Geisinger Serves 2,900 Veteran Appreciation Dinners To thank local veterans for their service, Geisinger served approximately 2,900 meals during drive-through veteran appreciation dinners at 11 locations across its service area on Thursday, Nov. 9. The dinners for U.S. military veterans and guests were provided at no cost to participants. Meals were provided in Bloomsburg, Danville, Jersey Shore, Lewistown, Mifflintown, Muncy, Pittston, Scranton, Shamokin, State College, and Wilkes-Barre. Members of Geisinger’s executive leadership team, regional leaders and volunteers attended the event to hand out meals to veterans. Members of leadership, along with staff and volunteers, handed out the meals with a smile and “thank you for your service” to express gratitude for the veterans’ selflessness and sacrifice. At some locations, veterans also received homemade cards and notes from local students.
NEPIRC CEO Appointed to Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Committee The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) recently announced the appointment of 10 individuals, including Eric Joseph Esoda, president and CEO of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC), to the Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Committee (IGPAC). The full roster of appointees, consisting of tribal, local, regional and state representatives, includes: Eric Joseph Esoda, president and CEO, Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center Sam Cho, commissioner, Port of Seattle James Collard, director of planning and economic development, Citizen Potawatomi Nation Emily Desai, deputy director of international affairs and trade, California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development Yusuf Hakeem, Tennessee State House Representative Rory Hoskins, mayor of Forest Park, Illinois Mike Matson, mayor of Davenport, Iowa Laurence Reszetar, director of international business strategy, Minnesota Trade Office Daphnee Sainvil, division manager, Government Affairs and Economic Development, City of Fort Lauderdale, Florida Eugene Seroka, executive director, The Port of Los Angeles “This highly qualified group of stakeholders and elected officials represent diverse backgrounds, interests and priorities, and I congratulate them on joining this important committee,” said Ambassador Katherine Tai. “The IGPAC is a critical link that ensures USTR’s work is responsive to needs of all people in the United States,” she added. The new appointees will join five existing members of the committee. The IGPAC provides general policy advice to the United States Trade Representative on issues involving trade and development that have a significant relationship to the affairs of U.S. state and local governments. Advisement areas may include negotiation objectives and bargaining positions prior to entering into multinational trade agreements, the anticipated or actual impacts of implementing trade agreements, ongoing or other matters relating to previously executed trade agreements or general matters regarding the trade policies of the United States. The Committee is comprised of members who have expertise in general trade, investment and development issues. As a member of the committee, Esoda will represent the concerns and opinions of small and mid-sized domestic manufacturers. Esoda brings more than 20 years of economic development experience, coupled with private consulting and business advising expertise. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Scranton, a master’s degree in accounting from Binghamton University and certification in diversity and inclusion from Cornell University. He is currently pursuing a business strategy certificate from Cornell University.
Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Class of 2023 Graduates Leadership Lackawanna is proud to announce the 2023 graduates of its Executive Program. Leadership Lackawanna’s six-week Executive Program deeply engages high-level professionals in the greater Scranton region, broadens their social network, and increases their overall knowledge of the community. It accepts applications from professionals in an executive-level (director or higher) position with extensive industry experience and demonstrated career progression. “Our mission at Leadership Lackawanna is to enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of our participants,” said Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “I’m confident the 14 individuals in this year’s Executive Level Program gained valuable insight into our mission and that they forged lasting connections that will strengthen them, both personally and professionally. It is my sincere hope that they will take these benefits and use them to positively impact the community!” This year, participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities, and nonprofit organizations. Sessions were held one evening per week for six consecutive weeks at various locations in the greater Scranton community, including cocktails and dinner. The 2022 Executive Program graduates include: Danielle Breslin, Moses Taylor Foundation Michelle Hamilton, The Waverly Community House Megan Walbeck, Geisinger Sarah Marie Thomas, NativityMiguel School of Scranton Tricia Zilaitis, City of Scranton Meghan Lennox Gagorik, American Heart Association Kristyn Smith, Tobyhanna Army Depot Bethany Staples, Market Share Consulting Ron Augelli, Talk Shirty to me Jason Berger Brian Ross, Tobyhanna Army Depot Neil Bresnahan, Big Bass Lake Community Association, Inc. Kyle Lennon, Schulte Hospitality Andrew Kudasik, PNC Bank
