Johnson College Enrolling for 285 Computer Numerical Control Course

Johnson College is now enrolling for its 285 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) course at its Scranton campus. The course will run Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 10:15 p.m. beginning September 3, 2024, and ending November 25, 2024.

The 285-hour non-credit certificate Computer Numerical Control training is designed for individuals looking to enter the high-demand machining field. The course covers the theory and hands-on practice of both conventional and computer numerical control machining fields. In addition to math for machinists, emphasis on the use of metals and the stresses placed upon them will be taught.

The total cost of the course is $4,200. Participants must have a GED or high school diploma.

To learn more or to enroll, visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-ed/285-computer-numerical-control-cnc/ or contact the Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu.

NeighborWorks’ Expands Work in Carbondale

NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania (NeighborWorks) recently accepted a contribution from Coterra Energy, in the amount of $266,600 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). This contribution marks the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and has significantly bolstered our efforts to improve communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The contribution will support the Beautiful Blocks Program for 2024. Beautiful Blocks, which is jointly sponsored by NeighborWorks, the City of Scranton, the City of Carbondale and the City of Pittston, provides matching grants of up to $1,000 to each member of a group of at least five residents to help them make exterior improvements to their homes in their respective municipalities. Grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process.

This contribution is particularly significant as it is funding the entirety of the Beautiful Blocks Pittston program in its first year, enabling us to expand this successful initiative to a new city. Coterra’s contribution is also funding neighborhood revitalization work in Carbondale. The funding has been pivotal in completing critical projects such as the demolition of vacant and deteriorating properties, providing grants to homebuyers to help them improve the exterior of their homes and developing the Carbondale Core Neighborhood Plan.

“NeighborWorks is extremely grateful for Coterra’s exceptional commitment and partnership,” said Shane Powers, President & CEO of NeighborWorks. “This significant contribution underscores the power of collaboration in driving meaningful community development. Coterra’s support has enabled us to expand the Beautiful Blocks Program to Pittston and continue vital revitalization work in Carbondale, making a tangible difference in our communities.”

Coterra Director of External Affairs George Stark, said, “We at Coterra are proud to support the vital work of NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania through the Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program. NeighborWorks revitalizes neighborhoods where our employees, contractors, and vendors live and creates opportunities for individuals and families to improve their lives through quality housing and financial guidance. This investment not only assists those in need but also enhances the communities we call home.”

Altogether, contributions from Coterra and its affiliates were the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and accounted for the bulk of its total NAP contributions this year. Coterra’s unwavering support underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in community development and highlights the positive impact of corporate contributions on local revitalization projects. NeighborWorks is deeply grateful for Coterra’s remarkable generosity and commitment to community development.

Condron Media Announces Luzerne County Real Estate Firm Joins Classic Properties

Condron Sweda Advertising announces The Smith Hourigan Group founded in 1975 by Ruth K. Smith and part of the Century 21 brand for forty-five years has joined Classic Properties as of August 1. Kevin Smith and David Hourigan, both owners and brokers of the previous firm will continue in management with Classic Properties.

Steve Farrell, the owner and broker of Classic Properties said, “We are delighted to bring Kevin and David and their successful agents and staff into the Classic Properties team. Together we will better serve homeowners and buyers throughout the area. Adding the Smith Hourigan Group with its history in Luzerne County to our strength in Lackawanna, Monroe, and Wyoming Counties increases our reputation as the listing leader in the region.

Kevin Smith said, “David and I are proud to continue our service to generations of customers under the Classic Properties name. Classic offers our agents and clients advanced technology and a larger base
to achieve quicker and enhanced success.” David Hourigan added, “After many years of serving clients in this area, I’m delighted to work with Steve Farrell’s team and offer our customers the benefit of a larger, nationally and internationally connected real estate firm.”

With the merger, Classic Properties now boasts over 180 agents and staff in six regional offices of northeastern Pa. The expanded firm has an annual sales volume of $365 million. It will serve customers from offices in Kingston, Mountain Top, Shavertown, Clarks Summit, North Pocono, and the Pocono Mountains. The Classic name has been synonymous with marketing Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most valuable properties since 1983.

Spark by Hilton to Open in Clarks Summit

Experience the new Spark by Hilton in Clarks Summit

Welcome Hotel Group and SAP Hotels, LLC are thrilled to announce the completion of its extensive renovation, marking its transformation into a vibrant Spark by Hilton property. The revitalization project has redefined luxury and comfort, offering guests an unparalleled experience in Clarks Summit.

The renovation to Spark by Hilton represents a significant milestone in its journey towards becoming a premier destination for travelers seeking sophistication, innovation, and personalized service. Inspired by the dynamic Spark by Hilton brand, the hotel now boasts a contemporary design, state-of-the-art amenities, and an array of engaging spaces for guests to unwind and connect.

