25
THE ABINGTON s
t en
c
The Voice of The AbingTons
See what the Abington Community Library is offering in March Page 12
Sports
Meet Abington Heights freshman girls basketball coach Lauren Sheakoski Page 13
Times-shamrock communiTy newspapers 149 Penn Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 Phone: (570) 348-9185 Fax: (570) 207-3448
www.abingtonsuburban.com
Second annual Shamrock Shuffle takes place next weekend
Around Town
Library News
February 26, 2015
‘Marching’ through March
ON THE INSIDE See what’s happening in our area Page 4
SUBURBAN
by Stephanie Longo
ABINGTON SUBURBAN EDITOR
“Big Six” now gets a “Little Six” thanks to the Lackawanna Trail High School Class of 2017. For anyone who has grown up in Factoryville, baseball hall-of-famer Christy Mathewson’s legacy is part of their own personal history. Every year at the beginning of August, the borough, in conjunction with Keystone College, hosts Christy Mathewson Days with one of the highlights being the annual 6K race, extended from a traditional 5K race in honor of Mathewson’s nickname. When members of the Lackawanna Trail High School Class of 2017 decided they wanted to host a class fundraiser — emphasis on “fun”— they knew they wanted something that wasn’t a typical event and the “Shamrock Shuffle” was born. “When we were brainstorming projects, we decided to have a 5K race as a fundraiser,” said class president Madison Lee. “Then we decided to put it in March and make it a themed race. Then we decided to use the same route as the Christy Mathewson 6K race. We called it the Shamrock Shuffle 6K because it flowed well with the ‘s’ sound.” This year’s race marks the second annual Shamrock Shuffle and will be held on Sunday, March 8, at Keystone College in LaPlume. The race will once again follow the same course as the Christy Mathewson 6K and class members said it is a great chance for people to prepare for the big race in August. Lee said that last year’s race was a resounding success and she and her fellow classmates are hoping for a repeat this year. “We had a little more than 50 runners that came from all over,” she said. “There was even a couple who came from the Poconos who were dedicated runners who just showed up the day of the race. We have students, people from the community and people who enjoy running who come and join us. They are supporting our class. The money we raise goes toward our prom decorations, graduation costs and even
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S01] | 02/25/15
11:01 | LONGOSTEPH
Members of the Lackawanna Trail High School Class of 2017 who were involved with the planning for this year’s Shamrock Shuffle are pictured, from left: Madison Lee, Rachael Rosengrant, class adviser Katie Lane, Alli Strauch and Ashleigh Clarke.
PHOTO STEPHANIE LONGO
our senior class trip if possible.” Registration for the Shamrock Shuffle will begin at 9 a.m. with the race beginning at 10 a.m. Awards will be given for the overall best runner as well as for the first- and second-place finishers in each division. Divisions are broken up by age group. Adviser Katie Lane attributes the class’s school spirit with their energy and focus on making all of their fundraising events a success. “From seventh grade they’ve been really active,” she said. “I’ve always said that as an adviser, I just advise. I don’t do anything for them. I will help them do whatever they need to do and I will be present at every event they put on, but I want them to show the initiative and they do just that. We have a good group. There are about a dozen students who are al-
ways at everything. It’s nice. “They also have very supportive families who come to everything and who participate where they can and that’s helpful, too,” she added. “Having parents who are involved makes all the difference.” All proceeds from the Shamrock Shuffle will benefit the Lackawanna Trail High School Class of 2017. Registration is $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Registrations can be mailed to Lane’s attention at Lackawanna Trail High School, P.O. Box 85, Factoryville, PA 18419. Checks must be made payable to LTHS. For more information, call 570-9455181 or visit the Shamrock Shuffle’s Facebook event page at facebook.com/ events/416057241891804.
‘Beauty and the Beast’ CLASSIFIED RATES All classifications, rentals, for sale, etc.
# of Words
3 Papers 2 Papers $10 Up to 20 $20 $15 $20 20 to 40 $40 $30 *Please call for additional pricing if over 40 words. 1 Paper/1Week
TO SUBMIT YOUR AD:
1. Please specify which paper(s) (Advantage, Suburban and/or Triboro) 2. The number of weeks (Note: There are No Discounts on Multi-Week Insertions) 3. Mail it in along with pre-payment to:
Community Newspapers 149 Penn Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503 P: (570) 348-9185 ext. 5458 F: (570) 207-3448
DEADLINE:
You may also call in your ad and pay by credit card.
Noon on Monday for Thursday/Friday publication.
‘Good Works’
Introduces...
Birthday Blocks Double Block
$20
Abington Heights Drama Club members Ben Kontz as Lumière dances with Victoria Nolan as Babette in the school’s production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” on Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m. in the Abington Heights High School auditorium, 222 Noble Road, Clarks Summit. Tickets are $8 and $5 for students and will be available for purchase at the door on the evenings of the performances.
For Just
10
$
If you want to wish that special someone a Happy Birthday - or recognize any other type of achievement (Honor Roll, Graduation, Hole in One, Retirement, etc.), The Suburban now has the perfect space for you. For just $10 you can let the whole Abington area know about that Special Person’s Special Day. Simply fill out the coupon below and mail it in along with prepayment. Be sure to include the person’s name, a special message and a photo if available.
Publication Date_______ Your Name Address City
Zip
Phone As you wish your ad to read... (Please limit single block ads to 35 words or less.)
Make your check payable to: The Suburban - and mail it to 149 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503 or drop it off at the front desk of The Scranton Times by Friday at 5 PM for publication in the following Thursday’s edition. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope for your photo to be returned.
2 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S02] | 02/25/15
11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
The Lackawanna County Commissioners recently honored Lori Killino, center, the Mid-Valley football cheerleading coach for her efforts in establishing the “Pride Squad,” an area-wide cheerleading team for special needs children. The “squad” features 15 children, ranging from five to 10 years old with Down Syndrome or Autism. The youngsters participating in the program are from the Mid and Up Valley, the Abingtons, Carbondale, Lakeland, Throop, Scranton, Jefferson Township, Moscow and Lake Wallenpaupack. The children learn the basic fundamentals of cheerleading, chants, dance routines, communication and social skills and team bonding. From left: commissioner Jim Wansacz, Killino and commissioner Patrick M. O’Malley.
Ramada-Clarks Summit
Tuesday Night Starting February 3, 2015 $100.00 Games
Computers
At
Eagle McClure Fire Dept. 375 Milwaukee Ave. Old Forge, Pa.
