Lackawanna Historical Society Hosts Pysanky Workshop In time for Easter, the Lackawanna Historical Society will host its popular Pysanky-making workshop on Sunday, March 15 at 11 a.m. Hosted by Tammy Budnovitch, the workshops will be held at the Society’s headquarters, the Catlin House, 232 Monroe Avenue, Scranton. The cost for the workshop is $30 and includes all supplies. Pysanky is a traditional Ukrainian craft in which patterns are drawn on the eggs with wax, which protects the egg when dye is applied. Dating back to prehistoric Ukraine, folklore claims that these elaborate wax-decorated eggs can help ward off evil from overtaking the world. Each workshop is a two-hour beginner class teaching the basic steps of making pysanky, and will include all needed supplies including kistka, beeswax, egg, egg design, and additional designs to take home. Tammy Budnovitch is a member of S.S. Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Church who has been teaching pysanky for several years. There will also be some of Tammy’s finished pysanky for sale as well as additional supplies for anyone who wants to continue the craft.
WVIA Wins Best of Show at AAF NEPA’s American Advertising Awards – “Girls Wrestling Documentary,” which follows the inspiring journey of the barrier breaking athletes of the Western Wayne Girls Wrestling Team, tells the story of young athletes reshaping the landscape of high school wrestling. On Friday, February 28, the American Advertising Federation of Northeastern Pennsylvania (AAF NEPA) hosted the 2024 American Advertising Awards, where they presented the 2024 Silver Medal Award, the Game Changer Award, winners of Cropped and the Rising Star Award. This year’s event was held at the Mohegan Pennsylvania Convention Center. The American Advertising Awards are widely acknowledged to be the largest and most representative competition of its kind, with more than 25,000 entries received as part of the three-tier competition. Campaigns need to advance through both local and regional levels in order to be eligible for the national award. In addition, the awards are often viewed as a lens offering insights into work that may also perform well at other upcoming international creative competitions. Local Gold winners will automatically advance to the regional level and silver winners have the option to send their work on. In all, 8 Professional ADDYs and 13 Student ADDYs were awarded at the Northeastern PA American Advertising Awards, along with 8 Special Judges Choice Awards. Winners were announced during the award show on February 28th, which was attended by 80+ creative professionals, educators and students from across the advertising, marketing, media and tech communities. Said Dan Kimbrough, President of AAF NEPA, “It’s a heavy lift pulling off the show each year, but we have an amazing board and being able to come together and celebrate our creative community makes it worth it.” Other highlights from this year’s American Advertising Awards include: ● WVIA’s Webseries “NEPA @ Work”, which took a gold medal, along with “Girls Wrestling Documentary”. ● Halibut Blue won two Silver Awards for their work with local non-profits Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA, and The United Way of the Wyoming Valley. ● Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Student Hunter Rossmann took home 5 trophies. ● Stephanie Klemick of Marywood University took home the student Best of Show with an innovative package design called “Fruit Cups”. Awards were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges representing 4 different markets and agencies not local to NEPA. Outside of our AAA Competition awards, Danielle Antonello-Smolley of Triggerfinger Photography, was awarded the Silver Medal Award, which recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to advertising and has been active in furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence and responsibility in areas of social concern. Kevin Jones, owner of VizVibe, took home the Game Changer Award, which recognizes local visionaries who are pioneering new and exciting ideas within the advertising industry. And Stephanie Klemick of Marywood University won The Rising Star Award, which celebrates emerging talents in the advertising industry who exhibit outstanding potential and a commitment to excellence in both their professional endeavors and community engagement. All professional and student entries and the winners can be viewed online at adflix.aafnepa.org.
City of Scranton Reminds Businesses to Submit 4th Quarter Payroll Preparation Tax Businesses Reminded that the Deadline for Submitting the 2024 Fourth Quarter Payroll Preparation Tax Return is February 28, 2025 Entities conducting business within the City of Scranton are reminded that the due date to submit their fourth quarter tax return for the 2024 Payroll Preparation Tax is February 28, 2025. A person shall be deemed to be conducting business within the City if they engage, hire, employ, or contract with one or more individuals as employees, partners, or is self-employed and, in addition, does at least one of the following: Maintains a fixed place of business within the City; Owns or leases real property within the City for profit; Maintains a stock of tangible, personal property in the City for sale in the ordinary course of business; Conducts continuous solicitation within the City related to such business; or Utilizes the streets of the City in connection with the operation of such business (other than for the mere transportation from a site outside the City, through the City, to a destination outside the City.) Institutions who are exempt from the Payroll Preparation Tax as a result of their status as a nonprofit are required to file quarterly returns claiming their exemption. Returns submitted after February 28, 2025, will be subject to penalty and interest on the balances due. The Payroll Preparation Tax is a tax levied separately by both the Scranton School District and the City of Scranton. The 2024 Payroll Preparation Tax rate for the Scranton School District is 0.7553 percent and the 2024 Payroll Preparation Tax rate for the City of Scranton is 0.2787 percent. The combined 2024 Payroll Preparation Tax rate is 1.034 percent. The City of Scranton and the Scranton School District have both appointed Berkheimer Tax Innovations, Inc. to administer the Payroll Preparation Tax on their behalf. Tax forms are available on Berkheimer’s website at hab-inc.com/pptforms. Additional information, including Frequently Asked Questions, can be found at scrantonpa.gov/payroll-prep-tax-information, https://www.scrsd.org/departments/business-office and www.hab-inc.com/ppt-faq. Please direct all questions regarding the Payroll Preparation Tax to Berkheimer by emailing ebpt@goberk.com or by calling (610) 599-3140.