“Our team is proud to introduce the new era of hospitality at the Spark by Hilton in Clarks Summit,” said Jim Petorak, General Manager of the property. “With this transformation, we are elevating the guest experience to new heights, combining modern elegance with the warm hospitality that defines our brand.”

The redesigned guest rooms at the Spark exude comfort and style, featuring plush bedding, sleek furnishings, and cutting-edge technology to ensure a restful stay.

The transformation into a Spark by Hilton property reflects Hilton’s commitment to redefining the hotel experience for today’s discerning travelers. With its emphasis on creativity, connectivity, and community, Spark by Hilton encapsulates the spirit of modern hospitality, inviting guests to discover moments of inspiration and delight at every turn.

For reservations and more information about Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit, please visit Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit or contact the hotel at 800-774-1500.

Misericordia University Introduces New Programs in Entrepreneurship and Criminology

Misericordia University recently introduced two new majors for full-time students that begin in fall 2024. The College of Arts and Sciences added a new Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Entrepreneurship is now available within the College of Business.

“Our criminology degree was created to educate students in a wide range of issues and principles impacting crime in modern society,” says John Woznicki, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “It will prepare students for a career in law enforcement and various other fields related to the study and reduction of crime. We use an interdisciplinary approach, apply broad-based thinking skills in the Mercy tradition, and draw on the talents of our faculty in government, law, and national security as well as new faculty we’ve added to support this major.”

Building on recent success in launching new majors, such as supply chain management and business economics, the College of Business is introducing entrepreneurship as a major for full-time students, as well as a certificate program for adult learners.

Jim Pierson, J.D., CPA, dean of the College of Business says, “Entrepreneurship is an excellent major for students who desire to start their own businesses or who wish to apply their knowledge in an existing company as someone who promotes innovative product development and marketing. Students will apply appropriate thinking skills and technology to entrepreneurial activities to solve business problems and formulate sound business decisions.” Pierson adds that students can opt for a specialization in social entrepreneurship that will help them analyze the importance of ethical and social responsibilities and to foster innovation in applying entrepreneurial skills to address social issues impacting our communities through social ventures and responsive business operations. 

Misericordia University is a highly personal community of over 2,000 students in Northeastern Pennsylvania. As a private Catholic institution founded by the Sisters of Mercy, Misericordia emphasizes collaborative, hands-on learning and supports co-curricular activities by engaged faculty and staff. The university challenges students to excel academically, professionally, and socially and has notably superior graduation and retention rates. The university’s core values of Mercy, Service, Justice, and Hospitality underpin the more than 50 academic programs. Misericordia offers 31 Division III NCAA intercollegiate athletic programs, which include the new additions of STUNT, men’s and women’s wrestling, and men’s ice hockey. Misericordia University is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024 and is planning to welcome its second largest first-year class.

For more information on any new or existing program, please visit www.misericordia.edu/academics.

Lackawanna College Earns Institutional Reaccreditation for Next Eight Years

Lackawanna College has earned reaccreditation through the 2031-32 academic year from The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The reaccreditation reflects the college’s commitment to maintaining high standards of education and accountability.

The reaffirmation culminates a rigorous two-year long self-study process that directly involved more than 100 faculty, staff, students, board members and employers. The process included various reviews of Lackawanna College’s strategic plan, enrollment process, academic development and offerings, campus life, fiscal health and student success rate.

“This impressive outcome reflects our continued commitment to providing a quality education to all persons who seek to improve their lives” Lackawanna College President and Chief Innovation Officer Jill Murray, Ph.D. said. “This is a critical accomplishment and reflects years of hard work by our entire college community. While we are proud of our results, we are even more proud of our outstanding team.”

As part of the reaccreditation process, a self-study team was created to review and prepare information for the MSCHE evaluation team’s three-day site visit in March 2024. The self-study team was led by Lackawanna College Provost Erica Barone Pricci, Ph.D., Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs/Dean of Health Sciences Kelly A. Musti, PT, DPT, Dean of Curriculum and Faculty Affairs Adrienne Asbury and Director of Academic Quality Lindsey Munley. The Lackawanna College community also collaborated for the site visit by partaking in self-study activities, participating in working groups and were heavily involved in the on-site MSCHE visit.

After the review, the MSCHE found Lackawanna College meets all standards and requirements for accreditation, providing nine commendations for outstanding aspects of the college. As of July 2024, the MSCHE has formally accepted the evaluation team’s report and reaffirmed its accreditation status.

“Maintaining our MSCHE accreditation is vital for ensuring academic excellence and institutional integrity,” Musti said. “Achieving reaffirmation of our accreditation is not merely a benchmark; it supports Lackawanna College’s commitment to providing a high-quality education and making a positive impact within our community.”

