July 2024 Happenings Magazine

FOR

FABULOUS CELEBRATIONS

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Dear Happenings,

Thank you Happenings Magazine for the feature in this month's issue! Grateful to be nominated by Shawna Beth as a NEPA Rising Star! Beyond thankful for the amazing people and experiences who helped me get where I am today.

–Kelley Laird

–Fidelity Bank, via Facebook

Publisher Art Director

Associate Art Director

Dear Happenings,

Fidelity Bank proudly shares that our very own Kelley Laird has been recognized in this month’s issue of Happenings Magazine!

Kelley's impact goes beyond the bank; she's deeply involved in numerous community projects and programs, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills and commitment to excellence.

Please join us in congratulating Kelley Laird, for being named as a Happenings Rising Star!

–Fidelity Bank

–via Facebook

Dear Happenings,

Congratulations to our Grants and Scholarships Manager, Frank Caputo, who was recognized by Happenings Magazine as a Rising Star!

Frank continually provides an exceptional level of service to our stakeholders and is an asset to our team.

You can read all about our Rising Star in the June issue of Happenings Magazine

–Scranton Area Foundation –via Facebook

Dear Happenings,

Wow!!! I am beyond proud! Kudos on the outstanding piece, Meet Christian Ragnacci, June 2024 — to the designer; the writer; the photographer and most of all, to my handsome, intelligent and articulate nephew and godchild for being such a worthy subject.

–Teri Lyon –South Abington Twp.

Dear Happenings,

I was honored to be your June cover photographer, that focused on our environment with Christian Ragnacci. Christian is a Clarks Summit native, and Abington Heights High School graduate, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geoscience from Bucknell University in May 2024. We have to know our heroes.

–Mira Spott –via Instagram

Director of Social Media Contributors

Intern

Paula Rochon Mackarey

Lisa Kalaha Ragnacci

Peter Salerno

Mary Joyce

Christine Fanning

Ben Freda

Alyssa Shonk

Account Representative

Linette Manley l_manley@happeningsmagazinepa.com (570) 878-5009

On the Cover: Living and loving the lake life and summertime in Northeast PA!

Published Monthly. Also read at HappeningsPA.com ©2024 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

Art, Patriotic Mini Camp, 7/1-3

Spirited Art, Farm to EaselHerbs 7/8-12

Spirited Art, S.T.E.M. - Insects, Mixed Media, Amazon Adventure,

French Azilum, Vino & Van Gogh

Susquehanna Hometown Days, 7/ 18-20

Troy Fair, 7/22-27

Spirited Art July 7/22-26 Go for the Gold: Summer Olympics

Lackawanna Historical Society presents movies at the Circle Drive In, Celebrate Christmas in July with a screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

Visit Potter-Tioga, Endless Mountains Music Festival, 7/19-8/4

Family Fun Day

St Paul's Hawley Summer Concert, Kartune Rock Band

Eagles Mere Antique Market

French Azilum, Community/ Descendents’ Day

St Paul's Hawley Summer Concert, Classical: Flute & Piano

St Paul's Hawley Summer Concert, The Original Mixed Co. Acapella

St Paul's Hawley Summer Concert, The Gypsy Jazz Band

Spirited Art, 7/29-8/2

S.T.E.M. - Oceans

Bethel Woods Center For the Arts:

July 5, Alanis Morissette

July 6, Willie Nelson & Family Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss & Celisse

July 11, Luke Bryan

July 12, Jason Mraz

July 14, Kidz Bop

July 18, Santana

July 19, Impractical Jokers

July 20, Daryl Hall + Elvis Costello & The Imposters

July 21, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

July 24, Train & REO Speedwagon

July 25, Hank Williams Jr.

July 26, Loserville with Limpbizkit & Bones

July 27, Hozier

Good oral health:

• Reduced risk for Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s Disease

• Leads to greater quality of life

• Optimizes your chance of living the longest healthiest life you can Visit our website to learn more!

Dear Readers,

The phrase Water, water, every where, Nor any drop to drink from “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” is the longest poem by English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, written in 1797–98.

While I admittedly know little about the poem I certainly know the familiar phrase, and it has perplexed me. As a lover of being on, beside or in the water, drinking water for my health’s sake is not a task that I address with the same amount of enthusiasm. I love being surrounded by water—water, everywhere, and I have learned that I should be drinking half of my body weight in water. I admit that if the water would simply turn into wine it would make the consumption a bit easier.

As a child I learned in Sunday School about the man in hell who pleaded, ‘have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue.’ Similarly, after giving birth via c-section, I begged for ice chips and dreamed of placing a straw into a freezing cold mountain stream and drinking water until my heart’s content. It is these

experiences that contribute to my thankfulness, appreciation and respect for how our earth and our bodies were formed. Our human bodies are, on average, 60 percent water and our earth is said to be covered by nearly 71 percent water.

Dehydration, certainly a concern in the summer, must be carefully monitored as well as water retention, which is not good for our bodies, a sea vessel or our basements! That perfect balance, between flooding and droughts, is certainly upon which sustained life depends.

I believe you may feel refreshed after reading our July Lake Life issue. Be sure to share your favorite summer scenes with us by emailing info@happeningsPA.com

May your July be filled with ruby red sunshine, celebrations of freedom and all things that end well.

With Love, Paula

Paula Mackarey Publisher, 1994-Present

Following the

Scranton Prep Grad USMMA Bound

Jayna McIntyre, a recent graduate of Scranton Preparatory School, is preparing for the upcoming challenge of attending the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) while playing both basketball and lacrosse.

Jayna is the first female from Scranton Prep to receive an appointment and attend the academy.

USMMA is the perfect combination of following her aspirations

Sea

to be a part of the military, commanding a boat and playing the sports she loves.

Jayna’s grandfathers, Robert Kerrigan Jr., who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and Gary McIntyre, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War, were major influences in her decision to serve her country when

she became of age. Jayna looked up to both grandfathers due to their respectful

mannerisms, such as taking off one’s hat when entering a building or being punctual, which they attributed to the discipline needed in the Armed Forces.

These mannerisms are the first of many reasons that influenced Jayna to join the Armed Forces.

“He took so much pride in serving his country and

Robert Michael Kerrigan, Jr.

Gary McIntyre

his community, and I was always in awe of that and the way he spoke of his life’s work to protect and serve,” Jayna explained.

This military background greatly affected her life. However, she still allowed her passions, such as her love for the water, to help guide her path to the USMMA.

When Jayna was 12 years old, she first drove a boat and immediately fell in love with being in control of the boat on the water. “Something was already drawing me to life on the water. I just followed my instinct and did it.”

Later that night, Jayna took it upon herself to research how to get her boating license in Pennsylvania. She studied the laws for navigat-

ing a vessel on the water and the boat safety rules, and passed the test on her first try. Her parents learned of Jayna’s endeavors when she asked for money for the paperwork fees and further supported her passions by buying a boat the following spring.

“I knew then that boating was a part of me in some inexplicable way,” Jayna said. “My story came to fruition four years later when the opportunity of a lifetime arose and I became a recruited athlete for basketball and lacrosse at USMMA. It was as if all the pieces of my puzzle, my life’s story, were coming together.”

USMMA will allow Jayna to explore her two passions during the next four years. The waterfront college really drew Jayna, along with the classes offered that explain

life at sea as a midshipman, such as firefighting, navigation law and sea survival. These classes will prepare Jayna for the year at sea where she will be responsible for navigating a ship to a minimum

of 16 different ports in multiple foreign countries and the safety of the vessel and the crew.

In early July, Jayna will report to the academy to begin her three–week indoctrination period to prepare to become a Navy Midshipman. Afterward, she will immediately begin her first trimester at USMMA. She will be sworn in as a Navy Midshipman in early September.

“I look forward to the definite hard road ahead with nothing but gratefulness for the opportunity, and pride to serve my country, just as my beloved grandfathers did.” H –Alyssa Shonk

Keen Lake Camping & Cottages Resort celebrates 70 years

A group of campers enjoys the cooling off in Keen Lake on a warm summer day... a short float away from the beach area at the resort.

This season, Keen Lake Camping & Cottages Resort is celebrating its 70th year of hosting family memories in Waymart. With a passion for providing an incredible camping experience on their private 90-acre lake, the Keen family has a rich local history that includes eight generations of family involvement and two generations of operating as a premier camping destination in the Pocono Mountains.

and today, three of their seven daughters maintain the core operations of the resort: Jennifer Wertz, JimAnn Petroski and Janet Keen. Together, they ’have continued in their parents’ footsteps of creating a welcoming atmosphere of relaxation, reconnection and gathering as family at Keen Lake.

Generations of Keens have called the lake home since 1815. In the mid-1800s, the canoe-shaped lake took on a different form with the construction of its famous dam and trestle to support the passage of the new steam engines, changing it into the butterfly shape it maintains today and forming the iconic ‘Hermit Island’ in the lake’s center. There are many similar touchstones to local history all over the property, such as The

Circa 1911, Nora Keen and friends enjoy a day of boating under one of the trestles at Keen Lake. Built by Irish immigrants to support the steam locomotives that trans- ported coal from the Lackawanna Valley to Honesdale, the trestles bookend the east side of the lake.

Schoolhouse vacation rental, which originally served as a schoolhouse for the local area in the mid-19th century, and the Pre-Civil War Barn rental, which was built as a blacksmith shop around the same time. (The barn still has its original beams, and you can even see where horses used to nuzzle at the woodwork on the interior of the build ing!)

Much like the lake itself, the Keen family is part of the story of Waymart through years of service to local boards, committees and county functions. Even today, the sisters remain active in local and extra-local business and marketing endeavors for the region.

Jennifer credits a great deal of the resort’s success to the community she’s been a part of her whole life. “Waymart and Wayne County are my home,” she says. “We succeed together, and we are invested in lifting each other up. What we have here is special and it’s been such a joy to share it both with our friends and neighbors and with the folks who travel from hours away to what we were able to experience growing up. Camping is good for the soul, and so is being part of a place that welcomes you like family no matter where you come from.”

You’ll hear no disagreement from JimAnn. “Everything we do here is about family,” she says with pride. “We have people working with us whose parents were employees too. Two of our summer employees are girls whose mom worked for us in the 90s, and we have a brother and sister who have been a part of our team for six years. Our own family has certainly been a part of our journey. Our sisters—Judith, Jane, Joyce and Jeanne—although not owners, have jumped in to help whenever we have asked. Our daughters and sons have also been part of the team and our grandson/nephew Teddy has joined the activity team. All of these wonderful souls have contributed to our success.”

And for her part, Janet believes the thread that runs through it all is that the lake brings people together around the same things that it did 150 years ago. “Our guests are what make us special,” she admits. “We’ve played host to generations of families, and we all have pictures of our grandparents and great-grandparents boating and enjoying the same things by the lake that our guests do today. Our memories are incomplete without the camping families with whom we shared our childhood.”

James & Dorothy Keen and their seven daughters who have kept the family legacy going: Jennifer, JimAnn, Janet, Judith, Jane, Joyce and Jeanne

With 70 years in the books as a premier destination in the Poconos, Keen Lake Resort and the Keen sisters show no signs of slowing down. In recent years, the campground has expanded to include gorgeous lakeside glamping tents, renovations to several vacation rentals, improvements to the grounds and beach area, among other upgrades. Still, Janet maintains that the lake and the people will always be what draws families from near and far. “You feel like family as soon as you get here, both from us and from our other guests,” she says. “That’s what makes this place sparkle.” H – submitted by Keen Lake

Camp Orchard Hill

FPA has been hosting annual, Christian- centered summer camp programs that encourage campers to build lasting social skills, make lifelong memories and deepen their faith in Jesus Christ.

Each year from June through August, campers from kindergarten through 9th grade will have the opportunity to participate in over 40 fun activities including archery, craft making, Capture the Flag, fishing, ultimate Frisbee, nature hikes, pickle ball and more throughout the summer!

Camp Orchard Hill is a fullyinclusive space for children with special needs and neurodiversity to participate in all activities together. Programs focus on building skills and gaining selfesteem as part of the outdoor experience, with opportunities for all children to participate in the summer fun alongside their peers.

have served on staff since 1997 and as Executive Director since 1998. We love serving our local community, region and beyond.”

Each week of camp features either an on-site event or an off-site trip. Trips include visits to the Dietrich Theatre, Skyzone, Electric City Aquarium and Art Party Place. On-site events will bring in Camp Carnival, Professor Malkemes Science Show, Reptile Guy and more.

Camp Orchard Hill also offers a high school leadership training program, The Core, which is designed to help shape campers into Leaders for Christ. The program is divided into three distinct, purposeful levels and runs in two-week sessions. Through on and off-site service projects, campers will learn to carry on the standards and traditions of COH while creating memories and cultivating friendships that

ownership, accomplishment and spiritual maturity.

