Johnson College Receives It’s On Us PA Grant

Johnson College was one of 42 Pennsylvania institutions of higher education awarded a grant through Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s “It’s On Us PA” initiative. The $30,000 grant will help Johnson College improve campus awareness regarding sexual violence among students, faculty and staff.

The funds will help create an updated curriculum module for all students on the College’s Desire2Learn learning management system. The College will review current institutional policies, processes and resources available for reporting sexual violence and serving the needs of potential victims with a Pennsylvania Title IX consultant who will make recommendations for improved compliance and reporting. The grant will also support updated training for the College’s Title IX coordinator and staff to be sure that Johnson College is following best practice operations for continued campus safety within a climate of proactive leadership

The College’s mission is to be proactive in making students, faculty and staff fully aware of the issue of sexual violence, how to report and what resources are available to assist those in need. Additional grant activities will include a campus-wide It’s On Us program event in the spring where students, faculty and staff will be encouraged to take the It’s On Us pledge against campus violence.

“Our goal is to maintain the excellent record of low to no incidents of sexual violence on our campus,” said Dr. Katie Leonard, Johnson College president & CEO. “Should the need arise, we want to be proactively prepared to comply with Pennsylvania law. The It’s On Us grant will help us accomplish these goals.”

The It’s On Us PA grant program was created to provide colleges and universities with support and resources necessary to shift campus culture and promote healthy relationships. The grant provides funding from January 2021 through May 2022 to implement strategies on campuses to address goals of the Governor’s It’s On Us PA campaign, which include:

  1. Improve awareness, prevention, reporting, and response systems regarding sexual violence in schools, colleges, and universities to better serve all students.
  2. Remove/reduce barriers that prevent survivors of sexual violence from reporting and/or accessing vital resources by creating a more consistent, empowering reporting process for student survivors of gender-based violence.
  3. Demonstrate significant, proactive, and sustainable leadership to change campus culture by challenging Pennsylvania’s education leaders – including college and university presidents, as well as students, teachers, faculty, staff, families, and communities to pledge to improve their institutions’ climate around sexual assault.

Since 2016, the Wolf Administration has awarded 150 It’s On Us PA grants totaling nearly $4 million to more than 70 post-secondary institutions, including public and private two-year and four-year colleges and universities.

For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.

Lackawanna College Receives It’s On Us PA Grant

Lackawanna College received a grant award of $19,250 as part of Governor Tom Wolf’s 2020-21 It’s On Us PA grant program. This is the third time Lackawanna College has received this grant.The College joins 42 postsecondary institutions across the state slated to receive this funding, which helps colleges and universities address and respond effectively to sexual violence on campus.

To support the Governor’s It’s On Us PA campaign, Lackawanna College will launch its “It’s On Us, Lackawanna” initiative. The project will include targeted training for staff on Title IX procedures and trauma awareness and a variety of sexual violence awareness events during the “Red Zone”. The “Red Zone” is the first six weeks of the fall semester, a time when students, particularly freshmen, are most likely to experience sexual assault on college campuses.

“We are excited and thankful to once again be a part of the State It’s On Us initiative. Providing the proper educational tools and resources are the first steps in maintaining a safe and comfortable campus environment,” said Brian Costanzo, Lackawanna College Title IX Coordinator. “Dollars from this program will provide those necessary resources and opportunities to both students and staff members.”

The initiative will educate, engage, and serve Lackawanna’s students, faculty and staff and improve the College’s current sexual violence response systems.

The It’s On Us PA campaign, launched in 2016 by Governor Tom Wolf, was pioneered during the Obama administration. The Governor’s It’s On Us PA grant program aims to support post-secondary institutions’ efforts to create campus environments in which all community members are informed, active bystanders, working together to end sexual violence, and where survivors are able to access the rights, resources, and accommodations afforded to them through state and federal law.

National Band Association Journal Publishes Article by Dr. F. David Romines

An article addressing advanced saxophone instructional techniques by Fred David Romines, D.M.A., associate professor of music education, director of bands and co-chairperson of the Music, Theatre, and Dance department at Marywood University, was published in the November 2020 issue of the National Band Association Journal. The submission reveals several instructional insights routinely addressed in the Marywood course, “MUSC 303A Woodwind Methods I” (a course required of all Marywood music education majors).

