The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement to Hold Charity Golf Tournament The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement (PCE) will hold its second annual charity golf tournament on Monday, May 13 at the Glenmaura National Golf Club in Moosic to support patients throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. The captain-and-crew Dr. William Waters Golf Tournament will feature a shotgun start at 10 a.m., following registration from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. The driving range opens at 8:30 a.m. For more information visit TheWrightCenter.org/golf-tournament-2024. The tournament is in honor of the late John P. Moses, Esq. a Wilkes-Barre native, influential attorney, and longtime philanthropist whose leadership was key in helping facilitate the establishment of The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre Practice, the largest primary health center in the nonprofit’s network of 10 locations in Northeast Pennsylvania. The new Luzerne County location opened on Jan. 9, 2023, after the urgent relocation of its clinic from First Hospital in Kingston, amidst the hospital’s closure. The Wright Center plans to name the Wilkes-Barre Practice building, at 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave., after Moses, who passed away on Oct. 31, 2022. Moses’s son, Wilkes-Barre attorney Peter J. Moses, is honorary chair of the golf fundraiser. Co-chairs are: Linda Thomas-Hemak, M.D., FACP, FAAP, president and CEO of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education; and Mary Marrara, co-chair of PCE and secretary of The Wright Center for Community Health Boards of Directors. “Renowned for his dedicated and generous service to multiple nonprofits in Northeast Pennsylvania, and also on the national stage as CEO of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, Attorney John Moses exemplified a remarkable life of integrity, generosity, and boundless dedication to making a difference,” said Dr. Thomas-Hemak. “We are excited that our charity golf tournament will spotlight his tremendous legacy in business, educational, legal, and community enrichment efforts. His many meaningful contributions to the nonprofit sector can never be overstated. It is a privilege to raise resources in his honor to ensure everyone has equitable access to high-quality, whole-person primary health services, regardless of their insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay.” PCE aims to improve the health of our communities through education, advocacy, and patient-centered services that help individuals overcome food insecurity, homelessness, and other factors known as the social and economic determinants of health (SDOH). Factors also include limited access to educational opportunities and a lack of financial resources. To address SDOH in regional communities, PCE’s team and volunteers hold community outreach activities, including nutritious food distributions of nonperishable items and fresh produce, coat and winterwear giveaways, back-to-school distributions of backpacks and classroom supplies, health fairs, blood drives, and other special mission-driven projects. Last year’s inaugural charity golf tournament raised more than $40,000. The tournament is named after the late William M. Waters, Ph.D., who served as vice chair of The Wright Center for Community Health’s Board of Directors and co-chair of PCE. He passed away on July 21, 2022. The entry fee for golfers is $275 or $1,100 for a foursome, which includes a golf cart, green fee, lunch, and beverage service on the course, followed by a 3 p.m. cocktail hour and 4 p.m. dinner. Tickets for the dinner only are $100. Prizes will be awarded for closest to the pin, longest drive, and hole-in-one, including a special prize for a hole-in-one on a designated hole: a 2024 Honda Accord LX, courtesy of Matt Burne Honda, an event sponsor. Other event sponsors are: Audacy; Community Bank, N.A.; and PNC. Various sponsorship levels, starting at just $300, are available for the tournament. For sponsorship details and inquiries, please contact Holly Przasnyski, PCE board coordinator, at przasnyskih@TheWrightCenter.org or 570-209-3275.
