The Wright Center’s Healthy Maternal Opiate Medical Support Program The Wright Center discusses how Shannon Sharkazy has always felt a calling to help others. First, though, she had to help herself. A 36-month prison sentence for cocaine distribution and related charges proved to be the impetus for her recovery from substance use disorder in 2006. While incarcerated, Sharkazy helped some of her fellow inmates learn to read and take other steps to change their lives, igniting her passion for helping others. “After I came home from prison, I knew I was not cut out for my old life,” the 41-year-old Honesdale, Pennsylvania, resident said. “I didn’t want to be that person, so I had to make some changes.” Today, Sharkazy is a devoted mother of five children, ranging in age from 16 months to 11 years old. When she isn’t working as the administrator of a church in Beach Lake, Pennsylvania, she operates Gypsy Hollow, a transition home for rescued farm animals, where she is in the process of developing the mentorship program, Second Act, to help women – especially moms – learn and improve relationship, communication, and mindset skills. She also speaks publicly about her recovery journey, attributing her success to those who supported her, including The Wright Center for Community Health’s Healthy Maternal Opiate Medical Support Program, known simply as Healthy MOMS. “I needed support,” Sharkazy said. “They immediately saw who I really was and what I needed.” Healthy MOMS focuses on helping mothers-to-be and mothers with substance use disorder, bringing together health care, legal, housing, and social services organizations from more than seven counties in Northeast Pennsylvania. Participants can join before giving birth and remain in the program until the child turns 2. An assigned case manager helps with a range of support services, including medications for opiate use disorder, counseling, primary and OB-GYN care, parenting tips, legal advice, and more. The program has served mothers as young as 14, but most are in their late 20s and 30s. Named after a similar program in Ohio, it was introduced in this region as a pilot program in two counties, with initial grant funding secured by the Lackawanna/Susquehanna Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs. Today, it assists women in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. Since its launch in 2018, they’ve helped more than 500 mothers and welcomed more than 280 infants. “As we know too well, it takes a village to raise a child. The complex struggles surrounding opioid addiction can make pregnancy an even tougher time,” said Maria Kolcharno, Healthy MOMS Program manager and director of addictions services at The Wright Center for Community Health. “The evidence suggests that mothers who join the program and participate in recovery services well before their delivery dates are less likely to give birth to babies who experience neonatal abstinence syndrome, a potentially painful and costly medical condition caused when a newborn withdraws from drugs the baby had been exposed to in the womb.” ‘I need help’ Despite Sharkazy’s commitment to sobriety after her release from prison, chaos ensued. She was married to an abusive alcoholic, far away from her family. She gave birth to her daughter, Blake, who is now 11, followed by her son, Carter, who is now 10. She divorced her husband, moved back home with her two children, and eventually began dating a man who was recovering from substance use disorder. Unfortunately, he relapsed, and soon after, Sharkazy realized she was pregnant with her second daughter, Mason, now 5, who was born with cystic fibrosis and Down syndrome. Over time, Sharkazy started taking prescription medication to manage pain caused by several debilitating, chronic issues. “My doses kept increasing,” Sharkazy said. “And then I got pregnant again, and I thought, ‘I can’t be on these ridiculous doses anymore. I need help.’” She became aware of The Wright Center for Community Health offering medications for opiate use disorder through her ex-husband’s experience at the community health center in Jermyn. Aware that Suboxone, a prescription drug for managing substance use disorder, could also provide pain relief, Sharkazy started her treatment with The Wright Center in November 2019. She found the staff, especially Ed Walsh, a case manager in The Wright Center’s state-designated Opioid Use Disorder Center of Excellence, and Dr. Charles Burns, a former Wright Center doctor board certified in addiction medicine, to be exceptionally supportive and free of judgment. Sharkazy then became one of the first clients in the Healthy MOMS Program to access the specialized health services she needed. Healthy MOMS Case Manager Michele Coyle has worked with Sharkazy for four