PennDOT Encourages Public to Join Telephone Town Hall

As part of the ongoing public comment period for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study exploring sustainable transportation funding options, a telephone town hall meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at 6:00 PM EST.

The telephone town hall will provide an opportunity to comment on the statewide PEL study in addition to an active virtual public meeting, accessible online through June 1, 2021, at www.penndot.gov/funding.

The public may pre-register for the telephone town hall, but it is not required. There are three ways to join the telephone town hall:

Those who cannot join the telephone opportunity are encouraged to review and participate in the on-demand virtual public meeting that began on April 29. Public comments can be submitted directly from the meeting website or via other comment submission methods, including:

The PEL study, in support of the PennDOT Pathways program, is being conducted to identify near- and long-term alternative funding solutions and establish a methodology for their evaluation. The Transportation Revenue Options Commission (TROC), which was established by Governor Tom Wolf’s Executive Order on March 12, received the draft PEL study and will receive the final version when completed.

For more information about the PennDOT Pathways program, visit www.penndot.gov/funding.

PennDOT will make all reasonable modifications to policies, programs, and documents to ensure that people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency have an equal opportunity to participate in all of its programs, services, and activities.

To request assistance to participate in the virtual public meeting or review the PEL study, please contact PennDOT’s Communications Office by emailing dotcomm@pa.gov or calling 717-783-8800 from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM. PennDOT will not place a surcharge on an individual with a disability or those with limited English proficiency to cover the costs of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modifications of policy. If you have other questions or challenges, please contact PennDOT’s Bureau of Equal Opportunity to request help by emailing RA-penndoteoreports@pa.gov or calling 1-800-468-4201; TTY (711).

Subscribe to statewide PennDOT news and traffic alerts at www.penndot.gov/news or choose a region under “Regional Offices.” Information about the state’s infrastructure and results the department is delivering for Pennsylvanians can be found at www.penndot.gov/results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.

Follow PennDOT on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PennDOTNews and like the department on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaDepartmentofTransportation and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pennsylvaniadot/.

LCEEC Announces Expansion of Conservation & Natural Resource Certificate Program

The Lackawanna College Environmental Education Center (LCEEC) has announced the expansion of its popular Conservation and Natural Resource (CNR) certificate program. Now, students can take the program at their Environmental Education Center in Covington Township or at their Towanda or Sunbury locations. The program is currently accepting applications for the fall semester and is set to begin in August 2021.

During this 15-week accelerated program, students will complete five undergraduate-level field biology courses at the LCEEC located on 211-acres of diverse habitat in Covington Township, Pa.

The curriculum focuses on the conservation and interpretation of our natural environment. The program includes instruction in environmental interpretation, wildlife management, freshwater ecosystems, dendrology, and ornithology.  Students will also experience both classroom and hands-on field training throughout the program.

The CNR certificate is appropriate for anyone seeking a career as a park ranger or in a related field. Students may also take individual courses. Courses are transferable into two or four-year degree programs. Upon graduation, students will receive a CNR certificate and transcripts of their undergraduate coursework.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Fall 2021 semester and financial aid is available. The CNR program is also approved for WIOA funding for displaced workers or individuals with high financial need. Please call PA Career Link for Lackawanna County to verify WIOA funding eligibility.

For more information about the program, please visit lackawanna.edu or contact Sharon Yanik-Craig at yaniks@lackawanna.edu or call (570) 842-1506.

Downtown Scranton Dining Guide by Scranton Tomorrow

We’re updating, and improving, our Downtown Scranton Dining Guide, and we want to be sure we haven’t missed anything.

Please take a moment to review your free listing and let us know if you’re dining options and delivery services are still accurate:

Downtown Scranton Dining Guide

Your listing in the Downtown Scranton Dining Guide is provided free of charge as a service to our business community during COVID-19.

Please Send Updates to:
Liz Baldi, Project Coordinator
lizbaldi@scrantontomorrow.org

Marywood University’s Society of Collegiate Journalists Chapter Wins Multiple Awards at National Contest

Marywood University’s Chapter of the Society for Collegiate Journalists (SCJ) recently won multiple first, second, third, and honorable mention awards at the Society for Collegiate Journalists National 2021 Contest.

Thomas Kerrigan, Clarks Green, Pa., won first place in the category of Feature Photography for his photo, “Goat Yoga;” and Emily Scholl, Quakertown, Pa., Jenny Ngyuen, Scranton, Pa., and Michael Basta won first place for their Multimedia Series titled, “Media That Matters.”