The MSCHE is a voluntary, non-profit association providing accreditation to institutions of higher education in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The next self-study evaluation will take place in eight years.

Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Month of ABLE Webinars

Treasurer Stacy Garrity, Chair of the national ABLE Savings Plans Network (ASPN) announced today that to celebrate the first national ABLE Savings Day on August 14, multiple free webinars will be hosted by ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) program experts throughout August. Webinars will explain how ABLE accounts can help individuals with disabilities and their families save without affecting eligibility for important benefits.

“ABLE programs provide fantastic opportunities for people with disabilities and their families to save for the future, which used to be impossible,” Treasurer Garrity said. “It’s my goal to make sure everyone who can benefit from an ABLE account learns about their benefits and knows how to open one. Our own PA ABLE is one of the largest programs in the country, and it’s growing quickly.”

This month’s webinars include:

ABLE Account 101

Monday, August 12, at 2:00 p.m.

Join Mark Raymond, Jr., and other ABLE experts to learn about ABLE accounts. Mark will do a 30-minute presentation covering all ABLE topics (what is ABLE, who qualifies, how it works – and much more). After the presentation, participants can ask questions live.

Learn About PA ABLE

Tuesday, August 13, at 6:00 p.m.

Webinar topics include eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits of PA ABLE, and how a PA ABLE account interacts with current benefits.

How Can Employers Promote ABLE as an Accessibility Tool?

Wednesday, August 14, at 2:00 p.m.

This webinar is designed for self-advocates, Employers, Providers, and Human Resources executives to learn about the power of ABLE accounts and innovative ways employers are supporting their employees with disabilities and family members through ABLE accounts. Webinar attendees will gain tools and strategies to help employers and jobseekers best take advantage of ABLE accounts.

I Have an ABLE Account, Now What?

Wednesday, August 21, at 2:00 p.m.

This webinar is designed for self-advocates, family members and caregivers, who have opened an ABLE account or are considering opening an ABLE account. It will guide you through the ins and outs of ABLE accounts, helping you make the most of your financial opportunities.

All times are Eastern Standard.

The PA ABLE Savings Program provides people with disabilities and their families the opportunity for greater control of their finances and to plan a more secure future.

To find out if you are eligible for a PA ABLE account, visit paable.gov.

Marywood University Sets Fall Open Houses

Marywood University will hold two undergraduate open house events this fall for high school students and their parents.

The October Open House is scheduled for Saturday, October 26, and the November Open House is set for Saturday, November 16. Both events will be held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Registration for each open house 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 complimentary continental breakfast and lunch are included in the fall open houses.

The open houses will give prospective students the opportunity to walk through a student services & organizations fair to 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 for Marywood University’s fall open houses, visit marywood.edu/openhouse, email YourFuture@marywood.edu, or call Marywood’s admissions office at (570) 348-6234.

PennDOT Announces Plans for the Route 3020 Culvert Replacement Project

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) invites the public to a Public Meeting with plans display regarding the Route 3020, Section D50 Culvert Replacement Project.

The Route 3020 Section D50 project involves replacing the crossing of Route 3020 over a tributary to Lake Quinn in South Canaan Township, Wayne County. The project proposes to replace the existing concrete slab bridge with a new precast concrete box culvert.

The new structure has been designed to improve the hydraulic performance of the original bridge and maintain the existing floodplains so as not to adversely affect adjacent property owners. Roadway improvements associated with the project include full-depth reconstruction in the vicinity of the bridge with guide rail and pavement marking installations where required. Only minor utility impacts are anticipated to construct the project.

Public Meeting

The in-person public display meeting for the project will take place on:

Date:  August 7, 2024

Time:  3:30 PM

Location:  2238 Easton Turnpike Waymart PA 18472 (Township Building)

The public comment period is from July 24, 2024 – August 21, 2024. The plans display will be held online and will be available from July 24, 2024 – August 21, 2024. Online information, including detailed project information and comment form, can be found by visiting the following PennDOT District 4-0 website: Route 3020 Section D50 Culvert Replacement Project (pa.gov).

The purpose of the plans display is to introduce the project, display and describe the planned traffic control, and receive public input regarding questions or concerns with the project.

The project documents can be made available in alternative languages or formats if requested. If you need translation/interpretation services or have special needs or have special concerns that require individual attention, contact Mr. Thomas Capitano, PennDOT Project Manager, at tcapitano@pa.gov.

Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, PennDOT does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability. If you feel that you have been denied the benefits of or participation in a PennDOT program or activity, you may contact the PennDOT, Bureau of Equal Opportunity, DBE/Title VI Division at 717-787-5891.

Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X.

511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website.

Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4.

Information about infrastructure in District 4, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/D4Results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.

Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram.