January 2022 Happenings Magazine by Happenings Magazine

INBOX Dear Happenings, Just wanted to tell you that you guys did a nice job on the December 2021 issue of Happenings! Thank you for reaching out to NAMI for inclusion in this. –Happy Holidays to you, –Marie Onukiavage –National Alliance –on Mental Illness

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Dear Happenings, While my husband and I were in NEPA last month, I picked up a copy of Happenings in downtown Scranton. I was especially interested in the main story, “The lure and allure of the city.” I had no idea that Jane Jacobs, one of my heroes, was born in Scranton! It was a revelation. Thank you for publishing such an interesting, extensive and well-researched article. Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and Healthy, Happy New Year! –Ellen Coyle –Ebensburg, PA Dear Happenings, I received a copy of the magazine yesterday. The cover reproduction looks amazing! Thanks again for giving us these opportunities and supporting our program over the past 5 years.

Publisher Art Director Associate Art Director

Paula Rochon Mackarey Lisa Kalaha Ragnacci Peter Salerno

Director of Social Media

Mary Joyce

Contributors

Christine Fanning Ben Freda

Interns

Kayla Binner Angelina Wheeler

Account Representative Linette Manley l_manley@happeningsmagazinepa.com

(570) 878-5009

On the Cover: Oh baby, it’s cold outside! Here’s to new beginnings and keeping snug as we start the New Year! Madison Maeve Hayhoe at her grandparents’ home in Moscow, PA. Photo by Michael Straub Published Monthly. Also read at HappeningsPA.com ©2021 HAPPENINGS MAGAZINE All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any process except with written permission. Happenings Magazine published since 1969 Phone: (570) 587-3532

Read our digital issue for free at www.HappeningsPA.com

Happy New Year! –Justin Hayden –Art Department –Western Wayne High School Dear Happenings, Thanks again for all you guys do to promote CSU and the region!

–Erika A. Bruckner –Project Manager and Writer –Clarks Summit University

$18/12 issu

or Subscribe for Home Delivery Call 570-587-3532 or E-mail info@happeningspa.com Call 570-587-3532 or E-mail info@happeningspa.com January 2022

contents JANUARY 2022

10 54

Baby Meets World

Park it! Benefits of PA’s Parks and Forests

No Moss Under Her Feet Kathy Goeringer

January 2022

Nice Day for a White Wedding

HappeningsPA.com

sunday

monday

tuesday

wednesday

january thursday

friday

saturday

1 New Year’s Day and National Bloody Mary Day

National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

2007: Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone.

Penn's Peak-Double Vision- Foreigner Experience

Broadway in Scranton-Scranton Cultural Center- STOMP

Winterfest, Wellsboro Hills Creek State Park

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

National Train Your Dog and National Walk Your Dog Month National Oatmeal Month National Soup Month National Sunday Suppers Month National Ice Skating Month 4

Dear Readers,

appy 2022! It’s always a pleasure to introduce you to a few little ones who entered the world during the past 12 months. We get excited when the baby pictures start arriving and we hope that they bring you as much joy as they give to us. As you will read, some of these sweet babies arrived under rather unusual circumstances. Enjoy reading about the beautiful babies as we congratulate the parents who have the awesome responsibility of rearing this next generation. Think for a minute about the world in which the babies have arrived. Will these children grow up to see pictures of relatives wearing masks and find it strange, or, will masks be a permanent part of their lives? Will they attend school in the same manner their parents and grandparents did? Will their world have less bias or more divisiveness? Can we equip all children with effective problem-solving skills to better handle conflict? Beginning the New Year with brand new babies is a great reminder that we, too,

can start fresh with new mindsets. Age and experience teach us that clearing the slate and starting anew can be so good for our bodies, minds and spirits. Like the characters in the movie “When Harry Met Sally,” we may wonder what the lyrics of the classic New Year’s song, “Auld Lang Syne” actually mean. What should we be forgetting… and should we remember that we forgot which “is not possible because we already forgot?” In any event the line about raising a cup of kindness sounds perfect to me and a great way to begin 2022. Cheers for health and happiness,

Paula

Paula Rochon Mackarey, Publisher 1994-Present

Special Delivery:

Baby Meets World

emember when expectant mothers wore loose blouses and dresses so as not to draw too much attention to their growing bellies? Maternity fashion in the middle of the 20th century consisted of outfits that still allowed glimpses of a small waist with belts that could be adjusted above a belly bump. In the 70s, women wore maternity pants and longer tops with bows and large collars to distract from the abdomen, and most were grateful for the chance to cover up and eat for two. Then, in the 90s, actor Demi Moore posed nude for the cover of Vanity Fair with her pregnant belly exposed for all the world to see. Almost a generation has passed since then, and now it's common for expectant moms to photograph their “bump” month by month. July through October tends to be the most popular birth months in the United States. On average, more babies are born in September than in any other month. September 9 is the most common birthday in the United States. The least common birthdays are 10

By Christine Fanning

around popular holidays, including Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The least common birthday in 2020 was February 29.

a year. The pace of decline accelerated between 2010 and 2019 when the number of daily births dropped on average 0.96% a year. But the decline was much steeper in In 2020, 37,194,403 boys were 2020: The average number of delivered in the United States daily births was 4.06% lower at 51% of births and than in 2019. 35,627,710 girls arrived at 49% of births. Early in the pandemic, there was speculation that the The number of U.S. births has major changes in the life of been declining every year American families could lead since 2008 (except 2014). to a recovery in the birthrate Between 2000 and 2019, the as couples hunkered down number of daily births together. In fact, they declined an average of 0.39% HappeningsPA.com

January 2022

Baby Meets World Baby Meets World Special Delivery: Stephanie Jude Barrett Pregnancy photo shoot by her cousin Tiffany Truman. Stephanie and her husband, Scott Barrett are the parents of daughter Madeline, 21 months, and new son Tiernan, born November 19, 2021

appeared to have had the opposite effect: Births were down most sharply at the end of the year, which is when babies conceived at the start of the pandemic would have been born. Births increased in March 2021. The birthrate in the United States fell in part because of large decreases in births among two groups: teenagers and Hispanic women. The Great Recession (2008) also contributed to the fertility decline. Births have sunk below replacement level since then and there are indications that the pandemic may decrease fertility further. American women are waiting longer to have babies. Unaffordable childcare, record student debt, a lack of familyfriendly policies, workplace discrimination against mothers and concerns about climate

2021, “it'sInofficial:

Olivia and Liam were the most popular baby names.” change and political unrest top the list of reasons why this is the case. At the same time, women have more options for their lives than ever and more control over their reproduction. Data shows that, as countries 12

Sisters Rosalie and Amelia Tomko welcome baby brother John Nicholas Tomko, born November 30, 2021.

become wealthier and women have more opportunities, fertility rates decline. Governments worry about declining fertility. For one, they count on the next generation to finance the safety net and provide the caregivers, inventors and public servants of the future. Pronatalist policies, which are government benefits to encourage women to have children, are common in other rich countries, where the birth rate began falling well before it did in the United States. Reversal of low fertility suggests a new social contract in which those who have chilHappeningsPA.com

dren are not severely disadvantaged in economic terms. The policy options available are supporting parental leave at the birth of children; encouraging the sharing of leave; letting new parents switch to part-time work, with the right to return to full-time work; providing quality, affordable child care, including afterschool care; and recognizing the costs of children in the tax system. These measures would foster family-friendly workplaces that support rather than discriminate against workers who have children (Population Reference Bureau). Read some perspectives on January 2022

how families are made below and meet Madison Maeve Hayhoe, our cover baby. Madison lives in Union, Ontario, Canada, with her parents, Chris and Melissa (Sanko) Hayhoe. Madison is connected to the United States through her mom, a born and bred Moscow, PA, resident, and to our northern neighbor, Canada, through her dad, a farmer in Union, which lies just along the north shore of Lake Erie. Melissa was an intern and then an employee of Happenings Magazine several years ago. She met her husband at the wedding of a coworker, Elisabeth Costanzo Stewart. Melissa and Chris were married on August 26, 2017, in Moscow, PA.

at 6 p.m. and wakes up around 7:30 a.m., with the occasional off-night when she wakes up for a bottle. She is a very easy-going baby. There isn’t much that she doesn’t like.” Chris is a hands-on dad, Melissa said. “He’s a diaper changer, a baby bather, a bottle maker, a nail trimmer and everything in between. He never thought he would love a child as much as he has.” Madison Maeve Hayhoe was born on March 11, 2021, at 8:47 a.m., eight days before her due date and 24 hours before a scheduled c-section. She weighed 8 lbs, 2 oz. Madison lights up every room she enters, said her mom. “She is full of curiosity and excitement whether she is dancing along to songs with other babies or making dinosaur roars at senior citizens in the grocery store.

Throughout the summer, the couple discovered that Madison is a water babe. She loves to spend time in the pool.

She is an amazing sleeper who, after dinner, bath and bottle, goes to bed January 2022

HappeningsPA.com

Beginning at six months old, she attended the Lifesaving Society’s Swim for Life Program and graduated from the Tot program. Since then, she's been a weekly swimmer at the community pool. Pregnancy and birth during a pandemic are difficult, but living in a different country than your family while all that is going on is harsh, Melissa said. “Prior to the pandemic, I made an effort to visit family and friends in NEPA once a month. In the blink of an eye, the U.S./Canadian border shut down and I was unable to make those visits. My family and friends in NEPA never saw me pregnant. By the time Maddie was two months old and I was able to travel through the border, it was more than 15 months since I had last seen my parents.” Melissa's parents are John and Connie Sanko of Moscow. Her dad, John, is a retired professor of physical therapy. “He retired after a 40year career but did not stay retired for very long, as he continues to work part-time at The University of Scranton assisting in labs. He is 71 years old and a life-long learner who has committed his entire life to education. My mom, Connie, is the secretary and real estate tax collector for the

Borough of Moscow. She has worked for the Borough for the last 28 years. She is known for her competency, decisiveness and organizational skills and has loved being a part of making Moscow a great place for families to live. She plans to retire this upcoming June. Madison is their sixth grandchild. They have four grandsons and two granddaughters ranging in age from 9 months to 16 years old. Once they retire, they plan to spend even more time attending games, watching dance recitals and visiting the outof-town grandchildren.”

Melissa was able to visit her parents with Madison four times since she was born but this past fall, when the Canadian border opened to Americans, her parents were able to come to Canada to visit. “They were able to see her nursery and playroom set up and observe her in her everyday environment.” Chris Hayhoe is a cash crop farmer. “He is humble and the solid rock of the family. He manages the day-today operations of the farm. Among his many tasks between the planting and harvesting seasons, he oversees the farmhands, plans crop rotations, monitors the health of the crops and maintains and repairs machinery. During his busy seasons (spring and fall) he’s planting and harvesting soybeans, corn and wheat. His schedule and success are very much at the hands of Mother Nature, which means it is necessary to be a calm and patient person within the agriculture industry, and he is the perfect fit for that. There is not much of a separation between farm life and home life for us, as we have about 50 feet exactly between our house and ‘the shop.' Although he has an enormous amount of responsibility, he doesn’t often show he has the weight of the world on him and does a great job of leaving the worries of work behind so we can enjoy the time we have together as a family. Although we don’t have livestock, Madison has developed the sweetest bond with our farm dog, Swilli, a 7-year-old chocolate lab.” The Hayhoes hope for happiness and safety for their daughter now and in the future. They hope she has a successful and independent life doing whatever makes her proud and brings her joy. “In life, we are only a child in our parents’ home for a fraction of the years we are alive and we could only hope that we prepare her for a happy life,” Melissa said. January 2022

Matt and Kelly Della Rosa, with daughter Hannah

Kelly and Matt Della Rosa, Vernon, New Jersey, were married in 2011. In July 2012, at 24 years old, Kelly felt a lump in her right breast which turned out to be stage-2 breast cancer. They went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for care, which included surgery and chemotherapy with fertility preservation. They connected with a local fertility clinic that donated the medication she would need to freeze her eggs. “Ideally, I would be able to try for children after five years on Tamoxifen, a hormonal therapy that would hopefully decrease my chances of the cancer returning,” said Kelly. Just before five years on the medication, Kelly had a breast cancer recurrence in lymph nodes in her armpit. The HappeningsPA.com

same month she was diagnosed for the second time, Matt and Kelly visited her sister, Kristin Patchell-Pellis, from Jefferson Township. “She is 7 years older than I am, but she has been my partner-in-crime for my entire life. She is my best friend, confidant and adventure partner. She is selfless in so many ways and someone I have always looked up to. Having just had her son the previous June, she knew how important motherhood was to me. Without hesitation, she sat down with Matt and me and offered to carry our baby.” Kelly’s cancer was estrogen and progesterone positive, meaning it thrives off her hormones, so she had to be on an aromatase inhibitor and a Lupron injection for five to 10 years, which would put her into chemical menopause. Family of the surrogate mother, After meeting with her doctor, it Kristin Patchell-Pellis, who was clear that her sister was a carried for her sister. good candidate under one condition: she needed to finish growing her own family first. “We knew that Kristin so we told them that we would wait as long and her husband, Jeff, wanted one as they needed to make that happen. Our more child, niece, Grace, was born in July 2018, and what a beautiful blessing she has been.”