years, celebrating her successes and helping her through life’s challenges. Over the years, Sharkazy has served as a keynote speaker at Wright Center events and shared her story at several other programs around the region. “It’s been beautiful to see her maintain her sobriety and to act as an advocate for her children and herself,” Coyle said. ‘In the right place’ Although she was putting in the hard work with the support of Coyle and other staff members in the Healthy MOMs Program, Sharkazy’s use of Suboxone, along with other complications, led to an extended hospital stay for her newborn daughter, Emerson, who is now 4. “Because of the medication I was prescribed, hospital staff assumed I was an IV drug user, even though I have never once put a drug in my veins and had been sober for years,” she said. “They treated me terribly, but the Healthy MOMS staff made it a lot easier. They advocated for me, in and outside of the hospital.” Sharkazy remained in the Healthy MOMS Program for the birth of her fifth child, Ethan, who is now 16 months old. When she had similar problems with hospital staff over the stigma of using Suboxone, Healthy MOMS staff again advocated for her, including producing paperwork. “I can’t imagine being a mom newly in recovery or a mom without a support system, facing these challenging situations,” Sharkazy said. “I knew I could just call Michele, and she would be there to talk to, do check-ins, and just to make sure I was mentally in the right place.” Coyle said that, over the years, Sharkazy has become a resource to other clients, especially those with children who have special needs. “I’m supporting her needs, but sometimes, I go to her for advice. She’s navigated the system and is willing to share what she’s learned,” Coyle said. “I think we’ve learned a lot together.” ‘Pay it forward’ Since its inception in 2018, Healthy MOMS has experienced significant growth, according to Coyle. As word spreads about its many success stories, The Wright Center has expanded the program’s reach and now collaborates with more than a dozen partner agencies, including Maternal and Family Health Services, Outreach Center for Community Resources, St. Joseph’s Center, Geisinger, Commonwealth Health, and several county agencies. “We have a lot of opportunities now to do more with and for the moms in the program,” Coyle said. “Every case is different, but we’re ready to meet the needs of each client.” These days, Sharkazy is thriving, thanks to the continued support of the Healthy MOMS Program. “It’s amazing to see her succeed,” Coyle said. “This is why I do what I do. It’s nice to think about how I had a small part in her journey to where she is today.” Sharkazy has also found myriad ways to fulfill her goal of helping others. In addition to raising her children, caring for her ailing father, and looking after a variety of rescued farm animals, she works at Beach Lake United Methodist Church. She has also shared her story while serving as an advocate for varied topics, including children with cystic fibrosis and Down syndrome, the lack of rural health care resources, single mothers, and mothers with substance use disorder. “I tell my story to everyone. It’s a way to pay it forward,” she said. “Working with and being a voice for moms in recovery is something I want to continue to explore.”
The Honesdale National Bank to Host Ribbon Cutting The Honesdale National Bank (HNB) will be making a summer splash in Moscow to celebrate the opening of its new location at 330 N Main Street. To celebrate the expansion of banking services to this Lackawanna County community, all are invited to join in the fun. Attendees may open accounts, win prizes, and most importantly – raise money for local nonprofits. $10 will be donated to the non-profits noted below for each account opened as well as each time a banker is dunked into the Summe Splash Dunk Tank. Benefiting Non-Profits: North Pocono Area Council of PTA • North Pocono Public Library • North Pocono Moscow Rotary Club • Moscow Volunteer Fire & Hose Company • Spring Brook Volunteer Fire Company • Elmhurst-Roaring Brook Fire Department Covington Fire Company • Jefferson Township Volunteer Fire Company • Madisonville Fire Company When: Friday, August 9, 20224 – RAIN OR SHINE 11:00am – 1:00pm Grand Opening Festivities11:30am Ribbon Cutting Location: HNB Moscow Office 330 N Main Street, Moscow, PA 18444 Photo Ops & B-Roll Opportunities: Ribbon Cutting with bank executives, the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and local dignitaries Summer Splash Dunk Tank: Watch an HNB team member be dunked into the dunk tank by community members looking to earn $10 donations per dunk for local non-profits Blu the Mascot showcasing that the best investments we make are in the communities we serve.
