Treasurer Stacy Garrity Commends House for Passing Legislation to Strengthen PA 529 and PA ABLE Treasurer Stacy Garrity today commended members of the Pennsylvania House for unanimously approving House Bill 1745, sponsored by Rep. Paul Friel (D-26), which will provide a tax credit for employers who contribute to PA 529 College and Career Savings Program accounts owned by their employees. The bill includes an amendment sponsored by Rep. Joe Emrick (R-137) to extend the same benefit to employers who contribute to employees’ PA ABLE Savings Program accounts. PA ABLE is a savings program for Pennsylvanians with disabilities. “PA 529 and PA ABLE accounts are helping people all across Pennsylvania, and both have seen exceptional growth over the past three years,” Treasurer Garrity said. “I applaud the House for advancing this bill to strengthen both programs with tremendous bipartisan support. Creating tax credits will encourage employers to contribute to employees’ PA 529 and PA ABLE accounts, which will be a huge benefit for hardworking families as they save for the future.” “The PA 529 program has helped hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvania families save for their child’s or grandchild’s future education,” Rep. Friel said. “I’m pleased that the PA 529 tax credit bill passed the House unanimously. We’re coming together to improve college access and make education more affordable by reducing the financial burden on Pennsylvania’s students and their families.” “Addressing the skills gap and strengthening our workforce starts with access to education,” said Rep. Kristin Marcell (R-178), a strong supporter of the legislation. “By encouraging employers to invest in their employees’ futures, HB 1745 not only supports Pennsylvania families but also contributes to building a more skilled and educated workforce.” HB 1745 would establish a 25 percent tax credit on employer contributions of up to $500 per participating employee per year. It would apply to contributions made to any PA ABLE account and any 529 account owned by a Pennsylvania resident. Incorporating a tax credit for Pennsylvania employers who provide contributions to PA 529 accounts was recommended by the Tuition Account Program Advisory Board in the program’s most recent annual report. Seven other states – Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Nebraska, Nevada and Wisconsin – provide a similar credit. HB 1745 now moves to the Senate for consideration. Treasurer Garrity thanked Rep. Friel, Rep. Marcell, Rep. Emrick, Rep. Peter Schweyer (D-134), and Rep. Jesse Topper (R-78) for their key roles in advancing the legislation in a bipartisan fashion. The PA 529 College and Career Savings Program helps families steadily and strategically save for future educational expenses like tuition, fees, books, equipment, room and board and more at qualifying technical, collegiate and apprenticeship programs. PA 529 plans also offer significant state and federal tax advantages and saving with PA 529 does not impact Pennsylvania state financial aid eligibility. There are two options to invest with PA 529: the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan, which allows families to save at today’s tuition rates to meet tomorrow’s tuition costs, and the PA 529 Investment Plan, which allows families to choose from a variety of investment options and received a Gold Rating from Morningstar in 2023, making it one of the top two 529 plans in the nation. The PA 529 program has been helping families save and pay for education for more than 30 years. There are currently almost 300,000 PA 529 accounts with assets of nearly $7.5 billion. Visit pa529.com to learn more about the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program. PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts are a tax-free way for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, and their families, to save without affecting eligibility for important benefits. Treasurer Garrity recently announced the program’s fourth fee reduction in the past three years, resulting in annual savings of more than $80,000 for PA ABLE account owners. To learn more about program eligibility and how to start saving with PA ABLE, visit paable.gov.