On the grounds of Camp Orchard Hill also sits The Lakeview Terrace — a beautiful, modern venue overlooking picturesque Lake Manjo. Built in 2016, the venue can host up to 300 guests in its spacious banquet room. Its large lower-level auditorium with a full stage and audio/visual equipment provides the flexibility in planning an event such as a bridal or baby shower, sports banquet or corporate gathering.

“We are committed to continually striving for excellence in ministry,” said Jim Payne. “Camp Orchard Hill continues to improve its facilities, programs, activities and staff so that we can meet the physical, emo tional, relational and spiritual needs of our guests.” H –Ben Freda

play

Sing with the band at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts—the site of the ’69 Woodstock concert. Reel in a big one in the streams where American fly fishing was born. See a play in New York’s oldest continuously operating summer theater. Our creative spirit is alive all over our charming small towns, bursting with food, drink, and outdoor fun all summer.

Come visit. We’re a short trip from NEPA.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Aleksandr Grankin, whose family lives in Union Dale, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

Grankin joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Grankin serves as an engineman.

“I wanted to do something meaningful with my time and to pay back this country that has given me so much,” said Grankin.

According to Navy officials, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story is the country’s premier installation for housing and training the nation’s expeditionary forces. It is one command with two properties: Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story and JEB Little Creek. The Joint Expeditionary Base is comprised of the former Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and the Army Post of Fort Story. Fort Story witnessed the humble beginnings of the nation at the 1607 first landing site. Little Creek began as a dynamic training ground for World War II amphibious forces.

Union Dale Sailor serves with U.S. Navy Union

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to

every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs."

Grankin has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I completed a deployment aboard USS Fort McHenry in 2018,” said Grankin. “We went

Grankin is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my parents, Andrey and Anna, for keeping me from going astray and being good role models,” added Grankin. “I also want to send a shoutout to my sisters, Olga and Vera, and my brothers-in-law, Vladimir and Jarid.” H

University of Scranton alumnus receives Surface Warfare Medical Officer qualification aboard USS Boxer

Melvin Rolon, a University of Scranton alumnus, recently received the Surface Warfare Medical Department Officer (SWMDO) warfare qualification serving aboard the U.S. Navy warship, USS Boxer, operating out of San Diego, California.

Rolon joined the Navy 24 years ago and graduated from the University of Scranton in 2019 and 2021 with a Master of Health Administration and a Master’s in Health Informatics.

The SWMDO warfare qualification is designed strictly for Medical Corps officers who go through nine months of didactics, observing and shadowing different warfare areas on board an amphibious assault ship, followed by three months of studying

and culminating with an oral board examination by each warfare areas’ subject matter experts.

“This qualification allowed me to gain more knowledge about the roles and responsibilities of other departments and how everything ties together to carry out operations,” said Rolon. “It is impressive how much everyone, from the most junior to the leaders, knows about their areas of responsibilities. Being qualified helps me appreciate and understand the hard work that every sailor on board puts in daily to accomplish the mission. I am proud to be part of the Boxer Strong Family."

nal HMS Boxer, which was captured by the British during the War of 1812.

Amphibious assault ships transfer Marines, equipment and supplies and can support helicopters or other aircraft. Boxer’s crew is made up of approximate-

ly 1,200 crewmembers and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.

Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the sixth U.S. ship to bear the name of the origi-

As Rolon and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy H

Spotlight on Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) Engineers

Oumar Traore

TYAD Electrical Engineer Oumar Traore came to the U.S. to pursue a higher education in the hopes of becoming an engineer. He grew up in Mali in western

Africa. His interest in engineering was piqued at an early age through his father’s example.

“My Dad is an engineer, so I would see him working on engineering projects. I said as soon as I grow up, I want to be like him,” said Traore.

With his parents’ blessing, Traore’s American journey as an international student began in 2002 in Arizona at a local community college. Scarce part-time work in Arizona and a language barrier for the French-speaking Traore were two hurdles.

After his brief stay in Arizona, he spent two years in New York City balancing a new language, school and work before moving to Baltimore. Traore spent over a decade in Baltimore, graduating from Baltimore City Community College. Traore later earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Morgan State.

In 2016, two of Traore’s friends informed him of an opening at TYAD. Traore began his work on the depot as a contractor before becoming a member of TYAD’s civilian workforce. As an Electrical Engineer, Traore’s typical day involves writing test procedures and providing technical support to technicians testing a system’s functionality and over-

seeing overhaul and repair programs for various shelters.

Traore said he appreciates the opportunity to give back to a country in which he has achieved success.

“Providing the best quality product to the warfighter is something to be proud of,” he said. “I have two values – I come to work with dedication and hard work. I take pride in being dedicated and working hard.”

While Traore’s parents still reside in Mali, he has two sons and a daughter and is married to his wife, who is also originally from Mali.

Jessica Crispim

Electronics Engineer Jessica Crispim brings a wealth of interdisciplinary knowledge to Tobyhanna’s engineering cadre. The California State University graduate has a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics – an emerging field that integrates the principles of electronics, electrical and mechanical engineering within the field of robotics, creating more functional and efficient products.

She uses her diverse experience to support the Satellite Transportable Terminal, a mobile satellite system that establishes secure voice, video and data communications. A native of Brazil, Crispim became excited about the prospects of an engineering career during a vocational immersion training.

“Our school career day brought in professionals from a variety of industries, and one of the representatives was responsible for machinery at a CocaCola plant. When I heard that his job in mechatronics related to figuring out how things work, I was hooked.”

Crispim came to the U.S. for college, where she found that the mechatronics field was directly aligned with her interest and skills.

“I like coming up with creative solutions to problems, and helping others ad-dress their challenges,” she explained.

After graduation, Jessica joined Team Tobyhanna’s Production Engineering directorate – a place she says is a great learning environment.

“We have a small team that works really well together. My colleagues are very patient and are always willing to help explain new concepts to me.”

Knowing that women (and especially Latinx women) are underrepresented in technical fields, Crispim is passionate about helping demystify engineering as a profession for young women. She volunteers for career fairs where she can share her experiences as an engineer, and encourage others to purse a career in the STEM field.

“Representation matters,” she said. “I feel as if young women in particular are discouraged from STEM jobs because of math. There is so much more to engineering besides math, and girls can do math, too!”

Joseph Chieffallo

Mechanical Engineer Joseph Chieffallo plays an important role at TYAD. Upon joining Team Tobyhanna through the Pathways Program in 2018, he was introduced to different departments within TYAD’s Production Engineering directorate to witness how each branch cooperated. He was offered a full-time position after graduating from Pennsylvania State University with a mechanical engineering degree.

Chieffallo described himself as a tinkerer. From a young age, he had always been good with numbers and liked understanding how things work and move, therefore, developing an interest in engineering seemed natural.

Since beginning his depot career

nearly six years ago, he has played key roles in supporting the Sea Sparrow, a weapons defense system for Navy ships, along with fabrication in support of overhaul (FISO) projects and TYAD’s Equipage Branch.

While much of his time is spent working on the structural side, his work sometimes calls for a bit of crossover in other engineering disciplines when working with heat exchange and electrical components. The broadness of the positions allows him to develop a jack-of-alltrades characteristic.

“Take for example an overhaul system that is 40 or 50 years old. The technology doesn’t go away, but the way we make things changes a bit. The machines we use now are more accurate and more precise than something that we have been using to make the same part years ago,” said Chieffallo. “When we have a more accurate machine it lets us build something in an easier way. What I try to do is take parts that are made one way, modify them and update them so that it works best with our machines in the shop. I find satisfaction in making other people’s lives easier as doing so gives me a reason to be proud of the work I do. My current position puts me in contact with a wide array of personnel, so I have plenty of opportunity to make a difference all across the depot.”

continued to take on more responsibility and challenging assignments. His daily presence in TYAD production areas has helped to quickly address in-process concerns and keep projects on schedule. His commitment to both internal/ external customers and versatility has made him a valuable asset,” said Evans.

The technical expertise of Team Tobyhanna’s engineers is integral to its mission and long-range strategic plan, TOBY2035, which has four focus areas: Investing in Our People, C5ISR Readiness, Shape the Future and Strategic Communications. TOBY2035 aims to posture the depot for success in the coming years as the Department of Defense’s premier worldwide C5ISR readiness provider.

Tobyhanna Army Depot is a recognized leader in providing world-class logistics support for command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems across the Department of Defense. Tobyhanna’s Corporate Philosophy, dedicated work force and electronics expertise ensure the depot is the Joint C5ISR provider of choice for all branches of the Armed Forces and industry partners.

Fabrication Engineering Branch Chief Michael Evans lauded Chieffallo for his work ethic and dedication to TYAD’s mission.

“Joe has excelled as a mechanical engineer in the Fabrication Engineering Branch, and he has

Tobyhanna’s capabilities include full-spectrum logistics support for sustainment, overhaul and repair, fabrication and manufacturing, engineering design and development, systems integration, post production software support, technology insertion, modification, foreign military sales and global field support to our joint warfighters.

About 3,100 personnel are employed at Tobyhanna. Tobyhanna Army Depot is part of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command. Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the command’s mission is to empower the Soldier with winning C5ISR capabilities. H

S Saint Joseph’s Center Summer Festival

aint Joseph’s Center Summer Festival will be held at Marywood University on July 26 from 4-10 p.m, July 27 from 4-10 p.m. and July 28 from noon-7 p.m.

The Summer Festival is a community celebration where friends, new and long-standing, show enduring support for the mission of Saint Joseph’s Center. Since the conclusion of last year’s Summer Festival, the Saint Joseph’s Center Auxiliary have been organizing and preparing for this annual event. “We are truly blessed to benefit from the outpouring of community support received each year. The combination of efforts from the Auxiliary, WNEP, Saint Joseph’s Center staff, volunteers and benefactors makes possible the Summer Festival, WNEP Telethon and Go Joe Bike Ride,” says Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM, President/CEO. “Over 135 years ago, Saint Joseph’s mission began with a small group of volunteers responding to a community need. A humble desire to

care for others has been the cornerstone of our mission ever since,” she said.

Summer Festival attendees will find favorite menu items such as tacos, wings, potato pancakes,

pizza fritta, funnel cake, baked goods, ice cream, porketta and lemonade. Bingo, children’s games and the giant slide will keep everyone busy. Take a chance to win more than 200 prizes or shop at one of several stands featuring great items.

WNEP-TV’s morning meteorologist Joe Snedeker will pedal throughout Northeastern and Central PA for the 27th Go Joe. Visit the website for Joe’s route and learn how to purchase a Go Joe t-shirt or hat. WNEP will host the Annual Telethon on Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27

July 2024

from 7-9 p.m. on the festival grounds at Marywood University. Viewers can tune in to watch WNEP-TV 16 and learn more about the positive ways that Saint Joseph’s Center is impacting the community.

Community Ride Along events will continue this year with many oppor tunities to walk or ride your bike for Saint Joe’s along the Heritage Trail and Trolley Trail. There are also many indoor, independent and open cycling events to ride or walk for Saint Joe’s. Find more information on Saint Joseph’s Center’s Facebook page.

Summer Festival Cash Raffle, with a prize of $10,000, will be sold for $50 each. Chances on other monetary prizes are available by contacting the Auxiliary.

“One constant in the history of Saint Joseph’s dating back to

SAINT JOSEPH’S CENTER

shown by the community. The care and concern expressed through donations, volunteerism and charity enables our services to continue to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities as well as those experiencing homelessness,” said Sister Maryalice. Visit stjosephscenter.org, call 570-207-6656 or email auxiliary@stjosephscenter.org H

Summer FESTIVAL

FRIDAY JULY 26 SATURDAY JULY 27 SUNDAY JULY 28 4 to 10 pm

Location: Marywood University Plenty of Free Parking & Shuttle Service 4 to 10 pm

Noon to 7 pm

Bradford CountyPennsylvania

The population of Bradford County is approximately 62,600. Its county seat is Towanda and it is surrounded on the east by Susquehanna County, southeast by Wyoming County, south by Sullivan County, southwest by Lycoming County and west by Tioga County.

The rolling hills of Bradford County offer visitors camping, hunting, fishing, kayaking and hiking, fairs and festivals (when appropriate) and wineries. Museums and heritage opportunities abound amongst postcard-like streets brimming with eclectic shops and romantic restaurants.

The residents of Bradford County warmly invite visitors to experience their county, where you will find it to be your home away from home. www. visit-bradfordcounty.com 570-265-TOUR H

The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are a group of 11 long, narrow, lakes located directly south of Lake Ontario in New York. The lakes include Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco.