Johnson College Enrolling for 285 Computer Numerical Control Course Johnson College is now enrolling for its 285 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) course at its Scranton campus. The course will run Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 10:15 p.m. beginning September 3, 2024, and ending November 25, 2024. The 285-hour non-credit certificate Computer Numerical Control training is designed for individuals looking to enter the high-demand machining field. The course covers the theory and hands-on practice of both conventional and computer numerical control machining fields. In addition to math for machinists, emphasis on the use of metals and the stresses placed upon them will be taught. The total cost of the course is $4,200. Participants must have a GED or high school diploma. To learn more or to enroll, visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-ed/285-computer-numerical-control-cnc/ or contact the Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu.
Episode Twenty-Six: All Things Chamber is Back at State Street in Clarks Summit Don’t Miss the Update Chamber Open House is Friday, September 6. We LOVE our members and want to show our appreciation for your support throughout the year. Join us as we come together with fellow members and enjoy a variety of lunch specialties from member businesses! We will be tenting our entire front parking lot and driveway to create comfortable space. Meet our Board or Directors, staff and network with fellow members. Swing by and let us thank you! Skills in Scranton’s Educator in the Workplace connects K-12 educators, administration, superintendents, school board members, and school counselors to businesses and industry leaders. Enrollment closes September 26. Upcoming Chamber Events EVENT PAGE MEMBER BENEFITS
Mohegan Sun Arena to Host Fire Safety Event Before the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party begins at the Mohegan Sun Arena this weekend, event organizers have announced a free community fire safety event will take place this Friday, Aug. 9. From 4 p.m. through 7 p.m., a free touch-a-truck event will allow children and truck enthusiasts the chance to see iconic vehicles up close before the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party officially kicks off its first performance on Saturday. Local first responders will be on-site at the ASM Global-managed Mohegan Sun Arena to display a variety of emergency services vehicles alongside the brand-new Hot Wheels 5-Alarm monster truck. The Wilkes-Barre Township Volunteer Fire Department Station 188 Fire & Rescue will be displaying their Rescue and Ladder Engines, while the Ashley Rescue Hose Co. No. 1 will have the station’s water pumper on-hand at the event. ACT Towing will have two wreckers on site for a closer look, as well. A number of other emergency response vehicles are still being confirmed. The Wilkes-Barre Township Volunteer Fire Department, led by Fire Chief Richard Hart, has been instrumental in organizing this community event. Justin Topa, marketing manager of the Mohegan Sun Arena, hopes the fire safety event will provide an opportunity to celebrate emergency responders while creating a comfortability with the vehicles they drive. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live and our local first responders to provide families with an opportunity to meet their local heroes in a fun and non-emergency setting,” said Topa. “Children will have the chance to get their first up-close look at the Hot Wheels 5-Alarm monster truck alongside several emergency response vehicles that protect our communities every day. We expect this event’s going to be an exciting way to foster appreciation for our heroes and the amazing work they’re doing within our communities.” The Hot Wheels 5-Alarm Monster Truck, inspired by the heroic work of firefighters, will be a standout feature of the event before heading inside the arena for a weekend of Glow Party performances. Ty Cornelius Jr, driver of the Hot Wheels 5-Alarm Monster Truck, is excited to play a role in honoring local first responders. “We are incredibly honored to acknowledge the unwavering courage and commitment of our firefighters,” said Cornelius Jr. “The Hot Wheels 5-Alarm Monster Truck embodies the spirit of bravery that these first responders demonstrate every day. It’s our way of saying ‘thank you’ for their service and sacrifice.” Representatives from Hot Wheels Monster Truck Live and the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Wilkes-Barre Township’s Station 188 and all of the local heroes within the region. As a token of gratitude for their dedication and bravery, firefighters from the participating stations will receive tickets to the event and a chance to experience the thrill of the Monster Trucks up close. “We hope this small gesture conveys our deep appreciation for the vital role they play in keeping our communities safe,” said Topa. This is the first time that the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party has toured within northeastern Pennsylvania. Three performances on Saturday and Sunday afternoon will bring fans’ favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks to life including the all-new HW Skelesaurus™ and HW 5-Alarm™! The legendary Bigfoot® is also featured alongside Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, Bone Shaker™, and Gunkster™ Hot Wheels Monster Trucks. The Glow Party production features a laser light show, spectacular theatrical effects, dance parties, and Hot Wheels toy giveaways. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Freestyle Motocross Team. The community is encouraged to come to any one of the three performances and can save on tickets and fees by purchasing tickets directly at the NBT Bank box office. The Friday fire safety event is free-to-attend, but weather-dependent, so event organizers recommend that families keep an eye on the Mohegan Arena PA Facebook page in the event of any updates or cancellations caused by inclement weather.