In May 2019, they had their first embryo transplant. “We got the incredible news that there was a positive pregnancy test and I never felt more excited in my life. That excitement quickly turned to heartbreak when we found out my sister had a chemical pregnancy or early miscarriage.” The second embryo transfer was set for August 2019. “We were thrilled when we found out that Kristin had a positive pregnancy test. We were scheduled for a scan where we could see the heartbeat. We went to that scan and just like my breast surgeon, I could read the doctor’s face. It wasn’t good. Right around my birthday, we found out that the baby had died.” Kristin sees Hannah, the baby she delivered for her sister. 16

January 2022

In January 2020, a third embryo was transferred and failed. The couple set up a meeting with Kelly’s doctor to discuss a plan for going forward. “Do you think your sister would be willing to change her diet?” the doctor asked. “I knew that my sister would climb Mt. Everest for us if she had to, so the answer was yes. From that day forward, Kristin was on a gluten- and dairy-free diet. Talk about love in action. There is nothing that she wouldn’t do for us.” In the summer of 2020, they scheduled their embryo transfer for August. The pregnancy test came back positive and the HCG levels were perfect. “This was it. It had to be after all the heartache. My birthday looked very different in 2020. We were discharged from the fertility clinic and what a present that was. We were on our way to becoming parents. The process began to feel more normal as we started seeing Kristin’s OB/GYN. Our little girl, as we now knew, was growing rapidly, and the dream started feeling like it was really going to come true. While it was sad sometimes to not experience the pregnancy directly, my sister made us part of every moment. We celebrated the first kicks, listened to the heartbeat and took pregnancy announcement pictures, and she even played clips of us reading and singing to the baby every night. On April 22, 2021, we went to the hospital for the scheduled C-section. Hannah Kristin Della Rosa arrived at 12:08 p.m. on April 22, 2021, at Moses Taylor Hospital. We chose her name because Hannah is the patron saint of infertility and was blessed by God with a child even after being deemed infertile. Of course, her middle name honors her aunt who delivered her safely into our arms. As soon as our sweet girl was born, the doctor dropped the curtain covering Kristin and my life changed forever. She made me a mom. Sure, I didn’t carry her, feel her kick or breastfeed her, but I am her mom, and I am so proud that we never gave up. We prayed for her for so long and she was worth every bit of the wait.” (Edited from Kelly’s post on January 2022

blog.livestrong.org.)

From the writer: The love for your own child is a completely different type of affection than the love grandparents have for their grandchildren. I love the description of one grandparent who said, “One of the main aspects of parental love is bound up in restrictions. We keep track of how many cookies, what TV shows, when shots are due, who the playmates are and on and on. We don’t have to focus on the mundane details of our grandchildren’s lives, we can just relax, love them and have fun with them." I am the grandmother of five grandchildren. Three of them are southern boys, born and bred in Bluffton, South Carolina, by my son Colin Fanning and his wife Kelly Alexander Fanning. Their other grandparents, Bob and Chick Alexander, live in Montrose. I call my Fanning grandchildren “free-range chickens” or "Huckleberry Finn," depending on which one of the boys reminds me of the fictional barefoot boy of Mark Twain’s imagination.

With their towheads and romantic Irish names, Lachlan, 8, Tadhg, 6, and Cashel, 4, enjoy a carefree, less restricted life in a lovely, familyfriendly neighborhood. My husband and I see them three or four times a year in person and

HappeningsPA.com

more often through the magic of technology. My heart grew and grew and grew with love at each of their births, which we attended in the waiting room of their South Carolina hospital, and it continues to grow today as I alternate between big smiles and laugh-out-loud delight when I view their pictures and videos on Facebook.

and indignation when his grandfather leaves his boots in the living room leaves us in tears of laughter (his mom says “no shoes on the carpets” and grandpa must obey), and his sister’s cuteness and just plain existence (thank you God, we got a girl!) fill our hearts. It’s true. Love for grandchildren fills our hearts and we don't worry about anything else. That's up to their parents. We love them, play with them, they go home and we immediately miss them and look forward to the next time we’ll see them.

Lewis Triplets Jena, Jade and Joey Lewis will turn 16 on January 9. They are the triplet children of Bill and Jody Lewis, Scranton, and they appeared on the Happenings cover in January 2007. We are excited to feature them again in January 2022, the year they turn 16, and reveal what’s happening in their lives.

Cullen 3, and Cara, 19 months, my Bronx, New York, grandbabies, are the latest loves that our daughter and son-in-law, Bridget and Ricky Vogt, delivered us. Their other grandmother, Jane Ill, lives around the corner from them in their Silver Beach neighborhood and sees them daily. We see our Bronx babies more often than our southern boys since a two-and-a-half-hour trip is more tenable than a 14-hour drive. While our southern boys made us grandparents first and call us grandma and grandpa, we live to hear our Bronx babies call us the same. Cullen’s dinosaur roars 18

Jody was 44 when the triplets were born, and she and Bill were married for 18 years. Jody grew up as an only child and Bill was the baby, by 10 years, of four children. “We married at 25 and through the first years of our marriage we worked in a family business, then we took care of my parents who were in ill health.” Those duties consumed several years of their life. “When I look back at having kids later in life, sometimes I wonder how we made it through. We had many sleepless nights.” Jody lost both of her parents while pregnant with the triplets, but “the babies kept us young at heart and, being first-time parents over 40, we had no choice but to keep up with them.” The triplets were born two months early and stayed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a month. When they were 4 months old Jody went back to work full time at

HappeningsPA.com

January 2022

Fidelity Bank, where she is now a branch manager. “Going back to work was certainly challenging, as it is for all working parents. You are torn because you are away from your children. However, as stressful as it was in the beginning, it helped me be able to concentrate on something different because I was in a different setting for those work hours. Having the support of your employer is also a big plus, as I have been employed by Fidelity Bank for the past 22 years.” Jody’s husband was Super Diaper Changer. “Bill was absolutely the main diaper changer. He could change three diapers in no time flat; we usually changed about 30 diapers a day. Bill is very involved in the kids' lives. Joey and Bill share a love for football, and the girls and Bill share a love for music, especially 70s music. He is an extraordinary dad." These days, the Lewis triplets are healthy and happy and are anxiously awaiting getting their driver permits. Their

mother said: “They maintain an active schedule between school, activities and volunteering in the kids ministry at church, and they are sophomores at Scranton High School. Jena and Jade are cheerleaders and Joey runs cross country and track for the Scranton Knights. The kids are very close and the girls are best friends — they all look out for each other. Joey is quietly protective of the girls and the girls always make sure Joey is taken care of." It goes without saying that parenting involves pulling together and depending on each other. “Raising kids in the 21st century is a challenge,” Jody said, “but raising three at once requires teamwork. The most important thing is to stay involved in their lives, interests and activities. Although they are multiples, they are also individuals with different personalities, needs, likes and dislikes. It is important to make sure they each get the attention they need.” H –Christine Fanning

Bridges that

Build a Culture of Life

One Woman’s Perspective m

By Bonnie Finnerty, Education Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation

“

ome songs just resonate with us. That was the case for my teenage self with Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Faithful friendship, self-sacrifice, a reason to hope. The slow, low start that builds to a bright, buoyant finale, signaling the journey from dark despair to shining dreams in the distance.

When times get rough And friends just can’t be found Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down. Throughout high school, I tried to be a bridge for friends in need. But during Thanksgiving break in 1986, everything changed. A college freshman with a positive pregnancy test, I was now drowning in my own troubled waters of fear and uncertainty. Who would be my bridge? Who would carry me through? 20

Raised in a religious home, I had an interior trust that God would always be with me. But did He not need human hands to accomplish His work? I’ve had over 34 years to reflect on the bridges that carried me to the other side, to a safe shore, to a place not without pain or sacrifice, yet rich in rewards and goodness. My bridges were many: first and foremost, my thenboyfriend/now husband. Then our parents, siblings, extended families and friends. None could rescue us from the turbulence we would face during some very difficult years, but all of them in their own way supported our desire to choose life for our child. Their role cannot be overstated. But there were others too, many who may not even know how critical they were to our journey toward a new life. Like my college roommate, who was a shoulder to cry on, HappeningsPA.com

offering wise words and loving support through it all. She confessed she didn’t know what she’d do in my situation but understood that abortion was not an option for me. My first bridge, she “mothered” me while I was away at school. Then, there was the admissions counselor at my new university, who made my transfer as smooth as possible. I was so grateful that he excused a pregnant me from a gym requirement and that he found a way to have a large academic scholarship transferred to my new school. He was a bridge to a fresh January 2022

of love and support that carry women and their children safely to the shores of life, where a sense of peace and promise of hope await.

start on my educational path. Another bridge was the kind couple who provided an apartment over their law office for a very reasonable rent. Generous and hardworking, they gave us much more than housing, with their own example of marriage, family and virtue having a great impact on us. They were also a bridge to my husband’s path to law school. Many more selfless people carried us through troubled waters, “laying themselves down” in beautiful gestures that mirrored Divine Love itself. For all of these “bridges,” I am thankful every day.

January 2022

These are the bridges with which we will build a renewed and shining culture of life.” H -Bonnie Rolla Finnerty, a Scranton native is the Education Director of the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation.

I pray that I remain open to being a bridge in some way to others in need, especially to women and their pre-born babies. No woman should ever feel trapped, forced to enter a sea of despair that leads to the death of her own child. May we in the pro-life movement continue to be bridges

HappeningsPA.com

Sail on, silver girl Sail on by Your time has come to shine All your dreams are on their way

Maternal and Family Health Services aternal and Family Health Services (MFHS) is an innovative health and human service organization dedicated to meeting the needs of the community through information, education and quality care. The organization blends expertise with compassionate support to provide vital health and wellbeing resources to its clients. They recently celebrated 50 years of service to the region.

MFHS’ extensive, system-wide network covers 17 counties within PA, and more than 90,000 individuals benefit from its services and programs. Each year, the need continues to grow. Each region served has its own unique needs and challenges, and MFHS is ever-evolving to best respond. MFHS is the only agency providing all of the following: • Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program • Preventative and Reproductive Health • Nurse-Family Partnership • Maternity Care and Postpartum Support • Behavioral Health and Social Work/Counseling Perhaps the most widely recognized MFHS service line is the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program. Through WIC, eligible families 22

can access nutritionally sound food as well as resources for healthy lifestyles. Nutrition counseling, electronic eWIC benefits and breastfeeding support are just some of the ways MFHS is fostering healthier pregnancies, healthier birth outcomes, better growth and development of young children, and a reduction in childhood obesity. MFHS administers WIC benefits through 32 MFHS centers in 17 counties, impacting more than 45,500 lives. WIC benefits are redeemed at 335 stores across the state, and annually, over $32 million is infused into local economies through the program. MFHS is the sole WIC provider in the counties served, and geographically, is the largest provider of WIC within PA. For every $1 spent on WIC, $2.48 is saved in medical and educational costs. MFHS also offers unique support to first-time, at-risk pregnant clients, many of whom are teens, HappeningsPA.com

by pairing each of them with the attention and expertise of a visiting nurse. Through the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP), participants receive health-related support and gain parenting skills with the ultimate goal of lifelong health, economic self-sufficiency and the creation of a stronger family unit. Through this evidence-based program, the nurse remains “paired” with the same individual throughout the entire pregnancy and up to two years after the baby’s birth. MFHS provides over 5,400 NFP visits each year, and while the goal is always to connect in person, MFHS has adapted its model to offer virtual visits. Annually, 150+ babies are born into the program — each less likely to experience abuse, neglect, language delays, intellectual challenges or behavioral issues. At MFHS’ Circle of Care location (640 Madison Avenue, Scranton), vital prenatal and postpartum care, including health care, nutrition, January 2022

behavioral health counseling and social services, is provided to pregnant individuals. Patients can also easily connect with social workers and breastfeeding peer counselors, as well as resources to overcome addiction or secure childcare if needed. The goal is to ensure healthy pregnancies and healthy babies, and more than 200 infants are delivered each year through MFHS’ prenatal care program. Clients are encouraged to pursue career opportunities and education as they build healthy lives for themselves and their families. Although MFHS’ maternity care services are provided in Lackawanna County, patients from all across Northeastern Pennsylvania choose MFHS for their prenatal care. Clients also rave about the Oh Baby! incentive program and can easily enroll in Healthy Beginnings Plus, Nurse-Family Partnership, WIC and more. Newly pregnant patients are always welcome, and if someone isn’t sure if they are pregnant or not, they are encouraged to visit the Scranton office and request a free pregnancy test. Along with supporting healthy pregnancies, MFHS helps individuals make informed choices about pregnancy prevention and contraception options. Through Title X of the Public Health Service Act, MFHS is one of four organizations in Pennsylvania to offer accessible and confidential reproductive health and related preventive care. High-quality care is provided to all and low-cost or free care is provided to those who qualify. Yearly, over 17,500 individuals receive counseling on their contraception options, avoiding more than 3,000 unplanned pregnancies. MFHS also offers telehealth, so people can easily access reproductive care services and even have contraception delivered to their door without even leaving their home. Through a website, text line and hotline, MFHS’ SafeTeens initiative provides young adults with the knowledge to make informed, healthy choices about their futures. Each year, the SafeTeens program reaches over 56,500 young adults. More than $33 million is saved in maternal and birth-related costs and public expenditures through MFHS’ robust preventive and reproductive health programs. MFHS is a growing and ever-evolving 501(c)3 nonprofit. Supported by grant funding, corporate gifts and generous private donors, MFHS will continue to responsively and respectfully strengthen families and communities for the next 50 years and beyond. Learn more, donate or explore open career opportunities at mfhs.org. H January 2022

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You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby! appenings Magazine is 53 years old this year! What was having a baby like in 1969 vs today?

Proof Positive? 1969: “She’s Expecting!” Only how did we find out for sure? A urine sample at the doctor’s office and a phone call after a few days wait would confirm the news. Today: “We’re Pregnant!” Couples are now “pregnant” and can find out in minutes with an over-thecounter test purchased at a local pharmacy. Eating for Two? 1969: Eating a hearty diet for two was the norm. Some women were even told to drink BEER? for iron.” Women continued to smoke and enjoy their cocktails. Today: “Don’t touch the tuna!” Women abstain from many food items possibly linked to harmful effects. Even wine-loving women refrain for the baby’s health.