Jackpot Guaranteed $1000.00
Doors open at 5:00 PM and games start at 6:30 PM
For reservations call 570-457-5379 Need a ride??? If you are coming from… *Forest City, Simpson, Carbondale, Archbald, Jessup, Olyphant, Throop, Dickson City* Bonanza Tic Tac
Call Jerry 570-677-3148
Progressive *Scranton, Taylor, Moosic, Old Forge* Early Bird Jackpot
Call Nettie 570-341-9363
Eagle McClure Bingo
820 NORTHERN BLVD., CLARKS SUMMIT (570) 586-3737
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT! 8 TO 11 PM NO COVER THIS WEEK FEATURING: ASIALENA BONITZ AND BRYAN BANKS EVERY EVERY MONDAY EVERY EVERY EVERY FRIDAY SATURDAY BURGER NIGHT! TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY IS WING NIGHT! 8 -11 PM THIS WEEK ONE FULL $ 99 CRAFT BEER KIDS EAT RIBIS PRIME FEATURING : POUND OF NIGHT! FREE! WINGS $4.99 NIGHT! 8 oz ANGUS STEAKBURGER 8oz PRIME RIB ANY SAUCE AND ASIALENA Any Topping, No Limit Any DINNER FOR BONITZ Blue Moon pints 1 TOPPING, Select Craft AllandHeineken Becks $ 75 ONLY $9.99 NO LIMIT! & BRYAN 2 Beer Bottles Served w/soup or salad Yuengling Lager Pints BUD LIGHT BANKS and 1 side dish $ 00 $ 00 $ 50
5 1
1
Off per Pint
1
Off
(EAT-IN ONLY)
PINTS $1.50
NO COVER
YOUR FREE LUNCH! $8.00 OFF DINNER! BUY ANY LUNCH ENTREE AND 2 BEVERAGES AND RECEIVE A SECOND LUNCH OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE FREE! TAX & GRATUITY NOT INCLUDED, NOT VALID W/ ANY OTHER PROMOTION, DINE-IN ONLY, NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS, LIMIT 2 PER TABLE 820 NORTHERN BLVD., C.S. 570-586-3737 Expires 3/31/15
BUY 2 DINNER ENTREES AND 2 BEVERAGES AND RECEIVE UP TO $8.00 OFF TAX & GRATUITY NOT INCLUDED, NOT VALID W/ ANY OTHER PROMOTION, DINE-IN ONLY, NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS, LIMIT 2 PER TABLE 820 NORTHERN BLVD., C.S. 570-586-3737 Expires 3/31/15
Electric City /Diamond City
FREELANCE WRITERS
Times-Shamrock Community Newspaper Group is looking for Freelance writers for Lackawanna and Luzerne County’s premier arts & entertainment weekly publications – Electric City and Diamond City. The ideal candidates will be a versatile journalist with strong writing and editing skills and the ability to produce in a very deadline oriented position. We are looking for people who are active and involved in our community’s arts and entertainment scene and want to write about it. Interested applicants should send cover letter and writing samples to: The Community Newspaper Group Tom Graham At tgraham@timesshamrock.com 149 Penn Ave., Scranton, PA 18503
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME
You manage your family, we’ll manage the cleaning
Call us today for a FREE consultation
570-587-4000 | www.CareMaids.net FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S03] | 02/25/15
11:01 | LONGOSTEPH
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
3
THE ABINGTON
SUBURBAN
editor StePHANie LoNGo 570-348-9185 ext. 5429 slongo@timesshamrock.com
Ice Festival Clarification
from the placement of ads in the Abington Suburban’s Ice Festival Tabloid. The ABPA “Thank You” ad that was placed under a candidate for district justice’s ad Dear Editor: The Abington Business and Profes- is not an endorsement of the candidate’s sional Association (ABPA) would like to campaign. The ABPA is apolitical and clear up any misunderstanding resulting does not endorse candidates for public of-
Writer dAVe LAUriHA PHotoGrAPHerS toM BoNoMo CNG CoNtriBUtiNG editorS CHriStoPHer CorNeLL, SHANNoN C. KeitH
Around town
SALeS ACCoUNt eXeCUtiVe NoeMi teLeKY, 570-348-9185 ext. 5027 JeFF BoAM, 570-348-9185, ext. 3005 LetterS to tHe editor PoLiCY The Suburban welcomes letters to the editor by mail, fax or e-mail. All letters must be typed and accompanied by a name, town and phone number. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject any and all submissions based on length and content. DEADLINE IS FRIDAY PRIOR TO PUBLICATION AT 5 P.M.
Pizza Sale
The Chinchilla Hose Co.’s annual pizza sale will be held every Friday in Lent at the fire hall, 104 Shady Lane Road, from 2-7 p.m. Red, white and white broccoli pizza trays will be available. Orders can be placed on Fridays beginning at noon by calling 570-5865726. Walk-ins are welcome.
SUBMiSSioNS PoLiCieS The Abington Suburban welcomes all photos and submissions. Although there is no charge for publication, all photos and submissions run on an “as space available” basis. Publication is not guaranteed. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject any and all submissions. DEADLINE IS FRIDAY PRIOR TO PUBLICATION AT 5 P.M.
Spa Dream Day
Editorial and photo submissions cannot be returned.
Pizza and Halushki Sale
The Factoryville Fire Co. ladies auxiliary will host its annual pizza and halushki sale on Fridays from Feb. 20 to April 3 at the fire hall, 120 College Ave. A 12-cut pie will be $9 and $1 for each additional topping (mushrooms, onions, pepperoni or broccoli). White pizza will also be available. Halushki will be sold by the quart or by the pint. Good Friday broccoli and cheese is available by order only. Call 570-945-5769 after 3 p.m. on Fridays for preorders or for more information.
Essential Beauty Treatments Salon and Spa, 210 N. State St., Clarks Summit, will host a spa dream day to benefit the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services available for an $8 donation to the shelter will include scalp massages, mini chair massages, hand scrubs, skin consultations, waxing, hand paraffin Kindergarten registration for the and hair braids. Call 570-586-0700 for Abington Heights School District will more information. take place as follows: • Clarks Summit Elementary School, 401 W. Grove St.: Monday, March 2, at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. • Waverly Elementary School, 103 The Dalton United Methodist Waverly Road: Tuesday, March 3, at Church, 125 S. Turnpike Road, will host 9:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. • Newton-Ransom Elementary a chicken and biscuit dinner on Saturday, Feb. 28. Take-outs will begin at 4 School, 1549 Newton-Ransom Blvd.: p.m. and dine-in service will be from Tuesday, March 3, throughout the day. • South Abington Elementary 4:30-6 p.m. Tickets are $9; $4 for children age three to 10. This is a resched- School, 640 Northern Blvd.: Wednesuling of the dinner originally planned for day, March 4, throughout the day. Saturday, Feb. 21. Call 570-945-5586 for more information.
The opinions of the independent columnists of The Suburban do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial staff.
iNtereSted iN AdVertiSiNG?
Kindergarten Registration
Call (570) 348-9185
tiMeS-SHAMroCK CoMMUNitY NeWSPAPerS 149 Penn Avenue Scranton, PA 18509
Chicken and Biscuit Dinner
Phone: (570) 348-9185 Fax: (570) 207-3448
www.abingtonsuburban.com
suburbanweekly@timesshamrock.com
4 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
fice and regrets any implication of endorsement resulting from the placement of ads. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused. Thank you, Gail E. Rees ABPA President
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S04] | 02/25/15
11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
Cocktail Party
Serving Seniors Inc. will host its annual pre St. Patrick’s Day cocktail party on Friday, March 6, from 5:30-8 p.m. at Colarusso’s La Palazzo, 4500 Birney Ave., Moosic. Tickets are $35 and include hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and entertainment. Call 570-344-3931 to reserve tickets or for more information. Proceeds of this event will benefit the programs of Serving Seniors Inc., which include ombudsman (advocacy), guardianship, PEER (Pa. Empowered Expert Residents Program), nursing home volunteer visitation and community services transportation.