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 on-site boat launch and docking available. Find us on Facebook and at 24 Water St., Hammondsport, NY 14840. (607) 569-2600, www.keukalakesideinn.com

Golf Guide

ELMHURST COUNTRY CLUB

Elmhurst Country Club is a private facility located just outside of Scranton PA and the Pocono Mountains. Established in 1929 and designed by Scotty Robson, Elmhurst offers immaculate course conditions and views that cannot be rivaled on and off the golf course. It is a true hidden and historical gem. 319 Gardner Rd, Moscow, PA 570-842-7691 www.elmhurstcc.golf/

LAKELAND GOLF CLUB

Lakeland Golf Club's 9-hole executive course in Fleetville features 1,525 yards of golf for a par of 32. Challenging enough for seasoned golfers and perfect for beginners, the course includes a putting green and beautiful clubhouse. Call 570-945-9983 for information regarding leagues, lessons, memberships and venue rental.

MARJON GOLF COURSE

Marjon is a 9 hole, par 35 public golf course. We are operating under new ownership. The course is situated on gently rolling terrain and features well maintained greens. The Pavilion at Marjon is available for tournaments, public and corporate events. New changes and major upgrades were made. 1360 Griffin Road, Roaring Brook, PA 570-842-7922

SCOTT GREENS GOLF CLUB

Challenging nine hole golf and teaching facility in Scott Twp. Home of “A Swing for Life” Golf Academy featuring Teaching Professional Scotty McAlarney, a “Top 100” W.G.T.F. Instructor. Fun for the whole family! Minutes from Clarks Summit, Rt. 81, Scranton and the valley area. Great membership levels!

SCRANTON CANOE CLUB

The Scranton Canoe Club is located on beautiful Lake Winola. You and your friends and family can enjoy nature, fine dining, extraordinary service, scenic golf, and an warm community of members that welcomes families and individuals of all ages. The Canoe Club has no initiation fee and is much more economical than other regional country clubs. 570-378-9976

SKYTOP GOLF

Enjoy Skytop Lodge’s award-winning course on 5,500 acres, voted 30th best course in the country on Golf Pass, rated #1 in the country for conditions, and 22 for pace of play. No other Poconos golfing vacation offers a mountain-style track that plays over rolling terrain and boasts wide, treelined fairways and small greens that challenge both the casual player and serious golfer alike. Above average in speed, this course incorporates water and plenty of strategically placed bunkers over its 6,656 yards.

STONE HEDGE GOLF CLUB

18 hole championship golf course masterfully carved out of the rolling hills and meadows of the Endless Mountains. A relaxing natural habitat to play golf at its best. Golf our mature links. Dining in our in-house restaurant, The Hedge. 570-836-5108 www.stonehedge-golf.com

Where to Camp Treasure

H • U • N • T • I • N • G

KEEN LAKE CAMPING AND COTTAGE RESORT

For 70 years, Keen Lake Resort has been hosting relaxation and reconnecting at our 90-acre private lake in the Pocono Mountains. Join us for the best glamping experience in Northeast PA, or come stay for a while at a campsite or rental cottage. We want to celebrate our Platinum anniversary with you this camping season... and your breath of fresh air is waiting here. Thanks for the memories-- let's make some more!

LEDGEDALE CAMPGROUND & MARINA

Located on beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack. We offer seasonal and daily sites, seasonal boat slips, kayak rentals and have a camp store. We also have a boat launch and picnic area with view of the lake! 153 Ledgedale Road, Greentown, PA phone 570-689-2181, www.ledgedalerecreationarea.com

PAPER MILL PINES BED & BREAKFAST & GLAMPING

Paper Mill Pines glamping getaway is a campsite located on a beautiful 28 acre property which also homes a bed & breakfast. It’s only seven miles from Ricketts Glen State Park and features a 4 acre pond and lovely views. It comes with a cozy tent with a comfy queen size bed, a clean outhouse and campfire. 12 Daro Rd, Shickshinny, PA. (570) 690-6820 or papermillpines.com

Swan Antiques

An eclectic array of European, American and Oriental antiques housed in historic 1870’s general store. Paintings, porcelains, furniture, objets d’art and collectors memorabilia. Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed for Lunch Noon-1 p.m.; Sat. Noon5 p.m.; Sun.-By chance; Always best to call before heading out. 424 So. Sterling Road/Rte. 191, So. Sterling, Pa. 18460; Tel 570-594-7316

Dorflinger’s Wildflower Concert Series

Eight concerts, including special Wednesday evening performance

Dorflinger’s Wildflower Summer Concerts will begin July 6 and will include seven Saturday concerts through August 17 plus a special Wednesday show July 24. Performed by nationally and internationally known artists, the concerts will include jazz, bluegrass, blues and some fabulous tribute groups. All concerts begin at 6 p.m. in the Wildflower Amphitheater on the grounds of the beautiful Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary in White Mills. In case of inclement weather, concerts move to the Wallenpaupack Area High School, Hawley.

“We worked to bring a variety of performers and music styles that we are sure everyone will enjoy. Combine that with our amazing outdoor amphitheater on a summer evening, and you have the best of both worlds,” said Sue Apgar, Wildflower Music Committee Chair

July 6, Beginnings

A Celebration of the Music of Chicago Beginnings transports the listener back to a time of big arena concerts with all the sound, excitement and emotion generated from Chicago’s extensive catalog of gold and platinum recordings. Expect a family-friendly entertainment event that is pleasing to music lovers of all ages!

July 13, Sweet Baby James

Don’t miss Sweet Baby James, America’s #1 James Taylor Tribute, as Nashville musician Bill Griese performs the songs of the legendary JT. Not your typical tribute band fare, and not a “look-alike” act, Griese delights audiences using only his uncanny Taylor-like vocals and guitar playing, and a refreshingly real stage presence. Fans rave, “the next best thing to James,” and “close my eyes and it’s JT.”

July 20, Morgan James

This New York-based soul singer, songwriter and Broadway actress graduated from The Juilliard School and performed in the original companies of five Broadway productions before writing and

recording her own music. She released her solo album “Hunter” in 2014 and established herself as a touring powerhouse, playing all over the world. Currently on tour supporting her fifth studio album, it’s been said that she can make you fall in love at first listen, elicit tears, or bring you back to a different era altogether.

July 24

Wednesday Midweek Show, 6 p.m. Green River

The #1 Nationally Touring Creedence Clearwater Revival/John Fogerty Tribute Show is the brainchild of

native New Yorker Rick Horvath. “Noodles,” as he is known, was born to perform this music. The show is very faithful to a live CCR performance. Enjoy a full 90-minutes of CCR classics (“Bad Moon Rising,” “Proud Mary,” “Up Around the Bend,” to name a few) and songs that Creedence would turn into live jams, such as “Born on the Bayou” and “Susie Q.”

July 27

Kruger Brothers

Swiss bluegrass virtuosos Jens and Uwe Kruger were born in Europe, where they began their professional career in 1979. CBS Records contracted with the brothers when Jens was just 17, and shortly thereafter, they hosted a radio show. Years later, they teamed up with bass player Joel Landsberg, a native of New York City and together established the incomparable sound that they are known for today. Their ability to infuse classical into bluegrass and American folk music has made them a fixture within the world of acoustic music.

August 3

Shemekia Copeland

Highly acclaimed American blues and soul vocalist

Shemekia Copeland was born in Harlem, New York. She first stepped onstage in 1979 with her famous father when she was 8 years old. By the time she was 18, when she

released her Alligator Records debut “Turn the Heat Up,” Copeland was known as a blues and R&B force. Now an awardwinning singer of blues, soul and Americana, she possesses one of the most instantly recognizable and deeply soulful roots music voices of our time.

August 10

Scythian

Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian (sith-ee-yin) plays music from Celtic, Eastern European and Appalachian traditions with thunderous energy, technical prowess and storytelling songwriting, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance, rock concert experience. Nashville’s Music City Roots says Scythian is “what happens when rock star charisma meets Celtic dervish fiddling.” The foursome, made up of Alexander Fedoryka, Danylo Fedoryka, Ethan Dean and Johnny Rees, brings various influences together to create a conglomerate that is technically precise and steeped in various folk traditions.

August 17

Laurel Canyon Band

Laurel Canyon Band is an acoustic tribute to the music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, featuring recreations of their seminal works as well as songs from their early bands and solo years. The group consists of Grammy Award winning writer/producer Mark Hudson, Hall of Fame songwriter Gary Burr and singer/songwriter Mark Mirando. These three talents take you back to the days of the palm trees and sunshine of Laurel Canyon, California, where some of

Beginnings

Green River

Kruger Brothers

Scythian

Laurel Canyon Band

the greatest music in history was born.

Wildflower is an open-air outdoor concert series, held in a tiered amphitheater among majestic trees and green ferns. Bring a lawn chair or blanket as chairs are not provided. Picnics and beverages of your choice are permitted at all outdoor concerts. Parking is free. Performers and programs are subject to change.

General admission tickets good for any concert are $26; student tickets (ages 12 to 18) are $13. Children under 12 are free. Contributors receive tickets and other benefits. Levels for annual contributors begin at $125. Those who contribute $550 or more may have their own chairs stored and set up before the amphitheater opens at any concert they will be attending. For information about becoming a contributor, call Dorflinger Sanctuary Executive Director Christine Piazzi.

Tickets may be purchased at the gate the evening of the performance and in advance by phone, online or in person at the Dorflinger Glass Museum Gift Shop during regular open hours. Fees may apply.

In the event of inclement weather, the performance moves to the air-conditioned auditorium at the Wallenpaupack Area High School in Hawley. Food and beverages are not permitted in the school auditorium. If in doubt of the performance location on the day of a concert, check Wildflower’s website, Facebook page or call the office after noon.

Telephone (570) 253-5500 (Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., concert Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), email music01@ptd.net, or visit online at www.wildflowermusic.org

The Wildflower Amphitheater is located on the grounds of the Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary on Long Ridge Road in White Mills. The village of White Mills lies halfway between Hawley and Honesdale on Route 6.

T T he Art House

he Art House is a three story, six bedroom house built in 1901 that has been curated by owner and artist, Nathalie Warriner, to become a creative universe unto itself. Those who visit are promised a true Art Experience. It’s visceral. It’s spiritual. It’s playful and fun. It comes from the heart and goes to the heart.

Nathalie studied art in the 80s at Boston University School for the Arts, and incorporates her many years as a creative and broad life experience as a student, mother, world traveler, entrepreneur, published author, professional speaker, personal trainer, reiki master and athlete into the life of the space.

Married twice, having moved all over the country living on both coasts and in 11 states, Nathalie discovered The Poconos in 2020. Creating The Art House has been a kind of coming home process for her.

“I feel as if I have finally landed,” she said. “This is exactly where I am supposed to be.”

Each room in The Art House has a distinct and unique feeling and explores by turn the experiences of health and well-being, self-confidence, prosperity, travel and helpful people, intimacy, vitality, faith and trust. A vast array of carefully gathered lamps and

furniture and unique objects of interest are complemented by Nathalie’s paintings. Quotes abound on walls and floors.

Walking through the house, you will encounter such items as a wooden tiger, a cathedral tapestry, a table of candles, a Harley Davidson pub table, Carlos Santana and a giant teddy bear. On the ground floor a teacup has been affixed to the wall above a door. Bathtubs are filled with statues and twinkle lights.The garden room is a jungle of green.

Originally conceived as a studio with retail space, The Art House has evolved into a living museum that offers creative classes of all kinds, group discussions

and interactive exploration. A summer afternoon might find a group around the table painting, or creating mixed media journals, or hanging pinecones and feathers on mobiles. No specific creative skill is ever required to participate, and all offerings are designed for the pleasure and success of the participants.

In addition to classes, The Art House is open for viewing and exploring at designated times and for events throughout the year. Find out about Art House classes and pop-up events. Sign up to receive emails at www.poconoarthouse.com

The Art House is located at 1354 Pocono Blvd., Mt Pocono. Telephone 540-817-9793 H

Ravishing. Red. Rubies.

July’s

Birthstone

offers a challenge

For us at Nye Jewelers, the ruby remains one of our personal favorites and best-selling of the colored gemstones. The ruby takes its name from the Latin word ruber, simply meaning ‘red.’ For thousands of years, the royal and wealthy have coveted this precious gemstone. Rarer than diamonds in large sizes, rubies are, for some, the supreme gemstone, leaving diamonds in the dust. In fact, large rubies are extraordinarily rare, and command prices that rival and surpass the finest large diamonds. A kernel of truth lies behind the fable that rubies glow in the dark. As modern gemologists know, a fine ruby glows with intense red in sunlight thanks to its red fluorescence, which intensifies its deep rose-like color.

