.

Anthony Gabello, President & CEO of PS Bank knows that supporting public schools is the foundation of a prosperous community and is proud to have such a great relationship with Lackawanna Trail. “PS Bank is proud to support the Lackawanna Trail School District again this year. Serving the students and faculty of the district with our annual sponsorship of the high school auditorium allows school leadership to continue to provide an outstanding educational experience,” stated Gabello.

PS Bank serves the Lackawanna Trail community at 118 College Avenue, Factoryville. For more information about banking at this branch, please reach out to Janice Bevacqua, Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager at jbevacqua@psbanking.com.