Learn to Fly Fish
The Keystone College Environmental Education Institute, in partnership with Trout Unlimited, will offer a sixweek introduction to fly fishing course on Saturdays from March 7 to April 11, from 10 a.m. to noon. Organizers say the course will introduce the fundamentals of fly fishing including casting, fishing terms, knot tying, reading water, fishing habitat, fish behaviors, wading and safety, conservation of waterways, entomology, fly selection, fly tying, stewardship of our natural world and more. Class will be conducted indoors and outdoors and will offer ample practice time to master basic casting techniques. It is designed for people with Please see AROUND TOWN, Page 5
AROUND TOWN FROM PAGE 4
vania Trail of History game hosted by students of the Leadership Lackawanna Program Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. The museum will also formally open a new exhibition entitled “We Can Do It: Women in World War II,” hosted by curator John Fielding and Kate Gibbons of Exeter, in honor of International Women’s Day. Refreshments will be served and visitors are invited to enjoy a Pennsylvania “Birthday” cake. Call 570-9634804 or visit anthracitemuseum.org for more information.
limited or no knowledge of fly fishing. Waders, rods and reels will be provided, but participants are also welcome to bring their own. Fly fishing guide Adam Nidoh will instruct the class, with additional discussions led by guest lecturers from Trout Unlimited. Cost for the six-week workshop and use of equipment is $100; $50 for high school and college students. Participants can register online at keystone.edu/kceei or via email to Sharon.burke@keystone. The Mysteries and Detectives Book edu. Call Sharon Burke at 570-945Club will meet on Tuesday, March 10, 8555 for more information. at 7 p.m. at the Abington Community Library, 1200 W. Grove St. The selection for March is “A Thief of Time” by The Pennsylvania Anthracite Heri- Tony Hillerman. The author for April is tage Museum will host a film program Sue Grafton. by F. Charles Petrillo of Wilkes-Barre on Sunday, March 8, as part of Pennsylvania Charter Day. Short World War II-era The Countryside Community documentary films about the anthraChurch, 14011 Orchard Drive, Newton cite coal and railroad industries will be Twp., is hosting its annual Lenten pizza shown at 2 p.m and 3 p.m., in recognisale on Saturday, March 21. Pickup tion of Charter Day, which is traditionally a day when Pennsylvania Historical times are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The and Museum Commission sites open pizza is unbaked and is ready to bake admission-free in commemoration of or freeze. Cost is $10 for plain; $12 the document by which King Charles II for pepperoni, with or without onion. All granted to William Penn the vast tract orders are requested by Sunday, March of land known today as Pennsylvania. 15. Call 570-587-3206 or email counThe day will include activities for chil- trysideoffice@yahoo.com for more infordren and families, such as the Pennsyl- mation or to place an order.
CREATING PERSONALIZED SERVICES By offering services and memorialization features that are personal and special, a unique life can be remembered and honored in an individualized way that is comforting to the family and friends.
Book Club Meeting
Film Presentation
Lenten Pizza Sale
All Local. For the most comprehensive news in your community, visit us online at www.abingtonsuburban.com
THE ABINGTON
SUBURBAN
Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services Stephen Young, Supervisor
418 South State St., Clarks Summit, PA 570-586-7821 • www.lawrenceeyoungfuneralhome.com
“It would be our honor to serve your family”
Wholesale Distributor Of Gulf Gasoline
Call Today For The Best Price!
Accepting all LIHEAP Participants $ 2.599 Cash Price Per Gallon
Serving: Chinchilla, Clarks Summit, Dalton, Waverly and Lake Winola
125 GALLON MINIMUM (PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
Call Today 570-383-3257 FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S05] | 02/25/15
11:27 | LONGOSTEPH
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
5
Do you want to see your house SOLD this year? List it with me! It’s going to be a great 2015!!! RU LD TH
SO
MLS
D SOL
RU LD TH
SO
MLS
D
SOL
Green Scene
A column from the Clarks Summit Shade Tree Commission by Joshua Arp
SPECIAL TO THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
D SOL
RU LD TH
SO
MLS
Connecting buyers andsellers.
mary koczwara hair studio Welcome to the Mary Koczwara Hair Studio, an upscale and tranquil space, where you will be transformed by the way you look and the way you feel.
Try a new color, like one of the warm chocolate browns. Indulge in some subtle highlights. Come in for Brazilian Blowout’s new split end repairing treatment. It protects ends from heat styling and reconstructs & repairs weak broken ends for up to 4 weeks in only 10 minutes! Whatever you need, let Mary transform you into the most beautiful version of you! Specializing in Ouidad Haircuts for natural curl shaping and styling Winter Proof Your Hair- Come in for Winter Weather Conditioning Treatments
5 7 0 . 5 8 6 . 2 7 9 5 • 318 Davis Street, Suite Two • Clarks Summit, PA 18411 www.marykoczwarahairstudio.com
“This is just what I wanted. Someone finally got it right!” 6 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S06] | 02/25/15
11:01 | LONGOSTEPH
Even with the bitter cold here in late February, the days are growing noticeably longer, which triggers thoughts of spring. In C.S. Lewis’s “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” possibly my favorite image described is the spring thaw after the decades-long winter. For me, my heart itself begins to thaw, even if my toes are still cold in my boots. This is when I begin hearing and seeing streams of any type begin their spring torrent. In other words, I do not even need to feel warmth to be warmed once spring begins to show its earliest signs. Lately, one of the earliest signs of spring that my children will not let me miss is collecting sap. Technically, winter still must have retained some of its grip for sap to run, but at the same time, winter’s grip must have begun to be broken for sap to run. Simply put, trees produce the most sap in the short window when temperatures are below freezing at night, but the warm sun temporarily pushes the temperature over the freezing mark during the day. A recent article posted on Accuweather. com lists three cultural tactics for fighting the winter blues and two out of the three relate directly to sap collecting. The first, Hygge, comes from Denmark and refers to connecting with people. The second, Friluftsliv, comes from Norway and Sweden and refers to connecting with nature. Collecting sap drives us outside into nature, in
spite of winter’s cold. Even though a hermit could possibly do it, making syrup is inherently communal, because there is a common joy in both the project and the wonder of opening a tree’s veins and seeing the sap gush forth. And, hospitality is nearly required for enjoying the newly-made syrup. What trees can be tapped? First, if you have a maple (genus acer), tap it. Of course, borough ordinances prohibit tapping of trees in the right-ofway and if you have a small-specimen maple, wait until it is about a foot in diameter to put one tap in it. If you have “weed” Norway maples growing in a thicket like I do, you may throw caution to the wind and tap smaller diameter trees. Second, although in every tap tree but sugar maples, the sugar content is lower, you can also tap walnuts, birches, sycamores, hornbeams and gum trees. If you happen to read online that you cannot tap Norway maples because the sap is milky, do not let this stop you. Our Norway maples produce a carmel-flavored syrup and candy that is so compelling I need spring to come. Then I can exercise to burn off the extra syrup calories I consume. Oh, but the production of those calories connects me to my family, friends and the vernal demise of winter. Joshua Arp is an ISA-certified Municipal Specialist, a Clarks Summit tree commissioner and an operator of a landscape maintenance business. He can be reached at josarhuap@ aol.com.
