Ballet by the Beach

Ballet Theatre of Scranton, Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic and Lackawanna County Department of Arts and Culture, Collaborate

An elegant

ballet performed in a lush outdoor setting is not just a safe solution to this year’s challenges. “The Saratoga Performing Arts Center in New York and the Vail Performing Arts Center in Colorado have always hosted various ballet companies, outdoors,” noted Joanne Arduino, Artistic Director of Ballet Theatre of Scranton (BTOS). This year in particular, however, it made a lot of “natural” sense for BTOS to select the beautiful lake setting in Covington Park in Lackawanna County as its location for the outdoor performance of “Ballet by the Beach,”in partnership with the NEPA Philharmonic on May 8 at 5 p.m. The production is part of Lackawanna County’s Art in the Park initiative.

Les Sylphides, in particular, is a perfect “nature” ballet. “The airy, ethereal quality of the sylphs (mythical, fairy-like creatures) directly corresponds to the backdrop of the lake and trees. The slope of a natural amphitheater made Covington Park a perfect choice,” noted Arduino.

“Ballet by the Beach” is presented in two separate acts. Act One is the classical, romantic period ballet, Les Sylphides (pronounced lay-sil-feed), and will include a gorgeous Chopin score performed by the Philharmonic. “Then, I wanted a contrast for both audience and dancer for Act Two so I chose a ballet I entitled, “Danse Espanol,” a presentation of Spanish divertissements (short dances) from the ballets Carmen, Don Quixote and one variation from Swan Lake. It is fiery and percussive and features a traditional Tablado Flamenco, which was choreographed in 1996 by a friend, the late Ana Consuelo De Diaz from Colombia,” Arduino noted.

by bythe the

According to Arduino, studying ballet has a myriad of benefits. “Overall physical well being, good posture, confidence, poise, coordination, an understanding of musicality and how one’s body works, self Front: Maria Wetzel, Kelley Dougherty, Alyssa Shonk; Middle: Jules Colombo; expression and Standing: Hannah Frels, Claudia Pritchyk, Jordyn Patrick, Ashley Hamilton and Sydney Vachino discipline are just a few of the benefits,” she noted. is unequalled to any recorded “In a live performance, the excite- production,” said Arduino. ment and energy transcends from Nancy Sanderson, Executive the stage to the audience, and Director of the Philharmonic vice versa. Each performance is remarked, “Joanne’s artistic a new adventure. While the vision, creativity, attention toperformers may have the same detail, and impeccablechoreography or story, the dance, organization make collabodancers and energy will vary. ration easy. Collabo-A live performance ration requires attention to the smallest of details; everything must be anticipated prior to the performance! Live music and dance benefits us atMelisse Brunet, Musical Director of the Philharmonic emotional, physical and spiritual levels. In this About the Ballet digital age we need Les Sylphides is a ballet blanc set to the music of Frederic Chopin. It preoptions for live per- miered in 1909. Though the performformances that enrich ance has no plot, it is cited as being our souls and enhance one of the first ballets to focus solely our aesthetic. We on mood and dance. should respect Carmen was created in 1949 by Roland Petit and his ballet company, “Lesthe discipline and Ballets de Paris.” It is based on the devotion that goes novella of the same name by Prosper into every art form.” Mérimée, written in 1845. The music featured in the ballet is taken from the Come experience the 1875 opera, Carmen. It focuses on a Spanish woman named Carmen whoballet, the music, the beauti- seduces a soldier named Don Jose. ful park - and bring a picnic Don Quixote is based on the novel and lawn chair! Admission of the same name by Miguel de is free. Rain date is May 9. Cervantes, published in two parts in 1605 and 1615. The novel focuses on a The Lackawanna County man who becomes consumed with the Department of Arts and “knight and shining armor” era chivalry he reads about in romantic novels. The Culture is a sponsor of plot follows him as he decides to bring “Ballet by the Beach.” H back chivalry throughout his country, using the name Don Quixote.