Dr. Romines has been a member of the National Band Association (NBA) since 1977 and presently serves the NBA as Pennsylvania State Chairperson. The National Band Association Journal has a current circulation of approximately 2,500 band directors from all 50 United States, Europe, and Asia.

Dr. Romines has studied saxophone with several of the country’s leading performers and teachers, including: Anthony D’Andrea, Gary Sperl, Jerry Coker, William Scarlett, Douglas Masek, and Steven Mauk.

For additional information about Marywood’s Music, Theatre, and Dance department, go to marywood.edu/mtd, or call the Office of Admissions, at (570) 348-6234.

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant SBA Webinar

Are you a theatrical producer, talent representative, venue promoter or do you operate a live venue, live performing arts organization, movie house or cultural institution and have been impacted by COVID-19? Register for SBA’s webinar on Thursday, January 14, at 3 p.m. ET, for a preliminary overview of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program included in the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act. Eligible organizations with a reduction in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic will have the opportunity to receive up to a $10 million grant under the program.

This webinar will provide introductory information about the grants, who can apply, how potential organizations can prepare, and additional details re: eligibility and applications.  

REGISTER

Crystal Window AC85 Acoustic Window Receives Industry Recognition

National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems and its impressive product line continue to receive fenestration industry recognition.  Leading national trade publication US Glass Magazine named the Crystal Acoustic Window AC85 Aluminum Window the winner in the façade/glazing systems category of its annual “Readers’ Choice Awards,” featured in the December 2020 issue.  This is the second year in a row and the third time in the past five years that a new Crystal product was picked as a favorite.

“The Crystal Series AC85 Acoustic Window delivers industry leading acoustic sound transmission reductions,” said Sabrina Leung, Crystal’s R&D/Architectural Sales Manager.  “Independent lab testing of the AC85 window for a recent project in New York certified an outstanding Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class (OITC) sound reduction rating of 42 using double pane insulated glass.  This means properties in high noise areas near highways, rail lines, airports, or heavy traffic can use these windows to provide very comfortable interior environments.”

The aluminum frame Crystal AC85 Acoustic Window is available in either casement or fixed window styles.  The heavy-duty aluminum 7-⅞” depth thermally-broken master frame window features a dual-sash configuration for both styles.  For the casement, the interior sash opens in and the exterior sash opens out.  The AC85 dual sashes each have a 1-¼” glazing pocket which accepts double or triple pane insulated glass units.  With appropriate glass, Low-E coatings, and argon filling options, notable U-values of 0.28 are achieved.

The US Glass Readers’ Choice Awards are determined by the publication’s national and international subscribers voting online during November for the most impressive new products featured in the publication during the year.  Crystal was a previous Readers’ Choice Award winner in 2019 with its Magnus Commercial Vinyl Series 4500 uPVC window line and in 2016 with its aluminum Series 8500/8600 projected window line.

US Glass is the most widely read architectural glass industry magazine, offered monthly in both print and online editions.  The associated US Glass online information platform provides a daily email service to subscribers and offers the latest industry news, product information, commentary, and observations of leading industry experts.

MMQ Announces Promotions

MMQ, P.C. is pleased to announce the following promotions: Emily Clifford, CPA has been promoted to Manager. Emily joined MMQ in January 2014 and has extensive accounting, audit and tax experience in not-for-profit organizations and family owned businesses in various industries. As Manager, Emily will be training and supervising staff while leading client engagements. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master’s in Business Administration from Wilkes University. Emily is a member of the AICPA and the PICPA.

Anthony J Gangemi has been promoted to Senior Associate. AJ has been a member of the MMQ team for over 3 years. As a Senior Associate, AJ will provide accounting, audit and tax services for non-profit organizations, employee benefit plans and small business clients. AJ received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master’s in Business Administration, Accounting from Misericordia University. He is currently working towards the completion of his CPA license requirements.

PPP Reopens This Week

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the Treasury Department, announced that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will reopen the week of January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers. To promote access to capital, initially only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP Loans on Monday, January 11, and Second Draw PPP Loans on Wednesday, January 13. The PPP will open to all participating lenders shortly thereafter. Updated PPP guidance outlining Program changes to enhance its effectiveness and accessibility was released on January 6 in accordance with the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Non-Profits, and Venues Act.

This round of the PPP continues to prioritize millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $284 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses through March 31, 2021, and by allowing certain existing PPP borrowers to apply for a Second Draw PPP Loan.