Keystone Mission Christmas Meal Operation – Volunteers and Donations Needed Keystone Mission’s Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Innovation Centers for Homelessness & Poverty are gearing up for the Christmas season. Following the success of serving over 280 meals during Thanksgiving, the team is preparing for an even greater impact this December. On Monday, December 23rd, Keystone Mission will host a special Christmas Meal for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Scranton Innovation Center will begin serving at 12 PM, followed by the Wilkes-Barre Innovation Center at 4 PM. “As the colder weather drives more people indoors, we’re distributing additional winter supplies and serving more meals,” says Jillian Mirro, Communications & Marketing Manager. “We encourage the community to get involved—not just during Christmas, but throughout the season—by donating essential items or volunteering.” Keystone Mission is currently seeking volunteers to assist with the Christmas Meal, whether by serving food or contributing needed items. For more information on volunteering or bringing a dish to share, please visit www.KeystoneMission.org/volunteer. For more information on most needed items, please visit www.KeystoneMission.org/donate-goods.
Lackawanna College Partners with MMI for Pre-College Program MMI Preparatory School, located in Freeland near Hazleton, has approved a pre-college agreement with Lackawanna College, enabling MMI students to earn college credits while still in high school. This agreement, finalized in October 2024, follows an extensive evaluation process in which MMI reviewed area colleges and selected Lackawanna College to partner with for Pre-College programs. “Jennifer Novotney (Director of Curriculum and Instruction at MMI) and I met with approximately a dozen colleges and universities this summer, and very quickly Lackawanna College rose to the top, not only for the college’s experience with Pre-College programs but the ability to work together and move quickly,” said Dr. Tammy M. Chrin, Ed.D., Director of College Counseling at MMI Preparatory School. Currently, 40 eligible MMI students are set to benefit from the initiative, with the program already in place and being collaboratively administered by MMI and Lackawanna College staff. “I am excited to be working with MMI, their staff, faculty, and students. This partnership will help students earn college credits before graduating from high school and save their families thousands of dollars in the process. We are proud to be a part of this process for the families of MMI,” said Phillip Campbell, Director of College Partnerships at Lackawanna College. MMI students have the flexibility to take classes online, attend courses at the Lackawanna College Hazleton Center, or participate in concurrent classes held at MMI Preparatory School. “Our students are really excited about the concurrent enrollment opportunities that are available. We currently have 29 credits available over junior and senior year that students can earn college credit for,” said Dr. Chrin. “I’ve introduced associate degree options to our students through the Level Up program and we have a number of students, especially our sophomore class, who are considering earning an associate degree before they would earn their high school diploma.” Lackawanna College promotes the following goals through its partnership with MMI Preparatory School: Enable high school students to earn college credits, saving time and money toward their higher education goals. Provide exposure to college-level coursework, easing the transition from high school to higher education. Offer pathways to career-focused programs. Help students explore fields of study before committing to a major. “This is something we’ve been looking at for quite some time here at MMI, a partnership that give us the opportunity to offer our students both concurrent and dual enrollment classes,” said Marci Hosier Assistant Head of School at MMI. “We know this is something that is extremely timely and relevant for our students and their families, and our staff has done a fantastic job working with Lackawanna College in getting this up and off the ground.” About MMI Preparatory School For 145 years, MMI Preparatory School has been providing dedicated area students with a comprehensive and inspiring 6th through 12th grade college preparatory program that maximizes each individual’s academic, social, and character potential in preparation for success in college and beyond. The school is jointly accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). MMI is a school where every student can reach their full potential: academically, ethically, and socially. For more information about MMI Preparatory School, visit www.mmiprep.org or call 570-636-1108. About Lackawanna College’s Pre-College Program Lackawanna College’s Pre-College Programs provide high school students with the opportunity to jump-start their college journey by earning credits while still in high school. These programs offer flexibility, allowing students to take college-level courses online, on-campus, or directly within their high schools. By participating, students can save on tuition costs, explore various academic disciplines, and gain valuable experience that prepares them for the transition to higher education. With a focus on academic enrichment and college readiness, Lackawanna College empowers students to take the first step toward achieving their educational goals.
