Johnson College Spring 2025 Semester President’s List

Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College, has announced the President’s List of students who have completed the 2025 Spring Semester with a grade point average of 3.70 or higher.

Mariah Adryan, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA;

Braeden Alvord, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Clifford Township, PA;

James Austin, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Roaring Brook Twp., PA;

Charlize Barhite, Veterinary Nursing, Clifford Township, PA;

Thomas Bartrige, Diesel Truck Technology, Gouldsboro, PA;

Tiffany Beckham, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA;

Tucker Bowman, Electrical Construction Technology, Tamaqua, PA;

Colleen Cannon-Augustine, Physical Therapist Assistant, Jenkins Twp., PA;

Brady Carpenter, Computer Information Technology, Clarks Summit, PA;

Dylan Caruso, Computer Information Technology, Dallas, PA;

Jacob Casarin, Electrical Construction Technology, Jessup, PA;

James Casarin, Electrical Construction Technology, Jessup, PA;

Michael Chapman, Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology, Archbald, PA;

Nico Colachino, Diesel Truck Technology, Olyphant, PA;

Ariel Collins, Electrical Construction Technology, Clarks Summit, PA;

Cameron Collins, Electrical Construction Technology, Jermyn, PA;

Joshua Cook, Radiologic Technology, Swoyersville, PA;

Kenneth Cotton, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Clifford Township, PA;

Emma Danowsky, Veterinary Nursing, Lewisburg, PA;

Gerard Dolinsky III, Diesel Truck Technology, Scott Twp., PA;

William Dotzel, Electronic Engineering Technology, Eynon, PA;

Andrew Francis, Electrical Construction Technology, Moosic, PA;

Ethan Gardiner, Electrical Construction Technology, Summit Hill, PA;

Mackenzie Gavin, Radiologic Technology, Eynon, PA;

Hanaa Gohsler, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Dickson City, PA;

Jennifer Gonzalez Rodriguez, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA;

Tim Griffin, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Clarks Summit, PA;

Alyssa Hall, Automotive Technology, Carbondale, PA;

James Hancock, Automotive Technology, Clarks Green, PA;

Cameron Hedgelon, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Honesdale, PA;

Kael Heflin, Computer Information Technology, Lake Ariel, PA;

Steven Hinkley, Electrical Construction Technology, Amherst, VA;

Joshua Keifer, Diesel Truck Technology, Lake Ariel, PA;

Dakota Kempka, Electronic Engineering Technology, Factoryville, PA;

Evan Kilgore, Electronic Engineering Technology, Scranton, PA;

Michael Kishel, Computer Information Technology, Pittston, PA;

Henry Korman, Electrical Construction Technology, Lakeville, PA;

Harrison Kubilus, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA;

Julia Lamberton, Radiologic Technology, Waymart, PA;

Hunter Landers, Automotive Technology, Clarks Summit, PA;

Michaelangelo Lanzaro, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Gouldsboro, PA;

Skyler LeClere, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Beach Lake, PA;

Anthony Leombruni, Aviation Technology, Moscow, PA;

Corey Lesnefsky, Diesel Truck Technology, Olyphant, PA;

Lucas Lorenzetti, Automotive Technology, Throop, PA;

Daniel Marcus, Electrical Construction Technology, Greeley, PA;

Zachary Maryasz, Mechatronics Technology, Dalton, PA;

Jade McDermott, Radiologic Technology, Moosic, PA;

Jacob Mileto, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA;

Jessica Miller, Veterinary Nursing, Mechanicsburg, PA;

Mason Miluszusky, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Richmondale, PA;

Carter Mistishin, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Lake Ariel, PA;

Tyler Moskosky, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Simpson, PA;

Sean Munson, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Nanticoke, PA;

Jacob Mutsavage, Computer Information Technology, Throop, PA;

Weston Nugent, Diesel Truck Technology, Lake Ariel, PA;

Gabriel Pesce, Mechatronics Technology, Hawley, PA;

Alyssa Resio, Radiologic Technology, Old Forge, PA;

Vincent Rinaldi, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Scranton, PA;

Liam Rooney, Biomedical Equipment Technology, Springbrook Township, PA;

Adam Rosencrance, Radiologic Technology, West Pittston, PA;