“The historically successful Paycheck Protection Program served as an economic lifeline to millions of small businesses and their employees when they needed it most,” said Administrator Jovita Carranza.  “Today’s guidance builds on the success of the program and adapts to the changing needs of small business owners by providing targeted relief and a simpler forgiveness process to ensure their path to recovery.”

“The Paycheck Protection Program has successfully provided 5.2 million loans worth $525 billion to America’s small businesses, supporting more than 51 million jobs,” said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin.  “This updated guidance enhances the PPP’s targeted relief to small businesses most impacted by COVID-19.  We are committed to implementing this round of PPP quickly to continue supporting American small businesses and their workers.”

Key PPP updates include:

  • PPP borrowers can set their PPP loan’s covered period to be any length between 8 and 24 weeks to best meet their business needs;
  • PPP loans will cover additional expenses, including operations expenditures, property damage costs, supplier costs, and worker protection expenditures;
  • The Program’s eligibility is expanded to include 501(c)(6)s, housing cooperatives, destination marketing organizations, among other types of organizations;
  • The PPP provides greater flexibility for seasonal employees;
  • Certain existing PPP borrowers can request to modify their First Draw PPP Loan amount; and
  • Certain existing PPP borrowers are now eligible to apply for a Second Draw PPP Loan. 

A borrower is generally eligible for a Second Draw PPP Loan if the borrower:

  • Previously received a First Draw PPP Loan and will or has used the full amount only for authorized uses;
  • Has no more than 300 employees; and
  • Can demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020.

The new guidance released includes:

For more information on SBA’s assistance to small businesses, visit sba.gov/ppp or treasury.gov/cares. 

Geisinger Employees Begin Receiving Second Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine

Geisinger’s health care heroes are now receiving their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Wednesday morning, exactly 21 days since vaccine doses first were given within the health system, employees returned and rolled up their sleeves to get their second dose.

In three weeks Geisinger has ramped up to the point of more than 1,000 vaccines per day over the past week, totaling approximately 12,000 people with their first dose of the COVID vaccine. When people get their first doses, they’re scheduled immediately to receive their second dose. Receiving that second dose is a critical step in the COVID vaccine process. Both doses are necessary to trigger the immune response needed to develop an immunity level against COVID- 19.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center nurse Tara Skutack was the first health care worker to receive the second vaccine dose on Wednesday at the hospital.

“I received the COVID vaccine for my family and patients,” Skutack said. “I’m excited for a better and healthier future. So far, I’m feeling great.”

Resident physician Muhammad Sabih Saleem, M.D., said he received the vaccine as a step in moving forward, and as someone who cares for COVID patients.

“I currently work in the intensive care unit and see COVID patients every day,” Saleem said. “It’s up to us to take this first step forward so that everyone else will join us when the vaccine becomes available to them. I feel relieved after getting the vaccine — we have been waiting for it for a long time. It’s a step towards a better future.”

Geisinger has been receiving the Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna vaccines at facilities over the past few weeks. The Pfizer vaccine was received first, and front-line employee vaccines began on December 16. Both vaccines require two doses, with the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine requiring a second dose 21 days after the first, and the Moderna vaccine requiring a second dose 28 days after the first.

Emergency medicine physician Luke Sullivan, D.O., said his family was a major motivator for why he received the vaccine.

“I got the COVID vaccine so I could safely take care of my patients and remain healthy while doing so,” Sullivan said. “I also got it for my 2-year-old, my wife who works in healthcare, and my elderly parents, who I haven’t been able to see. It feels awesome to have received my second dose and I look toward the future.”

In line with state guidelines and recommendations, Geisinger has been focusing on vaccinating its employees and healthcare workers. Geisinger is in the process of reaching out to EMS personnel and community providers to coordinate their vaccines, in alignment with the PA Department of Health order to use 10 percent of the vaccine supply to vaccinate those in Tier 1A. The vaccine is being administered as quickly as it can, but is completely dependent on supply, staffing and the logistics with distribution.

While it’s expected to be well into the year until the vaccine becomes widely available to the public, Geisinger is working to make it easy to receive both COVID vaccine doses, including making the vaccine available at no cost to patients.