Calendar Email your organization’s events to suburbanweekly@timesshamrock.com. Please have them in by noon on Friday to have them included in the following Thursday’s edition. Visit the abingtonsuburban.com for the complete calendar listing, including additional events. SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday, Feb. 26: Networking Event Clarks Summit Senior Living, 950 Morgan Highway, will host a professional networking event on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 4-7 p.m. Personal readings with psychics will be available and refreshments will be provided, as well as tours of the facility. Call 570-586-8080 for more information. Saturday, March 7: Pasta Dinner The Fleetville Volunteer Fire Co., located on Rte. 407, will host an all-youcan-eat pasta dinner on Saturday, March 7, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $7.50 and $8.00 at the door. Take-outs are available. Call 570-945-3139 or email fleetvillefireco@frontier.com for tickets or for more information. Sunday, March 8: ‘Dough’ Raiser The Countryside Community Church will host a ‘dough’ raiser at Uno Restaurant, 3905 Commerce Boulevard, Dickson City, on Sunday, March 8, from noon to 8 p.m. Contact the church for a 20 percent off voucher that can be used for dine-in or take-out orders. Call 570-587-3206 or email countrysideoffice@yahoo.com for more information. Sunday, March 8: Lenten Concerts The Catholic Choral Society will present a Lenten concert on Sunday, March 8, at 3 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Parish, 316 Parish St. in Wilkes-Barre and on Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m. the Forty-Fort United Methodist Church, 26 Yeager Ave. Both concerts are open to the public free of charge. The group, marking its 66th season, is composed of members from both Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. Call 570-575-1040 or visit catholicchoralsociety.org for more information. Through Friday, March 27: Winter at the Comm The Waverly Community House, 1115 N. Abington Road, is offering the following winter programming: • Tots and Toddlers Music Time
for infants (ages 6-24 months) and preschoolers (2-5 years old): Thursday evenings through March 12; Friday mornings through March 13 and Saturday mornings through to March 14. • World music drumming for children in kindergarten through sixth grade: Saturdays through March 14, 10:45-11:30 a.m. • Ballroom dancing for adults: Wednesday evenings from March 4 to April 8. Advanced American tango will begin at 6 p.m. and the beginner night club two step will begin at 7 p.m. Call instructor Jill Wetzel at 570-954-1147 to register or for more information. • Ballroom dancing for children and young adults: Wednesday evenings from March 4 to April 8. Children and youth beginner Latin dance will begin at 8 p.m. Call instructor Jill Wetzel at 570-9541147 to register or for more information. • National Women’s History Month Luncheon: Friday, March 27, at noon at the Glen Oak Country Club, 250 Oakford Road. This year’s guest speaker is Abby Peck. To register or for more information on any of the above events, call 570-5868191, ext. 2, or visit waverlycomm.org. MEETING NOTICES Veterans of Foreign Wars The Abington Memorial Post No. 7069 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 402 Winola Road, Clarks Summit, meets the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. New members are always welcome. Glenburn 4-H The Glenburn 4-H Club is open to young people ages 8-19 who would either like to learn how to sew or know how and would like to learn new skills. Hilda Lewis and Ann Northup are instructors. Call 570-563-1369 for more information. Social Singles Club A social singles club meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at Our Lady of Snows Church rectory basement, 301 S. State St., Clarks Summit. Meet other active, mature singles for fun activities and friendship. Call Linda at 570-470-5220 for more information. SPECIAL NOTICES Master Gardener Training
The Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lackawanna County will offer a Master Gardener training program this spring. This program involves extensive training in the major aspects of home horticulture. In addition, candidates will commit to 50 hours of volunteer time, including staffing the garden help line. The training will be held Tuesday and Thursday nights, beginning on Tuesday, March 3. For more information or for an application, call 570-963-6842 or email LackawannaMG@psu.edu. Donations Requested The University of Scranton’s Weinberg Memorial Library is requesting book and tag sale donations for its annual spring sale, as well as volunteers to help with preparation and staffing for the event, which will take place during the last weekend of April. All proceeds from the book sale will benefit the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Endowment, which supports library collections and services. The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library, the library staff and volunteers will conduct the event. The library will accept any hardcover or paperback books in good condition, including children’s books, cookbooks, fiction and non-fiction. In addition, the library is collecting media and tag sale items. Donations may be placed in the boxes on the Monroe Avenue side of the library. Donations will be accepted until Wednesday, April 22. This year’s book sale is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 26, from noon to 4 p.m., in the fifth floor Heritage Room of the Weinberg Memorial Library. A special preview sale will be held on Friday, April 24, for Friends members and Schemel Forum members. For additional information or to volunteer, call Barbara Evans at 570-941-4078. Contest Available Third-graders across Pennsylvania will combine oral health education and creativity this February during the Pennsylvania Dental Association’s annual poster contest in celebration of National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Those who participate will have a chance at winning several different prizes. Three statewide winners will be selected from the entries. The first-place FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S07] | 02/25/15
11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
winner will be awarded $500. In addition, the first-place winner’s school and teacher will each receive a $250 prize. The grand prize will be awarded to the first-place winner at a school function. The second place winner will receive $250, while the third-place winner will receive $100. NCDHM lesson plan kits are distributed electronically. The kits are designed for third-grade teachers in Pennsylvania public, private and charter schools, and contain a lesson plan featuring information on dental health topics, fun classroom activities and instructions for the PDAsponsored poster contest. Email Sara Mattrick at slm@padental.org to receive these materials. All entries for the poster contest must be submitted by Friday, March 13. Only one classroom winner is requested and should be submitted to: Pennsylvania Dental Association, Attn: NCDHM Poster Contest, 3501 N. Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110. PDA will announce the top three winners in April. Waverly Preschool The Waverly Preschool, located inside of the Waverly Community House, 1115 N. Abington Road, is now accepting registrations for the 2015-’16 school year. The school offers three programs: a threeyear-old, two-day program with classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays; a four-yearold, three-day program with classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; and a new four-year-old, five-day program with classes on weekdays. All classes run from 9-11:30 a.m. and offer an optional extra day class from 12:30-3 p.m. on Tuesdays (four-year-olds) and Wednesdays (threeyear-olds). There is also an optional daily extra hour, “Lunch Bunch,” running from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call Kathy Davis, owner/director at 570-586-2654 for more information or visit waverlypreschool.com. The Waverly Preschool is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. AHSD Notifications Abington Heights School District would like to remind residents that they can receive up-to-date closing and delay messages, as well as other alerts, via text or email. To receive messages via text, text @abingtonhe to 570-471-5703. Standard Please see CALENDAR, Page 10
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
7
8 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S08] | 02/25/15
11:27 | LONGOSTEPH
ALFREDO’S PIZZA • CAFE • COCKTAILS
South Side Shopping Center • 1040 S.Washington Ave., Scranton
We’re Not Fine Dining, Just Fine Food. PASTA MONDAYS $3 Off All Pasta Dishes Also: $1.00 off Large Round Pizza(s), $1.00 off Steamed Clams and 35¢ Peel & Eat Shrimp. Domestic Drafts are $1.50 (Coors Light, Miller Light & Yuengling Lager)
THURSDAYS $1.00 Off Any Specialty Pizza & $2.00 Coors Light Bottles
WINE DOWN
TUESDAYS
1Off
$
Any Glass
All Bottles Half Price
• Complimentary Cheese & Crackers at the Bar •.35¢ Wings (Dine-In Only)
MARTINI MADNESS WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS
Half Price Martini’s at the Bar
Time for Pizza Many Lenten Friendly Dishes 570-969-1910
Fax Your Orders To 570-969-2974 • Daily Beer Specials • Drink Specials • Daily Food Specials • 35¢ Wings Every Tuesday! Eat-in Only Eat In • Take Out • Have It Delivered Sunday To Thursday 11 To 11 • Friday And Saturday 11 To Midnight
www.AlfredosCafe.com
FEBRUARY 26, 2015 TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S09] | 02/25/15
11:35 | LONGOSTEPH
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
9
CALENDAR FROM PAGE 7
