Lackawanna College Training Future Scranton, Wilkes-Barre Officers

Lackawanna College’s Police Academy Class 255 is off to an impressive start. Comprised of 11 officers from both the Scranton and Wilkes Barre Police Departments, this cohort of cadets embarked on a fully funded police training program in the Scranton campus on April 26, 2021.   

Both the Wilkes-Barre and Scranton Police Departments will pay for the cadets’ tuition. The departments are eligible for reimbursement upon cadets’ completion of the program by the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officer’s Training Commissions (MPOETC) thanks to an Act 89 annual grant of $5 million authorized in 2013. This grant stipulates that police officers must be trained and certified through the Act 120 Pennsylvania Municipal Police Basic Training Program for the departments to receive reimbursement.  

“Currently, MPOETC will reimburse a department 75 percent of the tuition and 45 percent of the hourly wages required for the training of any cadet hired by the department and paid to attend the Lackawanna College Municipal Police Academy,” Lackawanna College Director of Police Academy Operations John Chilleri explained. 

Lackawanna College’s Police Academy is the only academy in northeastern Pennsylvania authorized by MPOETC to provide both the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Basic Training Program and the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Annual Mandatory In-Service Training (MIST).  

“The academy also provides law enforcement training for police departments in 13 counties in the Commonwealth, including lethal weapons training (Act 235) and customized training programs, meeting the training needs of law enforcement agencies, private security, and other first responder organizations,” Chilleri added.   

Class 255 is expected to graduate in December 2021. 

Learn more at www.lackawanna.edu

Noteology Sense of Smell Training Kit Now Available

Have you lost your sense of smell due to a COVID-19 infection? Danielle Fleming may be able to help!

Danielle Fleming, Founder & CEO of Noteology, has dedicated her career to studying the psychological effects that aromas can have on our moods and behaviors while applying this knowledge to the perfumery and consumer goods industry. When people lost some or all of their sense of smell after a COVID-19 infection, they flocked to her for help.

“People ask me to make lots of products for them; from perfume for dogs to natural deodorant. But this request was very different. People were coming to me in tears. They couldn’t smell anymore. It ranged from not being able to smell at all, that’s what we call “anosmia”, to a partial loss of smell (hyposmia), all the way to “parosmia” (when smells smell different, generally worse, than usual) and phantosmia (phantom smells), when you smell something that isn’t there, like smoke or gasoline.”

“I just knew I had to do something to help. People were scared, and rightfully so. You don’t realize how important and valuable your sense of smell is until you don’t have it.” An entrepreneur by day, a researcher by night, she studied the literature, read the research, and developed The Sense of Smell Training Kit™ to help those that need it.

This kit is designed to assist someone in regaining their sense of smell due to a post-viral infection, like COVID-19. It provides them with step-by-step instructions on how to do Scent Therapy at home. It’s like physical therapy for your nose. For example, if you injured your leg, you would go to physical therapy and learn the steps to heal your leg. If you injured your sense of smell from post-viral infections, like COVID-19, you would do scent therapy to learn the steps to regain your sense of smell. 

The kit was developed based on the research of Professor Thomas Hummel of the Smell and Taste Clinic at the University of Dresen in Germany. In his 2009 study, he investigated whether repeated short-term exposure to odors over a twelve-week period would have any effect on the olfactory ability of a group of anosmia sufferers. He concluded that compared to baseline, training patients experienced an increase in their olfactory function. In contrast, olfactory function was unchanged in patients who did not perform olfactory training. These results indicate that structured, short‐term exposure to selected odors may increase olfactory sensitivity. Ms. Fleming used her background in psychology to enhance the kit with Scent Mantra cards to increase the connective pathways between smelling and olfactive recognition. “Your brain needs to learn how to smell again. In essence, you are retraining it by linking what you are smelling and how your brain recognizes and processes it.”

You can find the related research articles HERE

Local Partnerships & Mental Health

Ms. Fleming wants to help as many people as possible. With the help of The Scranton Area Community Foundation and Scranton Primary Health, economically disadvantaged populations will be able to access the kit free-of-charge. “Our community is the heart of our region. Being able to partner locally to make the kit accessible to everyone is an amazing testament to how much we care about the health and wellness of our community. Currently an English version is available with two translation versions being currently worked on for the Spanish and Gujarati populations.