Today: Everything’s exposed! From the baby’s gender, to seeing little kicks move across mom’s belly, there’s little left to the imagination! Form-fitting, revealing knit dresses and tops don’t hide the fact that mom isn’t carrying a watermelon. Hello Mother, Hello Father! 1969: Back in the day, men would hang out in the waiting room, chatting with the other fathers, with a pocketful of cigars. He was only allowed to see his wife once her hair was fixed, she was properly dressed and ready to welcome him with a pleasant disposition. Today: Can you imagine a man missing his child's birth? Or not taking part in cutting the umbilical cord? And....Push! 1969: Women had no say about an episiotomy; epidurals were not a choice and if a midwife was involved you were surely a hippie. Today: Choices range from home births with or without a professional mid-wife to an almost pain-free birth. The hospital room is a luxurious suite with matching cottagelike drapes and comforters. A succulent meal for the new parents is presented in a romantic setting.

Reveal-ing? 1969: Forget about a gender reveal, you couldn’t even tell what women might be shielding underneath their large tent dresses and smock tops. 24

Feeding Baby! 1969: Few mothers chose to nurse. The convenient Platex disposable bottles and formulas are expedient and convenient. Today: Breast is Best Bonding, health benefits and immunity

are encouraged in every book, magazine, pre-natal class and by every healthcare provider. Hospital Stay 1969: A week to rest, recover and recuperate. A smartly dressed mother with pearls, heels and a cinched-waisted dress leaves the hospital feeling and looking well. Today: Insurance beats the doctor in determining the date of the mother's release. She is hurried home with sweat pants and sneakers and a pile of paperwork that could fill a briefcase. The Home Coming 1969: The husband holds the front door open for his wife and new baby after they ride home together in the front seat. The new baby is held by its mother, sans seatbelt. Today: The car seat frenzy is in force. We're making sure the seat belt is fastened, the slack is precisely the number of inches directed by the instructions, colorful toys are added to the handle and a mirror is placed so parents can check the baby's breathing on the ride home. H –Patricia Camayd

Bof 2021 abies Rosalie Brigid Johnson Born March 23, 2021 to Mary Kate and Brian Johnson of Pittston

Eliana Demas Born May 22, 2021 to Kim and Dave Demas of Dunmore

Nathan Jon Kalasinski Born July 2, 2021 to Lauren and Jonathan Kalasinski of South Abington Township

Grace Quinn Vanston Born May 24, 2021 to Stefani and Marc Vanston of Jessup In Memory of Alice Vanston, baby’s Great Grandmother who was a big fan of Happenings Magazine.

January 2022

Tiernan John Barrett Born November 19, 2021 to Scott and Stephanie Barrett of Jessup

Brooks DePhillips Born February 9, 2021 to Kristy and Justin DePhillips of Clarks Summit

Madison Hayhoe Born March 11, 2021 to Melissa and Christopher Hayhoe of Union, Ontario, Canada

Claira Anne McCormack Born February 17, 2021 to Stacey and Joseph McCormack of Waverly Township

HappeningsPA.com

Paisley Cynthia Zdaniewicz Born April 20, 2021 to Kellylee and Christopher Zdaniewicz of Scranton

Madison Beierle Born July 19, 2021 to Morgan and Todd Beierle of Lake Ariel

Juliette Conforti Born December 30, 2020 to Melinda and Matthew Conforti of Scranton

Richard Joseph “RJ” Rossi Born November 30, 2020 to JoAnne Jakubowski Rossi and Richard Thomas Rossi of Scranton

Chandler Getts Born November 12, 2021 to Mallory and Julia Getts of Kingston

Michael Smith Born December 16, 2020 to Ashley and Keith Smith of Greenfield Township

Elsie Normil Born August 6, 2021 to Amber and Dukenson Normil of Scranton

January 2022

Noah Terpak Born January 30, 2021 to Lori and Christopher Terpak of Carbondale

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Eloise Marie Marchozzi Born August 25, 2021 to Jenna and Jeff Marchozzi of Plymouth Meeting

Ryder & Hunter Benzeleski Born November 22, 2021 to Nicole and Scott Benzeleski of Scranton

Hannah Della Rosa Born April 22, 2021 to Kelly and Matthew Della Rosa of Vernon, NJ Brynlee Rose Bower Born September 21, 2021 to Emily and Richard Bower of Lansford

Norah Lester Born July 14, 2021 to Jessica and Jeffrey Lester of Scott Township

Grace Homza Born October 7, 2021 to Autumn and Jason Homza of Philadelphia, formerly of Scranton and Kingston

Ezekial Evans Born April 19, 2021 to Sarah and Keith Evans of Lititz, PA

Aiden James Engber Born October 17, 2021 to Nina Marie Marcos and Michael James Engber of Media, PA

Joseph Diskin Born July 12, 2021 to Dana and Joe Diskin of Waverly

Matteo Cozza Born February 8, 2021 to Nikki and Trevor Cozza of Covington Township

Zachary Kuchinsky Born February 27, 2021 to Liezel and Matthew Kuchinsky of Milford

Hunter Conall Hoban Born January 11, 2021 to Jillian Lisowski and Bo Hoban of Las Vegas, Nevada

John Nicholas Tomko Born November 30, 2021 to Holly and Robert Tomko, Jr. of Swoyersville

Bryson Eigen Born January 1, 2021 to Jamie and Jared Eigen of South Abington Township

Colton James Cadden Born September 28, 2021 to Charlotte Yerrick and Jonathan Cadden of Scranton Maria Victoria Sabia Born January 9, 2021 to James and Danielle Sabia of Pittsburgh

WMH Program Awarded More

Funding to Help Addicted Moms & Babies hen Kaitlin White, 32, sought help with her substance use disorder, particularly for her soon-to-beborn baby boy, she reached out to the Women’s Health Center in Honesdale and found Wayne Memorial Licensed Social Worker Nicole Hartung.

“I was in active addiction when I was arrested and found out I was pregnant in jail,” says Kaitlin, “and as I started going through withdrawal I knew I had to kick this once and for all-for him, my son Colton. Nicole was there for me, and I am so grateful.” Nicole and staff at the Women’s Health Center and Wayne Memorial Hospital’s New Beginnings Birthing Suites, where Colton was born on October 24, are part of a team dedicated to helping addicted moms and babies connect to services that can help them. For the second straight year, this team has received a $15,000 grant to support their work from the Pennsylvania Perinatal Quality Collaborative (PA PQC) and its administrator, the Jewish Healthcare Foundation. The monies come from the state Department of Drug and Alcohol’s Opioid Response program. “This past year alone, with the help of these funds, we have referred eight women to Wayne County Drug and Alcohol for help,” said Nicole. “It’s been really uplifting to see women like Kaitlin reaching out for help and taking advantage of what’s available to promote the 34

best, most positive, outcomes for themselves and their infants.” The New Beginnings initiative for neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and Maternal Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) works closely with programs such as the Wright Center’s Healthy Moms Program, Parents as Teachers, and NurseFamily Partnerships, a program that provides regular visits by a specially trained nurse to young, first-time moms-to-be. Kaitlin was connected with the Wright Center and began a MAT program, medication- assisted treatment in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. The Milford mom, who has two other children, said she couldn’t succeed without Wayne Memorial. “Especially Nicole,” said Kaitlin, “She gives me the support I need to stay clean.” New Beginnings Clinical CoCoordinator Janice Pettinato, RN, said the PA PQC grants specifically

helped staff utilize a tool called the 5Ps, create the infrastructure needed to facilitate next steps and develop important reporting tactics. The 5Ps, a questionnaire that replaced once-standard urine screenings, identifies issues early on by asking a pregnant woman about substance abuse by her parents, peers, partner, herself in the past or herself at present. According to the most recent data from the CDC, approximately one baby is diagnosed with NAS every 19 minutes in the United States— nearly 80 newborns every day. Long-term effects can include hearing, vision and developmental problems. At New Beginnings, “we birth close to 500 babies a year, and only a very small number suffer from NAS,” said Pettinato, “but helping even one baby can mean helping an entire family and families they may have in the future.” H January 2022

ACE now enrolling for Headstart

gency of Community EmPOWERment (ACE) of NEPA Early Learning Program is now enrolling children and families in Head Start, Early Head Start and Pre-K Counts programs. ACE of NEPA offers a comprehensive early learning program that is free of charge to eligible children and families throughout Lackawanna, Wayne, Susquehanna and Pike counties. Head Start and Pre-K Counts programs are available for children from 3 to 5 years old and their families at 40 different locations. With a focus on school readiness skills including early literacy and math, and social36

emotional development, a wide variety of developmentally appropriate learning experiences gets children engaged and excited about learning. While enrolled in the program, children receive developmental and social emotional screenings, as well as vision, hearing, dental and health screenings to ensure they are healthy and ready to learn. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided and transportation is available in some locations. Early Head Start provides the same comprehensive services to eligible pregnant women and children from birth to 3 years of age. Both home-based and center-based options are available to meet the needs of the child and HappeningsPA.com

their family. ACE of NEPA Early Learning Program works to improve the overall well-being of income-eligible children and their families to foster their economic self-sufficiency. Program staff support parents as the primary nurturers and educators of their children and help prepare children for a smooth transition into kindergarten, and success in school and in life. ACE of NEPA is also actively recruiting for various positions within the program. Visit www.acenepa.org or call 570-963-6633 to begin the enrollment process or to apply for a position. H

January 2022

Head Start & Early Head Start Agency for Community EmPOWERment of NEPA oﬀers Head Start, Early Head Start & PreK Counts programs at various locations in Lackawanna, Pike, Susquehanna, and Wayne Counties!

Program Description

To Apply…

Early Head Start Children age birth to 3 Pregnant Mother’s Program Center Based-Full Day Sessions Home Based Program

Call our Main Oﬃce at 570-963-6633 or Visit our Website at www.acenepa.org or SCAN the QR Code below to submit request to complete an application!

Head Start Children age 3 to 5 Center Based - Full and Part Day Sessions Pre K Counts Children age 3 to 5 Center Based - Full Day Sessions

ne of the significant benefits of early childhood education is that it builds a love of learning that lasts well beyond the preschool years. Amber Grohowski, a 2016 graduate of Greater Nanticoke Area High School, and former Luzerne County Head Start (LCHS) student, is a testament to the success of what early learning programs can do for young children in school and later in life. Amber recently landed a job in the medical field at UPMC in Williamsport. She graduated

me and having them by my side during my childhood helped shape me into the person I am today.” Amber’s mother, Diane Grohowski, said at times she and her Amber Grohowski with Gary Williams, scholarship sponsor husband faced financial hardships, but she was first two years of post-secondary thankful Head Start helped them. education. Amber was the 2016 “The whole Head Start experirecipient of The Fran Williams ence was positive; it really helped Memorial Scholarship. She says the tie everything together for us.” funds helped her to get the college experience she wanted. As a token During her senior year in high of her appreciation, Amber invited Gary to attend her graduation ceremony at Wilkes University. He attended the ceremony, where he met Amber and her family and learned about the impact he had on her career.

Head Start Scholarship Recipient Paves the Road to Success from Wilkes University last year, where she received her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. Following graduation, she enrolled in Bloomsburg University’s Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring Program. The certification helped to prepare her for her career as a surgical neurophysiologist. Amber’s role as a surgical neurophysiologist puts her in the operating room, where she monitors patients’ nervous systems for possible adverse reactions while undergoing surgery. She credits much of her success to her beginnings at Head Start and the support she received from her family. “My parents mean the world to 38

school, Amber learned from her guidance counselor about LCHS’s alumni scholarship program. Each year, the program honors the achievements of former Head Start students graduating from high school and continuing their education. Recipients are chosen based on academic performance, personal achievements, leadership, motivation and school and community involvement. The scholarships are fully funded by community organizations, businesses and individuals like Gary Williams of Shavertown. In 2012, Mr. Williams established The Fran Williams Memorial Scholarship in memory of his late wife. The student who is awarded this scholarship annually receives $4,000, which is spread out over their HappeningsPA.com

When she isn’t at work, Amber enjoys spending time with her two cats, Morris and Fireball, and is working to master her baking skills. She also likes to travel back home to Nanticoke on the weekends to visit with her parents. Amber says a quote she lives by is, "Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people." From 1987 through 2021, scholarships totaling $293,250 have been awarded to outstanding students, like Amber, who began their educational journey at Head Start. Scholarship applications for former Head Start students who will graduate in June of 2022 are now posted on LCHS’s website, www.lcheadstart.org. The deadline for applications is January 28, 2022. Amber’s success story is an excellent example of what supporting scholarships can mean to a young person who has successfully finished high school and is seeking a college education. H January 2022

Give your Child a Head Start Now Enrolling for the 2022-2023 School Year!

Luzerne County Head Start, Inc. is accepting applications for our Head Start and Early Head Start programs at more than 25 locations across Luzerne and Wyoming Counties. Educational and social services, dental and health screenings, and healthy meals are provided for all children from birth to kindergarten. Learn more by visiting www.lcheadstart.org.