Daniel Rosenkrans, Electrical Construction Technology, Falls, PA;

Amara Rubino, Aviation Technology, Henryville, PA;

Abigail Schroder, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Scranton, PA;

Ryan Shannon, Diesel Truck Technology, Pittston Township, PA;

Emma Shedden, Mechatronics Technology, Tunkhannock, PA;

Nicholas Shimo, Computer Information Technology, Scranton, PA;

Wyatt Sickler, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Tunkhannock, PA;

Madison Stashak, Physical Therapist Assistant, Nanticoke, PA;

Connor Stauffer, Electrical Construction Technology, Fern Glen, PA;

Sierra Stonier, Veterinary Nursing, Monroe Township, PA;

Ragu Subedi, Computer Information Technology, Scranton, PA;

Jack Sullivan, Electrical Construction Technology, Matamoras, PA;

Nicholas Thayer, Mechatronics Technology, Pittston, PA;

Logan Treat, Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology, Falls, PA;

Julia Turner, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Moosic, PA;

Clarence Walton, Heavy Equipment Technology, Dingmans Ferry, PA;

Kayla Ward, Radiologic Technology, Eynon, PA;

Reece Weinberg, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, South Abington Township, PA;

Noah Wijaya, Automotive Technology, Roaring Brook Twp., PA;

Austin Wombacker, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA;

Kori Yencho, Physical Therapist Assistant, Throop, PA;

Peter Zawierucha, Electrical Construction Technology, Pittston Twp., PA

Geisinger Recommends Six Tips to Prevent Prostate Cancer

With a heavy focus on former President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis, its time to shed some light on the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men


 By: Matthew Meissner, MD, urology, Geisinger

Most people likely don’t think about their prostate gland until there’s trouble. However, there’s a good reason to keep it on your radar, especially as you get older. After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men. The good news: Although the likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases as you age, there are practical ways to lower your risk.

You may already be taking proactive measures without even realizing it. Many of the same steps you’re taking to protect your heart also can help reduce your risk of prostate cancer.

What is prostate cancer?

Your prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut that sits in front of the rectum, below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that moves urine out of the bladder. As part of the male reproductive system, the prostate is responsible for producing some of the fluid that contains semen.

Prostate cancer develops when the healthy, normal cells in the prostate gland begin to “go rogue” by growing and functioning in a different way. These cancerous cells start to build up and form a mass called a tumor, which exists as a lump inside the body.

While prostate cancer is common, the good news is that it’s highly curable with surgery or radiation therapy when diagnosed early. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer that’s confined entirely to the prostate gland is nearly 100%. And not all prostate cancers are the same. Certain types of prostate cancer are not aggressive and can be safely managed with close monitoring — a strategy known as ‘active surveillance.

How to prevent prostate cancer

While there is no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, embracing these healthy habits can help reduce your risks — and improve your overall health.

Even men at a greater risk due to age (over 50), race (African American) and a family history of prostate cancer and certain other cancers, including breast, pancreatic and colon, can reduce the likelihood of developing it by adopting these strategies.

Exercise regularly

Moving for even a few minutes a day not only lowers your risk of developing prostate cancer, but also other conditions, such as heart disease. Regular physical activity aids in weight management, improved immune function and decreased inflammation in the body, all of which can help prevent cancer.

Work up to a goal of getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workouts each week, such as brisk walking, bicycling, jogging or swimming, and strength training 2 or more days a week.

Adopt a healthier diet

Diets high in animal fat have been shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Instead, stick to eating a balanced diet chock-full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats, like turkey and fish, to help reduce your risk.

A diet rich in antioxidants is one of the most effective ways to support prostate health. Foods like tomatoes, broccoli, soy and green tea are thought to combat oxidative stress and promote cellular health.

Maintain a healthy weight

People considered obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30, are at a higher risk for prostate cancer. Keeping in line with the previous points, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help you shed excess pounds and maintain a healthy weight.

Drink coffee

According to a Harvard study, people who drank 6 or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% lower risk of developing any form of prostate cancer. The lower risk was evident among those who drank regular or decaffeinated coffee — good news for many men who already enjoy a morning cup of joe (or several).