The Lodge at Woodloch Set to Host Inaugural Women’s Wellness Week The Lodge at Woodloch is excited to announce its first-ever Women’s Wellness Week, scheduled from May 17th to May 25th. This exclusive event aims to celebrate women’s health and well-being through a series of enriching activities, workshops, and experiences designed to empower, educate, and inspire. Throughout the week, guests will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts in nutrition, fitness, mindfulness, and self-care.Anne Fulenwider, Co-Founder and CO-CEO of Alloy Women’s Health, takes center stage as the featured presenter of the week. With a distinguished background as a former magazine editor at The Paris Review, Vanity Fair, and as editor-in-chief of Marie Claire, Anne’s journey into women’s health was driven by personal loss and a commitment to reshape discussions around women’s post-reproductive health. Drawing from research by Dr. Sharon Malone, Chief Medical Director at Alloy Women’s Health, and Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, clinical professor at Yale University of Medicine, Anne will delve into the complexities of menopause, exploring topics such as hormone replacement therapy and non-hormonal alternatives. She and health journalist and integrative wellness coach Sheryl Kraft will also address common queries surrounding menopause, offering valuable insights and guidance. Whether traveling solo or with friends, Women’s Wellness Week at The Lodge at Woodloch is ideal for women of all ages and backgrounds who are seeking to prioritize their health and well-being in a supportive and nurturing environment. The program will feature a diverse range of workshops and activities: Nutrition and Health: Licensed clinical nutritionist Lori Fish Bard will share insights on smart nutrition for busy women and strategies for boosting energy levels through diet and lifestyle changes. Certified leadership mindset coach Deb Cummins Stellato will address the challenge of daily self-care, offering strategies to break free from overwhelm and live a high-impact life. Educational Experiences: Certified Herbalist Heather Houskeeper will discuss herbal teas for relaxation and improved sleep, guiding participants through the art of blending fragrant herbs to awaken the senses and soothe the nervous system. Professional Organizer Liora Seltzer will lead a session on the transformative KonMari Method™, empowering attendees to declutter spaces and cultivate joy and calm. Certified Sommelier Sara Jimenez will conduct “Sip Smart” classes in which guests will learn to master the alchemy of beverages and create concoctions that dazzle without the side effects associated with sugary drinks and alcohol. Aroma Wellness for Women classes will highlight the ways that essential oils can be utilized safely and effectively. Guests will have the opportunity to craft their very own aroma wellness blend. Fitness Classes: From barre and strength training workouts to aquatic pole dancing, guests can choose from a variety of fitness activities designed to tone muscles, improve flexibility, and boost energy levels. Art Workshops: Creative sessions featuring floral arranging and Zendoodle offer opportunities for self-expression and relaxation, allowing participants to tap into their artistic side. Evening Activities: Bingo Singo, trivia games, and karaoke nights provide opportunities for socializing with other guests as the day winds down. “We are thrilled to host Women’s Wellness Week at The Lodge at Woodloch,” said Nancy Deaton, Spa Director. “Our goal is to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where women can prioritize their health and wellness while connecting with like-minded individuals and experts in the field.” In addition to the scheduled programming, guests will have ample opportunities to unwind and recharge amidst the tranquil surroundings of The Lodge at Woodloch. Whether relaxing at the spa, exploring the expansive grounds, or simply enjoying moments of quiet reflection, each day offers a chance for renewal and self-discovery. Availability for Women’s Wellness Week is limited, and advance reservations are required. For more information, please visit The Lodge at Woodloch website here, or call 570-685-8000 and select option 2.
Commonwealth Health Fights Hunger with Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive To help address hunger in our community, and in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, the employees, volunteers and medical staff of Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital donated jars of peanut butter during their second annual Jars of Love drive to Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank, Bread Basket of NEPA, and St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen. In addition to hospital-based donations, community partners, including individuals and businesses, pitched in this year with their contributions to the peanut butter drive bringing the total contributed Jars of Love to 2,220. Peanut butter is one of the most requested items for food banks because it is highly nutritious and has a long shelf life. Unfortunately, many food banks in America report it is also one of the least donated food items. Other foods needed by food banks include pasta, canned goods, butter, grits, beef broth, diapers, toothpaste, and deodorant.
Johnson College Hazleton to Host Spring Open House Johnson College Hazleton will hold a Spring Open House on Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CAN DO Training Center located inside the Humboldt Industrial Park at 370 Maplewood Drive in Hazle Township. To register to attend the Open House, visit Johnson.edu/openhousehazleton or contact Johnson College’s Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu. The Open House will include discussions about the admissions process, information about financial aid for those who qualify, and student services such as student life, student support, and career services. Plus, same-day acceptance will be available for many programs if students bring their high school or college transcripts. Tours of each technical area will be conducted and program directors and instructors will be available to review the specifics of their programs.
Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton Celebrates Doctor’s Day with Donations This Doctors’ Day, Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton is honoring their physicians by donating $6,000 to local charities selected by the medical staff. The physicians voted earlier this month and selected St. Joseph’s Center and St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen. “On Doctors’ Day, and every day, we are thankful to work with skilled and compassionate providers.” said Michael Curran, CEO of Regional Hospital of Scranton. “We are grateful for their contributions, sacrifices, and unwavering care provided to the patients our hospitals and clinics treat each year throughout the community.” St. Joseph’s Center received a donation of $3,000. Rooted in the core values of care, concern, compassion and commitment, the Saint Joseph’s Center humbly serves people who are diagnosed with intellectual disability and those who seek pregnancy support, adoption assistance, outpatient therapy or medical day care services. St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen received a donation of $3,000. Their mission is rooted in the Catholic tradition and the spirit of its patron, St. Francis of Assisi, the hungry are fed in collaboration with volunteers and donors from all faith communities. The Kitchen provides a free, hot, nutritious meal every day of the year. On Wednesday, March 27, hospital leadership and medical staff members from Regional Hospital of Scranton presented checks to St. Joseph’s Center and St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen in honor of Doctors’ Day on March 30.
Penn State Scranton Hosts Annual Spring Concert Penn State’s Scranton Musical ensembles will present their Annual Spring Concert as a gift to the Greater Scranton community on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 4 p.m. at The Theater at North. What: Spring ConcertWhere: The Theater at North 1539 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508When: Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 4 p.m. This event is free and open to the public, with doors opening at 3:30 p.m. The concert will feature performances from the Penn State Scranton Chorale, The Roc[k]tet, and Campus Jazz Band. Performances will include “a variety of music ranging from spiritual, patriotic, big band, pop music, etc.”, said Director of Music Sharon Ann Toman. The concert will also feature a guest chorus, the Blue Ridge Middle School Chorus, under the direction of Amy Zaukaurauskas, who will perform a joint patriotic choral work with the Penn State Scranton Chorale. Toman, an award-winning associate teaching professor of music and program coordinator for the Arts and Humanities at Penn State Scranton will be directing the Spring Concert and the campus’ three musical groups. She received Bachelor of Music degree (B.M.) in Piano Performance from Marywood University, Master of Music degree (M.M.) in Piano Pedagogy and Music History from The Catholic University of America, and doctoral studies at Temple University and further studies at Manhattan School of Music.” “Students in the Penn State Scranton music program, as well as myself, are so looking forward to performing our Annual Spring Concert,” Toman said. “The students have been working hard with rehearsals and preparing for our Spring Concert, and once again, I’m proud to say that these live performances are a gift from Penn State Scranton to the Community. So please do come out to this performance as there will be music for all age groups to enjoy!” Amy Zakarauskas is a choral director, pianist, accompanist, and vocal and piano pedagogue with over 12 years of experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Mansfield University. She serves as director of the Blue Ridge School District’s Middle School and High School choruses. In addition, she serves as a pianist at the First Presbyterian Church in Hallstead, PA and also teaches piano lessons at her piano studio.” Many Penn State Scranton students, faculty, and staff will be involved to make this concert a wonderful experience for those who attend. Their names are as follows: The Roc[k]tet: Chelsey Cruz, Jason Daloul, Justin Griffiths, Rowan Mulligan, Halle O’Neil, Luke Rusin, Megan Schmidt, and Jacob Webb. Penn State Scranton Chorale Sopranos: Cassandra Harmon-Stochla, Rhiannon Garofalo**, Eileen Giovagnoli*, Vanessa Hodges, Janet Melnick*, Carly Mignano**, Rowan Mulligan, Vivian Ni and Halle O’Neil. Altos: Adriana Bonafede, Chelsey Cruz, Alexis Fisher, Kristin Green*, Meg Hatch*, Rebekah Howells, Chloe Kramer, Rose Morel, Danitza Acosta, Megan Schmidt and Isabella Touseull. Tenor/Bass: James Bernosky, Matthew Coggins, Jason Daloul, Olivia DeVore, Paul Frisch*, Justin Griffiths, Alexander Karp, Luke Rusin, Jacob Webb, and Jayson Zimmerman**. *Indicates faculty/staff. **Indicates friends of PSU. Penn State Scranton Campus Jazz Band Flute: Sharon Ebert*, Ceiwynn Longworth. Violin: Nina Burke, Randall Kasorek**, Solei Lasanta. Alto Sax: Robert Bishop**, Mayer Crean. Tenor Sax: Jack Mead**, Vivian Ni. Trumpet: Molly Abdalla*, Jacquelyn Bitter, Gabriella Bruford, Melina Petrini, Steve Semonich**. Trombone: Stan Kalafut**. Guitar: Gary Caolo**, Katrina Concepcion, Riley Martin. Bass: Ray Petren*. Drums: Griff Lewis*, Dave McKenney, Carl Mignano**. Aux. Percussion: Nicholas Pallman, Debra Smarkusky*. Keyboard: Sharon Toman*. *Indicates faculty/staff **Indicates friends of PSU.