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Lia Richards-Palmiter, Ph.D

ia Richards-Palmiter, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the School of Social Work at Marywood University. She graduated from the University of South Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She went on to complete her master’s degree in social work at the University of Denver. She earned her Ph.D. in human development with a specialization in social work from Marywood University. Dr. Richards-Palmiter has spent the past 20 years mentoring BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) students, faculty, staff and community members in Northeastern Pennsylvania. She has a private practice that focuses on empowering clients who are members of traditionally disenfranchised groups. Dr. RichardsPalmiter has provided hundreds of training and discussion forums on multiculturalism for two decades. She currently serves on the Board of Governors for the Scranton Area Community Foundation. What prompted you to come to this region? I moved here in 1999 with my husband, David, and two of my now three children. We came as David began his teaching career at Marywood University and helped get the Psychological Services Center started there. I began working as a clinical social worker at the Scranton Counseling Center before moving on to Marywood. My only sibling lived in Wayne, PA, 40

a few hours away. What led you to study psychology and social work? I was a psych major in college at the University of South Dakota and went to the University of Denver for my MSW. My parents were both in the human services field, my father is a psychiatrist and my mother was a psychiatric social worker. Both parents worked at the VA hospital in Sioux Falls. As children, my sister and I were very involved in volunteering and being present in the community and at the hospital. We were taught to engage in our community to learn about others and help our area. Having been in this region for the past 23 years, what positive changes and challenges have you noticed? There has been so much work and growth in the region with understanding diversity, equity and inclusion, DEI initiatives/programs/entities. There is representation, space and voices for many underrepresented populations in our area. Many educational instructions and social service agencies, the Scranton Area Foundation, The Black Scranton project, NAACP and many religious organizations have and continue to offer programming and discussions to educate our area. It has been wonderful to witness the growth of NEPA’s changing population. I have also seen such a commitment from said

organizations out in the community, gauging and responding to needs in a way I have never seen before, especially during this pandemic. There is always work to do! Many others and I continue to be involved with progressive thinkers in their plans to understand implicit bias and the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) work. We have several organizations that have a history of providing services for under-resourced populations. What drives your passion in mentoring BIPOC students? My mission. My father immigrated to the U.S. to receive his undergraduate and medical education when he met my mother. As people of color, we have always had special consideration for BIPOC populations. Since I was a BIPOC student, my whole educational experience has been about navigating spaces where sometimes I was welcomed and other times not as much. I work hard in establishing challenging and rewarding relationships for students to learn and grow from and to remember to pay these efforts forward at various times in their careers and lives. What did you learn in college that you strive to pass on to students? The hard path lends itself to selfawareness and growth. Also, find and use your voice to always speak the truth. Of which developments during your career at Marywood University’s department of social work are you most proud? I am most proud of the mentoring of fellow BIPOC students and employees. For two decades, I have seen the powerful work completed by students looking for validation in their educational experiences. They have become powerful in their professions and have created mentorJanuary 2022

ing and welcoming paths for those coming in behind them. I am proud to have mentored our BIPOC Ph.Ds and help them establish a path forward. What is one significant point you would like Happenings’ readers to know about BIPOC students in the region? I would like readers to be curious about other groups in our region and to engage themselves in selfeducation. We all operate within our small bubbles most of the time that inform what we think, what we believe and what we understand to be true for ourselves, and sometimes we transfer those thoughts and beliefs onto others. I would like to challenge the readers to take the Implicit Association Test (IAT) to uncover a small glimpse of how our thinking sometimes is biased. Read, watch and listen to other perspectives. There are so many opportunities to learn about other people and cultures. Provide advice about living a well-balanced life: I believe it is important to under-

stand your strengths and challenges. I believe a well-balanced life consists of engaging in your community to be a part of the change and help others. Mental wellness, along with work-life balance, is so important.

engage in dialogue and community activities and opportunities. There are books, movies, podcasts and people available to provide a new perspective.

What do you find most challenging in your life and how do you address it?

When I am with my children and family — wherever they are. I am also very happy in a classroom with curious students.

Ah the challenges ... I find that most people in our community want to be involved in fulfilling or meeting the needs of others but don’t know how. Many people want to be united and talk with others about issues that are sometimes “uncomfortable” requiring us to be more vulnerable and open to share our concerns, beliefs, fears and hopes. I believe we address these issues by creating space for people to talk with other groups and learn about themselves and others in this safe space geared toward illumination and truth. There are so many stories and experiences among us. I invite others to join the aforementioned groups to

When/where are you the happiest?

What would you like our readers to know about the Scranton Area Foundation? Laura Ducceschi, the amazing staff at SACF and the dedicated Board of Governors have responded to our ever-changing populations in NEPA and their needs. The people at the foundation are involved in our community on so many levels. They are invested in the wellbeing, growth and education of our community. Laura and the foundation made their mark helping others by bringing needed philanthropic attention for the care of multiple groups during the pandemic. I am so proud to be a member of this group. H

Pull Up a Chair

“ I

always preferred round tables. My kitchen table is round, my high school lunch table was round and Red Robin is best enjoyed at a round table. Round tables are inclusive, no sides, no separate conversations — just you and everyone around you. Rectangular tables are a whole different story. They set up the perfect scene to exclude and interrogate people and talk about others not even present. Law and Order never uses a round table to interrogate someone. In middle school, I sat at my lunch table with a group of, self-conscious middle school girls. Lacking confidence, the only way for them to feel

better about themselves was by talking about other people. One day, I sat down at my rectangular lunch table, staring at my lunch and dreading the conversation about to unfold. As expected, the conversation became unpleasant. The girls started talking about one of the girls from another school. I stayed silent, eating my food, staring at the clock, waiting for the bell to ring. Suddenly, one of the girls turned to me and asked, “Why aren’t you talking? Do you think you are better than we are?” Taken aback, I never thought I would be called out for

keeping to myself. I stayed silent because I was friends with that girl, and she was not there to defend herself. She was younger than we were, and I found no reason to make fun of her. Because of their behavior, I

stood up from the table and left. I did not think better of myself; I just knew I did not want to surround myself with these girls any longer. A few years later, when I entered high school, I sat at a round lunch table with classmates, laughing about crazy weekend plans, stressing over classes, reviewing the daily lunch menu and sharing our favorite Netflix shows. My table always laughed the loudest in the cafeteria and we always saved two extra seats for anyone to join in on the laughter. Coincidently, at the table across from mine, sat the girl who had been made fun of by the middle school girls all those years ago. It comforted me to know that the unkind words spoken

ended up being hollow and meaningless.

with wholesome, friendly and caring people.

Walking away from that table in middle school profoundly impacted the rest of

I am going to sit at a lot of tables in my life; some round and some rectangular. The shape of the table does not change the people at the table. But when I sit down, no matter the shape, I know the kind of people I want surrounding me. I want to connect, I want to laugh and I want everyone else at that table to feel like they matter. I want everyone to see our table and know that they can join us. The beauty of a round table is that no matter where you pull up a chair, you are always included.” H

“I realized at a young age how important it is to surround myself with wholesome, friendly and caring people.” that year and the rest of my life going forward. I found my independence. I joined a group of kids I had never met before, (some of whom are now my best friends). Seeing the difference in the two groups, I now know what I want in my relationships with others. I realized at a young age how important it is to surround myself

– Lily Mackarey is a 2020 graduate of Scranton Prep and is currently a sophomore at Marywood University studying nutrition and dietetics

Each year, more than 40 million American adults will experience a serious Mental Health condition – Less than half will seek treatment due to stigma and discrimination. It's time to end the stigma! If you or someone you know needs support, please dial 211. Help is just a phone call away.

Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health & Developmental Services 111 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Suite 200 Wilkes-Barre, PA • 570-825-9441 www.luzernecounty.org/mhds

January 2022

HappeningsPA.com

Meet the Doctor: Martha S. Ghosh LACKAWANNA MEDICAL GROUP

artha S. Ghosh, M.D. loves interacting with her patients and figuring out complex medical issues. “When you really enjoy your work, it’s not really work – it’s fun and fulfilling.” Dr. Ghosh is a gastroenterology specialist at Lackawanna Medical Group and has been practicing in this specialty for more than 20 years. In addition to practicing at Lackawanna Medical Group, she works at the Veterans Hospital in Wilkes Barre where she has been for the past 12 years. The practice of gastroenterology concentrates on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases involving the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Dr. Ghosh provides quality colonoscopies and endoscopies. She also treats a broad range of conditions, including, but not limited to abdominal pain, colon cancer, colon polyps, constipation, Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, hepatitis, liver disease, unexplained weight loss, vomiting and more. She graduated from Duquesne University with a Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and from Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, where she completed her residency and fellowship.

Dr. Ghosh grew up in Claysville, a borough in Washington County which is part of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. She had many role models in the medical field that inspired her interest in medicine. A local pharmacist who knew about her love for math and science and excellence in those studies encouraged her to go to medical school. Dr. Ghosh advises diligent attention to diet and exercise to help prevent disease. “Certain diseases don’t discriminate based on age and gender. Both women and men need to take proactive measures to be sure they are having screenings at the appropriate times even if they are not having symptoms for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. Talk to your doctor about screening for colorectal cancer including colonoscopies or other noninvasive tests. I also recommend Hepatitis C screenings for people born between 19451965 or other high-

risk groups.” Hepatitis C is a viral infection spread through contact with infected blood. Hepatitis C infection can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). Most people with acute hepatitis C eventually develop chronic hepatitis C. Hepatitis C usually does not cause symptoms, which is why most people with this. condition don’t know that they are infected. Left untreated, Hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure. Dr. Ghosh is married with two adult children. She enjoys walks outdoors in nature and reading. She also really enjoys being a sous-chef to her husband – their specialties are gumbo and lots of Indian cuisine. H - Christine Fanning

PNC Bank

Comprehensive Approach to Financial Wellness

NC Organizational Financial Wellness offers tailored solutions designed to help improve employees’ financial health and your bottom line.

The impact of employee financial stress is substantial, costing American businesses $500 billion a year in productivity alone. Additionally, employers who don’t take an active role in their employees’ financial wellness will most likely continue to face challenges retaining talent, as well as the inevitable expenses associated with attrition. To address these issues, PNC recently launched a new offering called PNC Organizational Financial Wellness, which is focused on delivering financial wellness solutions to both corporate and consumer clients. PNC collaborates with the human resources decisionmaker or dedicated benefits manager to design a custom program for each organization, built with an understanding of employees’ financial wellness needs. Whether it be budgeting workshops, wealth management, investment strategies or even student loan relief programs, consumers are eager for training, tools and resources that provide basic financial education. Here are three solutions that tend to make an immediate difference in employees’ financial well-being. 46

A strong bank-at-work program This program should offer a variety of account options for employees to select as well as on-site and virtual financial services. Employers should also implement workshops and informational events on direct deposit sign-ups, applying for mortgages, understanding various credit card programs and utilizing digital money management tools. Healthcare savings resources Today, more and more employees are being asked to take greater responsibility for paying for their healthcare. Offering them an HSA has become a common solution, but it’s vital that employees know how an HSA works, understand the often-overlooked benefits and know how to use the tools they have available. Retirement Plan and Fiduciary Investment Services Most likely every employee has a goal of financial independence, including the ability to retire on their own terms. Successful programs should focus on everything from investment selection to policy assistance, and offer a dedicated resource to deliver annual education campaigns that include surveys, online tools, live and virtual meetings and webinars. HappeningsPA.com

The first step in implementing an effective financial wellness program is understanding the needs at all levels of your employee base. PNC’s Financial Wellness Consultants can help recommend financial wellness solutions based upon each company’s unique needs and can serve as the touch point for consumers as they kick off their financial planning or saving for the future. To learn more, contact Pete Danchak at peter.danchak@pnc.com or visit https://www.pnc.com/en/corporate-and-institutional/organizational-financial-wellness.html. H This article was prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax or accounting advice or as recommendations to engage in any specific transaction, including with respect to any securities of PNC, and do not purport to be comprehensive. Any reliance upon any such information is solely and exclusively at your own risk. 1. The Employer’s Guide to Financial Wellness— 2019, Salary Finance ©2021 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. January 2021

Every child grows and learns new things at his or her own pace. You know your child better than anyone else. If you have any concerns about your child’s development

WE CAN HELP!

Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Early Intervention Program

January 2022

HappeningsPA.com

John “JK” Karavis Joins Wayne Bank’s Business Lending Team

ewis J. Critelli, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce that John “JK” Karavis has joined the Bank as a Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer. JK will work out of the bank’s Exeter and Effort Community Offices to serve the needs of businesses in Luzerne and Monroe Counties. “I am so pleased to welcome JK to our outstanding commercial lending team. He has 26 years of financial expertise in commercial and retail lending, as well as invest-

JK holds a bachelor’s degree from King’s College and is an executive board member of the Downtown Wilkes Barre Business Association. He has been involved with the Rotary Club of Plymouth for over 25 years, having served as president seven times, a Paul Harris Fellow three times and as an assistant governor. JK resides in Dallas with his wife Shelly and son Sam. H

ment banking, making him an ideal complement to our team,” said Mr. Critelli.

Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp., Member FDIC, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. The Bank has 30 Community Offices serving Wayne, Pike, Monroe, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties in Pennsylvania, along with Delaware, Sullivan, Otsego, Ontario and Yates Counties in New York State, including those offices operating under the Bank of Cooperstown and Bank of the Finger Lakes brands. The stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol— NWFL

A l e x P u c i l ow s k i Joins Janney Montgomery Scott As an Account Executive for Wilson Wealth Advisory Group, Alex works alongside Financial Advisor Ryan Wilson, Executive Vice President/Wealth Management, during clients’ financial planning process and execution of investment plans for clients. Additionally, Alex serves as the point-person for some client relationships and provides insight into the maintenance of the team’s investment menu. Alex currently holds FINRA Licenses in Series 7, Series 6 and Series 63. Prior to joining Janney, Alex served as a Senior Internal Wholesaler for CNL Securities. In this role, he supported CNL’s efforts to market and raise capital for Alternative Investment strategies such as Private Equity, 48

Real Estate and Commodity Investments. He has been in the financial industry for five years. Alex holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, with a Personal Financial Planning track. During his time in college, Alex participated in and placed as a semi-finalist in the 2016 IARFC National Financial Planning competition. In their spare time, Alex and his wife, Courtney, enjoy spending time with family, friends and their two dogs, Colby and Cooper. They reside in Avoca, PA. Wilson Wealth Advisory is located at 72 Glenmaura National Boulevard in Moosic, PA. WilsonWealthAdvisory.com HappeningsPA.com

ABOUT JANNEY Janney provides advice to individual, corporate and institutional clients. Expertise includes guidance about asset management, corporate and public finance, equity and fixed income investing, equity research, institutional equity and fixed income sales and trading, investment strategy, financial planning, mergers and acquisitions, public and private capital raising, portfolio management, retirement and income planning and wealth management. Janney is an independently-operated subsidiary of The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the New York Stock Exchange, and Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Additional company information is available at www.Janney.com. H

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January 2022

Weddings I

t is estimated 2.5 million weddings will take place in 2022, which is the most the U.S. has seen since 1984, according to The Wedding Report, a market research firm. While some pandemic couples had virtual weddings, most postponed celebrations because large, unmasked gatherings were not allowed. In addition many more couples got engaged during the pandemic and are now planning weddings, too. Local wedding planners are even seeing 52

requests for Thursday or Sunday weddings as Fridays and Saturdays become booked quickly. One thing most people agree on is that celebrations with friends and family are a vital and treasured part of life. They are what we look forward to and what we fondly remember for years to come. Happenings Magazine loves to share regional wedding stories. If you would like to submit your story, write to us at info@happeningspa.com

HappeningsPA.com

January 2022

It’s a... Nice Day for a

White Wedding H

ow do you envision your wedding day? A winter wedding in NEPA may provide the cozy vibes and scenic backgrounds that can make your wedding more wonderful than you ever imagined! 1. Winter wonderland! Take your first walk as Mr. and Mrs. surrounded by gleaming blankets of snow. You’ll thank us when you see the photos. 2. Winter white! Stun your guests with elegant and sophisticated fashions and decorations... fur stole for the bride? Sparkling tablecloths for dining? Now we’re talking about a match made in heaven! 3. No sweat! Planning a wedding already comes with a full package of its own stresses. Remove heat and humidity from the list by planning your big day in a month with cooler temps! Your attendants may appreciate their tuxedoes and formal wear a whole lot more. 4. Cut costs. If you’re planning the most special day of your life, we don’t have to tell you it’s going to be expensive! Save on 54

booking popular venues and vendors by planning outside of traditional wedding season. Get more for your money! 5. Winter menu. Stray from the typical summer cocktail and light fare. Serve spiked cocoa, mulled wines, and warm comfort foods, sure to be a festive fan favorite by all attendees. 6. Less competition! While hosting a wedding isn’t really a competition, all the brides and mothers of the brides know that sometimes it turns into one! Bask in the spotlight of your standalone winter wedding and attend your friends’ summer celebrations with a clear head. 7. Extend the holidays! It’s the most wonderful time of year, so why not piggyback off that momentum? Repurpose decorations and cheer to make planning your winter wedding a littler simpler. 8. Family (and friends!) affair! Show your guests how much HappeningsPA.com

you value their presence by planning a wedding outside of summer vacation season, making it easier for them to plan and afford travel. Their wallets will thank you! 9. Winter anniversary! Guarantee you’ll spend a special anniversary trip or dinner with your sweetheart every year during the otherwise monotonous winter months. 10. Cover Shot Perfect! Submit your wedding photos to Happenings Magazine. Many beautiful winter weddings have graced our cover. H –Aleni Mackarey January 2022

Our Personal Attention to Every Detail

Melissa Kelly Photography

Weddings, Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinners or any Special Event at Two Beautiful Locations The Colonnade

event space and boutique hotel a posh life l.l.c. property

570-342-6114 401 Jefferson Ave Scranton www.TheColonnade401.com

POSH @ The Scranton Club 404 North Washington Avenue Scranton PA 570-955-5890 • WWW.POSHATSC.COM

Wedding Wonderlands 5 1

7 1. Constantino’s Catering and Events Inc. Alicia Carey 570-963-1691

4. POSH and the 5. Colonnade Josh Mast and Paul Blackledge 570-342-6114

2. MCR Brian Daubert 570-283-0902

6. Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple Erin Speicher 570-346-7369 x135

3. Penn’s Peak Krysta Fink 610-826-9646

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7. Skytop Simone Colon 570-595-8939 January 2022

Photo by Steven Serge Photos by Jordan Denike

catering & events

Savor Every Moment. Let Constantino’s see to everything, down to the finest detail, so all you need worry about is savoring special moments with those you love. Celebrate with us at our full-service venue, featuring beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. Catering also available off-site and on-location. NOW BOOKING 2022-2023 WEDDINGS AND EVENTS 570.963.1691 | CONSTANTINOSCATERING.COM

20 Questions To Ask An Event Coordinator 1. What exactly is included in the package? 2. Can you work with our budget? 3. What additional charges or fees are not included in the package? 4. What will be the total, final cost including tax and gratuities? 5. If we’re planning an outdoor event, is there an indoor option based on inclement weather? 6. Does the venue have a minimum revenue or number of guests needed to book the space? 7. Will the event coordinator be available at all times the day of the event? 8. Do you offer accommodations for travelling guests?

12. Can we make changes to the packages and customize menu items and bar selections to meet our needs? 13. Can your venue comfortably hold the guest list for my wedding? 14. Can the venue provide the ambiance we are looking for? 15. Is this the best venue for the type of group being invited? 16. Does the venue have any special requirements for guests (adults only, jackets required)? 17. How involved will the event planner be?

9. Can I reserve a number of rooms and a special room rate for travelling guests?

18. What timeline can be used for planning?

10. Does the facility have preferred or required vendors?

19. How will the venue meet our expectations?

11. What makes this venue stand apart from others?

20. Are you a single-event facility? H

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January 2022

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570-278-3849 January 2022

A Great Escape Awaits… In the Endless Mountains!

www.endlessmountains.org • 800-769-8999

The Economic Benefits of Pennsylvania’s Parks and Forests

rom leaf peeping to whitewater rafting, biking, hiking and more, Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests offer many options for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from near and far. Those who come to enjoy recreation opportunities within state parks and forests also dine, shop and stay over in surrounding towns, playing an important role in the economy. The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation recently completed a video highlighting the economic value of the state’s parks and forests. The town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania is featured where commercial biking and rafting bring more than 300,000 visitors annually. That’s about 70 times the town’s actual population. In the video, Paul Fogal, founder and owner of Pocono Whitewater and Pocono

Biking, and Jeffrey Cook, owner of High Street Guest House, share how important the state’s

parks and forests are for local small businesses. “The Economic Benefits of Pennsylvania’s Parks and Forests” video, created with funding assistance from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, Community Conservation Partnership Program, is now available on PPFF’s YouTube channel.

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Generating $29.1 billion annually, Pennsylvania is among the top states in the nation for consumer spending on outdoor recreation, according to the Outdoor Recreation Industry. This spending supports 251,000 jobs, generates $8.6 billion in wages and salaries, and provides $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue. In the video, Andrew Mowen, Professor of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management at

Jim Thorpe January 2022

Pennsylvania State University, further explains how investing in the stewardship and maintenance of parks and forests and their amenities, such as their network of trails and waterways, provides a positive return for the Commonwealth. Along with picturesque views, rugged trails, and cascading waterfalls, the state’s 121 parks and 2.2 million acres of forest are also home to aging infrastructure including dams, public water supplies, wastewater treatment plants, roadways, bridges and buildings in need of public investment. As more people have turned to the outdoors during the pandemic, these infrastructure needs as well as the importance of the state parks and forests for human health and wellness have come to light. With recent infrastructure funding opportunities such as the American Rescue Plan, it is possible to put funds where they are needed for this essential part of the economy and for the future of Pennsylvania’s parks and forests. Details about this need for financial investment can be found on the Protect Our Parks and Forests website at https://protectourparksandforests.org/. “The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation believes that our state parks and forests are assets” said Marci Mowery, President of the Foundation. “An investment in the state park and forest system goes full circle with the return being the benefits of safe and well-maintained open spaces for visitors, income to local businesses, the environmental benefits such as clean air and water and a positive contribution to the state’s economy.” To view “The Economic Benefits of Pennsylvania’s Parks and Forests”, visit PPFF’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/PAParksandForests. The video will also be shared on PPFF’s social media channels.

forest by coordinating volunteers, activities and donations through its 48 chapters. The mission of the foundation is to inspire stewardship of Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests. Learn more at https://paparksandforests.org/. Learn about the current $1.4 billion need for financial investment in state park and forest infrastructure and the Protect Our Parks and Forests initiative, please visit https://protectourparksandforests.org/. #ProtectOurParksAndForest H TO A HAPPY, HEALTHY YOU

Did you know spending time outdoors can improve your health and wellness? Learn more at paparksandforests.org.

About the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation supports 121 state parks and 2.2 million acres of January 2022

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2022 Winterfest January, 15 • Hills Creek State Park, Wellsboro

ree family fun in the winter at Hills Creek State Park! Something for everyone of all ages!

Test your favorite sled on the sledding hill. Lace up a pair of ice skates and enjoy our natural ice rink. Learn how to crosscountry ski with over 60 pairs of skis, boots and poles available – with basic instruction also provided. Skis not your thing? Try snowshoes with dozens of pairs available – also with basic instruction provided. Find out how to get into ice fishing from an expert. Explore nature on a guided birding walk or discover more about wildlife around us at an interpretive program. Keep your fingers busy at one of the make and take crafting stations. Past crafts have included bluebird boxes, pine cone feeders, snow art and pipe cleaner critters. Top off the day with the “free ‘til they’re gone” hot chocolate and hot dogs. More details will be announced and updated closer to the event. Most events are subject to change with limited snow or ice. Watch www.stepoutdoors.org for updates. Search for Hills Creek (or the event) on events.dcnr.pa.gov Park event listing: Winterfest 2022 - DCNR Calendar of Events (pa.gov) H

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January 2022

Enjoy a Snowy Staycation

Make us Your

24 snowy acres to play in

“Home for

Toboggan down our hills

Four crackling fireplaces to warm your toes Beautiful restored and decorated 1912 home for overnight or weekend rentals

570-609-1481 • hamiltonsj45@gmail.com Located in South Abington Twp.,PA

January 2022

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Crystal Lake Ski and Outdoor Center

he Crystal Lake Ski and Outdoor Center (CLSOC) is a three-season, 960-acre recreation destination during the fall, winter and spring months. With over 20 miles of trails, there are countless possibilities onsite. The mission of the CLSOC is to promote, protect and enhance the over half a century tradition of familyfriendly 66

cross-country skiing and other outdoor recreation opportunities in its unique “snow bowl” of northCentral Pennsylvania. Crystal Lake values all that the outdoors has to offer, and strives to provide a unique space for reflection and regeneration. The Crystal Lake trail system is excellent for country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, HappeningsPA.com

running, mountain biking and horseback riding. Crystal Lake is great for boating, fishing and ice sports. Guests also have access to two game fields as well as a sports court and a variety of sports equipment. During the winter, enjoy ski lessons on-site. Children in the community can participate in their Skis to Schools program. Other opportunities include overnight lodging and camping for individuals and groups of all sizes, event and meeting space, rock climbing activities and team building resources. Visit crystallakeskiandoutdoorcenter.com or call (570) 584-5608 or clskioutdoor@crystallakecamps.org. H

January 2022

Ice fishing: Ice fishing dates back thousands of years. Begun as a way to obtain fish from frozen lakes and rivers, ice fishing was created by Natives living in America, Canada and Arctic areas. Natives placed wooden fish decoys in holes in the ice and when fish came along to eat the decoy, the fisher would spear it. The Ojibwa people in the Midwestern states used ice chisels to break ice and fish. Natives soon perfected fishing with a net, which is still used by tribes today. Fishing with a net made the process easier and allowed for faster gathering. More fish could be gathered at once. The modern fishing reel was invented in 1770 and has undergone numerous improvements since. Updated technology and tools have made ice fishing more accessible. As ice fishing became more well known, it became a recreational activity. However, ice fishing continues to

January 2022

be one of the primary ways the Inuit people in Alaska, Canada and Arctic regions gather food and is a staple of their survival. Ice fishing is also popular in our region! Head to Beltzville Lake in Beltzville State Park for ice fishing in Northeast PA.

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Treasure H•U•N•T•I•N•G

Plains Antiques and Home Furnishings Plains Antiques and Home Furnishings is the largest Antique Mall in the Wilkes-Barre, Scranton area, featuring 50 vendors with high quality items. Antique to Retro, including Furniture, Glassware, Lighting, Jewelry, Pottery, Artwork, Quality Collectables and more. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! 29 East Carey Street, Wilkes Barre, PA 18705. 570-270-3107 • www.plainsantiques.com

Country Inns

and B&Bs

KEUKA LAKESIDE INN Hammondsport’s exclusive lakefront accommodations on the shores of Keuka Lake. This Inn offers 17 comfortable rooms and spectacular views with an onsite boat launch and docking available. Find us on Facebook and at 24 Water St., Hammondsport, NY 14840. (607) 569-2600, www.keukalakesideinn.com

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January 2022

Don’t Miss a Single Issue Subscribe for only $18 a year m $18 for a year m $28 for 2 years m Payment Enclosed (check made payable to Happenings Magazine)

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Go to HappeningsMagazinePA.com and click Subscribe Now. To place an order call (570) 878-5009 or print and mail to P.O. Box 61 Clarks Summit PA 18411. Rates good in the U.S. Only. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Subscriptions 65 are not refundable.

The amazing power of monoclonal antibody infusion therapy

COVID-19 treatment helps Wright Center patients and walk out. Infusion therapy is an amazing thing.” COVID-19 infusion therapy contains virus-fighting proteins known as monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies are made in a laboratory to target a particular invader, in this case, the novel coronavirus. However, monoclonal antibodies perform the same defense function as a healthy person’s naturally occurring antibodies: identifying invaders, then latching onto and destroying them. The therapy is a one-time treatment. Delivered via an intravenous infusion, it can easily be administered in outpatient settings. The entire appointment generally takes about two hours. Among those eligible to receive the therapy are seniors, ages 65 and older, with mild to moderate COVID symptoms. Younger patients, ages 12 to 64, also are candidates if they have an underlying health condition.

eakened and barely able to walk, Kimberly McGoff arrived at The Wright Center with a distressing diagnosis of COVID19 and another big reason to worry.