text messaging rates will apply. To unsubscribe from text messaging, text ‘unsubscribe @abingtonhe’ to the same number. For email messages, send an email to abingtonhe@mail.remind.com. To unsubscribe, reply with ‘unsubscribe’ in the subject line. For more information on the service, visit remind.com. Winter Hours Winter hours for the Newton Recreation Center, 1814 Newton-Ransom Blvd., will be weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon and from 3-8:30 p.m. Saturday hours will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday hours will be from noon to 5 p.m. These hours will run through Sunday, May 31. Permits Required Clarks Summit Borough officials would like to remind residents that burn permits are required in the borough, even for recreational burning. Call 570-586-9316 for more information. Reflective Address Markers The Fleetville Volunteer Fire Co. is selling reflective address markers for the residents of Benton Township. Organizers say that the markers are highly visible day and night, with reflective material on both sides. They are also fade-resistant and will last for years. Markers are $20 and will help the fire department find residences quickly in case of an emergency. Call 570-9453139 for more information or to place an order. Assistance Available The Voluntary Action Center (VAC), 538 Spruce St., Scranton, was recently awarded a grant to help seniors age 60 and older enroll in SNAP, formerly food stamps. Officials say that the Senior SNAP Enrollment Initiative Grant will increase the enrollment of senior citizens residing in Lackawanna County in the SNAP program and that approximately two out of three senior citizens who qualify to receive SNAP are missing out on benefits. Senior citizens who have an income at or below $1,916 for single individuals or $2,585 for married couples and resources under $9,000, excluding primary home, vehicle and other items, could qualify for SNAP benefits. Call Jennifer Wynn at 570-3475616 or email jwynn@vacnepa.org for more information. Volunteers Needed The borough of Clarks Green is recruiting residents to serve on various boards and commissions. These include the borough’s zoning hearing board, board of health, plan-
10 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S10] | 02/25/15
ning commission and shade tree commission. Residents should send letters of interest to Clarks Green Borough, 104 N. Abington Road, or email them to jbrown@clarksgreen.info. Call 570-586-4446 for more information. Preschool Available The Oppenheim Family Children’s Center at Keystone College is accepting new enrollees. Located on Keystone’s campus in La Plume, the program offers several preschool program options for children three to five years old. Children must be three years old by Sept. 1 to participate. Preschoolers will receive developmentally appropriate educational services provided by qualified early-childhood professionals. The center also serves as a training site for students majoring in education and related fields at Keystone College. Licensed and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, the center is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs and has earned a “Four-Star” rating by the Office of Child Development and Early Learning Quality Rating System. This designation recognizes child care facilities which exceed state requirements. Call 570-945-8260 or email childrencenter@keystone.edu for more information. Volunteers Needed Make-A-Wish Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia has ways for Lackawanna County to help grant the wishes of children living with life-threatening medical conditions. Local residents are encouraged to become a wish volunteer and/or refer a child to Make-A-Wish. Currently, the local Make-A-Wish chapter is working to grant 20 wishes in Lackawanna County and it needs kindhearted individuals to step forward and volunteer their time and friendship in order to assist with wish fulfillment. Since 1988, there have been 220 wishes granted in Lackawanna County. To become a wish volunteer, individuals must be at least 21 years of age, pass a criminal background check and attend a training session. Every wish starts with a referral — in fact, a wish is not possible without one. Be the start of a wish-come-true today by referring a child who is between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 and has a life-threatening medical condition. To learn more about referring a child or becoming a volunteer, please contact Maggie O’Brien at 570-341-9474 or visit greaterpawv.wish.org. Make-A-Wish Greater Pennsylvania FEBRUARY 26, 2015 11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
and West Virginia is a nonprofit organization that grants wishes to children. Currently, the local chapter is one of the most active in the country, having fulfilled more than 15,000 wishes. For more information, please call Make-A-Wish at (800) 676-9474 or visit its website at greaterpawv.wish.org. Clarks Green Shade Trees The Clarks Green Shade Tree Commission is seeking to assist borough residents by providing free or low-cost trees for resident properties. The commission is also looking for volunteers for plantings, scheduled in November and April, as well as attendees for its monthly meetings. Residents interested in either free or low cost trees for their properties are asked to contact the commission by emailing Jan Brown at jbrown@clarksgreen.info or by calling her at 570-586-4446. Volunteers Needed Serving Seniors Inc. is seeking dedicated and caring people of all ages to provide friendly visits and companionship to residents in long term care and personal care homes within Lackawanna County. Visitation volunteers will help to improve the quality of life of an older adult. Training is provided. Call Lisa M. Torch at 570-3443931 for more information. Ombudsmen Needed Serving Seniors is in need of volunteers for its Ombudsman (Resident Rights’ Advocate) Program. Volunteer ombudsmen are community neighbors who are specially trained to help clarify responsibilities and the rights of consumers in long-term living facilities. Applicants need to be available for a few hours a month, older than age 18 and concerned about the rights of nursing home and assisted living/personal care home residents. Call Lisa M. Torch at 570344-3931 for more information. Volunteer Opportunities The Voluntary Action Center, a United Way agency, matches volunteers with volunteer opportunities at more than 100 nonprofit agencies in Lackawanna County. Visit the Voluntary Action Center’s website at vacnepa.org to learn more or call 570-347-5616 for more information. Used Clothing Drop Off Shed The Church of the Epiphany, 25 Church Hill Road, Glenburn, is sponsoring a used clothing drop off shed, which is located in the church parking lot. All clothing, sneakers, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, pillowcases, drapes and stuffed toys will be accepted. Organizers are asking that no rags, fabric scraps, pillows, toys or household goods be
placed in the shed. Donations will not be cut up or shredded. The items will be sent to people who can use them either in the United States or internationally. Donations are tax deductible and receipts are located on the shed. If possible, please place items in tied or closed bags. Items Needed The Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, South Abington Twp., is requesting donations of the following items: blankets, sheets, towels, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, paper towels, dish soap, kitty litter, puppy chow, kitten food, dog food, cat and dog toys and gift cards. Call 570-586-3700 or email info@ griffinpondanimalshelter.com. Park Survey The Abington Area Joint Recreation Board (AAJRB) is conducting an online survey in order to gauge public interest and participating in the Abington Area Park community as well as to help the park better serve residents’ needs. Those interested in participating can visit abingtonparks. com and follow directions to the survey. Donations Needed The Benton Township Lions Club, in cooperation with Abington Memorial Post 7069, Veterans of Foreign Wars, has placed a deposit box for eye glasses and hearing aids at the post home, 402 Winola Road, Clarks Summit. The yellow box is in front of the post and is clearly marked for deposits. Online Fundraiser An internet-based fundraiser is available for Abington-area residents who would like to help the Abington Area Community Park raise needed funds. If you use goodsearch.com and enter the Abington Area Community Park as your selected charity, one cent from each web search that you do through their site or toolbar addition to your browser will go toward benefiting the park’s various initiatives. Pavilion Rentals Available The Lakeside Pavilion at the Abington Area Community Park, located at the intersection of Winola Road and Grove St., is available for rentals. Amenities include the use of Eston Wilson Lake, the boundless playground, soccer and softball fields, hiking and nature trails and a dog park. Handicapped-accessible parking is also available. Reservation forms are available at the Clarks Summit Borough Building, 304 S. Please see CALENDAR, Page 15
25 AWARD WINNING SAUCES ELECTRIC CITY WINNER BEST WINGS
WARNING THESE WINGS ARE ADDICTING®
THE CHICKEN COOP
ESTABLISHED 1988 FAMILY STYLE SPORTHOUSE FAST FOOD • SPORTS
912 SOUTH MAIN STREET, OLD FORGE, PA
OPEN: MONDAY THRU THURSDAY 5PM - CLOSE FRIDAY - SATURDAY - SUNDAY 11:00 AM - CLOSE
(570) 471-7913 • (570) 471-7058 THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SEAFOOD NIGHT
OPEN FOR LUNCH @ 11 AM
45¢ PEEL & EAT JUMBO SHRIMP 45¢ STEAMED CLAMS $6.99 CRAB CLUSTERS $14.99 8 0Z LOBSTER TAIL DINNER $2 YUENGLING LAGER PINTS
HOMEMADE SOUP AND SANDWICH $6.49
SLAM DUNK SAM SATURDAYS COLLEGE HOOPS
SPECIAL LENTEN MENU IN BAR @ 9 OLD FORGE’S OWN TWO FOR THE ROAD
$18.99 BUCKETS OF COOPS’ FAMOUS WINGS
SUNDAY
COLLEGE HOOPS NASCAR HALF PRICE FRESH MADE 10 OZ. BURGERS
$2 COORS LIGHT PINTS
$3 SAM ADAMS CHERRY WHEAT PINTS
$2.00 COORS LIGHT PINTS
40 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
39 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
38 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
37 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
WING NIGHT IN HOUSE ONLY
OUR FAMOUS PIZZA AND WING COMBO
45¢ COOP’S FAMOUS WINGS. HOCKEY & HOOPS.