Its mesmerizing hue caused the Ancient Romans to believe that this gemstone inspired passion,

love, courage and devotion, all while safeguarding the owner’s wealth and rank. Ancient fascination for the deep hue of the ruby no doubt stems from its connection with the crimson tint of the red rose, the cardinal redness of wine, and the maroon tinge of blood. In Ancient Hinduism, it was believed that one would be granted rebirth as an emperor by gifting the finest rubies as sacrificial offerings to the deity Krishna. In ancient, Sanskrit, the progenitor of the Hindi language, ‘ruby’ stems from the word ratnaraj meaning “king of precious stones.” The Brahmin ruby, the purest color and finest quality of ruby, was used among the highest class in Hindu society, hence, the origin of the Brahmin caste’s nomenclature. In the Bible, the imagery of the ruby is

used in one of the Proverbs of King Solomon which states that “wisdom is more precious than rubies” (Proverbs 3:15).

Even into the modern age, rulers sought and fought after rare rubies. The infamous Timur Ruby, weighing a massive 352 carats, had become the object of desire for numerous African rulers until it was presented to Queen Victoria by the East India Company (only to be discovered in the modern age that it was in fact a red spinel.) Likewise, Julius Caesar’s ruby, a whopping 256 carat ruby, also circled amongst the European monarchies for centuries, even used as collateral for loans to finance wars. Like the Timur Ruby, Caesar’s gemstone was discovered by modern gemologists to be a rubellite

tourmaline, and not a genuine ruby –an indication of the rareness of large, exquisite rubies. Quite fitting that Julius Caesar, who died in a pool of his own ruby-colored blood, was purported to have worn this glowing gemstone, which serendipitously is the birthstone of the month named after the infamous dictator!

The ruby also has the prestige of celebrating 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, as this fiery gemstone represents that the burning flame of passion remains ignited in the hearts of the couple. Few people outside the gem industry realize the true nature of a ruby’s journey to a jeweler’s showroom. Tons of earth and countless hours of labor are needed to bring a ruby from mine to market. At Nye Jewelers, we have decades of experience in sourcing the very finest rubies from across the globe. Come visit Nye Jewelers showroom in Dickson City to see our selection of ruby rings, pendants and earrings! H

Red Hot

Lake Wallenpaupack

Lake Wallenpaupack, enjoyed by thousands today, did not exist until construction of the dam and hydroelectric power station in 1926. In the early 1900s, engineers recognized the value of placing a dam across

Wallenpaupack Creek. The 1,280-foot-long dam, powerhouse and flow line carry lake water to the hydroelectric station. Water from the bottom of the lake travels up the flow line, a large pipe that spans 3.5 miles. The water powers turbines at the station, generating enough energy to sustain approximately 35,000 homes. Construction of the dam also created Lake Wallenpaupack. Encompassing 5,700 acres, it is one of the largest man-made lakes in Pennsylvania. Lake Wallenpaupack has 52 miles of shoreline. H

Basking in Nature

Jackie Greenwood Kerekes

Jackie Kerekes of The Training

Loft in Clarks Summit has a fondness for nature and water. Cherishing every moment spent at Lake Sheridan, the ocean and the natural environment, Jackie was always been motivated to stay active and fit herself before she began helping others along their fitness and wellness journey.

“Maintaining a healthy weight and fitness level in our chaotic and stressful environment is no simple feat. There is a mental component that I’ve always thought was vital to sustaining longterm lifestyle goals. One of the first steps is “clearing your mind, breathing better and when possible, reaping the benefits of basking in nature,” said Jackie. H

Alyssa Shonk

Summer Intern Happenings Magazine

Iam going to be a junior at Fordham University Lincoln Center, majoring in English with a creative writing concentration and minoring in new media and digital design. Before going to college, I lived in the NEPA area all my life. I went to high school at Wyoming Seminary in Kingston, and I also cultivated my love for dance at Ballet Theatre of Scranton and Wyoming Seminary Dance Company. Now, I spend most of my days curling up with a coffee and a good book (book recommendations are always welcome). Although I love the NEPA area for its close-knit community, I have also fallen in love with New York City for the anonymity it brings when millions of people share one space. I am happy to call NEPA my home, and I am so excited to highlight the wonderful things that bring that magical feeling to life. H

Wright Center resident physician confirms his calling during service trip to Rwanda

Nestled between panoramic photos of Rwanda’s lush green hills and videos of zebras on Dr. Udit Asija’s camera roll are extreme close-ups taken inside strangers’ internal organs.

The photos and videos are from what Dr. Asija calls a career-defining trip to the East African country as part of the global mission GI Rising. The U.S. nongovernmental charitable organization was formed in 2020 to further gastroenterology and hepatology education and care in Rwanda.

Dr. Asija graduated from The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Internal Medicine Residency on June 22 and began his gastroenterology fellowship there in July.

“I felt alive, doing this GI work,” said Dr. Asija, who plans to return to Rwanda in 2025 with his wife, Dr. Anjalika Gupta, a 2021 graduate of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Internal Medicine Residency, and their son, Aarush Asija. “It didn’t feel like work. I know this is my calling.”

Growing up in Delhi, India, Dr. Asija’s focus on gastroenterology and hepatology was developed through experiences with his grandfather, who died of nonalcoholic cirrhosis of the liver when Dr. Asija was a child, and a cousin who contracted liver disease and died despite receiving a transplant.

Dr. Asija matched with The Wright Center’s Internal Medicine Residency program in 2021, several years after his wife joined The Wright Center as a resident physician. As he advanced through the program, he found an opportunity to learn more about endo-hepatology at the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland. He credits Dr. Linda ThomasHemak, president and CEO of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, and Dr. Jumee Barooah, designated institutional official of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, for guiding him to the elective.

Through the doctors he worked with at the University of Maryland, he met

Dr. Steve Bensen, a gastroenterologist and professor at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine who leads GI Rising. After learning more about the nonprofit’s annual two-week medical mission to Rwanda, he enrolled in the program and paid his own way because he was not with an academic program affiliated with GI Rising.

In 1994, a brutal genocide in Rwanda left more than 1 million dead in 12 weeks. Many of the dead were health care professionals. Their loss decimated the country’s health care system.

Liver disease and esophageal, stomach and liver cancers are among the top 25 causes of death in Rwanda, but the country only has one gastroenterologist and fewer than a dozen internists who have experience with gastroenterological conditions and endoscopic procedures, according to GI Rising.

“Primary care, preventive care is not ideal (in Rwanda),” Dr. Asija said.

Dr. Asija and 111 others from around the world arrived in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, to begin their work for the medical mission trip. He joined a team of five other health care workers and

visited four clinics and hospitals.

Dr. Asija said a highlight was his visit to a hospital in Munini, about 113 miles from Kigali. The team saw and scoped about 60 people a day. He also became part of a clinical trial on gastric cancer screening in Rwanda. He recorded some of the endoscopies on his phone for learning purposes and to show others what the trip was like.

“These were heavy days. We’d be up at 5 in the morning, be in place by 6, and start seeing patients at 7. We wouldn’t be done until 9 p.m.,” he said. “But it was paradise in the sense that I was doing what I’ve always wanted to do.”

Dr. Asija also managed to squeeze in a little sightseeing at Akagera National Park, the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda.

“Elephants, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and they were literally right next to you,” he said.

For more information about The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019. H

The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Class of 2024

The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education held its 45th annual graduation ceremony at Mohegan Pennsylvania on Saturday, June 22. Members of the class are:

Internal Medicine Residency:

Udit Asija, M.D.

Maria Rose Dominic, M.D.

Jawahar Khan Durrani, M.D.

Sadaf Fatima, M.D.

Kyle D. Fistner, D.O.

Naeem Ijaz, M.D.

Peter Iskander, M.D

Ayushi Jain, M.D.

Apeksha Kakkar, M.D.

Gursharan Kaur, M.D.

Abhaya Khatiwada, M.D. Aishwarya Krishnaiah, M.D.

Aamir Makda, M.D.

Sandeep Mandal, M.D.

Sajeel Qayum Mirza, M.D.

Mohammed Musa Najmuddin, M.D.

Sarasija Natarajan, M.D

Lakshmi Priyanka Pappoppula, M.D.

Preya Patel, M.D.

Aniqa Raheem, M.D.

Khadijah Sajid, M.D.

Chilsia Shafi, M.D. Ali Shah, M.D.

Sabeeka F. Shah, M.D.

Sumnima Shrestha, M.D.

Mashu Shrivastava, M.D.

Shila Simkhada, MD

Aayushi Sood, M.D.

Omar Syed, M.D.

Lekha Tejaswi Yadukumar, M.D.

Syed Muhammad Hussain Zaidi, M.D. Jiayi Zheng, M.D.

National Family Medicine Residency:

Jacob Darnell, D.O., MA

Stephanie Nkiruka Egwuatu, D.O. Joshua K. George, D.O. Sandya George, D.O. Katlyn Jones, D.O., MPH

Joshua Ryan Lloyd, D.O. Hsuan-Chieh Jasper Luoh, D.O. Leonardo Ivan Mejia, D.O. Fatema Osama Nassar, D.O. Leon Nguyen, D.O. Alisa Pham, D.O., MS

Dunal Richard Riveland, D.O. Enne Shah, D.O.

Emily Beth Silberstein, D.O. Mary Grace Tabakin, D.O. Wei-Jen Chua Yankelevich, D.O., Ph.D. Regional Family Medicine: Neil F. Espiritu, M.D. Vivek Gautam, M.D. Ruhi Goraya, M.D. Aniq Rahibul Hakim, M.D. Anitesh Jaswal, M.D. Amatus Aria-Ona Legbedion, MD

Edwin Nyamwaya Mogaka, M.D., Ph.D. Mohana Preesha Partheeban, M.D. Nirshanthika Raviendren, M.D Omar Saeed, M.D. Ankit Sethi, M.D. Sahil Sharma, M.D. Safwaan Suleman, M.D.

Psychiatry: Ashley Hanlu Zhan, D.O.

Cardiovascular Disease: Yaser Khalid, D.O.

Gastroenterology: Fouzia Oza, M.D.

Geriatrics: Muhammad Ali Awan, M.D. Muhammad Ishaq, M.D.

Cayuga County, and Wayne County, NY Office of Tourism

The Erie Canal App: Travel Back in Time

Experience the treasures along the Erie Canal and discover 200 years of history interlocking with nature like you never have before. The legendary Erie Canal can be explored in the rural countryside canal towns and villages using the new “Treasures Along the Erie Canal” app. Bike, hike, boat, paddle or drive the 60-mile section of the Erie Canalway Trail from

Macedon, NY, to Camillus, NY. This self-guided 60-mile tour can be enjoyed all at once or broken up into multiple days.

Come experience the people, places, nature and culture of this section of the Erie Canal Corridor including miles of

trails, aqueducts, locks, murals, museums, parks, restaurants and shops. Enjoy small town charm and hospitality like no other.

The app is free and available at the Apple or Google App Store. H

Experien ce Summer in the Th e En dless Moun ta ins of Northeastern PA!

Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals

Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals, owned by Arthur Coolbaugh, is a local company that helps people explore outdoor landscapes across NEPA near the Susquehanna River through its many different activities.

The company began in Falls, Wyoming County and has since expanded its operations in two other locations, Frances Slocum State Park and Lackawanna State Park (its most recent addition that opened right before Memorial Day weekend).

Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals offers many services including kayak and canoe rentals, available at any of the three locations. Customers are able to rent an array of water vessels, such as a single kayak, tandem kayaks, a two-person canoe, a paddle board, a row boat with an electric motor or a pedal boat, at their shop in each location or by reservation online or over the phone. However, Arthur suggests that larger groups contact them before their nature expedition for possible discounts and to ensure there is enough staff to accommodate your group.

“Anyone wanting to try to kayak or canoe, fish using a row boat or trolling motor, or paddle board for the first time and may be apprehensive, tell our staff and we will walk you through the basics with paddling, safety and how to get the most enjoyment when being on the water,” Arthur said.

In addition to canoe and kayak rentals, Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals also offers a shuttle service to transport paddles from the exit point to their launch point to convenience paddlers to not have to bring two cars. Another wonderful opportunity is the one-day or multi-day trips where the employees lead a relaxing row on the river and utilize the DCNR islands as camping grounds

Customers also enjoy monthly events that Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe creates. These events are specifically curated to attract experienced kayakers and those new to the sport to support this local business. They frequently combine two aspects together, such as one monthly event, Yak and Yoga.

“A person who kayaks all the time but has

never tried a yoga session may be interested in joining or a person who stops at Last Leg Cidery but has never been kayaking can now try both. It’s a win for everyone,” Arthur said.

Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals is curating events for this season at the new Lackawanna location, but these events are already available at the Falls and Frances Slocum locations. They also hope to partner with the snack bar at Lackawanna State Park once the pool opens to offer events for families with children, such as kids and kayaks and family ice cream paddles.

Arthur is also hoping to utilize the many great biking trails at Lackawanna State Park by offering bike rentals in addition to boat rentals. The company is working with the state to hopefully offer this experience to customers next year.

Opportunities will be available at all three locations until Labor Day, with weather permitting. For more information or to set up a rental, visit their website kayaktheriver.com. H -Alyssa Shonk

Lackawanna, Luzerne & Wyoming Counties

Susquehanna River 119 Krafty Road, Falls • Reservations 570-388-6107

Frances Slocum State Park 565 Mt. Olivet Road, Wyoming • Reservations 570-687-0172

TROY FAIR 2024

The 148th annual Troy Fair will run this year from July 22-27!

This year's attractions include the Empire State Pullers on Monday, Pull-off Productions Sanctioned Tractor Pulls on Tuesday, Kameron Marlowe with opening acts by Aaron Kelly and Clark Jackson on Wednesday, Bullride Mania on Thursday and Demo Derbies on both Friday and Saturday.

Enjoy live music all week long, featuring performances by Jimmy Mowery, Jacob Gilpin, The Uptown Band featuring Eric Cawalla, Clark Jackson, Aaron Kelly

and Mack Berry Band.

Admission is $10 at the gate, which includes rides and parking. If purchased prior to July 20, admission is $6 (without rides) or $8 (with rides). Weekly passes will be available for purchase for $25 (without rides) or $40 (with rides).

On Senior Appreciation Day (Tuesday), attendees ages 65 & older will receive free admission until 2 p.m. On Military Appreciation Day (Thursday), active and retired military will receive free admission with ID.

Check out the Troy Fair website www.troyfair.com for additional information H

21st Annual Pennsylvania Endless Mountains Fiber Festival

The Pennsylvania Endless Mountains Fiber Festival is the largest and longest-running fiber arts festival in Pennsylvania, celebrating 21 years in 2024. The Festival will be held in the heart of the Endless Mountains on September 7 and 8, at the Harford Fairgrounds in New Milford.

The Endless Mountains Fiber Festival is a family-friendly event, celebrating fiber-producing animals, products and related goods. Have fun sharing the passion for fiber arts. Over 60 vendors from Pennsylvania, New York and surrounding states participate and offer a diverse selection of goods for knitting, crocheting, spinning, weaving and felting. No matter your interests, find something delightful: from raw and processed fibers, finished garments, handcrafted arts and crafts, fibercrafting supplies, pottery and more!

The festival offers free demonstrations, exhibits, animals, contests, classes, fleece show and sale, raffle and great food.

Pulls

TUESDAY - Pull-Off Productions Sanctioned Tractor Pulls

THURSDAY - Bullride Mania • FRI & SAT - Demo Derbies

Montrose Blueberry Festival

An old-fashioned, hometown, familyoriented festival evoking each of the senses awaits those who venture to Montrose on August 2 and 3. Find not only fresh blueberries but also blueberry treats of all kinds, such as freshly grilled pancakes with blueberry sauce. Raffle tickets will be sold for a one-of-a-kind handcrafted queen-sized quilt in the Blueberry Patch. Peruse thousands of donated White Elephant sale items including jewelry. The popular pie eating contest has become a highly anticipated part of the festival with both kids and adult level competitions on each day. Winners will receive a uniquely designed T-shirt.

A silent auction, basket raffles and commemorative items including newly designed T-shirts, sweatshirts, pottery, tote bags, car stickers, cookbook and festival prints will also be

available. The book tent houses thousands of donated children’s vintage and general titled books, presorted by volunteers. Festival Mascot, Newberry the Blueberry will available for fun photos. Festival foods also include hamburgers, hot dogs, walking tacos, lemonade, popcorn, coffee, blueberry buckle with ice cream, pizza and beverages, homemade baked sale items, blueberry muffins and a pie sale.

As attendees roam the festival, they may choose to sit for a spell at tables decorated with blueberry fabric tablecloths and fresh flowers to converse, eat or listen to live music. Attendees are also encouraged to visit the Susquehanna Historical Society Museum adja-

cent to festival. The Society was formed in 1890 and is an awe-inspiring display of the many, many years of the collection of historical artifacts and records.

New to the festival this year is a 5K Run/Walk as well as a Fun Run. Details are available at susqcolibrary.org as well as the festival’s Facebook page.

Visit the website and enjoy the memories through the photos. Community support, corporate sponsors, hundreds of volunteers, and generous donations make the festival possible. All proceeds benefit the programs and services of the Susquehanna County Historical Society and Free Library System which includes an Outreach Services department, the county museum and a genealogical research center. Neighborhood libraries are in Forest City, Hallstead-Great Bend, Montrose and Susquehanna depend on the funding, beyond what the state and local governments can provide. H

Montrose was laid out in 1812 and officially incorporated in 1824. Its first settlers laid out the downtown in the style reminiscent of their New England roots. Visitors today will still find large colonial style houses and churches surrounding a thriving Main Street. The town “green” sits adjacent to the courthouse and has been the site of community gatherings for nearly 200 years. Plan to visit Montrose for the Blueberry Festival.

Women’s Festival Returns to Tunkhannock

the second annual Wild Women NEPA Festival will be held August 25 at Lazybrook Park in Tunkhannock from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Last year’s inaugural event attracted nearly 1,000 attendees and this year’s festival promises to be even more impressive. The day will be packed with woman-focused wellness and creative programming, including over 40 educational workshops and classes. Attendees can explore a variety of topics including yoga, nature walks, sound healing, herbalism, painting, pottery, ecstatic dance and more.

Complementing the workshop program is a vibrant marketplace featuring over 80 local vendors and practitioners, showcasing an eclectic range of goods and services aimed at nourishing the mind, body and spirit. Attendees can explore artisanal crafts, indulge in holistic healing modalities and discover nourishing foods, all while basking in the supportive and empowering atmosphere of the festival.

"Our aim is to create a space where women can come together to explore, connect and embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment,” remarked Melissa Roberts. “I believe that each workshop and interaction has the potential to be truly life-changing."

An integral aspect of the festival's success is its commitment to listening to the voices of attendees. Feedback provided by over 200 participants last year has been instrumental in shaping this year's event. As a result, changes have been implemented in improving facilities, increasing food vendors and extending festival hours to allow for a more immersive experience.

Admission to the festival includes access to all workshops offered, providing attendees with a comprehensive and enriching experience. Purchase tickets in advance at WildWomenNEPA.com or on the day of the festival. Be part of an unforgettable day dedicated to feminine wellness, creativity and empowerment. H

Bridging the gap between yesterday, today and tomorrow is more than our motto. It is our passion and promise.

Change is always a challenge. Our hope is to bridge that gap for not only our residents, but their family and loved ones. The Bridges at Nicholson is a quaint, family-oriented, homelike atmosphere that embraces a resident’s individuality and blends it with a feeling of community.

The Bridges at Nicholson is a newly opened 10 bed personal care home in Nicholson. Owners Michelle Buddle and Mike Sarisky moved to NEPA in 2022, live onsite and are actively involved in every aspect of the business. Michelle, a licensed registered nurse with over 30 years of experience working in acute care, has had a passion for nursing since she was a child. She was most deeply influenced by her father, Bill, and grandmother, Agnes, through their unwavering love of family, community and care of others.

Seasons on Keuka

The Bridges at Nicholson

Michelle received her RN designation in 1992 from Mount Aloysius College in western Pennsylvania and returned to complete her BSN and MSN. She recently obtained a Personal Care Administrator Certification. Mike has over 35 years of experience as a small business owner. He served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps stationed in Beirut from 1982-1986 with an honorable discharge Corporal E-4. While in Beirut, in addition to being a part of the rescue and recovery mission post-bombing at a marine barracks complex, he was also the liaison driver for American forces and lived with the French Royal Marines and the Foreign Legion at the French Embassy. He completed the extreme cold weather training for two years in Norway as Motor Transport Chief and acquired the Combat Action Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, Peace Keeping Ribbon and the Navy Achievement Medal, which is the highest medal that the Navy can give to a Marine.

Call to schedule a site visit today.

Brian Keeler

The North Star Fine Art Gallery

The North Star Art Fine Art Gallery in Ithaca, NY will present a very special exhibit from July 5 through September 30 titled, Italian Light, Amsterdam Arias and the Classics, recent work of Brian Keeler. Brian’s work is known to those in Pennsylvania as he's shown in Scranton for many years at the Laura Craig Gallery, prior to its closing. His art was featured in a major retrospective at the Everhart Museum in 2004. Brian hails from Wyalusing, where he maintains a studio and he is currently represented at the Mainstreet Galleries in Kingston, PA.

The upcoming show at the North Star Fine art will present a group of Keeler's plein air and studio works from Italy where he's been teaching and painting for over 30 years. The exhibit will also present recent small studies from Amsterdam.

Depictions of Greco/Roman myth will also be presented as these themes are at the core of the historical tradition of both areas.

A unique blending of the arts will occur during this show, as it will include a reading by Anthony Di Renzo, professor of writing at Ithaca College from his recently published book about Rome, titled Pasquinades–Essays from Rome's

July at the North Star Fine Art- , "Italy, Amsterdam and the Classics of Mythology." Brian Keeler has been painting and teaching in Italy for over 30 years

“Susquehanna at Owego, NY, Winter Clouds”

Famous Talking Statue. The author's talk will be on July 20 at 2 p.m. Anthony will select sev eral of Brian’s paintings of the eternal city to pair with passages from his book. Brian says Pasquinades is his favorite book of 2023 as it brings to life the city with wit and charm while revealing obscure aspects of Roman history. Pasquinades means- the satirist.

Keeler's love for Italy was first inspired by an exhibit at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC about the plein air painting of Jean Baptiste Corot, the 19th century French painter who trail blazed the Italian peninsula in the search of motifs. Brian has sought out some of these same views as Jean Baptiste Corot painted for his own works, including: views along the Tiber River in Rome, The Janiculum Hill and most notably the bridge at Narni. Brian has offered classes in Tuscany and Umbria and has traversed the Italian land from Lake Como to Taormina. In Amsterdam, the Hague and other areas while studying the works of the Dutch Golden age painters, he's done studies on location in some of the same streets traversed by De Hooch, Rembrandt and Vermeer.

swing combo, Zingology, plays on opening night from 6 to 8:30.

Learn more about Brian Keeler’s art, books, videos and classes, at www.briankeeler.com. Visit North Star Fine Art at northstarfineartgallery.com

North Star Fine Art Presents "Italian Light, Amsterdam Arias and the Classics" Recent paintings, pastels and drawings of Brian Keeler.

July 5 to September 30, 2024

The North Star Fine Art is located in the heart of downtown Ithaca, on the Commons. The gallery is typically open from Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., however appointments are appreciated and recommended. The exhibit opens on First Friday, July 5 from noon to 8. This opening also coincides with Ithaca Gallery night. In addition, Brian’s gypsy

Opening Reception July 5, Noon - 9

First Friday, Ithaca Gallery Night Zingology Combo plays gypsy jazz from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Hours-Tues-Sat Noon - 5 p.m.

Appointments appreciated. Call ahead.

North Star Fine Art • 116 The Commons (State Street), Ithaca, NY • (607) 323-7684-zingologyjazz@gmail.com

Dawn on the Tiber- Rome". Oil on linenBrian Keeler. 24" x 26"

The Older Pennsylvanians Legal Assistance Program provides access to free legal advice and services for adults 60 and older. The program can help with legal matters relating to age discrimination, housing & utilities, wills & power of attorney. While there is no charge, contributions are always welcomed and appreciated! For more information on legal assistance, contact the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, (570) 963-6740.

Sensation

nal Senior Living

Luke Warren Baldwin, 23 Army National Guard, Specialist

David O'Donnell, 56 USMC, Sargeant

John Cooper April 1917- Died 2015 U.S. Army, Corporal

John J. Cooper was in the Army Corp of Engineers. He landed in North Africa and was part of the forward supply depot at Casablanca in preparation for the invasion of Sicily. After Sicily he was part of the landing at Salerno, where the company clerk was killed and because he could type, he then became the company clerk of the 1st platoon 45th Engineers. He was in charge of supplies and the disarming of prisoners. He eventually worked his way into Germany at the end of the war.