Second Place was awarded to The Wood Word, Marywood University’s online student-run newspaper; Sydney Toy, Carbondale, Pa., for her Enterprise Series titled, “Border Stories (Part 1 and II)”; Ellen Frantz, Camp Hill, Pa., and Briana Ryan, Shenandoah, Pa., for their Beat Reporting; and Eric Spivak, Scranton, Pa., for the Column or Commentary category.

Third place winners include Michael Basta, Pittston Pa., in the category of News Photography; Ellen Frantz for News Story; Brendan Murphy, Stroudsburg, Pa., for Sports News; Thomas Kerrigan, Ellen Frantz, and Marli Hoskins, Moosic, Pa., for the category of Television News Package; and the TV Marywood Staff (TVM) in the category of Television Commercial/PSA, for the “Stay Home: A Public Service Announcement.”

Honorable Mentions were awarded to The Wood Word in the category of Social Media Presence Overall Excellence; Jennifer Flynn, Cranford, N.J., in the category of Infographic for “Covid19 precautions and subsequent student survey sheds light on campus”; Emily Scholl, Justin Kucharski, Olyphant, Pa., and Megan Reynolds, Moscow, Pa., for Multimedia Series; Elizabeth Deroba, Bloomsburg, Pa., for Enterprise Series; and Emma Rushworth, Tunkhannock, Pa., Ellen Frantz, Erin Kane, Scranton, Pa., Richard Andrus, Honeoye Falls, N.Y., and Michael Basta, for Television News Package.

Senior SCJ Chapter students Briana Ryan, SCJ president, and current editor-in-chief at The Wood Word, received the Medal of Merit, and Certificates of Merit were presented to Autumn Bohner, Domsife, Pa., digital content lead designer at The Wood Word, and Justin Kucharski, SJ secretary and former editor-in-chief at The Wood Word.

The Society for Collegiate Journalists is the nation’s oldest honor society for student media leaders. Journalism is a foundation of democracy, and, to ensure its future, SCJ focuses on professional development at the collegiate level. SCJ advances ethical, accurate, and innovative collegiate journalism nationally and creates a strong network of advocates for First Amendment education. Lindsey Wotanis, Ph.D., president of the National SCJ Board, serves as advisor for the SCJ Chapter at Marywood University, which, to date, has inducted more than 100 students to its SCJ Chapter.

For additional information about Marywood University’s Multimedia Communication Department, please visit marywood.edu/commarts, or call the Office of Admissions at (570) 348-6234.

PNC Field Returns to Full Capacity on June 1

Due to recent changes in state guidelines, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to announce that PNC Field will return to full capacity on June 1. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre will put single-game tickets for the remainder of the 2021 season on sale at 10 A.M. on Friday, May 21.

“The change in state guidelines is great news for our fans,” stated John Adams, Team President of the RailRiders. “While certain protocols must remain in place, we know things are heading in the right direction and our staff is excited to welcome all of our fans back to PNC Field next month. We are hoping to help make everyone’s summer the best it can be with the fun that NEPA has been missing for too long.”

Several policies have been updated due to changes in guidelines.

Bag Policy
Clear bags will be allowed starting May 11. Medical and diaper bags, as well as wristlets, will also be allowed.

Rain Delays
Fans will now be permitted to distance during weather delays by allowing them to leave and re-enter the ballpark during rain delays.

Group Seating
All group seating for the summer months and September is now on sale.

While capacity restrictions have been lifted, the RailRiders will continue to enforce several guidelines put in place last month. Those policies are as follows:

Ticketing and Cashless Transactions
Digital Ticketing and Cashless Transactions while at the ballpark will remain in place.

Masking
All masking guidelines will remain in place at this time.

Social Distancing
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre will continue to enforce physical distancing while entering and exiting PNC Field, as well

as in lines for concessions and merchandise. Fans will not be allowed to congregate during pregame or in-game events.

Enhanced Cleaning
Enhanced cleaning regimens will remain in place.

In addition, due to MLB guidelines, the RailRiders will continue to utilize pod seating for professional baseball scouts and player families to assist with social distancing and safety. The 12-foot buffer zone around the home and visiting dugouts, as well as any areas near players, will also remain in place.