McGoff suffers from lupus and related conditions that severely limit her immune system’s ability to fight disease, putting her at increased risk of developing complications from the virus. It was a scorching day in August, yet McGoff felt a penetrating chill as she arrived at The Wright

Center for infusion therapy. Called COVID-19 infusion therapy, it has been shown to lessen the severity of symptoms for certain patients, potentially quickening their recoveries, preventing hospitalizations and saving lives. The Wright Center began offering the therapy in mid-January 2021 and has so far infused more than 200 patients – many of whom report experiencing sudden, dramatic improvement. “I immediately felt better,” recalls McGoff, a resident of Spring Brook. “I couldn’t walk into the room by myself, but I was able to get up

The Wright Center has streamlined its referral process so that if a patient tests positive for COVID-19 at any of its primary care practice locations, the individual can be immediately scheduled for infusion therapy. Jignesh Sheth, M.D., chief medical officer for The Wright Center, orchestrated the rapid rollout of the therapy when it first became available to the health center. Infusion therapy must be administered within 10 days after a patient’s symptoms first emerge and/or after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. For McGoff, 50, who is a Wright Center employee, her symptoms started mildly with watery eyes, and then she

developed a pounding headache, fatigue, chills and a temperature of 102.9 degrees. Although fully vaccinated, McGoff knew she was in a vulnerable spot. Due to lupus and a disorder known as Sjogren’s syndrome, her immune system can sometimes go haywire. Something as nasty as COVID-19 can be lethal to her. McGoff and her husband had been extremely cautious, wary of contracting the virus since it first reached Northeast Pennsylvania. At the end of each workday, upon arriving home, she would shower in her basement and put on a clean outfit, tossing that day’s work clothes directly into the washer.

The virus punished both her body and spirit. “I never felt that sick before,” she says, recalling how her lungs struggled for oxygen. “It felt like there was an elephant on my chest. I could not breathe. And what I could get in, I could not get back out.”

band would watch TV with her, pulling up a chair to her window and watching through the glass. Family members, neighbors, friends and colleagues all supplied frequent check-ins, calling, texting or sometimes talking through the window.

Arriving for her infusion therapy appointment, McGoff could sense her condition getting worse. She briefly felt as if she might pass out. Then, the infusion process began. “The process is easy and quick,” she says.

Likewise, The Wright Center’s employee-health team offered continual support. “We have a great team,” McGoff says. “They called me every day, asking: ‘How are you? What’s your temperature? Did you eat anything? Do you need anything?’

Infusion therapy must be administered within 10 days after a patient’s symptoms first emerge and/or after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

“We didn’t see anybody,” says McGoff. “We didn’t do any holidays. And we were really careful at work, too.” McGoff is employed as The Wright Center’s Manager of Dental Operations. In the earliest days of the pandemic, she considered requesting a leave of absence. After talking with her supervisors, however, she was completely comfortable with the organization’s multiple safeguards to protect employees and patients. She stayed on the job as COVID cases surged in 2020, even transferring to the front lines of the medical clinic for a while. “Not once did I feel that I wasn’t safe, which was great,” she says. But after nearly 18 months without a slip up, and admittedly emboldened because she was fully vaccinated, McGoff briefly let down her guard, and her mask. She was at a community event but left after 15 minutes, concerned about overcrowding. Three days later, she was ill.

For some recipients, infusion therapy seemingly kick starts a fast and full recovery. That was the case for 27-year-old Lauren Nardelli, manager of The Wright Center’s Scranton Practice, who contracted COVID-19 this summer. “About a half hour into the infusion I felt relief,” says Nardelli, who copes with asthma. “As the therapy went on, I was like a totally different person. I was more alert. I could breathe. At that point, I knew that I was going to be okay.” For McGoff, however, recovery was less certain. Out of caution, she visited a hospital emergency room soon after her infusion therapy to get checked for pneumonia. She was told her lungs were infectionfree. An emergency room physician also validated McGoff’s choice to get infusion therapy, telling her “I can’t believe how good you are doing considering your health issues,” she recalls. McGoff credits a loyal network of people for helping her get past COVID’s assault on her mental health during quarantine. Her hus-

That contact is huge when you’re sick,” McGoff adds.

Most insurances cover the cost of receiving COVID-19 infusion therapy. For patients who don’t have the ability to pay, The Wright Center offers a sliding fee scale. A patient who receives the therapy should wait 90 days after treatment before getting a COVID-19 vaccine, according to health experts. It took nearly five days after McGoff’s infusion before she finally was confident enough to tell herself, “Okay, I’m going to beat this.” She has since recovered and returned to work at The Wright Center. But as a result of her COVID scare, she and her husband decided to fully embrace their pandemic-era precautions. They cancelled two scheduled vacations and scrapped plans for social get-togethers. “We’re going back to our old protocol,” says McGoff. “We’re not going out. We’re just going to take it easy and stay safe.” For information about COVID-19 infusion therapy visit TheWrightCenter.org/covid-19/ or call 570-230-0019. H

ATHENA Award The ATHENA Award is an internationally recognized award presented to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her/his business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way and

be held this year on March 8, 2022 at Marywood University.

has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The award takes the form of a hand-cast bronze Athena sculpture symbolizing the strength, courage and wisdom of the recipient.

Past award recipients include:

Each year The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce honors the ATHENA Award recipient at its luncheon celebration of International Women’s Day, to

Liz Randol 2009

Applications open January 4 and close January 20 at 4 p.m. Applications will be posted at www.scrantonchamber.com H

Melinda Ghilardi, Esq. 2005 Rosemary Broderick 2006 Joanne Arduino 2007 Paula Mackarey 2008

Nada Gilmartin 2020 Marion Munley, Esq. 2021

Sponsored by: Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants

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January 2022

Get a degree LOCALLY that’s recognized GLOBALLY! 13 Bachelor Degrees Biology ~ Business Corporate Communication ~ English Human Dev. & Family Studies Information Sciences & Technology Letters, Arts and Sciences Mechanical Engineering ~ Nursing Project and Supply Chain Management Psychology (B.A. or B.S.) ~ Science

Four Associate Degrees Business Administration Human Dev. & Family Studies Information Sciences & Technology Letters, Arts & Sciences The 昀rst two years of 275+ Penn State degrees!

scranton.psu.edu 570-963-2500

January 2022

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STOMP The International Percussion Sensation Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple January 12 and 13, 2022

STOMP Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas © Steve McNicholas

rom its beginnings as a street performance in the UK, STOMP has grown into an international sensation over the past 20 years, having performed in more than 50 countries and in front of more than 24 million people.

Out Loud. The production also has noteworthy TV appearances, including: The London 2012 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony, The Academy Awards (produced by Quincy Jones), Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and a series of award-winning international commercials.

Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, STOMP continues its phenomenal run with four global productions: the ongoing sell-out production at New York's Orpheum Theatre, a permanent London company, and North American and European tours. Throughout its life, the show has continued to change by creating new material; this year it will incorporate two new pieces. It is safe to say you will never again look at supermarket carts or plumbing fixtures the same way, or paint cans, or kitchen sinks.

The performers “make a rhythm out of anything we can get our hands on that makes a sound,” says cofounder/director Luke Cresswell.

In addition to the stage shows, STOMP has been marked by rave reviews, numerous awards, an Academy Award nomination, four Emmy nominations and one Emmy Award for heir acclaimed HBO special Stomp 74

A unique combination of percussion, movement and visual comedy, STOMP has created its own inimitable, contemporary form of rhythmic expression: both household and industrial objects find new life as musical instruments in the hands of an idiosyncratic band of body percussionists. It is a journey through sound, a celebration of the everyday and a comic interplay of characters wordlessly communicating through dance and drum. Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra; eight Zippo lighters flip open and HappeningsPA.com

closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. STOMP uses everything but conventional percussion instruments dustbins, tea chests, radiator hoses, boots, hub caps - to fill the stage with a compelling and unique act that is often imitated but never duplicated. Critics and audiences have raved: “STOMP is as crisp and exuberant as if it had opened yesterday,” says The New York Times. The San Francisco Chronicle declares “STOMP has a beat that just won’t quit!” The Los Angeles Times exclaims: “Electrifying! Triumphs in the infinite variety of the human experience.” “A phenomenal show! Bashing, crashing, smashing, swishing, banging and kicking – a joyous invention!” says the Chicago Tribune. Tickets are available in person at the Scranton Cultural Center box office and online at BroadwayInScranton.com. For group (10+) rates and information call 570.342.7784. H

January 2022

Nearme Yoga

earme Yoga was created in 2014 by owner Chelsea Manganaro after moving home from California and not being able to find her yoga home. Much has changed since then including adding multiple locations, teacher trainings, a cafe in 2018 and a newly renovated store to create a business ecosystem. Chelsea also hosts a wellness event annually at Montage Mountain. She strives to have each client walk away feeling connected to the community and with an overall sense of wellbeing. Nearme Yoga is an all-inclusive wellness center offering services such as massage, reiki, cafe, meal prep service, acupuncture, wellness events, essential oils, spirit card readings, kids’ yoga, teacher training and of course many styles of yoga and fitness classes.

create an environment where inclusion, consistency and community take priority, one yoga class, one coffee cup and one Buddha Bowl at a time. Behind every small business there’s a real family, and Nearme Yoga & Cafe is no exception. Chelsea Manganaro always had passion for hospitality in her professional and personal life, and brought her ambitious vision to the local community with the first location of Nearme Yoga & Cafe in Moosic. While working at Montage Mountain in her early 20s, Chelsea looked around and saw so many people enjoying events, but noticed that the region lacked special events based on fitness and healthy living. This prompted her to create the NEPA Yoga Festival. The goal of the event is to bring together local business owners, yoga instructors

and participants looking to create better versions of themselves. The festival is for all ages and fitness levels and raises awareness of the local businesses that support wellness and healthy living. The event also invites vendors and artists to share their passions. Growth and Performance Nearme Yoga & Cafe prides itself on outstanding teachers, employees and a wide offering of classes, healthy food and life changing services. “Our goal is to make sure you feel better then when you first arrived. Our intentions are pure, our passion overflows and our brand allows yoga and our products to sell themselves. We plan to open another cafe near our other location in Peckville within the next year,” says Chelsea. Chelsea states that her overall goal for the business is “to be near everyone.” She plans to do

Community Contributions Nearme Yoga & Cafe strives to

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January 2022

this by franchising the business. “Nearme, Near Everyone” will then become the slogan and allow those who are passionate about yoga but do not necessarily have the business experience to have a wellstrategized plan to successfully open up a yoga studio or cafe. The Future “Nearme Yoga is a creation sparked by passion and community needs. It will continue to grow and morph into what is needed in each community. I

left my career with Lockheed Martin to pursue this vision 100%. I believe that in a world of ceaseless innovation, sometimes taking the most basic of human needs and providing it to the community can make the most fulfilling life. Healthy, affordable and attainable food mixed with mindfulness and keeping our bodies healthy allows so many people to make better versions of themselves. We have been able to change so many lives for the better. This spirals way beyond a yoga class.

Having the cafe and store has allowed people to experience the look and feel of the yoga studio without the hesitation of actually committing to a class. Many people began yoga because they were able to see the space beforehand. My goal was always to franchise, it really took COVID to shake up the business model and create what we call our ecosystem,” said Chelsea. H

Where Our Family Cares for Yours IOR LIVING FACILITY

BEST SEN

Supportive Living Memory Care Living 1300 Morgan Highway • 570-587-7709 thepinesatclarkssummit.com

The Leadership Lackawanna

Core Program Class of 2021-2022

eadership Lackawanna’s 10-month Core Program participants gain leadership, interpersonal and managerial skills, as well as an enhanced understanding of the issues relevant to the greater Scranton area, through monthly sessions. Areas of focus include community development, economic development, government, health care, law, education, quality of life, sustainability, history and media, with sessions featuring widely recognized specialists. Members of the class also devote a large portion of their time to developing and implementing community projects, hence enhancing their leadership abilities, fostering teamwork and benefiting local nonprofit organizations.

Pictured above: Front row (l to r): Marlea Tsakonas, Penn State Scranton; Rachel Rizzardi, Procter & Gamble; Skavi O. Ballinas, Procter & Gamble; Laurel Radzieski, Lackawanna College; Jessica C. Meoni, The Honesdale National Bank; Kaitlin R. Gardier, NBT Bank; Bridget Connor, FNCB Bank; Adrienne Mellott, Keystone College; Molly Baron, Marywood University; Erika Mills, Procter & Gamble; Mariam C. Garcia, Tobyhanna, Army Depot. Second row (l to r): Antella Brzenchek, Marywood University; Julian Beck, The Azek Company; Lauren Tomaino, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Talia Walsh, Quest Studio; Michael Cioffari, FNCB Bank; Ore Ajakaiye, Procter & Gamble; Kimberly A. Benjamin, Prudential; Adrienne Pierangeli Masters, Brian J. Cali and Associates; Christina Cannon, HappeningsPA.com

Penn Foster; Elizabeth Warrick, Benco Dental; Megan Cerco, Allied Services Hospice; William L. Sweeney, Penn East Federal Credit Union. Third row (l to r): Richard Rogalewicz, Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton; Michael Alexander Fedorisin, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Brandon Whipple, Greater Scranton YMCA; Tyler Day, NEPA Alliance; Jo Ann Durdan, Penn State Scranton; Ricardo Horn, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Jared T. Kukosky, The Azek Company. Missing from photo: Donna J. Kane, Fidelity Bank; Robert Jeffery McLaughlin, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Pamela Goodall, Webster Towers/HBS Management Company. H

January 2022

How would your life differ if you knew where to turn for help? Not sure where to begin? Give us a call and lets figure it out together. In a compassionate and confidential environment, we provide evidence-based, psychological and counseling services to individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents and adults. You can feel confident and comfortable moving forward with therapy at any of our 13 convenient locations in NEPA. We accept most insurance plans and a sliding scale is available to pay for your care.

570.961.3361 Offering tele-health and in-person services

drjohngkuna.com • 13 Locations in PA

January 2022

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Gerard

Maritato

Cagney

Philipp

Kovaleski

Marywood University Honors Outstanding Alumni arywood University recently announced alumni award winners. Due to the pandemic the 2020 and 2021 honorees were recognized together at an in-person awards luncheon on campus.

