Scranton Area Community Foundation Awards Grant to The Garden of Cedar The Garden of Cedar in Scranton has been awarded a $15,000 grant by the Scranton Area Community Foundation. The grant proceeds will be used to assist in constructing several innovative features at the Garden including ADA accessible planting beds, a vertical planting wall to maximize crop yield, custom planting greenhouses for off-season gardening, and children’s discovery stations. The Garden of Cedar is located at 715 Cedar Avenue in South Scranton. The mission of The Garden of Cedar is to provide a unique functional urban community garden and discovery area that will provide healthy nourishment, education and enjoyment to a diverse culturally rich community comprised of recent immigrants and long-term neighborhood residents. The Garden’s signature feature will be a wandering maze pathway bounded by vegetable and fruit planting beds. Visitors will be able to wander along a serpentine path, with stops & starts, and return safely to the point of origin. Along the way they will be able to observe various planting techniques employed by residents of the local community. The project is being developed by Frank Dubas, president of the Garden, a non-profit organization. Frank resides in New Canaan, CT and Scranton, PA. Construction is expected to commence at the site in early 2022. “I am extremely grateful that the Scranton Area Community Foundation has recognized the mission of the Garden by making this award to assist with several innovative and transformational features. When complete, The Garden of Cedar will be a testament to the resilience of one of Scranton’s most diverse and deserving neighborhoods. The Garden will be like none other,” said Dubas.
Northeast Rehab Proud to Sponsor WNEP’s Ryan’s Run 12 Northeast Rehab recently presented Allied Services Integrated Health System with a check for $15,000, their contribution to the 2021 WNEP’s Ryan’s Run campaign. As 12-year sponsors of the fundraising and awareness raising campaign led by WNEP TV’s Ryan Leckey, NERA have donated more than $180,000 to Allied Services. The proceeds from the annual charity campaign benefit children and adults with disabilities, life-changing injuries and illnesses served by Allied Services, enabling the non-profit health system to invest in cutting-edge technology, staff and services throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania. “Our practice’s long-standing support of Ryan’s Run and Allied Services has achieved great results for everyone involved and most importantly for patients who have utilized technology and services developed though the program,” noted Lisa Monahan-Gatto, CEO. “The partnership has been wonderful for all involved.” The charity campaign culminates on November 7, 2021, when a team of volunteers from around Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania and beyond will participate in the TCS New York City Marathon. About Northeast Rehab: Founded in 1990,Northeast Rehab is a multi-specialty physician group specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Neurology, and Occupational Medicine. In addition to providing comprehensive non-surgical treatment for back and neck pain, board-certified physicians provide services for many other disabling conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Lackawanna College to Offer Tuition-Free Classes to Local McDonald’s Employees Lackawanna College announced a new partnership that will allow employees in 16 local McDonald’s attend college tuition-free. Under the agreement, qualifying employees at the chain’s locations operated by the Mueller family can pursue a bachelor’s or an associate degree at Lackawanna College. To qualify, McDonald’s employees must work 90 days and have a minimum of 16 hours per week to register for classes and begin earning credits. “This is a huge win for our community at large,” said Dr. Jill Murray, Lackawanna College President. “This partnership is solving the two major social and economic issues— a growing national workforce shortage and the rising cost of college tuition. Opportunities like this make college affordable and accessible – a great equalizer for all families.” The public-private partnership is one of many at Lackawanna College but is the first of several partnerships that will cover a student’s full tuition. “Our organization is so excited to partner with Lackawanna College, “said Christina Mueller-Curran, owner/operator of Mueller family McDonald’s. “This partnership is so meaningful because it will be a way to provide accessible education for our employees and allow them to fulfill their personal goals and ambitions. We look forward to seeing the personal and professional growth and development of our employees as a direct result of their ability to continue their education if they so choose.” This opportunity is exclusively available at the Mueller family McDonald’s in Allentown, Bethlehem, Carbondale, Clarks Summit, Dickson City, Eynon, Honesdale, Mountain Top, Old Forge, Scranton, Shavertown, Tunkhannock, Wilkes-Barre, and Wyoming, To learn more about this partnership and others, visit www.lackawanna.edu/partners.