ThermoLite Celebrates 50-year Anniversary ThermoLite, a highly respected industry leader of high-quality insulated glass manufacturing, was founded in 1974 by Joe Mesko Sr., and three of his sons, Joe, Gary, and George, as a vertically integrated supplier of insulated glass. The launch of ThermoLite fifty years ago enabled Mesko Glass to better control the quality and timely delivery of insulated glass to better serve their growing customer base. Today through their corporate headquarters and expansive manufacturing facility, both located in northeast Pennsylvania, ThermoLite produces vinyl windows in various sizes and shapes, and also distributes sliding patio doors. ThermoLite provides vinyl windows and insulating glass for homes and businesses and coordinates with contractors and architects throughout a 150-mile multi-state radius of Scranton, PA. President John Mesko states with great pride that “in our 50th year we are stronger than ever and have adapted exceptionally well to the ever-evolving window and glass manufacturing landscape. I am very proud of the state-of-the-art vinyl window and glass products we provide our customers. I am equally proud of ThermoLite’s loyal employees that we interact with daily.” ThermoLite has numerous certifications for window and glass products by independent third-party organizations dedicated to advancing the industry by promoting growth, quality, and innovation. John Mesko added, “ThermoLite has built a legacy of quality and service!”
The University of Scranton Hosts Data Science Competition High School Students Participate in Data Science Competition High School students from Carbondale Area, Mid Valley, Scranton Prep and Valley View participated in The University of Scranton’s inaugural Data Science Day Competition. Supported by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant awarded to University mathematics professor Joseph Klobusicky, Ph.D., the interactive competition included a tutorial introduction to data science and the computer software that would be used during the competition. The day also included a luncheon keynote address by Melinda Kleczynski, Ph.D., a post-doctoral scholar at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and remarks from Carolyn Barry, Ph.D., dean of Scranton’s College of Arts and Sciences. University students majoring in mathematics and other fields assisted with the competition. The high school students competed in an individual and a doubles division. In the individual division, Scranton Prep seniors Ethan Fenner (1st place), Vincent You (2nd place), and Ryan Flaim (3rd place) were recognized. Pictured from left are Ryan Flaim, Vincent You, Ethan Fenner, and Dr. Klobusicky. In the doubles division, sophomores from Mid Valley Secondary Center Giada Vagni, Olyphant, and Zackary Buza, Throop, came in first place. Seniors from Scranton Prep Logan Dixon, Factoryville, and Sam DeNaples, Moscow, placed second. Data Science is a growing, much-in-demand field. A knowledge of probability and statistics is crucial, as they are considered the “mathematical back bone” of data analysis, according to Dr. Klobusicky. For graduates of Scranton’s class of 2023, those majoring in data analysis had one of the highest salaries reported ($70,800) in its post-graduate survey. Additional information about undergraduate programs in mathematics at The University of Scranton can be found on the department’s webpage.
Urban Co-Works Celebrates its First Year New Downtown Scranton Coworking Space Now Home to Tech Companies, Non Profits, Consultants, Remote Workers and More. Urban Co-Works is proud to celebrate its first year of operations at 116 North Washington Avenue in downtown Scranton. This industrial-chic coworking space has become a vibrant hub for businesses, non-profits, consultants, remote workers, and others embracing flexible work styles. “Since opening in December of last year, we’ve welcomed a diverse group of professionals to our space,” said Urban Co-Works CEO Jeffrey Goronkin. “Our members include attorneys, healthcare professionals, digital marketing consultants, and more. Companies such as PennFoster, Corning, Giga Power, and Intuit have also joined us, making Urban Co-Works a true melting pot of talent and expertise.” Over the past year, Urban Co-Works has grown to include more than 80 businesses, offering flexible office solutions tailored to their individual and corporate needs. “Whether it’s a full-time office membership or occasional use, we have affordable plans to fit every professional’s needs,” Goronkin added. Unlike traditional office leases, Urban Co-Works offers month-to-month memberships and a host of amenities, including high-speed internet, fully furnished offices, complimentary beverages, printing services, and more. Nicole Reyes, CEO of Insight Marketing Executives said, “We chose to establish our office at Urban Co-Works because of its vibrant community and flexibility. Over the past year, we’ve seen firsthand how this space supports our entrepreneurial drive to grow. Access to shared spaces like meeting rooms, the coworking area, and other amenities has been instrumental in scaling our business. We also enjoy the opportunities they make to build valuable relationships with other like-minded professionals.” Jacquie Pershing, Licensed Clinical Social Worker said, “Starting my private practice, I knew I wanted a space that would keep me connected to other professionals—because let’s be real, private practice can get a bit lonely sometimes! That’s when I found Urban Co-Works, and I couldn’t be happier. The people here are so friendly, and I absolutely love the opportunity to network with other professionals. I