Protocols and procedures remain subject to change this season per Major League Baseball, state and CDC guidance.

For more information on all 2021 policies, visit the Health and Safety page at swbrailriders.com.

A limited number of single-game tickets for games in May are on sale now, while Full, Half and Partial Season Ticket Memberships are also available. For more information on the 2021 season, please visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-2255.

Settlers Hospitality’s Summer Music Series Hits All the Right Notes

Music nourishes the soul and feeds the spirit. Played in concert with an exceptional meal in a stunning venue, and that’s a feast for the senses! The music series at the Hawley properties of Settlers Hospitality provide the soundtrack for summer in the Lake Region. Lakeside Live at The Dock on Wallenpaupack and Blues, Brews and BBQ at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen get underway Memorial Day weekend. Jazz on the Deck returns to The Settlers Inn on June 2.

Jazz on the Deck at The Settlers Inn
Since it first launched over 10 years ago, Jazz on the Deck has become a cherished rite of summer in the Pocono Mountains. The event at The Settlers Inn draws professional performers whose credits range from Broadway and the New York cabaret scene to international jazz festivals. Every Wednesday evening during summer, a rotating lineup of musicians entertain from 6-9 p.m. Guests may enjoy farm-to-table cuisine overlooking the Inn’s manicured garden or choose a table on the lawn and take advantage of cocktail and full dinner service. The highly anticipated series begins June 2 with Stefan Bauer. The music continues with The Craig Graham Trio (June 9), Luba Mason (June 16), Hang Em High (June 23), and The Andrea Wolper Trio (June 30). The Gypsy Jazz Quartet gets things started in July with a performance on July 7. That’s followed by Judy Silvano (July 14), Liza Dolittle and Robert Kocec (July 21) and The Gary Rixner Trio (July 28). August brings performances by All That Jazz with Michelle Oram (Aug 4), The Glenn Heller Trio (Aug 11), Last Thursday Band (Aug 18), Thos Shipley (Aug 25) and Spencer and Nancy Reed (Aug 27). The Robert Kopec Trio closes out the series on September 1.

Lakeside Live at Silver Birches Resort
Great tunes, spectacular views and delectable food. Guests can make the most of every weekend with Lakeside Live at The Dock on Wallenpaupack. On Saturday and Sunday, talented musicians perform live on the lawn overlooking the lake at Silver Birches. Visitors may savor lunch, dinner or drinks while listening to live music. Boaters can order Dock and Dine and enjoy a meal from the water. Bands perform from 3-6 p.m. The lineup features local favorites such as Gone Crazy, Eric Rudy, Kevin Campion and Rare Form.

Blues, Brews & BBQ at Ledges Hotel
Let the good times roll with Blues, Brews and BBQ every Sunday during summer. Renowned blues musicians perform live at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen overlooking Paupack High Falls while guests dig into classic barbecue fare paired with local craft brews. The menu features savory barbecue entrees and side dishes with a twist. Wallenpapuack Gorge serves as a natural amphitheater to showcase the talents of noted blues musicians. Blues, Brews and BBQ kicks off May 30 with a performance by Lighten Up Band. June’s lineup includes Bobby Kyle Band (June 6), Merchants of Groove (June 13), Yasgur (June 20) and Gary Rixner Band (June 27). July starts with a bang on July 4 courtesy of Teddy Young and the Aces. The beat goes on with The Barn Cats (July 11), Dan Brother Band (July 18) and Norman Taylor and Blue Soul (July 25). August brings performances by Randy Lippincott and Joey “Hot Box” Simon (Aug 1), Dustin Douglas and The Electric Gentlemen (Aug 8), The Jeremy Langdale Band (Aug 15), Slam Allen (Aug 22) and Scott Weis Band (Aug 29). The series concludes Labor Day weekend when Bobby Kyle Band returns for a performance (Sept 6).

Settlers Hospitality’s Summer Concert Series is a signature event in the Pocono Mountains. There’s something quintessentially summer about relaxing in a beautiful open-air setting, enjoying a fine meal and good company with the sounds of music drifting out. “After an abbreviated season last year, we’re thrilled to host a full schedule of events this year,” says Justin Genzlinger, CEO/Owner.  “Welcoming guests back to our properties for the summer concert series will be especially sweet given the challenges of 2020, but this year things are looking bright.”

