Grey Towers Extends Visitor Service Season This year, the Grey Towers National Historic Site will be extending our tour season by offering tours starting in mid-November through December 2024. Our tour season usually includes a limited two-week holiday tour season, however due popular demand our amazing staff and volunteers will offer an extended holiday season. Guided holiday tours will begin for the winter season November 18,2024 through December 30, 2024. Tours will be held at 11:00am and 1:00pm daily. November 18 – 26, 2024 November 30 – December 5, 02024 December 9 – 23, 2024 December 27 – 30, 2024 Please note that visitor films will run from 10:30am to 3:00pm on these days in the Baitbox and vehicle gates will close at 4:30pm during weekdays and at 3:30pm on the weekends. Our water features will be winterized; however, staff will continue to interpret these areas weather permitting. Grey Towers NHS will not offer tours or facilities on holidays, but the site will remain open to pedestrian foot traffic from sunup to sundown. For additional information and weather closures please visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/greytowers or our Facebook at www.facebook.com/GreyTowersNHS.
Indraloka Founder Indra Lahiri Receives Carole Noon Award In the worldwide animal sanctuary field, there is no honor more distinguished than the Carole Noon Award given by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). The award recognizes the “individual who embodies and puts into practice the GFAS philosophy of vision, dedication, and excellence in animal care at sanctuaries.“ This year’s recipient, Indra Lahiri, PhD, is the founder of Indraloka in Dalton, Pennsylvania. Dr. Lahiri has successfully launched and grown Indraloka into one of the leading farmed animal sanctuaries globally. Under her leadership, the sanctuary has rescued over 2,500 animals and established groundbreaking initiatives that have notably influenced the field of animal rescue and sanctuary management. She also spearheaded the creation of the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic which provides low-cost care to local animal rescues and income-qualified households in the NEPA community and assists communities with Trap, Neuter & Release programs to help manage feral cat populations. Another innovative program Dr. Lahiri created, “Indraloka Heals,” launched this summer with its “Resilient Counselors Mastery Series” that provided support and resources to Scranton-area school guidance counselors. “I am humbled and grateful, however, I cannot take credit for this award. The entire Indraloka team works so hard every day, pouring love and energy into whomever needs it most — each one is really deserving of this honor,” Dr. Lahiri says. “This award is also a testament to our community and the support we receive from individuals, businesses, visitors, and volunteers.” GFAS is the worldwide leader in accreditation programs for animal sanctuaries, assessing facilities against a robust set of operational and animal care standards, including species-specific standards for elephants, great apes, big cats, horses, farmed animals, and others. “I feel privileged to be on Indra’s board of directors,” says Olympic medalist (Cycling, London 2012) Dotsie Bausch. “Indra is unparalleled in her dedication to saving the lives of the voiceless and with her rigorous work ethic and the restorative hope she carries, she will always serve as a true champion of compassion to those who need her most. No one deserves this honor more than my friend and one of my mentors, Indra Lahiri.” As Indraloka prepares for its biggest fundraiser of the year — ThanksLiving, a feast honoring birds — the sanctuary hopes to get the word out that Indraloka is much more than an animal sanctuary. It is a place of hope, healing, fun, and community for people too. Dr. Lahiri is available for interviews.