Distinguished Alumni Award The Distinguished Alumni Award is bestowed upon alumni who have achieved distinction through their professional accomplishments and contributions, embodying the core values of Marywood and demonstrating dedication to service and responsible leadership. Distinguished Alumni Awards were presented to: Cathy Gerard ’70, 2nd Lt. R. Michael Maritato ’11, M.S. ’14 and Muriel Scherr Cagney ’69

Alumni Achievement Award The Alumni Achievement Award is bestowed upon alumni who have attained outstanding success in their field, related to their major, which embodies the core values of Marywood and demonstrates dedication to service and responsible leadership. Alumni Achievement Awards were presented to: Mary Philipp ’80 and Jeffrey R. Kovaleski ’98

D’Achille

Kania

Recent Alumni Award for Professional Achievement

Michele Abbott McDade ’70 and Patricia A. Lawler ’71

The Recent Alumni Award for Professional Achievement is given to alumni, within 15 years of graduation, who have demonstrated significant professional achievements and responsible leadership, embodying the core values of Marywood.

Sister M. Denis Donegan Award for Long Term Service to Marywood

Recent Alumni Awards for Professional Achievement were presented to: Diana D’Achille ’14 and Stanley J. Kania III ’11, M.B.A. ’14, Ph.D. ’19

Golden Marywooodian Award The Marywood Alumni Association bestows the Golden Marywoodian Award upon a member of the 50th honor year class, who has demonstrated a commitment to community and civic service. Recipients have distinguished themselves in their career and/or professional field with a record of making a difference in the lives of others, demonstrating engagement through volunteerism as well as setting a standard for lifelong excellence, embodying the core values of Marywood, including Respect, Service, Empowerment, Catholic Identity and Excellence. Golden Marywoodian Awards were presented to:

McDade

The most prestigious award given by the Marywood Alumni Association, The Sister M. Denis Donegan Award for Long Term Service to Marywood, is bestowed on a graduate who has provided a minimum of 25 years of service to Marywood and who, through personal and professional contributions, has visibly embodied Marywood’s mission by using their Marywood education in ways that demonstrate the University’s call to live responsibly in a diverse and interdependent world. The actions and contributions of each recipient support Marywood’s core values of Catholic Identity, Empowerment, Service, Respect, and Excellence. The Sister M. Denis Donegan Award was presented to: Ann Boland-Chase ’79 More details about current and past award winners and their many accomplishments can be found at marywood.edu/connect/awards/. H

Lawler

Boland-Chase

Barbara Sowinski Supports Marywood University with Major Leadership Gift arbara Sowinski, a Northeastern Pennsylvania native, a longtime resident of the Towanda area and a Marywood graduate, has made a substantial leadership gift to Marywood University to support and enhance the Liberal Arts Center. The million dollar contribution, which will establish the Barbara Sowinski Welcome Center, located in the Admissions area of the rotunda in the Liberal Arts Center, will support needed physical renovations and enhancements to the nearly 100-year old campus facility.

Built from 1922-1923 and dedicated in 1924, the Liberal Arts Center is one of Marywood’s most iconic structures, featuring a Rotunda that is 72 feet in diameter, just eight feet smaller in size than its nearest domed competitor, the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. In the 1930s, the interior walls and dome of the Rotunda were formally decorated with murals painted by commissioned artist Gonippo Raggi. This magnificent space, with its aesthetic and historical significance, was a driving force behind Sowinski’s gift, appealing to her deep desire to leave a beautiful family legacy in Northeastern Pennsylvania. As an honor student at Scott High 82

School, Montdale, Sowinski wanted to be a concert pianist. Not having the funds to study at Marywood at that time in her life, she instead worked in a series of jobs in various cities before joining United Air Lines Sowinski is pictu in Chicago and travelling the red at right wi world. After studying drama at Mary Persico, IHM, Marywood Prth Sister esident, at the University ’s recent Preside Northwestern University, she ntial Society Dinner. pursued an acting career in Manhattan, where she studied ed regionally and nationally, under some of the best profespainted on location globally, and sionals of the time. Following her was a museum docent, workshop recovery from a serious illness, instructor and juror. Sowinski’s she earned her Bachelor of Arts passion for art accelerated at degree in psychology from Marywood, where she earned a Hunter College. Sowinski then Master of Arts degree in art in worked as a sales representative 2000. She noted, “Art has been to banks in a six-state Midwest such a satisfying part of my life, territory, as a sales representative and it’s been a wonderful life.” to hospitals in a New York State Sowinski’s love for beauty and territory and also in a California/ art, combined with her desire to Nevada territory. During these remember her roots and celeyears, she continued classes at brate her lifelong journey is colleges along the way and travreflected in her substantial leadereled abroad, always viewing learning as a lifelong experience. ship gift to Marywood University. She has fond memories of her Following her retirement from early Dickson City days with the business, Sowinski was ready to Witko/Sowinski families, her stucapture the creative spirit that dent days at Marywood after had lurked within her all those retirement, and, most of all, her years, diving into the art scene satisfaction of witnessing the with enthusiasm, in addition to progress Marywood has made buying a 65-acre farm in during her lifetime. Sowinski’s gift Bradford County to begin will have a lasting impact, benefit“phase two” of her life. ting Marywood University now and for future generations. H She attended art schools, exhibitHappeningsPA.com

January 2022

Marywood University Presidential Society Dinner Honors Alumni Benefactors

t its recent Presidential Society Dinner, Marywood University honored Barbara Cawley ’63 and Mary Ellen Coleman ’68 with the Presidential Mission Medal. Presidential medal recipients are servant leaders who embrace a commitment to Marywood's core values of Catholic identity, respect, empowerment, service and excellence. They inspire others to serve and advance Marywood’s commitment to excellence and empowerment through education.

Additionally, Barbara Sowinski, M.A. ’00; the late Ann Marie Janders, M.S.L.S. ’68; and The Donald B. and Dorothy L. Stabler Foundation were inducted into the Saint Alphonsus Society, which honors benefactors whose lifetime commitments to Marywood have reached or exceeded $500,000. Cawley’s leadership, devotion, talents and support have made a lasting impact at Marywood. She was taught, mentored, supported, guided and counseled by the IHM Sisters in Catholic grade school and high school, as well as throughout her college days and professional opportunities at Marywood. Her career has featured high-profile leadership positions in both corporate and educational settings, including her distinctive service at Marywood, first as Director of Development, then as Vice President of Development, Alumni Relations, and Public Relations, and, more recently, as Alumni Engagement and Development Liaison and Advocacy Committee January 2022

Liaison to corporate, foundation, and government offices. Her accomplishments are not solely in the professional milieu; Cawley’s community involvement is prolific, meaningful and lifelong, encompassing numerous civic, cultural and charitable organizations and events. Coleman has contributed her professional expertise, community influence and generous personal resources in support of Marywood and its mission. Her considerable professional achievements, including a long, successful career in the out-ofhome media industry, are framed by her highly effective leadership in numerous charitable, civic and professional organizations. She is known for being astute, professional, caring and dependable, meeting life’s challenges and uncertainties without hesitation and with a riveting passion for helping others. Her passionate involvement with Marywood spans several decades, including HappeningsPA.com

serving for nine years as Director of Development, another nine years as a member of the Board of Trustees and, presently, more than ten years as an Advancement and Alumni Engagement Consultant. Presidential Mission Medal recipients inspire others to serve and advance the University’s commitment to excellence and empowerment through education. Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., Marywood University President, said, “These women have humbly, wholeheartedly and graciously lived the Marywood mission and, in so doing, have helped transform Marywood. Commitment to helping others is at the very core of their existence. On behalf of the campus community, I thank Barbara and Mary Ellen for their unwavering advocacy for the present and future success of this great institution.” H 83

No Moss Under Her Feet Kathy Goeringer

athy Goeringer was recently inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. For over 40 years, she has been a high school basketball official with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA).

Born and raised in Dallas, PA, Kathy and her family lived on a farm on Lake Louse Road in the village of Orange. During her childhood in the late 1960s, her father coached her brother’s little league baseball team. Kathy accompanied them to practice but couldn't play herself since it was only for boys at the time. When she and her family moved to Tunkhannock in 1972, a girls' basketball team was forming during her freshman year of high school. Kathy recalls playing only during the fall because the boys played in the winter. Kathy was a center and a forward for the basketball team. She also played volleyball, in which her best position was a hitter. She was a starting member of the 1975 Tunkhannock High School District Championship basketball and volleyball teams. During her junior year, she set the Tunkhannock high school single game basketball record of 26 rebounds at a game against Mountain View High School in Kingsley. The year after (1976), she set a single game basketball record of 39 points at an exhibition game against the former Central Catholic High School (now Bishop O'Reilly High School) in Wilkes Barre. During her sophomore year, Kathy was on the original girls' track and field team at her high school. Her team went three years undefeated in the district championship. She took up shot putting. "I was fortunate enough to win three consecutive individual district titles in the shot put," she said. Kathy competed in the Amateur 84

Athletic Union (AAU) Track and Field Championships in the summer before she was a senior. She won local- and state-level competitions. She quit volleyball in her senior year, which was her only regret of her sports life, in order to focus more on track and field. What she enjoyed most about playing sports in high school was being with her teammates, going to games and having a good time. "It was just a rewarding experience," she said. "To this day, some of my high school classmates are

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January 2022

my best friends." Kathy's first experience as an official was when she was a volunteer umpire for the girls' softball league. After her high school graduation in 1976, Kathy attended Slippery Rock State College, where she played two years of basketball. She made it to the college's traveling team, competing in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW). Her team also played intramural softball. Her team won the championship. Kathy enjoyed writing articles and taking photos. This led to her becoming the sports editor of Slippery Rock's newspaper. She was the first woman to have this position and even received a scholarship because of it. She covered 22 intercollegiate sports for both men's and women's teams. She also promoted intramural programs. Her introduction to golf was when she joined the women's golf league in college. For two summers, Kathy coached the college's little league softball team. She received an undergraduate degree in communications and a master's in English. She returned to Tunkhannock and became a softball coach for the women's team at Luzerne County Community College. Kathy began her career officiating high school and college basketball games with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). She remembers when smaller schools such as Slippery Rock and Immaculata College would compete with Division 1 colleges and universities because there were no divisions. Most of the games she officiated were in the Wyoming Valley Conference. She became a four-time PIAA January 2022

State Girls' Basketball Championship Official in 1987, 1994, 2000 and 2009. Three of the state finals were at the former Hershey Arena (now Giant Center) and one was at the Bryce Jordan Center at Penn State University's campus in State College. "That in itself was a huge honor," she said. "That's the pinnacle. That's the top of high school officiating, to be able to say you did the state final. But you are only as good as the people around you and I had some great people around me." Kathy is now an avid golfer. For ten years, she ran the Shadowbrook Invitational. She has been a representative to the Northeastern Women's Golf Association (NEWGA) for several years and was a member of the Huntsville Golf Club for nine years. For the past three years, she has been a member of the Wyoming Valley Club in Wilkes Barre. In 2013, Kathy stopped officiating college games, although she still does high school games HappeningsPA.com

today. In some cases, she has officiated daughters of former teammates and, in one case, a granddaughter of a former teammate. Two years ago, she retired as director of printing and publications at Luzerne County Community College, a job she held for 37 years. Today, she stays active tending to her vegetable garden, volunteering at Lemon United Methodist Church and maintaining the property of her dairy farm. She mentioned that there is "no moss growing under her feet." Kathy was amazed when she received the phone call informing her that she was going to be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. "I'm ecstatic," she said. "I'm still in awe just to think that me, a little country girl, is in the Hall of Fame with professional athletes and Olympians. It's quite an honor." H – Ben Freda

AWARD WINNING FINE ART NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES RUANE

All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. J.R.R. Tolkien 1892-1973

February August2022 2016 2020 January 86

HappeningsPA.com HappeningsPA.com jamesruane@mac.com HappeningsPA.com

73 8775 January 2022

Janice Bevacqua • PS Bank Community Relationships are Key in the Abingtons

or Janice Bevacqua, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of PS Bank’s Clarks Summit office, community involvement is in her DNA. As a dedicated board member of the Abington Business Professionals Association and the Abington Rotary, Bevacqua knows that being involved in community events and serving the community’s banking needs go hand-inhand. With over 35 years of banking under her belt, Bevacqua joined the PS Bank team in 2016 when the Clarks Summit office opened in the Summit Square Plaza. She was the right person for the job as PS Bank began to make its footprint in a new market in Lackawanna County. Bevacqua became a community banker as she earned money to pay her way through college and fell in love with helping people meet their financial needs. She said “what began as a short-term stay became a life-long career.” From serving customers at the Liberty Bank in Carbondale to her role at PS Bank today, community ties have been the glue that keeps Bevacqua’s banking relationships strong. Her favorite part of volunteering or organizing community events such as the ABPA’s Ice Festival, Rotary annual fireworks, food pantry collections and more is work-

through each step of the process.”

ing alongside the club members and residents, sharing insights, and fostering the growth of the Abingtons. Being involved is also important when it comes to cultivating business relationships. Each element of participation in local happenings drives conversation toward how PS Bank can help fulfill a business’ needs. She said that with so many banking options in a concentrated area, it is quite humbling when her connections lead to a business entrusting her with their account. “When a business in town decides to begin banking with PS Bank it is an honor, and we work hard to help them

You can frequently find Bevacqua visiting or shopping at neighbor businesses along State Street in Clarks Summit. “Our community is what allows us to thrive, so helping our community thrive is vitally important. Supporting and volunteering at local events and shopping local is our way of saying thank you for being our customers, along with an opportunity to help our community grow together,” she said. Bevacqua is a native of Carbondale who resides in Lenoxville with her husband Mark. They have two children, Mark and Jeffrey. H

Who is the cutest of them all?

Aristotle Aristotle is a love bug who enjoys shopping trips, the Carter family says. He loves chicken and attention from his family.