Gunn-Mowery Vice President Receives Forty Under 40 Award Central Penn Business Journal selected Jill Nye, CIC, CISR, AINS, API, CAPI, Vice President, Personal Lines Manager as a 2021 Forty Under 40 recipient. Forty Under 40 recognizes professionals 40 years of age and younger who have been successful in the Central Pennsylvania area. Honorees, chosen by the Central Penn Business Journal editors, were selected based on professional accomplishments, community service and commitment to inspiring change. A listing of winners is available at https://www.cpbj.com/40-under-40-awards/. “The 2021 Forty Under 40 honorees are Central Pennsylvania’s future leaders. Their professional accomplishments, community service and commitment to inspiring change are extraordinary,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, senior group publisher of the Central Penn Business Journal. “These honorees help to make Central Pennsylvania a wonderful place to live and work. The Central Penn Business Journal is pleased to celebrate their accomplishments.” Jill joined Gunn-Mowery in 2008 with the acquisition of the Wiley Agency. After 15 years in Personal Insurance and 3 years in Commercial Insurance, Jill was promoted to Vice President, Personal Lines Service Manager in January of 2019. In this role, she supervises the Personal Lines department, trains staff and implements processes throughout all office locations. Jill has earned her CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor), CISR (Certified Insurance Service Representative), API (Associate in Personal Insurance) and AINS (Associate in General Insurance) designations. In December of 2018, Jill was awarded the Certified Advisor of Personal Insurance (CAPI) designation by the Wharton School of Business and Chubb Insurance. To date, there are only 174 professionals who hold this prestigious designation. The winners were honored on Oct. 14 at the Hilton Harrisburg’s outside terrace, One North Second Street in Harrisburg. Honorees were also profiled in a magazine inserted into the Oct. 15 issue of Central Penn Business Journal and will be available online at CPBJ.com.
Kim Drumgo Named Geisinger’s First Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Furthering Geisinger’s commitment to promote an inclusive and welcoming organization and community to all, Kim Drumgo has been named the health system’s first chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. In this new role, Drumgo will champion and guide the organization to better understand the importance and value of a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment, as well as serve as a catalyst for change at Geisinger. She will provide systemwide thought leadership, strategic direction and implementation of diversity, equity and inclusion-related programs and initiatives. “Our patients, members, employees and community deserve a safe environment that welcomes people of every race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, ability, veteran status and faith,” said Amy Brayford, Geisinger executive vice president and chief of staff. “With Kim in this new role, I’m confident that we’ll move to new heights, prioritizing and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion across all aspects of our organization — ultimately improving the health and well-being of our Geisinger family, patients, members and communities. We’re incredibly fortunate to have gained such an accomplished and committed leader to help us make better health easier for everyone.” Studies have shown that each community of people may have different health needs. These include the black community having a higher rate of diabetes; lower rates of cervical and breast cancer screenings in transgender men; and a higher rate of suicide among military veterans and active members than that of the general public. Creating an inclusive health care setting that connects with patients and their specific situation can help better address and serve the health needs of the community. “I’m thrilled to join Geisinger in this new role. The communities and patients we serve each have unique situations and needs. We know the best way to serve our diverse communities is to ensure we maintain a welcoming environment that seeks out and values different views and perspectives. We can all benefit and excel in environments where our voices are heard and our needs are met. The preservation of dignity and respect will be critical to our success.” said Drumgo. “I look forward to partnering with our Geisinger family and community leaders on these important topics. Geisinger and the communities we serve are infinitely stronger when we can harness the talents and backgrounds from each of us for the betterment of us all.” Drumgo brings over 15 years of experience in the diversity and inclusion field and has a strong track record setting DEI strategies, engaging stakeholders and driving results. She has held leadership roles in several organizations, including most recently serving as chief diversity officer for Anthem Inc., where she led more than 63,000 leaders and employees in having authentic, compassionate conversations about race, social justice and health equity. She has also held leadership roles at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. She was named to Network Business Journal’s Top 25 Women in Business and recognized for her leadership in Diversity by Profiles in Diversity Journal. Drumgo earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland.
Pandemic Inspires WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics Business Model Joseph Petro launched WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics earlier this year to modernize the commercial roofing industry through innovative diagnostic repair solutions. With 10 employees servicing 250 miles around Scranton, WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics (WRD) offers commercial services that include roof diagnostics and emergency repairs, inspections, consulting, preventative maintenance, government contracting and more. Petro, who has two decades of commercial roofing industry experience, operates under the principle that WRD never recommends a new roof be installed when expert remediation work can provide the most cost-effective solution. “I founded WRD after noticing a need for preventative maintenance and repair services to commercial roofing clients following the pandemic,” said Petro, an NEPA native. “Other roofing contractors are focused on selling their customer a brand new roof. Our model at WRD is unique, as our focus is finding a solution that will eliminate issues and prevent problems altogether – without a new roof installation.” Additional services include Project Commissioning to offer expert administrative management to third party installers on behalf of the client with documentation, oversight and insight of project process, as well as evaluating that OSHA regulations, manufacturer specifications and industry standards are being enacted. WRD works with property technicians and vendors to tie-in, install, or remove components, accessories, penetrations and units in existing roofing systems including HVAC, electrical, gas, satellites, skylights, hatches, safety provisions and more following manufacturer and industry standards. WaterpRoof Roofing Diagnostics is a licensed and insured limited liability commercial roofing company based in Scranton, PA. To learn more or get a quote, please visit www.waterproofrd.com.