PA Department of Health Mask Order Reflects Latest CDC Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Individuals

Department of Health Acting Secretary Alison Beam announced that the commonwealth’s mask order reflects the announcement made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier today.

On March 16, 2021, the SOH amended the commonwealth’s mask order by adding language directing to the CDC’s guidance for fully vaccinated people allow for no face coverings. That means that today’s CDC guidelines automatically go into effect in Pennsylvania. Masking requirement will still be in place as otherwise provided under the CDC guidance and for unvaccinated individuals until 70 percent of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated.

“Today’s guidance from the CDC affects only people who are fully vaccinated” Acting Secretary Beam said. “This is another incentive to get the vaccine that is now easily and conveniently available. Once 70 percent of Pennsylvanians over 18 are fully vaccinated, we can completely lift the masking order.”

The CDC today provided guidance that fully vaccinated individuals can resume activities that they did prior to the pandemic without wearing a mask or physically distancing except where required by law, rule, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. Under the guidance, individuals are still be required to wear a mask on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States, and in U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations. In addition, all individuals will still need to follow guidance at workplaces and local businesses.

For more information on the CDC guidance,
visit here.

People can find vaccination locations near them using Vaccines.gov, also known as Vaccine Finder. Individuals also can text their zip code to GETVAX (438829) for English, or VACUNA (822862) for Spanish and receive three possible vaccination sites in their area.

FNCB Bank Donates $5,000 to Support Vocational Training Programs at Allied Services

FNCB Bank announced its support for Allied Services with a $5,000 donation to the Vocational Services Division. FNCB will serve as co-presenting sponsors of Allied Services 2021 Vocational Services Golf Classic. The charity tournament is scheduled for Monday, July 12, 2021, at Glenmaura National Golf Club in Moosic, Pa.  

Now in its 28th year, the tournament benefits individuals with disabilities participating in training and employment programs provided by the non-profit health system. Allied Services Vocational Services Division serves over 500 individuals with disabilities each year. Individuals with disabilities enrolled in the program receive specialized training, development of work-related skills, and supervision and guidance in the workplace as needed. The goal of the program is to support and empower individuals with disabilities as members of the workforce.    

The Vocational Services Golf Classic features a shotgun start, lunch, cocktail hour, and an awards program.  To learn more about sponsoring or participating in the tournament visit alliedservices.org/vsdgolf or call 570.348.1407.  

Geisinger Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments to Include Those Age 12 and Over

Following recent approvals to expand use of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, Geisinger, which has already administered 285,000 COVID-19 vaccines, is now offering vaccine appointments to anyone ages 12 and over.

Beginning today, vaccine appointments can be scheduled for anyone age 12 and over at one of Geisinger’s four community vaccine centers. The vaccine centers are staffed with pediatric teams, including pediatricians, to answer any questions and assist with the vaccinations. Anyone who is under 18 years old must have a parent or legal guardian with them to receive their vaccine doses.

Appointments can be made through myGeisinger or by calling 570-284-3657. The vaccine centers are at the Geisinger Health Plan Building near Danville, Geisinger CenterPoint in Jenkins Township, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital and Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. As a reminder for appointment scheduling, the Pfizer vaccine is a two-dose vaccine given 21 days apart.

More information about the COVID-19 vaccine, including information for parents of newly eligible children, is available at geisinger.org/COVIDVax.

NET Credit Union Announces 2021 Charity Recipient

NET Credit Union announces our 2021 charity recipient: Peggy’s Pathway for Women’s Cancer. Peggy’s Pathway for Women’s Cancer is a charity started by Peggy Petinato’s family and friends in her memory. Their mission is to raise funds for research into innovative treatments and early detection of uterine (endometrial) cancer.  

This year, more than 61,000 women will be diagnosed with uterine/endometrial cancers and nearly 12,000 women will die from this disease. These are not just “women”. They are our wives, mothers, sisters, daughters and friends. They are dying because screening for endometrial cancer is not presently standard protocol, so it can reach an advanced stage before signs and symptoms are diagnosed. NET Credit Union will be hosting two fundraisers:

Since 2015, NET Credit Union has and will continue to fundraise for local charities. In 2020 alone, NET Credit Union was able to donate over $75K to our local community. “People helping people” is not only our motto, but also our community’s motto. Together partnered with Peggy’s Pathway, we are determined and committed to helping them reach their goals. To learn more, please visit: https://www.netcreditunion.com/sponsorships/