Juju Juju loves her walks, snuggling by the fire, treats, sunshine, watching softball games and doing just about anything with his people, the Kaszuba family!

Tucker Playful, smart and gentle with other dogs, Tucker loves to chew on his elf antlers, play fetch and snuggle with mommy and daddy, the Kovalchik family says.

Sonny and Cher Sonny loves exploring everything she can get into and Cher loves to sunbathe and swim, the Namiotka-Diehl family says.

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Misty A cuddly girl with a love for doggy hats, car rides and walks at Lazybrook Park, the Butchie family says that Misty is quite the soccer and lacrosse mascot.

Oliver The Seward family says that Oliver loves cheese, pizza crust and barking at the UPS guy and the neighbor’s dogs.

January 2022

in... s arteof the e t o v The r’s Pe

Vote for your favorite January pet at www.HappeningsMagazinePA.com! The winner receives a Happenings bandana!

be Decem onth is Sid ! M ions atulat Congr

Luna If given the chance, Luna would play fetch with new people who come to visit her people 24/7, says the Fahnestock family.

Faron Faron is a sweet, smart rescue pooch who is half miniature schnauzer and a quarter border collie! The D'Ulisse family says he never sits still and loves to frisbee and fetch his 'floatie' in the lake.

January 2022

Baby Baby loves her treats and likes to get cozy with her family, the Lombard family say.

Maggie & Bella Maggie loves to do the zoomies around the yard and play with her toys while her big sister, Bella, loves to chase squirrels and play fetch. The Taramelli family says the duo loves riding in their truck.

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Deuce A gentle giant who loves to cuddle with his human baby brother, Deuce greets everyone with hugs and kisses and enjoys the sunshine, says the Oatis family.

Pepper Well-mannered and curious, the Albertson family says Pepper loses her mind with excitement when she goes to the park or rides in the car.

Beef Barley Vegetable Soup Ingredients: ½ lb. lean ground beef ½ cup chopped onions 1 clove garlic, minced 5 cups water** 1 (14 ½ oz.) can of unsalted whole tomatoes, undrained, cut into pieces ¾ cup barley ½ cup sliced celery ½ cup sliced carrots 2 beef bouillon cubes ** ½ tsp dried basil, crushed (I use fresh or frozen basil)

DIRECTIONS Cook barley in boiling water (little salt added for flavor). Set aside. In saucepan or Dutch oven, cook onion and garlic until transparent. Add ground beef, cook until brown. Drain. Add water, beef bouillon, tomatoes, celery, carrots, basil and bay leaf. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer for 10-15 minutes (when vegetables are tender) stirring occasionally. Add frozen vegetable mixture and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Add barley and enjoy. *** In place of water and bouillon cubes, I use College Inn or Swanson beef broth. If soup thickens after adding barley, add more beef broth or water if using bouillon cubes.

Buon Appetito!

1 bay leaf

Compliments of JoAnn Marianelli Finnerty Bella Faccias

1 (9 oz) pkg frozen mixed vegetables

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January 2022

BLOODY J

anuary 1 is National Bloody Mary Day. Bloody Marys are a popular cocktail that can be prepared in a variety of ways, primarily with tomato juice and vodka. Try these 3 Kinds of Bloody Mary's at Barley Creek

MARY DAY

Original - Bloody Mix (house recipe) - Vodka: Barley Creek 11:01

“You say tomāto, I say tomăto...”

Smoked - Bloody Mix (house recipe smoked with applewood) - Vodka: Barley Creek 11:01 Bacon - Bloody Mix (house recipe - cajun spice) Crispy Bacon Slice - Vodka: Barley Creek Bacon Vodka! Enjoy Cooper’s Seafood’s Crabby Bloody Mary. A full fried soft-shell crab on top of our famous antipasto Bloody Mary. It’s an appetizer and a drink all in one!

The history of the Bloody Mary drink is contested, with many people claiming to have invented it. It was invented in the 1920s, either in Paris or New York and was popular with American socialites traveling abroad to France. January January 2022 2022

HappeningsPA.com HappeningsPA.com

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Believe You Can and You’re Halfway There!

new year brings new beginnings and new hope. We look for ways to better ourselves in body, mind and spirit. We set New Year resolutions which often include losing weight, eating healthier and exercising more. Gyms and fitness classes are typically packed at least for the first couple weeks of January. By the end of the month, the novelty wears off and many find excuses to drift away from the plan that sounded good at the beginning of January. We tend to set high goals and reach for the stars. I will always encourage big ambitions! Keep in mind, reaching goals doesn’t happen overnight. We set ourselves up for failure when we set unrealistic goals. It has been said that it takes 21 days to form a habit. So give yourself the first three weeks to get your 92

goal on track and it will get easier to stick to it for the long haul. If your goal is weight loss, plan on 1.5-2 pounds a week. This is a realistic, safe way to lose weight. You are more likely to keep weight off when you set realistic goals. Chances are that it took you a few months or even years to gain your extra weight so give it time to come off. Choose a plan that will work for you and be prepared with groceries and meals. If your goal is to start exercising or to increase exercise, pick three to four days and put a workout schedule on your calendar. Determine if you are a morning person or if you prefer to workout after work. Ask a friend to walk with you or to join you for a fitness class. Work with a trainer to develop a plan and hold yourself accountable. You are less likely to skip exercise if you treat it as an HappeningsPA.com

appointment on your calendar. If your goal is to clear your head and reduce stress, start by going for walks outside on your lunch or after work even if it is for 15 minutes. Exercise and eat right. This will make you feel better overall. Try a group meditation class or use a meditation app; begin with baby steps. Meditation can help you “let go” of stressors at least for a bit. Even five minutes of meditating can reset your mind. Whatever your goal is, big or small, You Got This! H –Jackie Kerekes Jackie Kerekes is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and a NASM Fitness Nutrition Specialist. She trains one-on-one clients and does small group training. She has taught a variety of classes including kickboxing, fat burn pilates, spin, barre, strength training, Bosu bootcamps, TRX, and POUND. Additionally, she designed a class named F.I.T. Factor(Functional Interval Training).

January 2022

Chicken Cacciatore Low cal, low carb, low fat, high protein 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 2-3 peppers (red, orange, yellow) cut into strips 1 small vidalia onion, cut into slices 1 package sliced Portobello mushrooms 1 can of large black olives (optional)

Italian Wedding Soup 1 lb ground turkey or 93% ground beef ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs 1 egg 2 tbsp parmesan cheese 1 bag of fresh baby spinach 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced ½ lb orzo, cooked 64-80 ounces of chicken broth (box or homemade) Combine ground turkey or beef with bread crumbs, egg and cheese. Roll into small meatballs. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Add to broth in a soup pot. Add cut up carrots for 45-60 minutes on low. Add spinach, put lid on and turn heat off. Spinach will steam. Put orzo in each soup bowl and ladle soup over orzo.

2-3 cups of Marinara sauce (jar is fine but I prefer homemade) Over medium heat, put a tbsp of olive oil in large skillet and add chicken pieces. Cook til no longer pink and drain any excess liquid. Add all veggies and cover to steam for about 10-15 minutes and reduce heat. Pour in sauce and simmer for about 20 minutes on low. Sprinkle with small amount of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve over 1 cup of zucchini or sweet potato noodles or 1/2 cup cooked pasta.

PERSONAL TRAINING SEMI PRIVATE TRAINING SMALL GROUP TRAINING NUTRITION COACHING GUIDED MEDITATION

Jackie Kerekes, Owner NASM CPT, NASM FNS 513 S. State St., Village Square Clarks Summit, PA trainingattheloft.com 570-332-8519

Barley Creek, Beer Cheese Soup Our beer cheese soup it's melty, creamy blend of cheddar jack and melted cheeses, the holy trinity of vegetables which are celery, carrots and onions. A lovely helping of our house made antler brown ale. And slow cooked to perfection.

Most residents of the region think of Coney Island Lunch on Lackawanna Avenue in Scranton for their famous Texas weiners. However, their chicken and rice soup is also quite popular among fans. Pete Ventura said he uses only chicken breast and that’s why clients rave about it not being at all greasy. His mother, Barbara, always made this soup because it was quick and easy. She would boil the chicken breast for the broth and use minute rice. The broth would be stored in a kettle, ready to make a quick daily pot of the soul-warming soup.

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January 2022

Cooper’s Seafood, Crab Bisque Cooper's Bisque of Maryland Crab Soup started back in the 1960’s. It was a soup that we made and sold every Friday, as our business grew, people began asking for the soup as a regular feature. In the late 1970's we were approached by Bon Appetit Magazine, they wanted to do a feature on our soup. It was published in their magazine and later in their hardcover book....COOKING WITH BON APPETIT- SOUPS AND SALADS. Most recently our bisque was featured in ”TASTING PENNSYLVANIA” Favorite Recipes from the Keystone State.

Our catering department has catered to the President of the USA

January 2022

HappeningsPA.com

Easy Minestrone Soup

Ingredients:

1 small onion, about ⅓ cup, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup medium carrot, chopped 1 cup celery stalk, chopped 2 teaspoons dried basil 1 teaspoon dried oregano ¾ teaspoon dried thyme 32 oz can diced tomatoes 3 tablespoons tomato paste 1 bay leaf 32 oz low sodium vegetable broth ⅔ cup medium zucchini, halved ¼ cup red kidney beans, drained and rinsed ¼ cup cannellini beans drained and rinsed Water - add only enough to cover vegetables ¼ cup dried small shell pasta 1 cup fresh baby spinach chopped

Instructions:

In a large heavy bottomed pot or dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots and celery and saute for about 4 minutes, or until vegetables are slightly softened. Add basil, oregano and thyme and cook for an additional minute. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, vegetable broth and both of the beans. Depending on pot size, add just enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and allow to simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir in the dried pasta shells and zucchini and cook for another 10 minutes, or until pasta is cooked. Stir in the spinach and allow to wilt (about 1-2 minutes). Add more water as needed if you like a thinner soup. Season with more salt and pepper as needed and stir in balsamic vinegar. Serve warm with bread and top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley if desired.

½ - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar Shredded or grated Parmesan cheese Fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Compliments Jackie Kerekes The Training Loft

Dining around the Region Note! All hours are subject to change without notice. Call ahead, consult website and Facebook pages of each individual restaurant for updated information.

The Inn at Starlight Lake

Savory Maza

Discover one of Wayne County’s hidden gems. Baked goods made onsite. See website for hours. http://innatstarlightlake.com/restaurant 570-798-2519.

Abbiocco

Mendicino’s Pizza and Family Restaurant

Shish barak special on Wednesdays this season! Indulge in fresh, homemade vegetarian and meat meals, plus daily specials. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. and Sat.11 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 N. Main St., Scranton. savorymaza.com 570-969-2666.

Try our signature dishes, such as Chicken Abbiocco, manicotti or blackened salmon. BYOB. Text Abbiocco to 51660 to receive our texts every Wednesday or see weekly specials. Tues-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 639 N. Blvd., Clarks Summit. www.abbiocco.net 570-319-9633.

Apple Valley Restaurant Casual dining with ribs, smoked beef brisket, wings, burgers, specialty salads, wraps and more. Open 11:30 a.m. Lunch and dinner. Closed Tuesdays. Check website: www.applevalley-restaurant.com. 104 Route 6, Milford. 570-296-6831.

Coney Island Lunch Try our Texas Wiener with mustard, onions and chili sauce! Tues.-Sun.11 a.m.-3 p.m. 515 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton. www.Texas-wiener.com. Delivery by DoorDash! 570-961-9004.

Pizza, pasta, hoagies and more! Daily lunch and dinner specials. Full menu, dine in, take out and curbside available. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m-8 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed Sundays. Located in the ShopRite Complex, Covington Twp. www.mendicinospizza.com 570-842-2070.

Barley Creek Brewing Company, Inc.

Pettinato’s Restaurant

Barley Creek Tasting Room and Pub at the Crossings

Try our grilled salmon in Asian sauce. Take out and delivery. Mon.-Sat. 4-8 p.m., Sun. 4-7 p.m. 78 Dundaff St., Carbondale. 570-282-5860.

Sibio’s Restaurant Our fettuccine Alfredo is a customer favorite! Lunch and dinner regular hours, full menu with specials. 1240 Quincy Ave., Dunmore. Sibiosrestaurant.com 570-346-3172.

Try our beer cheese soup, with Antler Brown Ale. Lunch and dinner: Sun.-Thur. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m-10:30 p.m. Breakfast: Fri.-Mon. 8 a.m.-11 a.m. 1774 Sullivan Trail, Tannersville. www.barleycreek.com. 570-629-9399.

Grab a bite to eat and taste our PA craft brews, spirits, wines and cocktails.MonThur 11a.m.- 7p.m. Fri-Sat 11a.m.8 p.m., Sun 12 p.m.-6 p.m.

Stirna’s Our Stirnaburger is full 1/4 lb. top choice ground beef with tomato, bacon and American or Swiss on a semi-hard roll. Wed.-Sat. 4 p.m.-9 p.m. 120 W. Market St. Scranton. On/off premise catering daily. 570-961-9681. H

Milk Chocolate • Dark Chocolate White Chocolate • Chocolate Truffles

Blissful, Decadent, Romantic Chocolate Covered Strawberries, 23K Dipped Chocolate Roses, Gourmet Chocolate Caramel Apples, Chocolate Gift Boxes, Gift Baskets, DaBomb Cocoa Balls and More...

512 S Main Street Old Forge, PA • bellafaccias.com • 570-343-8777

John Mackarey, LUTCF, RICP Agent, New York Life Insurance Company Registered Representative oﬀering securities through NYLIFESecurities LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC),A Licensed Insurance Agency.

220 Penn Avenue, Suite 100 Scranton, PA 18503 Phone: 570-340-1320 Email: John@JohnMackarey.com

January 2022 Happenings Magazine

Articles inside

Baby Meets World

Nice Day for a White Wedding