The Dime Bank Supports Lacawac Sanctuary The Dime Bank donated $13,500.00 to Lacawac Sanctuary to support their hands-on academic enrichment and innovative educational programs. The Lacawac Sanctuary is a non-profit conservation, research, and education center providing the community with a host of quality environmental, historical, and cultural programs. $7,500.00 was donated through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program to support Lacawac Sanctuary’s mission to educate students with important ecological and environmental science lessons, strengthening academic achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. On-site visits to Lacawac, off-site teachings at schools, educational workshops, and curriculum for afterschool sessions are just some of Lacawac’s innovative and educational offerings. “The Dime Bank believes in supporting many different programs to elevate the quality of life in our region. Lacawac’s programs are multidisciplinary and geared towards a wide audience. We are happy to support efforts to preserve and protect this sanctuary for future generations and to foster a deep appreciation for the environment and all its inhabitants,” stated The Dime Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich. Additionally, The Dime Bank has pledged $20,000.00 to Lacawac’s Environmental Education Center over the course of four years, with $5,000.00 being paid this year. The Dime Bank also donated $1,000.00 as a corporate sponsor to help with the Sanctuary’s mission to help promote environmental understanding through education and conservation. Lacawac Sanctuary President Craig Lukatch stated, “Lacawac Sanctuary is very grateful to The Dime Bank for their support of our mission of Research, Education and Preservation. Their commitment to our work in the community allows us to serve and educate thousands of individuals each year and help us maintain and preserve the natural world for all to enjoy.”
Wayne Bank’s Holly DiLeo Elected to Pennsylvania Builders Association Board of Directors Holly DiLeo, Wayne Bank Mortgage Loan Officer, was elected to the PA Builders Association Board of Directors, at their recent “Winter Meeting and Installation Gala” in Pittsburgh, PA, on March 14-16 at the Pittsburgh Marriot North. The Pennsylvania Builders Association (PBA) is a non-profit statewide trade association chartered in 1945. Affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and a network of 30 local associations across the state of Pennsylvania, the PBA is a unified voice for both the home building industry and the housing consumer. Their core purpose is to promote and protect the home building industry through teamwork, education, advocacy, and membership. DiLeo joined Wayne Bank in early 2023 and has over six years of experience in the mortgage lending industry. According to Wayne Bank Vice President & Residential Mortgage Sales Manager, Derek Bellinger, “For over 150 years, Wayne Bank has been helping the community grow, and we’re excited that Holly can bring her experience and knowledge to represent our local builders in Northeast Pennsylvania, particularly in Luzerne and Monroe Counties. We’re also eager for her to learn more about the policies and key concerns that are important to builders across the state of Pennsylvania.” DiLeo is a member of the Scranton Chamber of Influencers and NeighborWorks of NEPA (Northeastern PA). She is also a Dress for Success Lackawanna Board Member, and a Pocono Leaders of Tomorrow Committee Member. DiLeo resides in Greentown, PA, with her husband, Kyle. They have one daughter.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Recognizes Servicemember as Warfighter of the Quarter Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) recently had the privilege of honoring another distinguished servicemember with the Warfighter of the Quarter award. The Warfighter of the Quarter award acknowledges the relationship between employees at TYAD and the servicemembers who selflessly dedicate themselves to serving our nation, living lives consistent with the Army core values, and being good stewards of their communities. The honoree for the 4th quarter of 2023 is Sgt. 1st Class Albert J. Avila, who received the distinction during a midgame ceremony at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Military Appreciation Night hockey game. As part of the Penguins’ salute to our nation’s heroes, members of Team Tobyhanna displayed a military vehicle and shared information about TYAD’s mission with game attendees. Additionally, Sgt. 1st Class Avila performed a ceremonial puck drop to start the game and Janet Warnick of TYAD’s Installation Services directorate provided a rendition of “God Bless America.” Currently, Sgt. 1st Class Avila is assigned to the Scranton Army Recruiting Station in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He is the recipient of seven Army Achievement Medals, two Army Commendations, and a Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. TYAD Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Riggs