Regional Networking

Fidelity Bank Honors Bankers at Virtual Gala

George Czajkowski was awarded

Outstanding Service Partner. Czajkowski is Assistant Vice President and Facilities Manager. He was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Fidelity bankers and customers during the pandemic. He ensured bankers were supplied with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and created work spaces in compliance with CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines. Adjustments included installing barriers, adding signage and implementing sanitation processes in all offices. In the event of possible exposure, his responsiveness has been exceptional. Czajkowski has been on call constantly to ensure banker safety. He goes above and beyond to serve the Fidelity team.

Michelle Carr is Vice President and Regional Retail Sales

Manager. She was named Banker of the Year in honor of her exceptional leadership skills and ability to incorporate the standards of the Fidelity Model Experience into everything she does. The Fidelity Model Experience is focused on relationship banking, encouraging bankers to fulfill their unique roles with integrity, innovation, passion and commitment. Carr continuously seeks ways to improve processes and leads by example. She encourages her team to pursue their goals and strive for their greatest potential. A role model to Fidelity bankers, her positive outlook helps boost morale and inspires others.

Shawna Halley was recognized for Excellence in Customer Service as a Customer Care

Center Specialist. She personifies the Fidelity Model Experience with every client and banker interaction. She is dedicated to providing an extraordinary client experience and is a valuable team player who remains positive and productive in a fast-paced, demanding environment.

Country Inns and B&Bs

KEUKA LAKESIDE INN Hammondsport’s exclusive lakefront accommodations on the shores of Keuka Lake. This Inn offers 17 comfortable rooms and spectacular views with an 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

Treasure

Hu U u N u Tu I u N u G

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

BEST SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

Where Our Family Cares for Yours

Supportive Living Memory Care Living

1300 Morgan Highway • 570-587-7709 thepinesatclarkssummit.com

Who is the cutest of them all?

Bailey

The Hollow family says Bailey loves playing ball and getting ice cream with her brothers, Ben and Ryan. She lives in Jermyn.

Mitten

Mitten, says the Comes family, is a lazy house cat always hunting for comfy spots to nap. He enjoys playing fetch. Mitten lives in Mayfield.

Kelso

The Rogers family says Kelso is “very interested in having all the belly rubs,” and enjoys going hiking at Moon Lake. Kelso lives in Larksville.

Albie

The Alunni family says Albie loves playing with his tennis ball and enjoys spending time with his puppy friends every morning. Albie lives in Archbald.

Buddy

Buddy, says the Greenley family, is 13 but still full of energy! His family says he is one of a kind. Buddy lives in Philadelphia.

Samson

The Schuster family says Samson is very nosy, but enjoys car rides, gazing out the living room window and playing ball. Samson lives in Clarks Summit.

Vote for your favorite May pet at

www.HappeningsMagazinePA.com! The winner receives a Happenings bandana!

The votes are in... April’s Pet of the Month is Frenchy Congratulations!

Little Pea

Little Pea, says the Luongo family, loves to spend time with her family and go on car rides. Little Pea lives in Dallas.

Dudley

Barbara and Wesley Keller say

Dudley loves going for walks, swimming and stealing socks. Dudley lives in Dunmore.

Binki

The Manganaro family says Binki

snorts like a pig when excited. She is a “strange little dog, but cute nonetheless.” Binki lives in Old Forge.

Tiger Dawson & Butters

Tiger, says Joan Fitzpatrick, is on a strict schedule of naps, feeding and leisure. He is king of his castle! Tiger lives in Clarks Summit.

The McVeigh family says Dawson and

Butters love playing with each other and snuggling with Mom and Dad on the couch. They live in Blakely.

Orange One

Orange One’s family says he always gets his way. He loves food and spending time with his mom. Orange One lives in Wilkes-Barre.