Nominate a hero to be featured at https://www.happeningsmagazinepa.com/ 2024/06/04/nominate-a-member-of-themilitary/

Seeing New Patients of All Ages

Dr. Pacyna grew up in Clarks Summit, PA and is a graduate of Abington Heights High School and the University of Scranton. He attended medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, VA.He then returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania to complete his residency training at Geisinger Kistler Family Medicine Residency in Wilkes Barre, PA. Dr. Pacyna is board certified in Family Medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine. Additionally, he is a member of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Dr. Pacyna’s personal interests include football, rugby, baseball, traveling, as well as spending time with his wife and children. He will be joining Drs. Boccagno, Ruggiero and Penetar in August at the Clarks Summit location.

Dr. Loughran grew up near Hawley, PA and is a graduate of Wallenpaupack High School and Penn State University. He attended medical school at West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, where he received training catered toward full spectrum primary care. He returned home to complete his residency training at Geisinger Kistler Family Medicine Residency in Wilkes-Barre, PA where he developed interests in osteopathic manipulative medicine and preventative care.

In his free time, Dr. Loughran enjoys playing baseball, cycling and spending time with his family. He will be joining the PrimeMed Medical Group practice with Dr. Randall Brundage, Dr. Kevin Williams and Dr. Anthony Freda in August.

Recent Hires and Promotions at Wayne Bank

Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, announces the following employee promotions and new hires:

Joseph Adams has been hired as Senior Vice President and Director of Wealth Management and Investment Services. Most recently he served as Director of Norwood Financial Corp and Wayne Bank. In his new role he will provide leadership to the Wealth Management and Trust Services Department and Norwood Investment Corp. He has 39 years of experience managing public money and earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics and a master’s degree in finance and accounting, both from the University of Scranton. He also has a CFP Curriculum Certificate from Pace University. He resides in Hamlin with his wife, Kathy.

John Baker has been promoted to Senior Vice President. He joined Wayne Bank 14 years ago and served as Information Technology Manager, responsible for overseeing the administration of the bank’s network infrastructure. He earned an associate degree in computer information technology from Johnson College. He resides in Hawley with his wife, Amy and their daughter.

Deborah Kennedy has been hired as Vice President and PA Retail Banking Market Manager. She will direct and drive the bank’s profitability, development and growth in the Pennsylvania market, managing and coordinating the delivery and support of services. She has over 20 years of banking experience and earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from King’s College and a master’s degree in marketing from Capella University. She resides in South Abington Township with her husband, John. They have three chil-

dren and five grandchildren.

Cynthia Galloway has joined the bank as Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor and Operations Manager. She earned an associate degree in banking and finance. She is a Licensed Financial Advisor, an Accredited Fiduciary and has over 32 years of experience in banking and financial services. She will provide investment services and products to clients, overseeing the administration of the Investment

banking experience and earned an associate degree from Keystone College. She resides in Waymart with her husband Tom and has one daughter.

Shelby R. Martin, Esquire has been hired as Assistant Trust Officer. She has over five years of experience in the

Department. She resides in Equinunk with her husband, William.

Collin E. Ennis has been promoted to Assistant Vice President. He currently serves as a Commercial Loan Officer, responsible for providing customer service, initiating new business and deepening business relationships in Wayne and Pike Counties. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Scranton and is continuing his education at the PA Banker’s Advanced School of Banking. He resides in Pleasant Mount.

Marianne McConeghy has been promoted to Assistant Vice President. She most recently served as Trust Operations Officer, overseeing the daily operations of the wealth management and trust division, strengthening current client relationships and building new client growth. She has over 35 years of

legal industry and will oversee the Trust and Estate Administration. She graduated from West Chester University and Ohio Northern University Petitt College of Law. She resides in Honesdale.

Jamie Polley has been promoted to Payroll Officer. She has 15 years of Human Resources experience and most recently oversaw the payroll and employee records, calculating employee benefits and compensation. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from The Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in human resources administration from the University of Scranton. She resides in Lake Ariel with her two children.

Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp, Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.  The Bank has 29 Community Offices serving Wayne, Pike, Monroe, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties in Pennsylvania, along with Delaware, Sullivan, Otsego, Ontario, and Yates Counties in New York, including those offices operating under the Bank of Cooperstown and Bank of

Joseph Adams John Baker

Deborah Kennedy

Collin E. Ennis Marianne McConeghy Shelby R. Martin

Cynthia Galloway

Jamie Polley

Pittston, Pe

The City of Pittston, located in Luzerne County, has a current population of about 7600, according to the 2020 census. Pittston lies in the Wyoming Valley on the east side of the Susquehanna River and on the south side of the Lackawanna River. It is approximately midway between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton.

Pittston was named after the British statesman, William Pitt, the Elder and was settled around 1770. It gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as an active anthracite coal mining city.

nnsylvania

Maria Capolarella-Montante

United Methodist Homes Resident and Lifelong Pittston Advocate

Maria CapolarellaMontante has been an active member of the Pittston com munity for 90 years by continually supporting its growth through a recognition of its history.

Maria has lived in Pittston all of her life and was raised by two Italian immigrants alongside her three older brothers. “From that time as a little girl, I was so attached to the town and the people in the town,” Maria explained. Besides the community that created this wel coming feeling in Pittston, she also loved the sur rounding natural environment, including the moun tains and the Susquehanna river.

Even as a little girl, she loved the town’s past, specifically drawn to the buildings as a visual representation of that

Jean Ann Simone

rich history. This love of history and want ing her town to be recognized shaped her decisions to help her town for the rest of her life.

Maria mar ried Angelo Capolarella, who died in 1972, and had two daughters, Marilyn and Michele. “I became mother and father to my daughters and it was quite a responsibility,” Maria said.

expand it.

While raising her two daughters by herself, Maria still found time to volunteer and continually help the community. One project that Maria spearheaded was the renovations of the Pittston Memorial Library.

Shortly after her husband died, Maria brought her elder daughter, Marilyn, to the library every week, and Marilyn brought her attention to the outdated books in the library. Maria then took it upon herself to receive permission to use the library for a meeting and placed a notice in the newspaper to announce the meeting. Only eight people attended that first meeting, but six of those eight people remained helping the library for the many years to come. During those years, Maria raised money for the library and eventually

Beside creating new opportunities for the younger generations, Maria also wanted to remember the older generations. “I wanted the people of Pittston to be recognized and to be remembered and so that was one of my goals,” Maria said. One way that she did that was by erecting The Greater Pittston Coal Miner statue for the United States bicentennial. Although this was a great tribute to the working men in Pittston, Maria also wanted to honor the woman who worked in the dress factories. So, Maria headed another project with the Pennsylvania Historical Society to develop a keystone in honor of these women.

say, ‘Wow, it was worth the time and effort.’”

Maria also served on the Pittston city council for 16 years. Although she was the lone female voice in a council room, she prompted the council to keep the older buildings in town to remember their history.

One example is when Maria stopped the demolition of a Pittston firehouse, along with the memorabilia inside. The demolition was considered due to the new fire truck being unable to get into the building. Maria voted against the demolition to protect the building’s history. So, the council lowered the floor of the building for the fire truck to fit inside.

Vanessa Williams and Mike Golembeski

Maria reflects on the great satisfaction from all of this volunteering. “It gives you great pleasure, especially when you are working with a group of people and you are working well,” Maria explained. “Then you see the finished project, and you

“That building was going to go down for no reason,” Maria said. “But it was too historical. It had to stay up.”

Her hard work and dedication to the city was recognized through many awards she received, such as Prominent Woman for the Chamber and Italian American Association Person of the year. She also

had the honor of being Grand Marshall for the Tomato Festival Parade twice.

But Maria never helped the community for the awards. “I did it because I wanted to do it. Not because in the end you were going to be recognized for it.”

Maria was also recognized by Pittston when she was selected for her portrait to be placed on the wall mural in downtown

family is very proud of this accomplishment. Her second husband, Chester Montante, waved to the mural everytime they passed, saying, “Hi, Mary.”

Through all these wonderful accomplishments, her proudest accomplishment is raising her two daugh-

ters by herself. They never complained about Maria’s many endeavors, supported her in any way that they could and are proud of the woman who raised them.

Since November 2019, Maria resided in Wesley Village at United Methodist Nursing Homes with her now late husband, Chester. Maria loves the community due to its peaceful surround-

ings, an ability to choose how active she can be in the community and the comfort of still residing in Pittston after all these years. She and Chester called their home, “Our Enchanted Cottage,” proclaiming it to the neighborhood with a sign that hung on their front door.

“All in all, living here in Pittston, Northeastern Pennsylvania has been very gratifying for me,” Maria said. “What really sticks with me are the people

the years. Some of them have become friends, some of them acquaintances, but I loved all the intermingling with the

people in the town and the things that we accomplished together. Never alone but together.”

H –Alyssa Shonk

KThe Banks, The Refinery, Petals Floral

evin Kearney and his wife Natalie were looking for a location to open a florist shop, to complement their funeral home business thereby keeping floral work in house. The Kearneys connected with Pat Hadley and Tino Ferretti, two individuals who were very instrumental in the revitalization of downtown Pittston.

Petals Floral Boutique opened in 2018, not long after “the ultra-motivated Michael Lombardo was reelected Mayor of Pittston,” said Kevin. “With much hard work and creativity from Natalie (the only credit I can take is the idea and name)

Petals' design work has really settled into a league of its own,” he said.

Witnessing the positive trajectory of the city’s downtown revitalization, Kevin partnered-up with a lifelong friend, Jamie Granko, who had recently sold his entertainment business but was still looking to remain in the industry. After finding the perfect potential space and with Pat Hadley and Tino Ferretti paving the way, The Banks Waterfront was born with the passion of continually striving to be the gold-standard in service and aesthetics for regional event venues. With the natural beauty of the

venue overlooking the Susquehanna River, the Fort Jenkins Bridge in background and being surrounding by the mountains, we had a naturally picturesque backdrop.

With the partnerships, chemistry and connections gaining momentum, the only thing the venue was lacking was an in-house

chef. Outside catering was provided at The Banks by some amazing catering teams however adding the culinary aspect to the entire equation only made sense. After nearly a year of discussions, planning and preparation, The Refinery, a full service restaurant neighboring The Banks, will open late summer, led by acclaimed chefs and newly-

weds Chad and Kristen (Fereck) Gelso. Although The Refinery will operate also as a brick and mortar restaurant, The Banks Waterfront adds a dynamic in-house option while completing our mission for full service accommodations,” said Kevin.

“From our very humble beginnings, the blessings have been abundant. I’ll never forget those who’ve worked so hard to get us to this point. Without each one of them, none of this would have been possible. The people of Pittston have given us loyal support from the first floral delivery in 2018, and our extended family within these businesses, have made it possible to thrive in The Tomato Capital,” Kevin said. H

L to R: Natalie & Kevin Kearney; Jamie & Kimberly Granko

SCasey, DMD, was born and raised in northeast Pennsylvania. He graduated from Wilkes University (then Wilkes College) in 1990 and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 1994.

Shawn M Casey, DMD Casey Dental

That year, Dr. Casey opened his first practice on the Pittston Bypass and worked as a sole practitioner for ten years before opening a spectacularly transitioned, multi-specialty practice on Oak Street. This dream of opening an allencompassing dental care facility became a reality in 2014. He expanded the facility across the street to serve his community with the latest advances in dentistry.

Casey Dental at 1073 Oak Street is double the size of the previous office and home to general, orthodontic and oral surgery. The office offers flexible schedules, including early morning and evenings.

“The dynamics of dentistry are changing,” Dr. Casey said. “I believe if a patient could have options in one facility, it gives them more treatment choices. We want

to have general dentistry and specialists collaborate as a team. Casey Dental is the largest dental center of its kind in the area,” he said.

Dr. Casey said that he is proud to offer the latest in dental technology. “Our state-of-the-art equipment helps us provide the best possible care for our patients. We utilize digital dental x-rays, which give off less radiation than traditional x-rays. Millennium lasers allow us to treat gum disease successfully. Same day crowns are made using 3d printing technology and are ready in less than an hour. We also offer guided implant surgery, Glo Whitening and Invisalign,” he said.

Dr. Casey is enthusiastic about helping people learn and develop skills that will

further their careers. Casey Dental provides on the job training with the latest equipment and can help pay for Expanded Functional Dental Assistant (EFDA) education as well as xray certification. Trainees can receive mentorship from the exceptional Casey Dental providers. If you would like to learn more about the opportunities available at Casey Dental, visit caseydental.com or contact the office. “We would love to hear from you,” Dr. Casey said.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Casey cherishes spending time with his wife Michele and their children, George, Shawna and Samantha. They often enjoy quality family time and create lasting memories together in Avalon, New Jersey. Dr. Casey is a member of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, Academy of General Dentistry and The Luzerne Foundation.