LARGE OLD FORGE STYLE PIZZA AND 20 COOP’S FAMOUS WINGS $18.99 LABATT BLUE HOCKEY NIGHT @ THE COOP. $2 LABATT BLUE POUNDER CANS. LABATT PROMO 8-10 PM PRIZES SURPRISES
BUILD -A- BURGER
OUR 10oz COOP FRESH MADE BURGER WITH ANY TOPPINGS$6.99 W/FRESH CUT FRIES $3 BLUE MOON PINTS
$2 LITE PINTS
35 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
36 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
WE WILL BROADCAST ALL PHILLIES AND YANKEES GAMES ON OUR 18” HI-DEF TELEVISION
34 DAYS TILL PHILLIES OPENER
“ JUST WINGIN IT IN THE PIZZA CAPITAL OF THE WORLD “ FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S11] | 02/25/15
14:29 | PYTLIKALLE
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
11
Library News
The following is a listing of March events at the Abington Community Library, 1200 W. Grove St., Clarks Summit. To register for any event or for more information, call 570-587-3440 or visit lclshome.org/abington. This month, the library is collecting food items for the various food pantries throughout Lackawanna County. The library is also accepting donations for the Friends’ annual spring book sale, which will be held on Saturday, April 25. The Caring Hands group is also in need of yarn of all types, colors and amounts for various projects. Teens are invited to participate in the library’s Teen Reading Lounge. Those who participate will receive free copies of the books to be discussed, which will include genres like fantasy, dystopian and graphic novels. Call or visit the library to register. Ongoing Events • Story times for children will be held on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m for preschoolers (ages 3-5), Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. for toddlers (ages 2-3) and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for babies (ages 0-2). The “After School Stories” story time for children in kindgergarten through grade three will be held on Thursdays at 4 p.m. Registration is requested. • Caring Hands Group: Mondays at 1 p.m. Knit or crochet items that are needed by local non-profit agencies. Grade seven to adult. • Knitting Group: Every other Monday beginning at 6:30 p.m. New members welcome. • Bridge Group: Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. New members welcome. • Mah Jongg: Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. Group consists of National Mah Jongg League players. No experience necessary. • Bridge Group: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. New members welcome. • Families Helping Families: Wednesdays from 7-8:30 p.m. Facilitators provide an educational series and support group for teens and their families affected by substance abuse. Cosponsored by the Clear-
12 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S12] | 02/25/15
book Foundation. • Scrabble: Thursdays at 1 p.m. No registration necessary. • Sanskrit Class for Kids: Fridays from 4-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Teen Leadership Committee. • Anime Club: Fridays from 4-6 p.m. Open to grades seven through 12. • Chess Club: Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. March Events • Medicare Presentation: Monday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to noon. An additional session will be held on Monday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to noon. • Star Wars Gathering: Wednesday, March 4, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Grades five to 12. An additional gathering will be held on Wednesday, March 18, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. • Technology Scheduling Session: Thursday, March 5, from 6-7 p.m. Oneon-one sessions for adults who need help in computer basics, such as email, iPad/ iPhone, Kindle/Nook, Facebook, Skype, Facetime, Microsoft Office Suite (2007). An additional session will be held on Thursday, March 12, from 6-7 p.m. • Game Night with Wii: Friday, March 6, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Open to grades four through six. • At Home Party Marketplace: Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library will host a day of shopping and demonstrations of various home party items, including Slipada, Thirty-One Gifts, Origami Owl, Tupperware and more. • Do It Yourself for Teens: Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to noon. Instructor Niki Bateman will teach teens a crafting project, all materials provided. Registration required, class size is limited to 10. Open to grades seven to 12. • Gaming Club: Saturday, March 7, from 1-3 p.m. Presenting a Yu-Gi-Oh! duel and Magic: The Gathering. No registration required, open to grades four to 12. Sponsored by the Teen Leadership Committee. • Teen Reading Lounge: Sunday, March 8, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Open to grades seven to 12. An additional session FEBRUARY 26, 2015 11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
will be held on Sunday, March 29, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. • Minecraft Meet Up: Monday, March 9, from 6-7 p.m. No instruction provided but bring devices, books and creativity to discuss ideas for future meetings. Open to kindergarten through grade six. • Mystery and Detectives Book Club: Monday, March 10, from 7-8:30 p.m. This month’s book is “A Thief of Time” by Tony Hillerman. • Read with Chuck E. Cheese: Wednesday, March 11, from 4-4:30 p.m. • Quilting: Thursday, March 12, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Bring your current project. An additional session will be held on Thursday, March 26, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. • Kaffeeklatsch: Thursday, March 12, beginning at 7 p.m. German language conversation group for all levels. • Happiness Project Group: Friday, March 13, beginning at 7 p.m. Based on “The Happiness Project” by Gretchin Rubin. Limit 10 participants. • Crafters’ Club: Monday, March 16, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Meet other crafters and share tips. All materials will be provided. Open to grades three to six. Sponsored by the Teen Leadership Committee. • Afternoon Book Club: Wednesday, March 18, from 2-3 p.m. This month’s selection is “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” by Victor Hugo. • Read to Dogs: Wednesday, March 18, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Children in kindergarten through grade three can stop in and get reading practice in with certified therapy dogs. • Paper Crafting with Maria Pappa: Thursday, March 19, from 6-8 p.m. Project is to be announced. Materials cost of $10 paid to instructor at time of class. • Classics Discussion Group: Saturday, March 21, from 1-2:30 p.m. Discuss Emerson’s essays this month. • Chips, Dips and Sips: Saturday, March 21, from 6:30-9 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of the Abington Community Library. Sample wine from the Nimble Hill Winery and enjoy live music. Tickets are $10 per person or $15 per couple and are available at the circulation desk. Open to adults older than age 21. • Painting with Sharon McArdle: Monday, March 23, from 6-8 p.m. This month’s project is a daisy on a black background. A materials fee of $8 is due to the instructor at the time of class. • Story Time with Sweet Frog: Monday, March 23, from 6:30-7 p.m. Meet Sweet Frog from Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt and hear a story.
• Teen Leadership Committee Meeting: Tuesday, March 24, from 4-5 p.m. Open to all teens or tweens interested in voicing their opinions on programming, book selections, etc. Grades five through 12. • Make-It, Take-It Craft Time: Wednesday, March 25 from 3-5 p.m. Open to children ages 3-10. Drop in at any time during the hours listed, all materials will be provided. • Glow in the Dark Party: Friday, March 27, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Open to grades four to six. • Scripts for the Stage: A Class in Intermediate Play Writing: Saturday, March 28, beginning at 6 p.m. A staged reading of the works created during a recent class at the library. • LEGO Club: Sunday, March 29, 2:303:30 p.m. LEGOs are provided. Sponsored by the Teen Leadership Committee. Open to children in Kindergarten through grade six. Limit of 20 participants.