Keystone Mission Hosts Grand Opening for Seeds of Hope Community Garden The Scranton Chamber of Commerce spread the ribbon on Keystone Mission’s opening ceremony for the Seeds of Hope Community Garden behind their Scranton Innovation Center. The idea of a community garden sprung to life in April 2023 and is designed to facilitate the development of life and vocational skills for guests at the Mission. The initiative engages Center guests, staff, and the local community to actively participate in planning, growing, and harvesting of fresh produce. After a successful summer of harvesting a variety of vegetables and spices, the garden received a handcrafted sign to commemorate the many hands that played a vital role in planning and upkeeping the garden. “This coming-together of staff, guests of our Pathfinder’s Program, many community organizations, and local residents is a true testament to what can be accomplished when we come together,” says Danielle O. Keith-Alexandre, CEO & Executive Director. “This project is now a reality, and it is wonderful to experience the foliage and fresh produce from the garden. We hope that community members will stop by and enjoy the scenery that exudes from the ambience of our Seeds of Hope Community Garden!” Keystone Mission recognizes the many hands that made this possible such as the Pathfinder’s Program, The Scranton Area Community Foundation, Michael McAllister, Scranton Counseling Center, Mr. Mulch, The Hughes Family, and the Klee Family. Keystone Mission gives special recognition to Mitchell Hreha and his company, 3VKG, for donating time and material to build a handcrafted Seeds of Hope Sign. To find out more about how you can participate or benefit from the Community Garden, please visit www.KeystoneMission.org/seeds-of-hope/.
Scranton Counseling Center to Host Raffle Scranton Counseling Center will be hosting a raffle for Kalahari rooms and waterpark tickets. Tickets go on sale Monday August 5th through Thursday September 19th, with the drawing on Friday September 20th at 10 AM.