The Scranton Chamber Marks a Century of Business Excellence as a Chamber of Commerce The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce has announced its 100th-year milestone as a chartered Chamber of Commerce, celebrating a century of unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and championing the vibrant community of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Chartered on November 21, 1923, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, previously known as the Board of Trade, has been at the forefront of driving innovation, collaboration, and prosperity for businesses large and small. As a trusted partner to the local business community, the Chamber has been instrumental in providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities to its members. To commemorate this historic occasion, The Chamber hosted Ryan Gleason, senior manager of government affairs with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, at a recent meeting of the board of directors. Gleason presented a proclamation from Suzanne Clark, CEO and president of the US Chamber of Commerce, in recognition of the Chamber’s 100 years as a charted Chamber of Commerce, highlighting significant contributions to the economic development of Scranton and its longstanding commitment to fostering a thriving business environment. “It is rewarding to look back on a century of work representing the diverse business interests of Scranton, Lackawanna County, and all of northeastern Pennsylvania. And looking with excitement and optimism to the road ahead, paving the way for even greater success for our members and the entire business community,” shared Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Gleason also presented a proclamation to Chamber icon Virgina Goodrich. Goodrich is set to retire after 58 years of service to The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber expresses its gratitude to Ginger for more than a half-century dedication to the greater Scranton business community.
Fidelity Bank Makes Multiple Donations In late August, Fidelity Bank donated $50,000 to Marywood University. ($25,000 from Fidelity Bank and $25,000 from the Fidelity D&D Charitable Foundation.) Pictured: Dan Santaniello, President & CEO of Fidelity Bank, Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., President of Marywood University, and Dragan Jokic, Assistant Vice President & Retail Branch Manager of the Dunmore branch. In late July, Fidelity Bank donated $7,500 to Sisters of IHM. ($2,500 from Fidelity Bank and $5,000 from the Fidelity D&D Charitable Foundation) Pictured: Bob Brown, President of Sisters of IHM, Sister Ann Bubser, Executive Director of Sisters of IHM, Dan Santaniello, President & CEO of Fidelity Bank, and Lori Barrett, Vice President & Senior Trust Officer at Fidelity Bank, and also Treasurer of Sisters of IHM. In late July, Fidelity Bank donated $2,500 to the Cody Barrasse Memorial Foundation. Pictured: Dan Santaniello, President & CEO of Fidelity Bank, Lori Barrett, Vice President & Senior Trust Officer at Fidelity Bank and Joseph Barrasse from the Cody Barrasse Memorial Foundation.
Misericordia University Community Choir to Present Christmas Concert Celebrate the season of Christmas with the Misericordia University Community Choir on Thursday, December 7th at 7:00 PM in the University Chapel. The Center for Adult & Continuing Education invites you to come together with family and friends to experience the magic of the holiday season through the gift of music. It promises to be a night of harmony, goodwill, and festive delight. The concert is FREE and open to the public. Date: Thursday, December 7, 2003 Time: 7:00 PM Location: University Chapel, First Floor, Mercy Hall Please contact Paul Nardone at pnardone@misericordia.edu or by phone 570-674-8130 with any questions or for additional information.
Johnson College Enrolling Students in Forklift Operator Training Course Johnson College’s Continuing Education program is offering a Forklift Operator Training Course on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Diesel Truck Technology Center on the College’s Scranton campus. The cost of the course is $200, but if you are a current Johnson College student or alum the cost is only $100. Space is limited! The forklift operator training is designed to familiarize students with OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training Requirements (29CFR Standard 1910.178 and ASME B56.1), provide current training requirements under the newly adopted standards, and assist participants in becoming an authorized operator of forklifts through theory and tactile testing. Nine hours of instruction including pre-operational inspection, picking up, traveling, and placing loads, parking procedures, refueling, and practical operation. To learn more or to enroll, visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-ed/forklift/ or contact the Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu.
The Wright Center Welcomes New Psychiatrist Psychiatrist Aditi Sharma, M.D., MPH, has joined The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton Practice, where she is accepting new patients. Dr. Sharma will treat adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, providing consultations and evaluations to develop personalized behavioral health and medicinal care plans. Additionally, Dr. Sharma will serve as core faculty and associate program director in The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Psychiatry Residency program. Dr. Sharma is a 2023 alumna of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education. She earned her medical degree from Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Himachal Pradesh, India. She also holds a master’s degree in public health and health promotion from London South Bank University. After completing her studies in Britain, Dr. Sharma came to the United States and has previously lived in Texas and Illinois. She speaks English, Hindi, and Punjabi. Dr. Sharma is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society. The Wright Center for Community Health operates 10 primary and preventive care practices in Northeast Pennsylvania, including a mobile medical and dental vehicle called Driving Better Health. The health center treats individuals of all income levels and insurance statuses, including the underinsured and uninsured. No patient is turned away due to an inability to pay. To learn about the many services offered at The Wright Center, including its psychiatric and behavioral health services, go to TheWrightCenter.org. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sharma at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton Practice, 501 S. Washington Ave., call 570.941.0630.
The Lackawanna Heritage Valley Santa Train Celebrates 25 Years in a Small Town The most wonderful time of the year is almost here, and so is the beloved Santa Train! Join the 25th anniversary of this free family event that brings magic and joy through the Lackawanna Valley on Saturday, December 2nd. The Santa Train will travel along the historic Delaware & Hudson railroad line, stopping at six stations to greet children and families with special silver anniversary surprises. Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, and other characters will distribute candy, gifts, and holiday cheer. The train will feature live entertainment by Doug Smith’s Dixieland All-Stars, Franko the Great, Ryan Cornelius the Balloon Wizard, a special guest appearance by the Brown Initiative, the Valley View High School Band, and Champ, the mascot of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Rail Riders. A holiday tradition since 1996, the Santa Train took a two-year hiatus but made a triumphant post-pandemic return in 2022 with hundreds of families and children in attendance. The train will arrive in Carbondale at 10:30 AM; Archbald at 11:20 AM; Jessup at noon; Olyphant at 12:45 PM; Dickson City at 1:30 PM, and its final destination, the Steamtown National Historic Site, at 3 p.m. Beyond its popularity as a festive celebration, the Santa Train is a way of honoring the region’s rich heritage, shaped in large part by the railroad industry. With its origins in Carbondale, the D&H was one of the most important railroads in the country, connecting local coal mines with markets in New York and across the Atlantic seaboard. The Steamtown NHS in Scranton preserves and showcases the history and legacy of steam locomotives with exhibits, demonstrations, and excursions. The Santa Train is a communitywide effort made possible by the Lackawanna Heritage Valley, Steamtown NHS, Delaware/Lackawanna Railroad, Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Rail Authority, Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, Carbondale Business Association, City of Carbondale, the boroughs of Archbald, Jessup, and Jessup 21st Century Association, Dickson City, Olyphant, and the City of Scranton. Special thanks to this year’s sponsors: Peoples Security Bank, Community Bank N.A., NBT Bank, Honesdale National Bank, Rotary Club of Scranton, North Penn Charitable Foundation, Quinn’s Market and Propst Transportation and Lackawanna County. For more information, visit www.lhva.org.
Cooper’s Seafood House to Benefit The Women’s Resource Center Indulge in a feast fit for a cause at Cooper’s Seafood House! From Wednesday, December 6th to Friday, December 8th, 2023, Cooper’s is excited to offer a special deal that brings together delicious seafood and charitable giving. Alaskan King Crab Extravaganza for a Cause! For a limited time, treat yourself to one pound of succulent Alaskan King Crab Legs for just $20! With each order Cooper’s will make a $10 donation to the Women’s Resource Center. It’s a win-win – savor the unparalleled taste of Alaskan King Crab while contributing to a meaningful cause that supports and empowers women in our community. Special Details: Dates: December 6th, 7th, and 8th, 2023 – Dine in only Deal: One pound of Alaskan King Crab Legs for $20. Sides Included: Enjoy the perfect pairing with complimentary French fries and cole slaw. By participating in this special event, you not only get to relish a delectable seafood experience but also make a positive impact on the lives of women through your generous donation to the Women’s Resource Center. Join Cooper’s Seafood House for a feast that goes beyond the table, where every bite makes a difference!