Harry McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament Benefits the Greater Scranton YMCA On Monday, March 18th the McGrath family presented the Greater Scranton YMCA with an $18,000 donation, which represents proceeds from the 4th Annual Harry P. McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament. The tournament was held on September 15, 2023, at Glen Oak Country Club. Tournament proceeds will support the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Summer Learning Loss Prevention Program, Summer Scholars. Summer Scholars is a free research-based and research-proven six-week summer learning program. The goal of the program is to get elementary students on track to read at or above grade level by the start of their next school year. In summer 2024, the program will serve rising first, second and third grade students attending the Dunmore and Mid Valley School Districts. Participants’ days consist of 2.5 hours of literacy in the morning followed by lunch and enrichment in the afternoon. Enrichment activities include field trips, as well as trips to the Greater Scranton YMCA for use of the pools. The program is instructed by certified teachers and YMCA staff. “We are happy to provide support to the Y’s Summer Scholars program,” said Betsy McGrath Ardizoni, Board Member, Greater Scranton YMCA, and daughter of the late Harry P. McGrath, Esq. “Our dad believed in the importance of children receiving the necessary tools to succeed in school, and this program does just that.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation administers the Harry P. McGrath, Esq. Memorial Fund, established in May 2022 by Harry’s family to support the charitable causes and organizations important to him including the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Summer Loss Prevention Program. “The Greater Scranton YMCA is so grateful to the McGrath family for their continued support of our YMCA and our Summer Scholars Program,” said Trish Fisher, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “The generosity of tournament participants and sponsors continues to amaze us. This funding makes such an impact on the lives of the children benefitting from Summer Scholars and supports our mission of keeping the program free for families.” For more information about Summer Scholars, contact Helen Cruser, Education Director, at hcruser@gsymca.org. For more information about the Harry P. McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament, contact Betsy McGrath Ardizoni at ecm0588@gmail.com.
Episode Nine: All Things Chamber Don’t Miss the Update SKILLS 2024: Workforce Summit and Career Fair is Thursday, April 4, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. This is free for the public to meet potential employers. Chamber members can attend the breakout sessions and keynote presentations for $100. Register online today. EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience TEEN PROGRAM is accepting applications until Friday, March 29. The program is designed to build interpersonal disciplines for high school students aged 16-18. Apply today to attend the all-day conference. The Chamber is expanding its staff to serve the growing membership. Check out the job board for open positions at The Chamber. Event Update Skills in Scranton’s networking program, Like Mind Meet Up, scheduled for Thursday, March 21, is canceled. Upcoming Chamber Events EVENT PAGE MEMBER BENEFITS Advertisements
McCarthy Flowers Purchases Additional Flower Shops McCarthy Flowers, headquartered in Lackawanna County since 1952, just purchased 4 more Flower Shops in Northern Colorado – Palmer Flowers, with 3 locations, one in Ft Collins, one in Loveland, and another in Greeley CO. This iconic Floral Name began in 1976, and catapulted to become Northern Colorado’s premier florist. In addition, McCarthy Flowers also purchased Paul Wood Florist, the oldest florist in Northern Colorado, founded in 1932. Paul Wood Florist remains a fixture in downtown Ft Collins inside the oldest commercial storefront in Ft Collins. McCarthy already owns two flower shops in Colorado, Lehrers Flowers, and Newberry Brothers Florist, as well as their own wholesale Florist, Associated Wholesale Florist. Prior to the acquisition of Palmer Flowers and Paul Wood Florist, McCarthy Flowers was already the largest volume retail florist in the state. With the new four shops added, McCarthy Flowers of Colorado has double their previous baseline of sale volume. This latest acquisition brings McCarthy Flowers total store count to 30 throughout their 10 state footprint, and full time employee count to over 600. Kevin McCarthy, President of McCarthy Group Florists, says the iconic brands will continue to operate under their trusted names, and welcomes the talent pool to the McCarthy Family.
John N. Grochowski Joins PS Bank Anthony J. Gabello, President and Chief Executive Officer of PS Bank, is pleased to announce the hiring of John N. Grochowski as Indirect Lending Department Manager / Vice President. With John’s hiring, a new line of business has been added to PS Bank’s robust portfolio. Indirect lending will allow for the financing of new and used automobiles for customers across all markets. Mr. Grochowski has over 35 years of banking experience and has spent the past 25 years in the indirect lending area. “With John’s leadership, we anticipate great success for the indirect lending department at PS Bank. He brings tremendous experience and quality relationships to our institution and is a great addition to our team.,” said Gabello. Mr. Grochowski holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Wilkes University. He has also served in various leadership and volunteer capacities for numerous community fundraising campaigns. Mr. Grochowski resides in Forty Fort with his wife Luciann.