“Casey Dental has exciting projects in the works. I would like to thank my family, friends and especially the patients and their referrals who helped build and continue to grow Casey Dental. Creating smiles one family at a time,” he said. H

SCelebrating 30 years

Santo Insalaco, Jr.

Owner and Director of Operations Insalaco Development Group

ment in 1972, Insalaco Development Group has been a prominent player in the commercial real estate market across the Mid-Atlantic region. Originally founded by the Insalaco brothers–Mike, Sandy Sr., Leonard and Vince–in Pittston, the organization emerged as a result of diversification from the successful Insalaco Supermarkets. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Insalaco Development Group has gained recognition for its expertise in managing and constructing spaces for both family-owned businesses and nationally recognized enterprises. Boasting a comprehensive skill set, the

Insalaco Development Group team is equipped to handle all aspects of tenant and property requirements. Their in-house capabilities include property management, leasing, accounting, maintenance, investment

and construction. Their extensive portfolio includes over 1 million square feet of retail strip centers, grocery-store anchored shopping centers, medical facilities, office buildings and industrial locations.

Directing the team at Insalaco Development Group is Santo Insalaco Jr., who manages construction and development while also overseeing leasing and tenant needs since joining the family business in 1987. Building upon this legacy, IDG has recently expanded into the third generation with the addition of two of Santo Jr.'s children, Santo Insalaco III and Julia Insalaco.

Committed to continuous growth, the team at Insalaco Development Group takes pride in operating and expanding their presence throughout the region and beyond. H

AH Baby + co

Caroline Nelson, BS, RN, owner of AH Baby + co. is a graduate of Scranton Preparatory School and Wilkes University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She practiced nursing for 20 years (15 were as a Labor and Delivery nurse. ) For the past many years her most important role has been becoming the best mom she can be to her two children.Caroline is a single mother by choice. Every product she uses is with her children’s best interest in mind, from lotions to booster seats; each is purposefully selected.

Since her first pregnancy, traveling experiences became occasions to find new products for her children. Prior to children, as an avid knitter, she sought out yarn stores while traveling. These shopping experiences revealed that she had difficulty finding the products she wanted for her children, locally. She would have to travel for particular brands of car seats, strollers and nursery furniture; local vendors simply didn’t carry them.

“I wanted to see and feel the items in person, not just order them online. I bought my stroller and car seat in New Jersey in 2014. I also noticed that when I traveled, many stores included a community component to them; they weren’t just retail spaces. I learned the stories behind why particular brands were selected by each retail store owner. Sometimes it was because of sensory benefits of a certain toy or particular safety features of a car seat. My dream was to create that

ideal environment in this region. I wanted a place where couples could go to learn before starting their families; a place where parents could find items such as breastfeeding supplies or baby carriers and speak face-to-face with someone who had first-hand experience with the products. This is not something found at large chains.”

Caroline has many dreams for AH Baby + co. Along with carefully curating everything from the store’s clothing, furniture, gifts and gear she also holds classes and community events including Family CPR, Zumbini and Tea Time 4 tots. New mom groups. moms who are new to breastfeeding and children’s craft events have been very successful.

Caroline was raised in West Pittston and her mother’s family was from Pittston. She is passionate about seeing a small town like Pittston gentrify and return to its glory with a thriving Main Street. She is proud that her children see her business as a part of that goal. “My children love being a part of the store. Harrigan loves greeting customers and Aoife loves helping with social media.”

AH Baby + co. was named after her children. “When you see a baby don’t you say lovingly ‘ah, they’re so cute.’ Throughout the years of parenting there are a lot of ah’s….. ah it’s so hard, ah i’m so happy and ah i’m so tired. My children are my inspiration. AH Baby + co. gift registry is quickly becoming the favorite for moms and moms-to-be who want the very best. Moms can see exactly what they’d like to receive.” H

When strokes happen, we’re ready.

With strokes, every minute counts. If you’re in NEPA, you have a Primary Stroke Center and a Comprehensive Stroke Center right where you need them — close to home.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center – Comprehensive Stroke Center

Equipped 24/7 to handle the most severe and complicated strokes with:

• Specialized neurosurgeons

• A neuroscience intensive care unit

• The latest in advanced imaging capabilities

Geisinger Community Medical Center – Primary Stroke Center

Supports better outcomes with:

• A dedicated stroke-focused program

• Medical professionals trained in stroke care

• Individualized care

Request a free stroke symptom magnet at geisinger.org/strokecare

A mask is still required when you come to Geisinger. Thanks for protecting our patients. Learn more: geisinger.org/safe

All of Downtown Scranton will serve as center stage for an award-winning music festival as the 19th Annual Scranton Jazz Festival (SJF) returns on August 2, 3 and 4.

Reminiscent of a New Orleans style festival, two ticketed main stage per formances and multiple free venues will be fea tured throughout Downtown Scranton. Attendees will enjoy nation al, regional and local musicians, and an extensive

The the legendary award winning band "Big Bad Voodoo Daddy" August 3, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

explore the wonderful restaurants, pubs and cafés in the downtown Scranton Business District.

19th Annual Scranton Jazz Festival

Main Stage Act MultiAward Winning Group: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

unique experience. New this year will be a Saturday afternoon marketplace with live performances and familyfriendly activities in partnership with Lackawanna Market, continuing the support of local business. While enjoying performances by accomplished jazz, blues and world beat musicians,

The SJF has garnered international recognition and has been mentioned in U.S. News and World Report, for the cultural diversity and integrity it has brought to the region. In celebration of its commitment to the arts, admission is free on Friday. Two ticketed events, Saturday at Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple featuring award winning swing group Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, and Sunday at The Ritz Theater featuring the Emmy nominated Scranton Jazz

August 2,3 and 4, Over 80 musicians at 20+ venues.

Festival Big Band with Grammy Award winning saxophonist Joe Lovano will delight the audience. Everyone is invited to enjoy live music in more than 20 venues all weekend downtown.

For more information, tickets, a schedule of performances and artist info, visit www.scrantonjazzfestival.org and follow Scranton Jazz Festival on social media.

April 2023, marked the 30 year anniversary of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s remarkable arrival onto the music scene. Since its formation in the early nineties in Ventura, California, the band has toured virtually nonstop, performing an average of over 150 shows a year, and has produced a sizable catalog of recorded music, with sales of over two million albums to date.

During their legendary residency at the Derby nightclub in Los Angeles, they reminded the world, in the midst of the grunge era no less, that it was still cool to swing. Cofounded by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren, the group was at the forefront of the swing revival of that time, blending a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of jazz, swing and dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s all original core line-up includes Scotty Morris (lead vocals and guitar), Kurt Sodergren (drums), Dirk Shumaker (double bass and vocals), Andy Rowley (baritone saxophone and vocals), Glen "The Kid" Marhevka (trumpet), Karl Hunter (saxophones and clarinet) and Joshua Levy (piano and arranger).

American art form, the band’s original horn-infused music and legendary high energy show introduces the genre to a new and younger generation while remaining cognizant and respectful of the music’s rich legacy.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s efforts to promote and revitalize swing music have taken shape as much more than a simple tribute. Taking inspiration from the creators of this uniquely

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's first phase of stardom featured an appearance in the 1996 indie film Swingers, a movie that not only launched the careers of Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau, but introduced Big Bad Voodoo Daddy to an audience beyond their Los Angeles base. The band's music has appeared in countless films and television shows, including The Wild, Despicable Me, Phineas & Ferb, Friends, Third Rock From The Sun, Ally McBeal and So You Think You Can Dance. They have appeared live on Dancing With The Stars, Late Night With Conan O’Brien, NBC’s Christmas in

Parade, a remarkable seven appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and the Super Bowl XXXIII Halftime Show. The band has also appeared as special guests with many of the country's most distinguished symphony orchestras, and has performed for three U.S. presidents.

After 30 years, 11 records, over 3000 live shows and countless appearances in film and television, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is showing no signs of slowing down, and is looking forward to sharing its music with new and old fans alike.

Joe Lovano

August 4, 2024, 5:30 p.m.

The Ritz Theater

Grammy-winning saxophonist, composer and producer Joe Lovano is fearless in finding new modes of artistic expression. With a Grammy Win for his 52nd Street Themes and 14 other nominations, he has won DownBeat Magazine’s Critics and Readers Polls countless times as Tenor Saxophonist, Musician of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year and Triple Crowns from DownBeat. He has also received numerous awards from Jazz Times and the Jazz Journalists Association for Tenor Saxophone, Album of the Year and Musician of the Year.

Born in Cleveland on December 29, 1952, he

attended the famed Berklee College of Music in Boston where years later he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate. Since 2001, he has held the Gary Burton Chair in Jazz Performance and is a founding faculty member since 2009 of the Global Jazz Institute at Berklee, directed by Danilo Pérez. He is a guest lecturer at New York University’s Jazz Program, Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music as well as Clinician at Universities around the globe.

From 1991 through 2016, Lovano released an unprecedented 25 records as a leader for the historic Blue Note Records. Joe Lovano Quartet: Classic! Live at Newport featuring Hank Jones was recorded in 2005 and released in 2016 to critical acclaim. In 2019, Lovano released his debut album as a bandleader on ECM Records, Trio Tapestry, with Marilyn Crispell and Carmen Castaldi. Over the next few years, Lovano saw the release of three additional ECM Records albums: ROMA, a collaboration with Enrico Rava; Arctic Riff, a special guest appearance with the Marcin Wasilewski Trio; and the sophomore release from Lovano’s Trio Tapestry, Garden of Expression. In 2021, Lovano released Other Worlds, his third album with Sound Prints, a quintet he co-leads with trumpeter Dave Douglas. The next year brought a collaboration with guitarist Jakob Bro, Once Around the Room: A Tribute to Paul Motian. Most recently, Lovano released his third Trio Tapestry recording entitled, Our Daily Bread.

In addition, composer Mark Anthony Turnage wrote a Concerto for Saxophone and Chamber Orchestra for Joe called A Man Descending which has been performed globally and Maestro Michael Abene orches-

Joe Lovano

trated an album of all-Lovano originals called Symphonica for the WDR Symphonic Orchestra and Big Band, which was released on Blue Note and received a Grammy nomination.

Joe has performed and recorded with a long list of jazz greats including Woody Herman, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Mel Lewis, Bob Brookmeyer, Paul Motian, Bill Frisell, Tony Bennett, Abbey Lincoln, Charlie Haden, John Scofield, Gunther Schuller, Elvin Jones, McCoy Tyner, Ed Blackwell, Herbie Hancock, Dave Holland, Hank Jones, Dave Liebman, Michael Brecker, Dave Douglas, Judi Silvano, Ravi Coltrane, Chucho Valdés, Ornette Coleman and Diana Krall. He has created an extensive body of work for his own ensembles including strings, wood winds, his hornrich Nonet, the Classic Quartet and the Trio Tapestry.

The SJF Big Band

In 2022, the SJF Big Band received a Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters Award for its TV production of the Swinging Jazz Nutcracker Suite. This production also received a 2022 Emmy Award nomination. Over the years, the SJFBB has performed with jazz greats: Phil Woods, Jon Faddis, Jimmy Heath, John Pizzarelli, Ilona Knopfler, Randy Brecker and Dave Liebman.

Joe Lovano con tinues to explore new horizons within the world of music as a soloist, bandleader and composer.

The SJF Big Band

The Emmy nominated, award winning Scranton Jazz Festival 16 piece Big Band, is comprised of world class jazz musicians that live in Lackawanna, Luzerne and Monroe Counties and surrounding areas. Under the direction of drummer /arranger, Marko Marcinko, this large jazz ensemble performs classic big band arrangements as well as modern selections that play a monumental role in jazz history.

Scranton Jazz Festival with an exciting brassy swinging sound that will bring you back to the days when Big Bands were king.

The SJF is made possible through partnerships with Blu Elefante Events, PA Jazz Alliance Inc., Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, First Friday Scranton, Lackawanna County, and Scranton Tomorrow and with the generous support of sponsors and media partners. H

A Anthony Williams

nthony Williams, a 17-year old senior at Tunkhannock Area High School, is paving his way into the music industry with his band FallingForAutumn.

Anthony started his musical journey in sixth grade at Tunkhannock Intermediate Center when he participated in the school’s band under Mrs. Mckenzie Anderson.

While in this band, he started cultivating his musical knowledge by learning how to read sheet music and play his first instrument, clarinet. Now, Anthony plays a variety of instruments including piano, acoustic and electric guitar, bass clarinet, clarinet and drums.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Anthony was unable to continue with in-person classes and needed to channel his creative energy into something at home.

“My older brother, Zhane, came up with the idea to start making music,” Anthony said. “He gave me an old, ratty guitar and we started playing around in the basement, writing anything to keep us busy.” After that moment, Anthony started to pursue his musical career and songwriting more seriously.