look forward to engaging with them throughout the day and breaking up my routine with light, casual conversations. Whether it’s chatting about the weather, swapping recommendations for new movies, or hearing about the latest hiking spots, these little coffee breaks in the morning are a highlight. My office space is perfect, and the whole atmosphere at Urban Co-Works just feels so welcoming. I always look forward to walking in and getting started!” The Scranton location was made possible through a collaborative effort with Mayor Paige G. Cognetti, the City of Scranton, and Charlie Jefferson, owner of 116 North Washington Avenue and Urban Co-Works. “Urban Co-Works is committed to providing a top-tier workspace that fosters community and collaboration,” said Goronkin. “We are excited to offer professionals in Scranton a unique coworking experience designed to help them thrive and succeed.” KEY FEATURES AT URBAN CO-WORKS 57 Modern Offices: Urban Co-Works boasts 57 fully furnished offices, providing professionals with a private and comfortable workspace tailored to their needs. Training Room: The facility includes a dedicated training room equipped with large screen TV’s, erasable writing boards and other technology, ideal for workshops, seminars, and corporate training sessions. Multiple Meeting Spaces: Members have access to various meeting spaces designed for collaboration and brainstorming sessions, fostering a creative and productive atmosphere. Privacy Pods: For those moments when focus and concentration are paramount or to jump on a Zoom call, Urban Co-Works offers privacy pods, providing a quiet and distraction-free workspace. Expansive Coworking Space: The coworking space is equipped with 20 workstations with a modern adjacent kitchen, offering an open and flexible environment for individuals by day and networking events in the evening. Other amenities include high speed internet, a copy center and mail room, member-only networking events, coffee and tea, self-service snack station and more. MEMBERSHIPS Urban Co-Works offers a variety of memberships to accommodate the various needs of today’s workforce. Virtual Mailing: Ideal for remote professionals, this membership level provides a prestigious business address and mail handling services. Coworking: Access to shared workspaces on a part-time to full-time basis, allowing flexibility for those who need a professional environment without a long-term commitment. Private Offices: Fully furnished private offices provide professionals with a dedicated and personalized workspace on a month-to-month basis. Conference Room by the Hour: Need a professional meeting space? Urban Co-Works offers conference room rentals on an hourly basis, ensuring organizations and professionals have access to the facilities when they need them.
Scranton Cultural Center – Tickets Now Available for “Whose Live Anyway?” The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” are proud to present their new improv tour: WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?, appearing live in concert at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple on Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 PM. WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? is 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Cast members Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, Ryan Stiles, and Joel Murray will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes. Audience participation is key to the show, so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage! This particular style of improvisational comedy is rife with countless gags, one-liners, hilarious games and even songs so good you will hardly believe they were made up on the spot. The teamwork and trust that it takes to perform a show with no script is apparent, but when the best of the best do it, they do it effortlessly. Watch them build entire scenes, characters, and storylines right before your eyes as they take you on a white-knuckle ride through endless chuckles. Ryan Stiles’ television credits include roles on “The Drew Carey Show” and “Two and a Half Men,” while Greg Proops has lent his vocal talents to animated characters in Star Wars: Episode 1, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Brother Bear. However, both got their start as comedians and are excited to return to their funny-bone-tickling roots. Jeff B. Davis is also a highly experienced improv comedian and starred in the cult classic cartoon series, “Harmonquest.” He has also starred in “Drew Carey’s Green Screen Show” and “Improv-a-Ganza,” while gaining fame for his spot-on impressions of Christoper Walken, Keanu Reeves, and Jeff Goldblum. Joel Murray is the youngest of the nine Murray brothers, including Bill Murray, but has become a star in his own right. Though he has over 250 sitcom appearances, he is best known for his recurring roles like Freddy Rumsen on “Mad Men” and Eddie Jackson on “Shameless.” He has also appeared in One Crazy Summer, The Artist, Scrooged, and Bobcat Goldthwait’s God Bless America.. WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? showcases some of the improv games made famous on the long-running TV show as well as some exciting new ones, featuring musical direction by Bob Derkach. All ages welcome. WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? will take place in the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Theatre, located on the building’s first floor, with doors opening for bar and concessions at 6:30 PM. Tickets start at $59.00 (includes fees), and will be available for purchase beginning December 5 at 10 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