Another reason Ms. Fleming wanted to partner with Scranton Primary Health is their holistic approach to heath and wellness. “There’s more to losing your sense of smell than you think. After some time, anxiety can creep in. You’re constantly trying to smell things to see if you can, and when you don’t, depression can settle in. You can get nervous about what you are missing, like what if I can’t smell smoke and my house is on fire. Or you miss the pleasure senses of smelling bacon in the morning or a hot dog on the grill in the summer. When you lose your sense of smell you are losing more than just the ability to smell things, you are losing your ability to experience pleasure and safety, and that can be devastating.”

With their partnership with Scranton Primary Health, clients will be able to also address any mental health issues they may have with their sense of smell loss. “It’s a win for our entire community”, states Ms. Fleming.

What is included in the kit? 

The Sense of Smell Training Kit includes everything you need to retrain your brain to smell again. 

  • 4 Scent Jars 
  • Sense of Smell Training Booklet with 4 Scent Mantra Cards
  • Sense of Smell Tracking Sheet

Where can the kit be purchased?

The Kit can be purchased online at www.noteology.com (direct link to the kit https://bit.ly/senseofsmellkit) or by calling 570-343-2100 to place your order over the phone. The kits are made to order for optimal effectiveness. They are $45.99 with a portion of the proceeds being donated to The Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia where scientists at focus on interdisciplinary research on the senses of taste and smell.

Scranton Primary Health kits will be ready by early July. 

Want to learn more?  Visit our FAQ page HERE.

Tobyhanna Army Depot Partner with Ohio National Guard

An Ohio military unit made their annual pilgrimage to Tobyhanna Army Depot last week, strengthening an enduring partnership between Soldiers and the civilians who support them.

Thirteen Soldiers from the Army National Guard’s Bravo Company, 638th Aviation Support Battalion received their two-week annual training, courtesy of Team Tobyhanna. The unit has been traveling to the installation for 13 years, according to Chief Warrant Officer Steven Kobus.

“For years, I knew of Tobyhanna because I saw the depot’s name on our equipment,” he said. “I finally decided to come see the facility for myself and meet the people who supported our mission.”

While on that visit, Kobus learned of the depot’s robust Reserve Training programs and swore to bring his unit back the following year.

“I was excited to get my team in a practical setting where they could learn from the employees who keep our equipment running,” he said, adding that many of the Soldiers were especially excited about the opportunity, as they had received support from Tobyhanna personnel while in theater.

The annual training paired each Soldier with a depot subject matter expert who could advise on the repair and troubleshooting of radio and night vision equipment. Team members also shared knowledge through hands-on experience, particularly with components not usually accessible to Soldiers. Chief Warrant Officer Michael Fincannon says the trip was more than worthwhile.

“Training like this helps each organization – the Soldiers and our civilians – see the bigger picture that their work is a part of.”

In addition to the quality of the training experience, Soldiers also praised depot facilities.

“The accommodations here are fantastic, and the barracks team provides top-notch support,” said Kobus. Chief Warrant Officer William Hallas agreed.

“We’ve been a lot of places – and trust me when I say that Tobyhanna ranks among the best.”

Although Kobus expects to retire from service this year, he says the partnership will continue long in the future.

“You can’t put a price tag on the hands-on experience we get at Tobyhanna,” Kobus said. “When I ask ‘who wants to go to Tobyhanna,’ the entire unit raises their hands. Needless to say, we’ll be back.”

Tobyhanna Army Depot provides over thirty command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR) training programs for the Joint Warfighter, averaging 1,700 soldier training days per year.  The efforts are directly aligned with Tobyhanna’s long-range strategic plan, TOBY2028 – specifically the C5ISR Readiness line of effort, which strives to ensure America’s warfighters are always ready.

For information on training with Tobyhanna, contact the depot’s Reserve Training Coordinator at 570-615-6492.

Tobyhanna Army Depot is a recognized leader in providing world-class logistics support for 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.

Tobyhanna’s unparalleled 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 3,700 personnel are employed at Tobyhanna, which is located in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. 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.