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

SHADOWBROOK RESORT

Designed by Geoffrey Cornish, this sprawling 6,000 yard/par 71, 18 hole course boasts rolling greens, open skies and mountain views. Shadowbrook is ideal for tournaments and offers an onsite pro shop, group rates, league play, individual and corporate memberships. 570-836-2151. 201 Resort Ln., Tunkhannock.

SPLIT ROCK GOLF CLUB

Open to the public 7 days a week. 18 hole North course, 9 hole South course, 18 holes of Footgolf. Located in Lake Harmony. Golf shop, full practice facilities, restaurant/bar with great view. Yearly memberships available. Tournaments and outings welcome. 570-722-9902 srinfo@ptd.net. Book tee times at golfsplitrock.com

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!

POCONO FARMS COUNTRY CLUB

Enjoy our 18 hole course and practice facility by becoming a member for a day! Play manicured fairways and top quality greens! Stop by our Lakeside Grill and Pub. Receive “Member For a Day” rate by calling 570-894-4435 ext. 111 or PoconoFarms.com/Golf. 182 Lake Rd., Tobyhanna.

SLEEPY HOLLOW GOLF COURSE

Public 19 hole course, challenging back 10 holes. Renovated clubhouse and bar. Casual dining with beautiful views of our front 9. Golf card accepted. Golf leagues and tournaments welcome. Voted Best Public Golf Course in Times Tribune Readers Choice. FB and Instagram: @shgolfcourse. Sandy Banks Rd., Greenfield Twp. 570-254-4653 (http://www.sleepyhollowgolfcourse.com/)

Golf for a Great Cause: Lackawanna Pro Bono Golf Tournament

Lackawanna Pro Bono

will host its 15th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, June 14, 2021 at Elmhurst Country Club. Jerry Musheno, R.P.h., Esq. and Kevin M. Conaboy, Esq. will serve as

this year’s event co-chairs.

Musheno

Hahn

Pro Bono. An unparalleled number of legal needs are and will continue to be tied to the Coronavirus pandemic and more people will be unable to afford a lawyer than ever. A Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Program will be presented at 11 a.m.

The Honorable Thomas I. Vanaskie (Ret.)

will address the recommendations developed by the PBA Task Force to update processes and Conaboy technology to enable the legal system to function during times of crisis. Judge Vanaskie served as Chair of the Task Force. The CLE is free for registered golfers and $15. for non-golfers andVanaskie includes lunch. “Lackawanna Pro Bono is Golf registration and lunch a vehicle through which begins at 11:30 a.m., with a Lackawanna County lawyers shot-gun start at 12:30 p.m., in private practice volunteer followed by dinner/awards professional services to people ceremony at 6 p.m. who are faced with serious civil legal problems, but do not have the means to hire a lawyer,” said Sylvia Hahn, Esq., Executive Director, Lackawanna The tournament will be captain and crew format. Individuals without teams will be paired with other players. The golf entrance fee is Lackawanna Pro Bono was established in 1997 to address the unmet need for free legal services in Lackawanna County. LPB provides free legal representation to eligible individuals in a wide range of non-fee generating civil matters, including child custody and visitation, child support, protection from abuse, landlord/tenant, debtor-creditor and unemployment compensation. Services are provided by local attorneys volunteering their time and expertise, and range from brief advice to representation in litigation. Family Law Help Desk, LPB's attorney volunteers, provide free legal advice on a variety of family law issues. The Elder Law Clinic provides preparation of simple wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives, as well as brief advice about civil legal problems to individuals age 60 and over. To be financially eligible for LPB's services, individuals must have a household income of less than 125% of the poverty level. Over the years, over 400 local attorneys have volunteered. LPB has provided free legal assistance in approximately 4,200 civil legal matters, helping roughly 9,500 people.

$135.00/$150.00 after May 10. The event is expected to sell out again this year. visit www.

lackawannaprobono.com,

or call 570-961-2714. H