The Abington Suburban is happy to receive news items about your school, workplace or community.
•
We still accept items by fax or in the mail, but e-mail is our preference. • Include a phone number in case we have a question about your item. We won’t publish it if you tell us not to. • If there’s no charge for admission to your event, say so. If there’s a cost or an admission price, include it. • If you send a photo, give the full names of the people who appear in it, from left to right. THE ABINGTON
SUBURBAN
SportS
Starting on Top
Comets’ freshman girls basketball coach begins tenure with undefeated season by Dave Lauriha
ABINGTON SUBURBAN WRITER
There is not much Lauren Sheakoski can do for an encore for next year’s freshman girls basketball team at Abington Heights. All Sheakoski did in her first year as head coach was guide her 10 players to an undefeated season, a perfect 18-0 record for the Lady Comets. Not too bad, especially considering it was her first year at the helm of the program. That in itself has its own set of challenges and Sheakoski traversed them all perfectly, getting all of her new players to buy into that new system. “I had a talented group of girls who were willing to work hard,” Sheakoski said. “I like to think that the experience I got from coaching under John Bucci [Abington Heights girls varsity coach] had to do with it in part, his advice and everything to me has helped me guide the girls in the best direction they could be and help them become successful as well.” Among the changes she installed was a revolving starting lineup, based on how the players were performing on a daily basis. “My starting lineup switched from game to game,” said Sheakoski, a 2003 graduate of Abington Heights. “I kind of started them based on their work ethic, if they had a really good practice and worked hard, they were interchangeable.” The added benefit of keeping the players on their toes at all times was building depth, knowing that a fast-paced system relied on all the players, not just the starters. The Lady Comets simply wore out teams that relied on fewer players, having fresher players to come in without the team missing a beat. The result was that all 10 Lady Comets played significant roles on the team. Sheakoski had platitudes for all of the players on the team. • Ellie Wright: “[She] did a great job leading the floor and taking control, making sure everybody was set up, that we were organized,” Sheakoski said. • Emma Baker: “[She] was a great force
Abington Heights High School 2003 graduate Lauren Sheakoski (front) successfully completed an undefeated first season as the head coach of the Comets freshman girls basketball team. Second row, from left: Emma Baker, Julia Burke, Trish Caucci and Jasmine McDuffie. Third row: Ellie Wright and Sharon Houlihan. Back row: Maria Terrinoni, Lauren Simakaski, Paris Koehler and Sarah Murray.
on the team. She was able to rebound and create her moves to get to the basket.” • Maria Terrinoni: “[She] improved tremendously throughout the year and really became a force inside, was able to score and rebound for us.” • Sharon Houlihan: “[She] was very dynamic, able to shoot and drive to the basket. She was a lefty, which made her more of a challenge for other people to guard.” • Jasmine McDuffie: “[She] was real quick, hard to defend. She’d get that first step on every girl and was able to explode to get to the basket.” • Paris Koehler: “I had her as a post player, but realized by the end of the season that she was a little more dynamic, a more versatile player than I was allowing her to be. She was able to shoot outside, score a little bit inside, drive and had a beautiful 15-foot jump shot.” • Tricia Caucci and Sarah Murray: “Both were team players, and they would make good plays at important times, able to feed their teammates to let them score,
and they were also able to make a basket when they needed to.” • Julia Burke: “[She] was probably the most coachable player on my team. She was able to do what I asked, and not just translate it at practice, but also transfer it into the game without me reminding her, asking her.” • Lauren Simakaski: “[She] was aggressive; she would be all over the floor, willing to dive on the floor for a loose ball and didn’t care, she was out to make the team successful.” Having confidence in all 10 girls made Sheakoski’s first season in charge a much easier road to travel. “We like to run as a program here, so we do everything the same,” Sheakoski said. “I also have the chance to do a little bit of my own things with my team. We ran a few of our own plays, and things a little bit differently, but overall things are in the general concept of Abington Heights basketball.” It ran much smoother than anyone could have imagined, especially integrating kids from Abington Heights Middle FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S13] | 02/25/15
11:02 | LONGOSTEPH
School with those from the Our Lady of Peace (OLP) program. “The girls were coming into a new coaching system,” Sheakoski said. “In addition to coming up from eighth grade, six of my 10 girls were from OLP, so they came from a whole different system. Getting two different schools acclimated to a brand new system, I think was good.” It meant that the players from both avenues to high school were seeing a new system, that neither group felt they were at a disadvantage of trying to pick up a system that the other group had been playing. “They were coming in and being a team, united as one,” Sheakoski said. “They also realized by the end of the season that you have to compete with one another, not only to make yourself better, but to make your teammates and your team better.” The true test came in the penultimate game of the season, when Wallenpaupack nearly knocked off the Lady Comets, who survived to rally back in the fourth quarter to win. It was the first time they trailed at halftime, the first time they trailed in the fourth quarter, and was a true test of everybody’s confidence. “That was a good lesson for my girls, you’re 16-0, but that doesn’t mean you’re invincible either,” Sheakoski said. “For me, I hadn’t really coached a close game, so it was a great experience for me as a coach, learning not to panic, to go back to what we’re supposed to do, to what I taught them in practice every day. Both the girls and myself made sure we got back to what we’re used to — to play our basketball, not other people’s basketball.” The girls will be sure to take that experience to the next level next year when they try out for the varsity team. So will Sheakoski. “Coming into the system under John Bucci gave me an experience this unimaginable,” Sheakoski said. “As somebody working with the team, like going to the varsity games and watching them, making sure my girls went to them and watched them and how they played, what they have to expect next year to be successful at the next level.” THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
13
2015 SERVING
LUZERNE AND LACKAWANNA COUNTIES
go to
thetimestribune.com/deals
~ TODAY’S DEAL ~
20 FOR $ 10 $
1280 315 1280 Highway Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre PA, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 18702
To Be Held AGAIN inside The Spectacular New Hotel At
2 LOCATIONS: 3 West Olive Street Scranton 570-507-9738 or 1828 N Township Blvd Pittston 570-655-0001
ReferLocal.com is much more than Deal of the Day!
Check Out Our New Wednesday Job Fair Date!!
Monday, March 2nd March 5th
Scroll Down & See!
Attention Recruiters In Luzerne And Lackawanna County
Extended by Popular Demand
Don’tMiss MissThis ThisOpportunity OpportunityToToBeBePart PartOfOfThe TheLargest LargestAnd AndMost MostAttended AttendedJob JobFair FairInInThe The Don’t Region.Showcase ShowcaseYour YourCompany CompanyAsAsAAPremier PremierWorkplace WorkspaceToToJob JobSeekers SeekersInInNepa NepaByBy Region Reserving ReservingYour YourBooth BoothToday Today.
50 for 25
$
$
Booth Space Now Available...