NEPIRC Promotes Professional Development Training for Manufacturers Browse NEPIRC’s training catalog to find your next professional development training program The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) offers world-class professional development training for manufacturers delivered by manufacturing experts. NEPIRC’s training courses and workshops provide new skills, fresh insights and networking opportunities that can help manufacturers meet everyday challenges and achieve long-term goals. Browse NEPIRC’s Training Catalog to learn more about the training programs NEPIRC offers and see which ones are upcoming. You can also easily register for a program directly through the Catalog. Questions? Email Info@NEPIRC.com. https://nepirc.com/wp-content/uploads/24-25-NEPIRC-Training-Catalog.pdf
Marywood University to Inaugurate 13th President Marywood University will mark a historic moment when Lisa A. Lori, J.D. is formally installed as the institution’s thirteenth president during an Inauguration Ceremony set for Friday, November 8. The theme for the inaugural festivities, as well as for initiatives planned throughout the year, is “Ignite the Light.” As Marywood’s first lay president, President Lori’s distinguished qualifications, including a dynamic leadership record as Marywood’s former Board Chair and an extensive background as a lawyer, reflect a growing national trend of lawyer presidents, whose legal training and strategic expertise are highly sought in the challenging, complex climate of higher education. A proud Marywood alumna, President Lori is committed to further expanding Marywood’s scope of influence in higher education. The day of celebration will feature several events, including an Inauguration Liturgy, celebrated by the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, at 10 a.m. The Inauguration Ceremony, at which President Lori will be formally installed, will take place at 2 p.m. Both events are being held at the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts. Marywood Presidents Emeritae, Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., and Sister Mary Reap, IHM, Ph.D., will take part in the ceremony. The Inaugural Liturgy is open to the public, but capacity regulations will be observed. Due to space constraints, attendance at the Inaugural Ceremony is by invitation only. However, both the Liturgy and the Inauguration Ceremony will be livestreamed at: marywood.edu/inauguration. There is a watch party planned for students in the Latour Room at Nazareth Student Center. All Marywood students will enjoy a celebratory lunch, courtesy of President Lori, in the Main Dining Hall in between the morning and afternoon events. In the evening, an Inaugural Gala will be held for invited guests, faculty, and staff of Marywood University in the Insalaco Arena at the Center for Athletics and Wellness, beginning at 6 p.m. Throughout the day, an art exhibit, “Highlights from the Maslow Collection,” will be on display in the Mahady Gallery and the Maslow Study Gallery for Contemporary Art. The exhibit opens on November 8 and runs through January 24, 2025. Visitors to campus on Inauguration Day are encouraged to visit the galleries in between events to view the largest and most comprehensive collection of Contemporary art in Northeastern Pennsylvania, with over 700 works by more than 150 artists.
Inner Harmony Wellness Launches Mindfulness Program in Schools Dr. Peter Amato to Lead Initiative Promoting Mental Health, Wellness, and Drug & Alcohol Guidance The Inner Harmony Group, a leader in holistic health and wellness, is proud to announce the launch of a transformative new program that will bring social emotional awareness and mindfulness education to public school districts across Pennsylvania. Spearheaded by Dr. Peter Amato, the esteemed founder of Inner Harmony Wellness Center & The Inner Harmony Group, this initiative aims to enhance mental health, overall wellness, and provide crucial guidance on drug and alcohol issues for students. With the growing awareness of the importance of mental health and the rising concerns about substance abuse among young people, and emotional burnout of those working within the school system, this program is a timely and critical addition to the educational landscape. Dr. Amato, a recognized authority in the field of mindfulness and integrative medicine, will be at the forefront of this initiative, delivering expert training to students, teachers, and administrators. “Schools are the heart of our communities, and it’s essential that we equip our young people with the tools they need to thrive both mentally and physically,” said Dr. Peter Amato. “Through mindfulness practices, we can help students manage stress, make healthier decisions, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives. I am honored to partner with Pennsylvania’s public schools to make a positive impact on the future of our youth.” This initiative began with the Hanover Area School District (HASD) who have already embraced this program with enthusiasm. This collaboration is in its early stages, and HASD is committed to ensuring that all elementary students benefit from the mindfulness practices offered by Inner Harmony Group. The program will encompass a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the needs of each school district, focusing on: Mindfulness Training: Techniques to help students cultivate awareness, reduce anxiety, and improve focus in the classroom and beyond. Mental Health Support: Strategies for recognizing and addressing mental health challenges, promoting resilience and emotional well-being. Drug & Alcohol Guidance: Educational sessions aimed at prevention, informed decision-making, and support for students at risk. Inner Harmony Wellness has long been at the forefront of holistic health for almost 30 years, and this new initiative is a natural extension of the organization’s mission to foster wellness in all aspects of life. The program will launch in select school districts with plans for statewide expansion in the coming years. For more information about the program or to inquire about bringing mindfulness education to your school district, please visit www.innerharmonywellness.com or contact Dr. Steve Szydlowski at at 570-319-6073.
Geisinger Changes Anesthetic to Reduce Carbon Footprint In a continued effort to reduce its carbon footprint, Geisinger will stop using the anesthetic gas, Desflurane, for surgical cases due to its significant environmental impact. The elimination of desflurane will not impact patient safety as there are equally safe alternatives, according to Matthew Desciak, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Anesthesiology Department. While desflurane does offer some benefits, such as clearing patients’ systems quickly, it’s a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential more than 2,500 times that of carbon dioxide. “Discontinuing the use of desflurane will have the largest impact of our green initiatives,” Desciak said. “Using this agent at a typical flow rate for eight hours has the equivalent environmental impact as driving a car from Danville to Mexico.” In place of desflurane, Geisinger will emphasize the use of anesthesia gases with lower global warming potential and focus on using the minimal amount of these gases. This will allow the system to provide the same level of safe patient care with a lower overall environmental impact. In 2023, the department joined seven other health systems including Kaiser Permanente to look for ways to reduce department waste while still offering world-class care to patients in central Pennsylvania. This initiative is already in place at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and will roll out systemwide throughout the rest of 2024.