UNC’s Mid Valley Senior Community Center Starts Ballroom Classes United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) Mid Valley Senior Community Center starts its newest free activity, Ballroom Dance Classes with Vince Brust on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 9:00 am. Any interested older adults 60+ can register by calling 570-489-4415, no experience or partner necessary. The classes are offered in partnership with Arts in Education, Lackawanna County Area on Aging, the Pennsylvania Department on Aging, and the Scranton Area Community Foundation. About Vince Brust, Dance Instructor/Choreographer Vince Brust, a graduate from University of Louvain, Belgium, has taught more than 76,000 Dance lessons since 1975. He has in North and South America, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Vince appeared on Oprah Winfrey Show and was a Rotary International Exchange Dance Professional to Brazil. He conducts residencies in Swing, Latin or Ballroom Dancing for 3rd through 12th grades, and Senior citizens. He draws connections between the history and movements of the dance(s) with his students’ own courses: (e.g. Spanish language studies and Salsa; or Swing dance and WWII era). The benefits of such a residency manifold greater self-confidence, self-esteem, and greater “connectedness” with fellow students.
Celebrity Chef Rocco DiSpirito to Host Exclusive Dinner at Mohegan Pennsylvania WHAT: Guests are invited to experience a taste of Italy like never before! On Saturday, April 6th in the Keystone Grand Ballroom, an unforgettable evening will unfold with celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito and the talented Mohegan Pennsylvania culinary team. WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, April 6th Registration and Cocktail Hour: 4:30pm Dinner: 5:30pm Keystone Grand Ballroom IN DETAIL: The Keystone Grand Ballroom at Mohegan Pennsylvania is set to host an exclusive event featuring a mouthwatering multi-course meal crafted by celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito and the Mohegan Pennsylvania culinary team. Chef Rocco will introduce each course and visit guests at their tables throughout the event. Each guest in attendance will be among the first in the world to receive an autographed copy of the #1 New York Times bestselling author’s newest book, Everyday Delicious: 30 Minute(ish) Home-Cooked Meals Made Simple: A Cookbook, to be published on Tuesday, April 30th. Availability is limited for this exclusive event. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older. Tickets are $100 and on sale now at the Hotel Front Desk, subject to availability. Hotel packages are also available. Media coverage opportunities at the Rocco DiSpirito Dinner are available. For more information, please contact PR Manager Charisse Huff at Chuff@mohegangaming.com and PR Specialist Jack Graham at Jgraham@mohegangaming.com.
UNC’s Illumination Youth Arts Opening Night Reception & Exhibit United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) Illumination Youth Arts is presenting their first ever multimedia interactive exhibit titled “Illuminated Echoes: Ancient Games and Youth Artistry.” The public is invited to their opening night reception on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at 6:00 pm at AFA Gallery, 101 Penn Avenue in downtown Scranton. The show runs until April 18, 2024. The display includes photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, and pottery from 22 UNC Youth Artists. Guests are encouraged to mingle with the artists on March 28 to learn about their masterpieces and play the interactive component of the exhibit – the recreation of lost and ancient games. They will learn the history of the games and how to play the replicas created by the artists using 3D design/printing and pottery techniques. Featured artists include Jaida Rosa, Fourth Grade, featuring her ceramics. Tiana Jeter, Seventh Grade, highlighting her photography and ceramics. Janyah Currie, a high school sophomore, displaying her photography, mixed media, and ceramics. Janiya Jones, a high school sophomore, will be presenting her 3D design and photography. Lizmary Camacho, a high school senior, will be showing photography and mixed media. Enjelis Madera, a high school senior, will be featuring her photography, mixed media, and ceramics. Illumination Youth Arts is funded by Lackawanna County, The City of Scranton, United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, and the Overlook Estate Foundation. For more information, contact Kylee Colvin, UNC’s Community Youth Manager at 570-961-1592, ext. 105.