Geisinger ConvenientCare Offering COVID-19 Tests for Travelers

Planning to travel and need to have a COVID-19 test before you go? Geisinger is offering COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for those aged 12 months and older at 18 ConvenientCare walk-in clinics throughout central and northeast Pennsylvania.

Travel tests are offered for a self-pay fee of $140. To get a test, you must have legal identification, such as a driver’s license, and anyone between age 12 months and 17 years old must have a parent or legal guardian with them. If your child is younger than 12 months, contact your pediatrician for advice on testing. Results will be available within 24 hours through myGeisinger.

You don’t need an appointment for a travel test at ConvenientCare, but you can save your spot in line to be seen at a clinic by visiting geisinger.org/urgent. As travel requirements vary from destination to destination, make sure you’re tested at the right time before departing.

Find more information about COVID-19 travel tests here.

Johnson College to Host an Open House

Johnson College will hold an in-person Open House on its campus in Scranton on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. To register for the Open House, visit Johnson.edu/openhouse or contact Johnson College’s Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu.

Open House will include discussions about the admissions process, financial aid for those who qualify, and student services such as student life, student support, and career services. Plus, same-day acceptance will be available for a majority of programs; if students bring their high school or college transcripts. Tours of each technical area will be conducted, and department chairs will be available to review the specifics of their programs. Social distancing guidelines will be followed, and face coverings must be worn at all times while on campus.

For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu. 

Disney On Ice Returns to Mohegan Sun Arena this Summer

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air. This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers visits Wilkes Barre from August 19 – 22, 2021 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza.

While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is introducing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines.  As an additional precaution, face coverings are recommended for guests ages 2 and older except when eating or drinking in their seats, unless otherwise exempted by law.  Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found here. 

Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options.  Guests can pre-order items prior to arriving at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza or from the comfort of their seats.  Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show.  Additional information can be found here.

Additional Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party Show Details;  Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney●Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice.  Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka. And make memories with your whole family during Aladdin and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration.

Join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience in your hometown!

Event Location:  Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, 255 Highland Park Blvd., Wilkes Barre Township, PA 18702

Disney On Ice Preferred Customers can purchase advance tickets starting July 13, 2021, to get the best seats available before tickets go on-sale to the general public on July 20, 2021.  Fans can still sign up to become a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer and get exclusive access to the pre-sale offer code.

Dates and Times of Performances:

Thursday, August 19 – 7:00pm
Friday, August 20 – 3:00pm, 7:00pm
Saturday, August 21 – 11:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm
Sunday, August 22 – 11:00am, 3:00pm          

Tickets start at: $20*

To purchase tickets:
Online: www.disneyonice.com or www.ticketmaster.com
Box Office:  NBT Bank Box Office at Mohegan Sun Arena
Group Tickets:  For groups 10+, please contact (570) 970-7600, ext. 1119 or email at groups@MoheganSunArenaPA.com

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

For more info about Disney On Ice, follow Disney On Ice social media channels: Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.  Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce 

Interstate 81, Section 511 Reconstruction Project Projects Virtual Plans Displays

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), announces Online Plans Displays for the upcoming changes to the Interstate 81, Section 511 Reconstruction Project in Great Bend Borough/Township and New Milford Borough/Township, Susquehanna County.

In accordance with Governor Wolf’s COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the comment period and plan display will be held online only. The comment period will be open from July 1st to July 15th, 2021.

The virtual plans display includes digital picture boards and an online comment form for four specific areas that require environmental re-evaluation from the previously approved Categorical Exclusion Evaluation (CEE), Level 2 environmental document dated 03/21/2018. The plans displays can be accessed by visiting the PennDOT District 4 Website: www.pennDOT.gov/regionaloffices/district-4/, clicking on Public Meetings under District Links, choosing the tile for Susquehanna County and then selecting the tile for Interstate 81, Section 511 Reconstruction Project. The purpose of the plans displays is to introduce the changes to the project since the CEE approval obtained on 03/21/2018, and to receive public input regarding questions or concerns with these latest changes to the project.  It is also an opportunity for the public to review and comment on the project’s potential effect upon Cultural Resources pursuant to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s 36 CFR Part 800 regulations implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

Those unable to access the project information online may give feedback by contacting PennDOT Project Manager Summer Koziel, at skoziel@pa.gov or 570.963.4048.