Senator Bob Casey Visits NEPIRC United States Senator Bob Casey visited the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) on November 23rd to recognize the organization’s recent attainment of a Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the world’s largest association of economic development organizations and practitioners, for its COVID-19 Response, Readiness & Recovery services for regional manufacturers. Those services enabled manufacturers to avoid 1,700 layoffs and 4,661 temporary job furloughs during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After touring NEPIRC’s Innovation Space 3D Lab, Multimedia Studio, Leadership Learning Center, Manufacturing Showcase and corporate offices, Senator Casey met with NEPIRC staff, federal stakeholders and regional manufacturing executives to discuss the business environment that NEPIRC’s clients are facing and review the positive impact that NEPIRC has had on the manufacturing sector across northeastern, northern and north central Pennsylvania. During the meeting, Senator Casey also shared insights regarding the recently passed American Rescue Plan, Infrastructure Investment Act, Jobs Act, and Build Back Better Plan and spoke about their impacts upon our bridges, roads, mass transit systems, broadband infrastructure and overall economy. “The Senator’s tour and discussion with our regional manufacturing leaders evidenced his strong commitment to our manufacturing economy and his eagerness to implement policies and programs that accelerate their growth and strengthen their long-term competitiveness,” said Eric Joseph Esoda, NEPIRC’s President & CEO. “We’re delighted to have had him visit us to recap various federal initiatives to create manufacturing jobs and stimulate our industrial economy,” he added. Attending Senator Casey’s visit were NEPIRC staff, Eric Joseph Esoda, President & CEO, Drew Mackie, EVP & CFO, Dale Parmenteri, Vice President of Consulting Operations, and Chelsey Coslett, Manager of Marketing & Stakeholder Engagement, Rikki Riegner, Executive Director of PA MEP, and members of NEPIRC’s Board of Directors, such as Grace McGregor Kramer, McGregor Industries, Inc., Garry Hartman, Cheetah Chassis Corporation and Bruce Daniels, Medico Construction Equipment/Action Lift, Inc.
Food and Fire BBQ Depot Grand Opening Taphouse is excited to invite you to the grand opening of its 3rd location, called the Food & Fire BBQ Depot, opening on December 8, 2021! Located at the Public Market in Steamtown, Food & Fire BBQ Depot will be offering a one-of-a-kind BBQ experience in an easy grab-and-go fashion for lunch lovers! December 8th will be our official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, including members of our local chamber of commerce, local dignitaries, and members of our community. Food & Fire BBQ ~ Taphouse originated in Binghamton, New York, and is the culmination of a dream shared by co-owners Jose Moreira, Dan Polhamus, and Jeff Tiderencel. They instantly fell in love with Northeastern Pennsylvania upon touring for expansion, and quickly found a “home” in Moosic! Their staff is experienced in providing world-class service with delicious food, great drinks, and an amazing atmosphere! When they were met with the opportunity to expand into Scranton, they immediately jumped on board. Their passion for the food industry is unparalleled and they plan to bring the same high-quality food and service to their location at the Market in Steamtown. They will be featuring a rotating array of American-style food favorites, including hand-crafted sandwiches, their signature smoked gouda mac and cheese, mouthwatering BBQ combos and platters and so much more for those that want a taste of southern luxury, within the time frame of a lunch hour. Food & Fire BBQ Depot at the Public Market in Steamtown is centrally located. Its location is the perfect place to purchase a gift card or order catering for your lunch meetings, office parties, holidays, or weddings! Food & Fire BBQ ~ Taphouse’s mission is simply to provide the best quality food and service to all patrons, and they are excited to do so in the Electric City! For more information, please check them out online at FoodFireBBQ.com. We encourage you to join us on December 8th for samplings and to celebrate our grand opening.