NeighborWorks’ Expands Work in Carbondale NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania (NeighborWorks) recently accepted a contribution from Coterra Energy, in the amount of $266,600 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). This contribution marks the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and has significantly bolstered our efforts to improve communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania. The contribution will support the Beautiful Blocks Program for 2024. Beautiful Blocks, which is jointly sponsored by NeighborWorks, the City of Scranton, the City of Carbondale and the City of Pittston, provides matching grants of up to $1,000 to each member of a group of at least five residents to help them make exterior improvements to their homes in their respective municipalities. Grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process. This contribution is particularly significant as it is funding the entirety of the Beautiful Blocks Pittston program in its first year, enabling us to expand this successful initiative to a new city. Coterra’s contribution is also funding neighborhood revitalization work in Carbondale. The funding has been pivotal in completing critical projects such as the demolition of vacant and deteriorating properties, providing grants to homebuyers to help them improve the exterior of their homes and developing the Carbondale Core Neighborhood Plan. “NeighborWorks is extremely grateful for Coterra’s exceptional commitment and partnership,” said Shane Powers, President & CEO of NeighborWorks. “This significant contribution underscores the power of collaboration in driving meaningful community development. Coterra’s support has enabled us to expand the Beautiful Blocks Program to Pittston and continue vital revitalization work in Carbondale, making a tangible difference in our communities.” Coterra Director of External Affairs George Stark, said, “We at Coterra are proud to support the vital work of NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania through the Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program. NeighborWorks revitalizes neighborhoods where our employees, contractors, and vendors live and creates opportunities for individuals and families to improve their lives through quality housing and financial guidance. This investment not only assists those in need but also enhances the communities we call home.” Altogether, contributions from Coterra and its affiliates were the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and accounted for the bulk of its total NAP contributions this year. Coterra’s unwavering support underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in community development and highlights the positive impact of corporate contributions on local revitalization projects. NeighborWorks is deeply grateful for Coterra’s remarkable generosity and commitment to community development.
Condron Media Announces Luzerne County Real Estate Firm Joins Classic Properties Condron Sweda Advertising announces The Smith Hourigan Group founded in 1975 by Ruth K. Smith and part of the Century 21 brand for forty-five years has joined Classic Properties as of August 1. Kevin Smith and David Hourigan, both owners and brokers of the previous firm will continue in management with Classic Properties. Steve Farrell, the owner and broker of Classic Properties said, “We are delighted to bring Kevin and David and their successful agents and staff into the Classic Properties team. Together we will better serve homeowners and buyers throughout the area. Adding the Smith Hourigan Group with its history in Luzerne County to our strength in Lackawanna, Monroe, and Wyoming Counties increases our reputation as the listing leader in the region. Kevin Smith said, “David and I are proud to continue our service to generations of customers under the Classic Properties name. Classic offers our agents and clients advanced technology and a larger baseto achieve quicker and enhanced success.” David Hourigan added, “After many years of serving clients in this area, I’m delighted to work with Steve Farrell’s team and offer our customers the benefit of a larger, nationally and internationally connected real estate firm.” With the merger, Classic Properties now boasts over 180 agents and staff in six regional offices of northeastern Pa. The expanded firm has an annual sales volume of $365 million. It will serve customers from offices in Kingston, Mountain Top, Shavertown, Clarks Summit, North Pocono, and the Pocono Mountains. The Classic name has been synonymous with marketing Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most valuable properties since 1983.
Spark by Hilton to Open in Clarks Summit Experience the new Spark by Hilton in Clarks Summit Welcome Hotel Group and SAP Hotels, LLC are thrilled to announce the completion of its extensive renovation, marking its transformation into a vibrant Spark by Hilton property. The revitalization project has redefined luxury and comfort, offering guests an unparalleled experience in Clarks Summit. The renovation to Spark by Hilton represents a significant milestone in its journey towards becoming a premier destination for travelers seeking sophistication, innovation, and personalized service. Inspired by the dynamic Spark by Hilton brand, the hotel now boasts a contemporary design, state-of-the-art amenities, and an array of engaging spaces for guests to unwind and connect. “Our team is proud to introduce the new era of hospitality at the Spark by Hilton in Clarks Summit,” said Jim Petorak, General Manager of the property. “With this transformation, we are elevating the guest experience to new heights, combining modern elegance with the warm hospitality that defines our brand.” The redesigned guest rooms at the Spark exude comfort and style, featuring plush bedding, sleek furnishings, and cutting-edge technology to ensure a restful stay. The transformation into a Spark by Hilton property reflects Hilton’s commitment to redefining the hotel experience for today’s discerning travelers. With its emphasis on creativity, connectivity, and community, Spark by Hilton encapsulates the spirit of modern hospitality, inviting guests to discover moments of inspiration and delight at every turn. For reservations and more information about Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit, please visit Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit or contact the hotel at 800-774-1500.