Anthony wished to gain a better understanding of music and how to write his own music. He discussed

this desire with his mother, Ellen. She contacted the music department at Tunkhannock Area School District, and private lessons with Endless Mountains Music and guitar teacher, Randy Leff were recommended.

“Unfortunately, one of my biggest supporters, my father, passed away before I began my musical journey, but his influence is still very much a part of my music and work ethic,” Anthony said.

Currently, Anthony has 40 original pieces in his catalog. He has previously performed them at Gin’s Tavern in Factoryville, and at graduation parties alongside Randy.

Anthony also wants to gain more attraction to his music, so he recently took it upon himself to record an original EP at studio in Old Forge.

Anthony is also looking ahead to what music will look like in his future. This summer, he will attend Drexel University’s week-long intensive in July where he will receive hands-on experience with music recording, production and marketing. Upon graduation, he hopes to return to Drexel University to obtain a four-year undergraduate music industry bachelor’s degree.

“I would love to be involved in the music scene in some way, whether as a producer, promoter, songwriter,

studio musician or working at a label or Spotify,” he said.

Besides creating and producing music, Anthony also loves cooking, working out and riding his dirt bike. For his last year at Tunkhannock Area High School, he hopes to uphold his honor roll status and continue courses to become certified for small engine mainte nance.

For young people interested in pursuing or entering the music industry, Anthony suggests taking advantage of the programs and classes offered through schools or local communities. “I know the NEPA music scene is always looking for those interested in helping out with all things music. I firmly believe and will advocate that everyone should have access to pursue musical aspi rations regardless of one’s background. As we all know, it’s not where the music comes from

“Jennifer was an integral part of our daughter’s college admissions process. She helped guide us through which classes to choose, how to present extracurricular activities, which summer opportunities would be the best option, developing an effective high school resume, creating essays that stand out, carefully submitting each application and so much more. Our daughter was accepted to her top two dream schools - both were very competitive and we could not have done it without Jennifer!”

Jennifer L. Severini-Kresock, MS

Private Career and College Counselor 570.702.5700 • NEPACareerandCollegeCounseling.com Facebook: NEPACareerandCollegeCounseling Twitter@NEPACareerandco jkresock@NEPACareerandCollegeCounseling.com

Kirtan

Tara (KT) CAREER & COLLEGE COUNSELING ASSOCIATES

Bridget & Steve Gelderman

162nd Wayne County Fair

Touted as ‘the most fun you'll have all year is back,’ the annual Wayne County Fair returns August 2–10. The 162 annual Wayne County Fair returns to the fairgrounds on route 191, north of Honesdale and celebrates the rich agriculture of the region.

Packed each day with shows, thrills, rides, games, food and of course, farm animals, the Wayne County Fair is offered for a pay-one-price model of $12 that includes parking, all day of rides, live music, magic shows, most grandstand shows and barns full of animals. Fun for kids of all ages, the large and impres sive paved midway, includes 26 thrill rides and an expanding kiddie land for those not big enough for the larger rides.

The fair's packed daily entertainment schedule includes a mix of harness racing, truck and tractor pulls, fireworks, two nights of the demolition derby, free musical grand stand shows with some national cover bands, and this year, two nights of Monster Truck Freestyle featuring Krazy Train.

Farm meets fun at the Wayne County Fair with daily agricultural events like horse and pony pulls, kids pedal pulls and 4-H animal shows and judging. Find horses, cows, pigs, rabbits and more raised by local 4-H kids. There will also be an exhibit building that showcases the history of agriculture in Wayne County.

From fresh squeezed lemonades to farm fresh corn and the decadent deep fried oreos, there’s food for everyone on the fair grounds to forget their diets for one day.

Half price admission is offered on August 2 and August 7 to seniors 62 and over and for active military personnel and veterans. Visit waynecountyfair.com for the full schedule of events. H

Summer Fun

COSTA’S FAMILY FUN PARK

Offering go-karts, water slides, laser tag, mini-golf, bumper boats, batting cages and more. Fun for the whole family! Our snack bar features family favorites and Hershey’s hand-dipped ice cream. Open daily mid-July–Labor Day and weekends Spring and Fall. Route 6, Hawley. 570-226-8585. www.costasfamilyfunpark.com

LAHEY FAMILY FUN PARK

THE FRENCH AZILUM HISTORIC SITE

July 6 Family Fun Day

July 13 Community/Descendants Day

August 3 Civil War Day

August 23-25 Revolutionary War Day 469 Queens Rd., Towanda. 570-996-7534 thefrenchazilum.com

Our top of the line Arcade is open all year long! Spring, Summer and Fall, putt through waterfalls on the massive 36 Hole Mini Golf course, speed under bridges on the ¼ mile Go-Kart track, hit balls in the multi-speed Batting Cages, or splash around on the Bumper Boats. 500 Morgan Hwy. Clarks Summit 570-586-5699 LaheyFunPark.com

WALLENPAUPACK SCENIC BOAT TOUR & BOAT RENTAL

MANNING FARM DAIRY

A small family-run farm bringing the freshest and best tasting homemade ice cream and milk to the people of Northeast PA. We grow the crops that our cows like to eat, since happy cows are productive cows. Milk is bottled and ice cream made on the farm and delivered to our stores daily. Manning Road, Dalton. 570-563-1702 www.manningfarm.com

Take a scenic boat tour on one of our passenger pontoon boats or rent a pontoon boat, kayak or stand up paddle board (SUP). For rates, times and reservations visit our website. Open daily. Located at the Lake Wallenpaupack Observation Dike, 2487 Route 6, Hawley, PA. Call 570-226-3293 or visit www.wallenpaupackboattour.com

SCRANTON ART HAUS

An independent theater in downtown Scranton offering convenient in-theater dining and a full service bar. From date night to family night, we provide a higher level of service and amenities to meet your needs. Birthday parties, events and theater rentals available. 570-955-0293 / scrantonarthaus.com

Claws N Paws for Kids N Critters Days!

July 27, 2024 and August 17, 2024 will be days geared toward children. Kids N Critters Day activi ties include an arti fact and craft table. Kids can make enrichment items for an animal of their choosing and have the chance to meet some favorite animals! Activities run from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Claws ’N’ Paws Special Events

your Halloween costume to receive one dollar off regular admission. Stay for the animal parade–always a good time! Snacks and a piñata party will follow the parade. Goodie bags available while supplies last. Parade begins around 1 p.m. H

Family Fall Fun Fest

September 14, 2024 Claws N Paws will be distributing fall themed enrichment for animals throughout the day. The Family Fall Fun Fest will also feature a scavenger hunt and a fall craft for kids. Times TBD.

Boo at the Zoo

October 12 and 13, 2024 enjoy Halloween fun at Claws N Paws Annual Boo at the Zoo weekend. Come dressed in

Saint Ann Solemn Novena Celebrates 100 Years

Father Richard Burke, C.P., Rector of Saint Ann‘s Passionist Monastery and Director of Saint Ann’s Shrine Basilica, announces that the 100th Anniversary of the Solemn Novena to Saint Ann will take place July 17-26, 2024.

The novena is a period of nine days of special Eucharists, devotions, and preaching of the Word of God in West Scranton. These nine days build toward the celebration of the Feast of Saint Ann and Saint Joachim on the tenth day, July 26. Our special Passionist preachers this year will be Father Justin Nelson Alphonse, C.P., Pastor of Saint Agnes Passionist Parish in Louisville, KY, and Father Luis Daniel Guivas Gerena, C.P., Administrator of Saint Gemma Passionist Parish in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Father Richard said the centenary of the Novena has inspired special outreach to the growing Hispanic Catholic community in the Diocese of Scranton and surrounding dioceses. The Novena will have a Eucharist and Novena service in Spanish at 7:30 p.m. each evening from July 17-25. The faithful will celebrate the Feast of Saint Ann in Spanish on Thursday, July 25, at 7:30 p.m. with Passionist Bishop Neil Tiedemann, C.P., D.D. as celebrant.

The Solemn Closing of Saint Ann’s Novena will

be on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. with the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, serving as preacher and homilist.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend their year’s milestone Novena celebration in West Scranton from July 17-26! H

1924-2024

July 17-26

"Come Pray With Us"at Saint Ann's Shrine Basilica in observance of the annual Feast of Saint AnnMother of the Blessed Virgin Mary

1233 Saint Ann Street, Scranton, PA 18504 www.stannsmonasterybasilica.org

“Good St. Ann Pray for Us.”

at The Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Ann

Dog Days of Summer

July Recipes July Recipes

The word “picnic” , derived from the French phrase “pique un niche” means “pick a place” and refers to people who find a place where they can both eat and escape the pressures of community life. Throughout the centuries, picnics became a popular activity for small family affairs or a romantic date. A basket of finger food and a blanket are brought along. We have gathered some recipes that don't require you to pack up your china and utensils. Rather, opt for bite-sized foods to dine with ease!

Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto Skewers

1 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 tsp. dried oregano

1/8 tsp. kosher salt

Small Mozzarella balls

Pitted green olives

Pitted kalamata olives

Quartered marinated artichoke hearts

Thin slices salami, rolled

Jarred piquillo peppers

Toss the mozzarella, olive oil, oregano and salt together in a small bowl. Thread mozzarella, green olive, piquillo pepper, Kalamata olive, artichoke heart, salami and basil onto skewers.

Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Mexican Corn Coblets

Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Wraps:

24 shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbs. smoked paprika

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. ground coriander

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Olive oil, for drizzling

8 lettuce cups

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

1/2 cup fresh dill leaves

Herb Sauce:

3/4 cup Greek yogurt

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tsp. chili paste

1 clove garlic, finely minced

Juice of 2 lemons

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Preheat grill to medium high. Place shrimp on skewers. Mix together paprika, garlic powder and coriander. Sprinkle both sides of the shrimp with the seasoning mixture; sprinkle with salt and pepper; then drizzle with olive oil. Grill until cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes a side. Arrange the shrimp on the lettuce cups and drizzle with the creamy herb sauce; top with the cilantro and dill.

Mexican Corn Coblets

4 ears of sweet corn

2 tbs. cold butter

1 tsp. chili powder

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

2 ounces crumbled Cotija cheese

Paprika to taste

Lime wedges

Rub ears of corn with cold butter. Grill corn on medium-high for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender, and evenly charred. Whisk chili powder into mayonnaise and set aside and cover corn evenly with contents. Sprinkle cotija, cilantro and paprika over cobs. Squeeze a small amount of lime.

Classic Lobster Roll

4 lobster tails

1/2 cup mayonnaise

3 tbs. freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 celery stalks and leaves, chopped

2 tbs. chopped parsely

Salt and pepper to taste

4 lightly toasted rolls

Melted butter

After removing the meat from the lobsters, chop large chunks into bite-size pieces. Combine the lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, parsley and salt and pepper. Brush inside the rolls with melted butter and fill with lobster salad.

Dining around the Region

1818 Deli & Catering Co.

Breakfast, lunch & catering. Stop in for a bite, stock up the fridge, or cater your party. Excellent coffee, soups, salads, sandwiches & more. 1818 Sullivan Trail. 570-629DELI (3354). Hours: www.1818deli.com.

Abbiocco

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.

Alter House Restaurant & Bar

Introducing a farm-to-table restaurant with a vibrant ambiance! Enjoy our delectable cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Join us for a lively happy hour, indulge in our delightful Sunday brunch and groove to live entertainment. Our versatile venue is perfect for hosting events. Open Thursday through Sunday for your enjoyment!

Anthony's Restaurant

Anthony’s menu offers a variety of steaks, seafood and Italian specialities. Enjoy classic Old Forge pizza along with their popular thin crust. Dine in one of three elegant dining areas, including a full-service bar featuring speciality cocktails and a skillfully curated selection of wines. Hours are WednesdaySunday, 4 - 9 p.m. 202 S Main St, Old Forge, PA 570-451-0925.

Barley Creek Brewing Co & Distillery

Try our hospitality, it pairs well with our award-winning handcrafted brews, spirits and atmosphere. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

www.barleycreek.com 1774 Sullivan Trail, Tannersville 570-629-9399.

Barley Creek Tasting Room & Pub @ The Crossings

Grab a bite to eat and taste our PA craft brews, spirits, wines and cocktails. Check out our unique beer gear gift shop. Located at the Crossings Factory Outlets. 272-200-2922. Hours: www.barleycreektastingroom.com.

Mendicino’s Pizza and Family Restaurant

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.

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.

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 premises catering daily. 570-961-9681.

Which restaurants should appear here? Call us at 570-587-3532 or email: info@happeningspa.com