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Landon Firmstone Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Landon Firmstone has been promoted to Cash Management Specialist. In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Landon’s dedication to continuous learning and his ability to foster strong client relationships have been reflective of our mission and HNB culture.” He continued, “We are confident that he will bring the same level of excellence and commitment to his new role, contributing significantly to our team’s success.” As Cash Management Specialist, Firmstone will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Cash Management sector. This includes managing customer interactions, servicing and installing equipment, and ensuring customers are matched with the most suitable products for their needs. He is a graduate of Western Wayne High School and has received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management degree from Marywood University. Firmstone currently resides in Waymart, PA, and began his career in the financial industry with The Honesdale National Bank in October 2023. He was previously the Management Trainee, an experience that allowed him to learn extensively and form relationships with fellow employees and customers. In commenting on his new role at the bank, Firmstone noted, “I have learned so much about all the banking industry and have formed great relationships with my colleagues. HNB has a fantastic atmosphere, and it is evident that everyone is on the same team. All employees are always willing to help each other and make you feel invited no matter which office you are in. I feel as if I have the groundwork to have a long career here at HNB.” Outside of the Bank, he is a member of the Honesdale Area Jaycees and is also the current Tournament Director for Honest Anglers. Additionally, he enjoys hunting, fishing and golfing in his free time.
Sordoni Construction Announces New President Todd Ward joins Sordoni Construction Services, Inc. as President on October 21, 2024. Todd worked for 2 years at Hitt Contracting and spent the last 24+ years with Hess Construction, a family-owned commercial contractor located in the Baltimore Washington Metropolitan Region. He began his career at Hess as a project engineer where he quickly demonstrated his technical expertise and leadership skills. Over the years, he took on increasing levels of responsibility, ultimately earning the position of Senior Vice President of Operations. His journey reflects his dedication, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of the construction industry. When asked why he chose to join the Sordoni team, he responded that “It was Sordoni’s rich history of innovation and commitment to excellence. It is very inspiring to be part of a legacy that has made a significant impact in the industry for over a century.” “On behalf of the Board of Directors we’re thrilled to have Todd Ward join the Sordoni team.” said Bill Sordoni, Chairman of the Board. “His background, experience and leadership style are the perfect fit for our business both now and as we move into the future. We look forward to supporting Todd and our incredible team in this next chapter of the Sordoni story.”
Marywood University to Feature “Highlights from The Maslow Collection” Exhibit Runs from November 8, 2024 – January 24, 2025 As Marywood University prepares to inaugurate its 13th President, Lisa A. Lori, J.D., on November 8, the Mahady Gallery and the Maslow Study Gallery for Contemporary Art are planning to kick off a special art exhibit, “Highlights from the Maslow Collection,” which will begin on Friday, November 8 and continue through Friday, January 24, 2025. Jim Dine, “L.A. Eyeworks”, 1982, Etching with Carborundum on 4 Sheets of Paper, 50.5×44″, Edition 17/40 Visitors to campus on President Lori’s Inauguration Day are encouraged to visit the galleries in between events to view the largest and most comprehensive collection of Contemporary art in Northeastern Pennsylvania, with over 700 works by more than 150 artists. Collected by Marilyn and Richard Maslow and originally housed at InterMetro Industries, it is now on long-term loan to Marywood University. The largest part of the Maslow Collection is devoted to paintings by newly established or emerging artists working or exhibiting in New York during the late 1970s through the early 1990s. The Collection also includes major prints and important photographs spanning the 1930s to the 1990s. Featured artists include Berenice Abbott, Bernd and Hilla Becher, Francesco Clemente, Chuck Close, Jim Dine, Jack Goldstein, Valerie Jaudon, Jasper Johns, Ellsworth Kelly, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Motherwell, Robert Rauschenberg, Susan Rothenberg, Ed Ruscha, Julian Schnabel, Frank Stella, Wayne Thiebaud, Andy Warhol, Thornton Willis, and others. The Maslow Collection has loaned works to major exhibitions at the Whitney Museum of American Art in NYC; The Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC; the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, CA; P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center, Queens, NY; and the University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA; among others.