Call Today
$25 Rustic Kitchen & $25 Free Slot Play
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE
CONTACT: To Reserve LINDA YourROERIG, Booth JobCall Fair Coordinator
570-348-9160
ReferLocal 1-888-444-0127 14 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/ADVERTISING/AD_PAGES [ADS14] | 02/25/15
11:01 | LONGOSTEPH
570-207-3477 Brought To You By
CALENDAR FROM PAGE 10
State St., or online at abingtonparks.com. Call 570-585-4811 for more information. Dining/Meeting Room Available The dining/meeting room at Abington Memorial VFW Post 7069, 402 Winola Road, Clarks Summit, is available for rental and catering. Call the post at 570-5869821, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. for more information. Help for Disabled Persons Lackawanna County Coordinated Transportation is offering reduced-fare transportation to persons with disabilities living in rural areas of the county. Those eligible must live in Lackawanna County, be 18 to 64 years old, and have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Applications are available by contacting Lackawanna County Coordinated Transportation, 800 North/South Road, Scranton, PA 18504 or by calling 570-9636795.
ist Church, located at the intersection of the Morgan Highway and Grove St., is sponsoring a free yoga class on Tuesday evenings from 6-7 p.m., instructed by Tina Young. Yoga Classes for Seniors A yoga class for beginners is offered to seniors 55 years of age and older at the Abington Senior Center, 1151 Winola Road. The class is held each Monday at the center from 11:15 a.m. to noon. A fee of $4 per class is required to help pay for the professional instructor. Call 570-586-8996 for more information. Zumba Classes Zumba classes will be held at the Waverly Community House, 1115 N. Abington Road, on Mondays and Thursday evenings at 7:15 p.m. and on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. Call Diane Hibble at 570-878-8212 for more information.
CHURCH EVENTS Weekly Children’s Program The Waverly Community Church, 101 Carbondale Road, hosts a weekly series every Friday for children from three years SPORTS, HEALTH AND old to fifth-grade level from 6:30-7:45 p.m. WELLNESS The “Badge of Honor” program will feature Free Yoga Class The Clarks Summit United Method- Biblical and character education while providing children the opportunity to earn
merit badges. Call 570-587-2280 for more information. Countryside Community Church Events The following is a list of events taking place at the Countryside Community Church, 14011 Orchard Drive, Newton Twp. • Bible study is held on Monday mornings at 10 a.m., followed by a prayer group at 11:30 a.m. • The “Pins and Needles” sewing group meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. • Choir rehearsal is held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. from September through May. • A free indoor walking program is held at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday mornings, followed by beginner yoga classes at 10:30 a.m. Call 570-587-3206 or visit countrysidechurch.org for more information.
WHO DOES IT?
A Directory of Services Call 348-9185 ext. 3027 to AdvertiseYour Business BARBER
IRING H W O N
s, r e v i r ul D PA a H e n Li Top, m, p untain Mo
c up to .52 s e s a e r Pay Inc Medical id a days P % 0 10 ersonal p d n a s ay ys, sick d a d li o h Paid
Haircuts 383-2772 Joe Mazzoni Barbering For Men & Boys
Over 30 years experience • No appointment necessary
General
Construction
Specialties Include:
Hauling
YEAR ROUND
Yards, Houses, Cellars, Attics, Garages Cleaned Furnaces-Boilers Oil Tanks Removed From Cellars Moving One Item or a Truckload
Call BUTCH Anytime 457-0406 Cell- 570-881-2504
The Original Rabel Bros.
1332 Main St., Dickson City 800 E. Scott St., Olyphant
570-489-5121 • 570-489-3617 RABEL BROS. MOVING & STORAGE
TILE
GENEVENOSH TILE & HARDWOOD
Ceramic, Porcelain & Vinyl Tile Hardwood & Laminate Flooring Regrouting & Custom Showers Small Plumbing Repairs
OWNER & INSTALLER
New Home Construction Additions - Sunrooms - Enclosed Porches Kitchens - Baths - Basements Garages - Decks - Dormers Drafting & Design Service Available
CALL GEORGE FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 570-575-0628 georgethebuilder.net
CABINETS RESTORED
Cabinets Touched-Up, Restored, Painted. STEEL, Fiberglass & Composite DOORS Wood-Grained. Columns: FAUX Marble or Granite Ph:570-815-8411 www.Wood-Grain.com THE ABINGTON
SUBURBAN
Reasonable Rates Free Estimates
570-876-0705
FEBRUARY 26, 2015 11:26 | LONGOSTEPH
30
X YE PE A R RS IE N CE
1006 Main St. • Peckville, PA
Edward W. Rabel “Keeping Scranton On The Move For Half A Century” MOVING & STORAGE • CAREFUL PACKING & CRATING -”Because we pack as if it were our own” LOW INDEPENDENT RATES
TS_CNG/SUBURBAN/PAGES [S15] | 02/25/15
E
HIP #PA003899 LICENSED INSURED
Moving & Storage
CDL-A w/XT or HTN required • Call 717-240-4151, Ref# 17262
Clarks Green UMC Events The following is a list of events taking place at the Clarks Green United Methodist Church, 119 Glenburn Road. • Sunday Drive Discussion will be held on Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. in the church lounge. Sunday Drive Discussion is an openforum conversation on contemporary questions and spiritual living in a secular world. • A Christian book study is held on Monday evenings at 7 p.m. in the church lounge. Come and enjoy thought-provoking studies of Christian authors with diverse perspectives. • Tae Kwon Do classes for all ages are held at the church. Children’s classes are held Monday through Thursday from 4:305:30 p.m. and adult classes are held on Saturdays from 7-8:30 a.m. Classes are open to the public for nominal prices. • Exercise classes are held at the church on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-10 a.m. Classes are open to the public for nominal prices.
THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
15
FOREST CITY
570-785-3144 SAVINGS ON VEHICLES! CALL US!
All Rebate Applied
Find New Roads
Since 1916 PA's Oldest Chevy Dealer
NEW
2015 Silverado Double Cab 4x4 4x4, All Star, 5.3 V-8 LT Z71, Power Seat, Power Windows, Power Locks, CD, Aluminum Wheels, Remote Vehicle Start, Rear Vision Camera, Dual Climate Control, MyLink Audio
2015 NEW
MSRP ...................$42,995 SAVE ....................... $7,151
BUY FOR
2015 Silverado Crew Cab 4X4 All Star 5.8 V-8, Power Seat, MyLink Audio, Power Windows, Power Locks, OD, Aluminum Wheels, Remote Vehicle Start, Rear vision Camera, Dual Climate Control, Heated Seats
$35,844
2014 Spark Auto Air, CD, Power Windows, Power Brakes, Power Mirrors
MSRP ...................$44,245 SAVE ...................... $5,638
$37,844
Power Windows, Power Locks, CD Radio, Aluminum Wheels, Cruise Control
MSRP ................... $15,820 SAVE ...................... $1,976
BUY FOR
MSRP ................... $45,740 SAVE .......................$7,846
BUY FOR
BUY FOR
$38,607
BUY FOR
2015 Cruze
NEW
NEW
Power Windows, Power Locks, DC
MSRP ....................$27,149 SAVE ...................... $2,274
$13,844
NEW
Power Windows, Power Locks, Air Conditioning, Remote Keyless Entry, Rear Vision Camera
2015 Equinox AWD
NEW
2015 HD 4x4 Crew Cab LT
2015 NEW
MSRP ................... $19,155 SAVE ...................... $3,800
$24,875
$15,355
BUY FOR
PREOWNED VEHICLES 2007 Chevy Equinox
2008 Chevy Cobalt Low Miles
Low Miles
8,950
6,450
8,950
$
$
2014 Toyota Corolla 7,000 Miles
16,450
2006 Jeep Liberty 4X4 Low Miles
$
2011 Honda CRV 4x4 21,000 Miles
2013 GMC Terrain 4x4 28,000 miles
17,450
$
$
20,950
$
2013 Chevy Cruze Low Miles
2014 Chevy Cruze 8,000 Miles
12,950
13,875
$
2014 GMC Terrain 4x4 22,000 miles
$
2013 Nissan Juke AWD Low Miles
21,950
$
www.allanhornbeckchevrolet.com
16 THE ABINGTON SUBURBAN
FEBRUARY 26, 2015
TS_CNG/ADVERTISING/AD_PAGES [ADS16] | 02/25/15
11:01 | LONGOSTEPH
17,450
$