With more shipments of the vaccines making their way to Geisinger and many in the community receiving the vaccine, Geisinger continues to encourage the preventive measures that have been stressed to help stop the spread of the virus as it’s expected to be well into the summer before vaccines are readily available for all community members. Everyone, including those who receive the vaccine, should continue to properly wear a mask, avoid group gatherings, maintain physical distancing and practice proper handwashing.

For answers to questions about the vaccine, visit the Geisinger COVID-19 vaccine resources center at geisinger.org/COVIDvax.

CUTLINES:

Skutack COVID vaccine: Nurse Tara Skutack receives the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre. Skutack was one of the first Geisinger front-line healthcare workers to receive the first dose of the vaccine on December 16. Nurse Alison Krakosky administered this second dose.

Abbas COVID vaccine: Resident physician Sayeda Abbas, M.D., receives the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday morning. Given by nurse Alison Krakosky at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Abbas was one of the first Geisinger employees to receive a COVID vaccine when it was first available on December 16.

Saleem COVID vaccine: Resident physician Muhammad Sabih Saleem, M.D., receives the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes- Barre. Saleem, one of the first front-line health care workers at Geisinger to receive a first dose, received this second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine from nurse Alison Krakosky.

Sullivan COVID vaccine: Geisinger emergency medicine physician Luke Sullivan, D.O., rolls up his sleeve to receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday. Sullivan received the second dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine from nurse Alison Krakosky.

Step Inside a Snow Globe for Greenhouse Dining at Glass-wine.bar.kitchen

The weather outside may be frightful, but inside the greenhouse it’s delightful. Diners at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen will now get to see Paupack High Falls in a whole new light. Greenhouses and igloos were recently installed on the decks at Ledges Hotel overlooking the river gorge for socially distanced outdoor dining throughout winter.

Made of polycarbonate material, the four greenhouses measure 8 x 12 and can accommodate up to eight people for private dinners. Electric heaters keep things cozy while vents at the roof and over the door allow for natural air flow. “As the weather turned cold, we knew we needed to reimagine dining yet again,” explained Justin Genzlinger, Owner/CEO of Settlers Hospitality. “The greenhouses and igloos serve a practical purpose, but also enable us to offer our guests a new, unique experience. At night the greenhouses are illuminated and dining with a 360-degree view of the surrounding gorge- it really is a magical atmosphere.”

Guests in the greenhouses will enjoy a prix fixe menu served family style. There are two dining packages available- standard and deluxe. Both options boast a four-course meal featuring some of the signature fare from Glass-wine.bar.kitchen. The cheese/charcuterie board, a perennial favorite among diners at the restaurant, will get things started. The second course will bring a farmhouse salad and roasted garlic hummus. Depending upon the package, entrée options for the third course range from Bistro Steak and Sautéed Shrimp to Pan Seared Duck and Diver Scallops. The final course features an assortment of hand selected desserts. Upgrades are also available such as a French Onion Soup Hot Pot for the table. Greenhouses may be reserved for dinner seven days a week. There’s  a $350 minimum per greenhouse and a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to hold a reservation.

Glass-wine.bar.kitchen also added to its outdoor dining options with the introduction of igloos. Setup on the deck overlooking the falls, there are two heated igloos that can accommodate up to four people for a la carte dining. The restaurant is open seven days a week for indoor dining, outdoor dining on the enclosed deck and take-out. Menus are available at ledgeshotel.com

For more information, check out SettlersHospitality.com.

Lackawanna College Assigns Key Leadership Role

Lackawanna College President Dr. Jill Murray has named Stephanie Decker as the Associate Vice President of Social and Economic Impact and a member of the President’s cabinet. Decker previously served as the Executive Director of Social and Economic Impact and as the Program Director for the Lackawanna College Kiesendahl School of Hospitality. In this role, she assisted in the creation of new associate degree programs and the region’s only bachelor’s degree in restaurant and foodservice management. Under her leadership, her colleagues opened the student-run restaurant, 409 on Adams, which distinguished Lackawanna’s School of Hospitality as a school of choice for students to advance their careers in the hospitality industry. 

Decker has served in a leadership role on specialized teams dedicated to driving the formation of new and innovative programs at Lackawanna College, including the region’s first collegiate esports program and ecommerce initiatives. Additionally, she guided her leadership team in transitioning the College’s cafeteria from a retail-style foodservice program to a full-service, high-end cafeteria, which now serves students and the college community. She assisted in the development and execution of the College’s Food for Thought program, The Giving Room and the College’s fellowship program.