The Holiday Season Shines at Settlers Hospitality Settlers Hospitality helps light up the holidays with a host of festivities that capture the magic of the season. Celebrations at The Settlers Inn, Ledges Hotel, Silver Birches, the Hawley Silk Mill and Hotel Anthracite deliver the quintessential traditions, flavors and entertainment of Christmastime in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Candlelight Christmas, December 3 through 5, at The Settlers Inn ushers in the most wonderful time of the year. The annual event is a signature celebration and an eagerly anticipated festivity in the Pocono Mountains Lake Region. Guests are greeted with live music and décor that features natural greens, artisanal and handcrafted decorations and an offering of mulled wine or syllabub. Horse and carriage rides plus an oversized gingerbread replica of The Settlers Inn enhance the festive atmosphere. A lavish holiday meal features entree such as sirloin au poivre and garlic and thyme braised lamb shank among other delectable options. Indulgent dessert choices include peppermint pillow baked Alaska, chocolate yule log and English toffee pudding. There are two weekends to enjoy the festivities and fineries of Winterfest Brunch at The Settlers Inn. The event December 4-5 and 11-12 features live music by Julie Eschler and harpist Kristy Chmura accompanied by a prix fixe menu of holiday inspired fare. Guests may enjoy the celebration from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. each day. Shoppers to the Winterfest Artisan Fair on December 11 and 12 can wrap up their gift list with the purchase of distinctive finds. Vendors fill the Hawley Silk Mill offering fine artisanal goods and unique gifts. The marketplace operates from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. An outdoor ice bar at Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery will help get visitors in the holiday spirit. From December 10 through 12 order specialty cocktails served on a High Noon ice bar handcrafted by Sculpted Ice Works. Set a course for The Waterfront at Silver Birches on December 12 to enjoy Breakfast with Santa. Savor a bountiful meal, take photos with Santa Claus and soak in the merriment. Purchase a gingerbread house and spend some time creating your masterpiece. The Jolly Old Elf also makes a special appearance at Hotel Anthracite in Carbondale on December 12. Families are invited to Brunch with Santa from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for a festive meal and an opportunity to take photos with Santa Claus. New Year’s Eve celebrations run the gamut from elegant and intimate to laid-back and lively. There are two ways to send off 2021 at The Settlers Inn. The Undercroft provides a cozy setting for a Masquerade Ball from 8-11:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy an elaborate farm to table meal and live music. Upstairs in the dining room, guests may linger over a special holiday menu while listening to live piano music by Dan Bradley. Ring in 2022 in the Pioneer City. New Year’s Eve Dinner at Kōl Steakhouse features a delectable prix fixe menu from 5-10 p.m. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Bash at The Waterfront at Silver Birches. A buffet meal, DJ music and dancing lead up to a balloon drop at midnight and champagne to toast the start of 2022. New Year’s Eve at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen is cool and casual. Festivities include live music by Eric Rudy, hors d’oeuvres, champagne and a special tasting menu. Enjoy early seating until 7 p.m. and late seatings after 8 p.m. Welcome the first day of 2022 with a New Year’s Day Brunch at The Settlers Inn. The holiday meal features a prix fixe menu, live piano music and bottomless mimosas. Beloved traditions and time-honored tastes ensure the merry making goes on this holiday season. For more information, visit settlershospitality.com
Geisinger Recognized for Military Employment and Support Geisinger has been recognized for its continued support of military veterans and active service members with two recent designations. The Pennsylvania-based health organization was recognized by Military Times on its 2021 Best for Vets: Employers rankings and earned the 2022 Military Friendly® Employer designation by VIQTORY. Both honors recognize Geisinger’s commitment and efforts to building programs and opportunities for military veterans. “Both of these honors recognize Geisinger’s commitment to building important programs and opportunities for our military veterans in the community and beyond,” said Kim Drumgo, Geisinger’s chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “We know that a diverse workforce with unique experiences and backgrounds makes our team stronger, and our veterans and their family members are an important part of our Geisinger family. We honor their many sacrifices and support their career growth and health.” To be designated a Military Friendly Employer, Geisinger was evaluated using public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Methodology, criteria and weightings were determined by VIQTORY with input from the Military Friendly Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining an organization’s survey score with an assessment of the organization’s ability to meet thresholds for applicants, new hire retention, employee turnover and promotion & advancement of veterans and military employees. For the Best for Vets ranking, Military Times collaborated with Fors Marsh Group (FMG) to update the research methodology and analysis from previous years to provide a streamlined, user-friendly survey experience for participants. All survey changes were made based on subject matter expert reviews of the survey and rigorous qualitative research, including focus groups and in-depth interviews with Military Times subscribers. FMG designed, deployed, analyzed and wrote the report for this year’s survey. The updated survey captured the areas of greatest importance to transitioning service members, veterans and their families when looking for an employer. Recruitment and employment practices, as well as retention and support programs, were given the most weight and importance in scoring and final rankings. “Geisinger is committed to military veterans by providing care options and career opportunities to them in their local communities,” said U.S. Army veteran Chris Grill, program manager of Military and Veterans Affairs at Geisinger. “We know that employing talented people, like those from our veteran community, contributes to our overall goal of making better health easier for our patients and members.” Geisinger employs more than 700 active-duty service members and veterans throughout the system. As part of its commitment to the military and its veterans, Geisinger introduced a paid military leave benefit, which provides service members employed by Geisinger to be paid for time at annual trainings, encampments and drills. It also recently established military fellowship program eases the transition of active-duty service members looking to move into a civilian career. To learn more about Geisinger’s veteran programs and career opportunities, visit jobs.geisinger.org/veterans.