Geisinger to Host Free Community Shred Events across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania In observance of Earth Day, Geisinger will host free community shred events across northeastern and central Pennsylvania throughout the month of April. Employees and members of the public are invited to bring any personal or professional confidential documents — such as bank statements, credit card bills and tax forms — to be securely shredded on-site and recycled. Each person is limited to three boxes. Do not use bins for non-paper waste or garbage. For more information, call 570-271-6030. Community shred events: Monday, April 8 – Geisinger Mt. Pleasant, 531 Mt. Pleasant Drive, Scranton, 7 – 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 9 – Geisinger Healthplex State College, 132 Abigail Lane, Port Matilda, 7 – 11 a.m. Friday, April 12 – Geisinger Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, 1175 E. Mountain Blvd., Wilkes-Barre, 7 – 11 a.m. Monday, April 15 – Geisinger Health Plan Hughes Center, 9 Stearns Lane, Danville, 7 – 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 16 – Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, 1020 Thompson St., Jersey Shore, 7 – 11 a.m. Thursday, April 18 – Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, 400 Highland Ave., Lewistown, 7 – 11 a.m. Friday, April 19 – Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, 4200 Hospital Road, Coal Township, 7 – 11 a.m. Monday, April 22 – Geisinger Medical Center Muncy, 255 Route 220, Muncy, 7 – 11 a.m. Friday, April 23 – Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, 549 Fair St., Bloomsburg, 7 – 11 a.m. Friday, April 26 – Geisinger Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, 1175 East Mountain Blvd., Wilkes-Barre, Noon – 4 p.m. Monday, April 29 – Geisinger Health Plan Hughes Center, 9 Stearns Lane, Danville, Noon – 4 p.m.
Wayne Bank’s Anna Van Acker Receives PA Bankers Tomorrow’s Promise Award Anna Van Acker, Wayne Bank Assistant Vice President and Commercial Lender, was the recipient of the PA Bankers Women in Banking Recognition of Excellence “Tomorrow’s Promise Award,” at the 2024 Women in Banking Conference in Hershey, PA. Each year, the Women in Banking Recognition of Excellence Program honors rising stars and leaders throughout the banking industry that continually “go the extra mile” promoting and inspiring other women to reach their full potential within their company as well as their community. Four individuals were honored in three categories at the March 4th conference located at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. Van Acker was nominated by Wayne Bank Vice President and Marketing Manager, Kristen Lancia, and was selected amongst five additional nominees. She was recognized as a woman, aged 35 or younger, who continues to make a significant impact in the financial industry and her community, making her “one to watch” in the Pennsylvania market. According to Wayne Bank President & CEO, Jim Donnelly, “We are incredibly proud to have Anna on our team at Wayne Bank and congratulate her on this well-deserved award. She embodies true leadership and has a passion for helping others, whether it be at work with her colleagues and customers, or in the local community.” Van Acker began her banking career in 2018 as a management trainee and was hired as a Commercial Lender with Wayne Bank in 2021. She was promoted to Assistant Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer in 2022. Van Acker loves working with local business owners to help them transform their visions into reality. She says the most satisfying part of her job is watching her clients’ businesses grow into beloved community landmarks. Inspired by her parents, Van Acker discovered her passion for community service early in life. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Human Resources Center, PAWS of NEPA, and the PA Professional Women in Building Council. She is also a committee member of the PA Bankers Young Professionals Association. In addition, Anna volunteers with the Honesdale Area Jaycees, and maintains memberships with several industry organizations throughout the area. Van Acker attended the University of Scranton and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, with a minor in French Language and Literature. She resides in Pike County with her husband, Mark, and their dog, Faust. PHOTO CAPTION – LEFT TO RIGHT: Jim Donnelly, Wayne Bank President & CEO; Anna Van Acker, Wayne Bank Assistant Vice President & Commercial Lender, and Tomorrow’s Promise Award Recipient; J. Duncan Campbell III, President & CEO, PA Bankers Association.