joined Depot Commander Col. James L. Crocker in presenting the latest Warfighter of the Quarter award. Sgt. Maj. Riggs highlighted the significance of the honor and emphasized the respect he has for Sgt. 1st Class Avila and his work. “The Warfighter of the Quarter award provides TYAD an opportunity to recognize servicemembers who are doing good work. It allows for engagement with the local community and the military community in Northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Sgt. Maj. Riggs. “This gives us an opportunity to reward Sgt. 1st Class Avila’s example of dedication to duty and work for the community that might otherwise go unnoticed.” Sgt. 1st Class Avila said receiving the award was a tremendous privilege that made him proud of his commitment to the Armed Forces. “Receiving the TYAD Warfighter of the Quarter Award is an immense honor, deeply affirming my commitment to the United States Army Reserve and my role as an Army Recruiter,” said Sgt. 1st Class Avila. “It’s incredibly gratifying to be recognized for successfully assisting others in achieving their goals, as my work brings me great satisfaction in knowing I’m making a difference in their lives.” While assigned to the Scranton Army Recruiting Station as an Army Ambassador, Sgt. 1st Class Avila distinguished himself by displaying professionalism and dedication to duty, keeping with the finest traditions of military service. Some specific achievements include his orchestration of seven Future Soldier promotions for members of the Delayed Entry Program (a program designed to accommodate new enlistees into the United States Armed Forces before shipping out to basic training), his development and implementation of a transformative weight loss program that assisted civilians in meeting Army physical requirements, and providing education for seven high school guidance counselor offices on the March2Success program, an online program that helps individuals reach their civilian or Army educational goals. 1st Lt. Thomas Gascoigne works alongside Sgt. 1st Class Avila at the Scranton Army Recruiting Station. He said his impact has gone further than just the organization. “Sgt. 1st Class Avila goes above and beyond the normal scope of duties that recruiters perform,” said 1st Lt. Gascoigne. “Sgt. 1st Class Avila is not only an asset to our organization, but he is an asset to his community as well.” The Warfighter of the Quarter award and other employee recognition programs align with Tobyhanna’s long-range strategic plan, TOBY2035 – specifically the Connecting with the Community line of effort. The goal of Tobyhanna Army Depot’s plan is to strive to position Tobyhanna for success in the coming years as the Department of Defense’s premier worldwide C5ISR readiness provider.
Lackawanna College Receives Donation from Fidelity Bank for Dual Enrollment Program Lackawanna College received a donation of $25,000 from Fidelity Bank. This contribution will support the Dual Enrollment Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, allowing high school students to enroll in college-level courses and earn credits while attending high school. “We know Lackawanna College will take these dollars and put it to work in the programs that benefit our community the most,” President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, Dan Santaniello said. “This is an investment to the future and the future leaders of northeastern Pennsylvania, to get these young students college credits and experience in college level courses.” By making this donation, Fidelity Bank reaffirms its dedication to education, resonating with Lackawanna College’s mission to foster accessible and affordable education to the communities it serves. About the Lackawanna College Dual Enrollment Program Lackawanna College allows local high school students the opportunity to gain a head start on their college careers through Dual Enrollment courses offered within the hours and confines of their high school. Courses are also available through Lackawanna College’s online program, at our main campus in Scranton, or at our satellite centers in Hawley, Hazleton, Sunbury, Towanda, and Tunkhannock. This program is offered to high schools throughout northeastern Pennsylvania on a contractual basis and a reduced cost. About the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program The EITC program is a Pennsylvania tax credit for businesses who donate to an approved nonprofit organization. Lackawanna College is an approved Educational Improvement Organization. Companies contributing to Lackawanna College through EITC can receive significant tax benefits. Approved corporations can receive tax credits equal to 75% of its contribution up to a maximum of $750,000 per taxable year. In photo from left to right: Vice President & Investment Officer William Fennie III, Lackawanna College President and Chief Innovation Officer Jill Murray, President & CEO of Fidelity Bank Dan Santaniello and Director of College Advancement Amber Riedinger.