However, the data is conflicting. And too much caffeine can be a negative for your health, with side effects like insomnia, headaches and irregular heartbeat, so talk to your doctor before trying this one.

Stop smoking and limit alcohol

Quitting smoking is beneficial in more ways than one. When you stop smoking, your risk of dying from prostate cancer can be reduced to the same as it is for someone who’s never smoked. And if you’ve already had prostate cancer, quitting smoking can lessen the chance that it will return.

Avoiding alcohol is another way to protect your prostate. Recent research indicates that any amount of alcohol can increase your risk for cancer. But if you choose to drink, limit your consumption to no more than 2 drinks per day.

Talk with your doctor about your risk

Think you’re at a high risk of prostate cancer? Some types of medicine and supplements might help lower your chances of developing it. Discuss these options with your doctor and ask whether the benefits outweigh your risks.

PSA testing

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening is a blood test used to check for prostate cancer. While prostate cancer is one of many things that can cause an elevated PSA, regular PSA testing has been shown to detect prostate cancer early and improve survival for certain people.

In general, those between ages 55 and 69 will benefit from routine PSA checks, as early-stage prostate cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms.

But not all men will benefit from PSA testing and it’s why you need to have an open conversation with your doctor about your family history and other risk factors, so you and your doctor can develop a tailored screening plan.

Contact your doctor if prostate cancer symptoms show up

The best way to detect prostate cancer early: Get regular screenings and learn to recognize prostate cancer symptoms, such as:

  • Frequent urination, particularly at night
  • Straining to urinate or having a weak flow
  • Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
  • Pain or burning while urinating
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Erectile dysfunction

However, having one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean you have prostate cancer. They can also indicate an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Prostate glands can get bigger with age. And when the prostate becomes larger, it puts extra pressure on the urethra, making you urinate more often, especially at night, or making it harder to “go” in general.

An enlarged prostate is a natural part of getting older and it’s important for men to have regular checkups with their doctor and watch for prostate cancer symptoms. Being proactive about your health leads to timely medical intervention and a better quality of life.

For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance.

To learn more about cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute.

Dr. Meissner is a board-eligible and fellowship-trained urologist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Texas San Antonio School of Medicine. Dr. Meissner completed his residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and his fellowship at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. 

Catherine McAuley Center to Host Menstrual Health Awareness Day PEP Rally

The Catherine McAuley Center invites members of the Scranton community to a PEP Rally on Wednesday, May 28th to celebrate Menstrual Health Awareness Day (MHA Day).

The “PEP” stands for Period Education Project and this rally will include not only celebrating the work that has been accomplished around period poverty but acknowledging what work lies ahead.

The PEP Rally includes a product giveaway, snacks and refreshments, educational material, a judgment free zone for the opportunity to ask questions, and friendship bracelet making. The bracelet, 23 white beads and 5 red, not only represents the menstrual cycle but so much more.

Beginning in 2013, Menstrual Health Awareness Day highlights the lack of education, ongoing taboos, and stigma that cause poor menstrual hygiene including a lack of access to products. MHA Day has two key aims. First, it breaks the taboo around menstrual health and hygiene. It raises awareness and shifts negative social norms. Second, it urges leaders to prioritize and act at global, national and local levels.

The Catherine McAuley Center invites the community to its administration building to learn more about this movement and the Center’s Period Project.

Event Details:

Catherine McAuley Center PEP Rally for Menstrual Health Awareness Day

When: Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Catherine McAuley Center

     430 Pittston Avenue

             Scranton, PA 18505

The Catherine McAuley Center has provided programs and services to those experiencing homelessness in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties since 1984. Beyond a shelter of a roof and walls, the Center’s mission is to help the community break the cycle of poverty and address the trauma of homelessness. To learn how you can make a difference, please contact the Catherine McAuley Center at 570-342-1342.

Press is welcome to attend.

Allied Services Receives $15,000 Grant from William G. McGowan Charitable Fund

Allied Services Foundation is honored to announce a generous grant of $150,000 from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund. The grant will support general operations in sustaining access to pediatric therapies at their John P. Moses, Esq. Pediatric Rehab Centers, a vital part of Allied Services’ continuum of care for children across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania.

This essential funding reaffirms the Fund’s commitment to expanding access to critical healthcare services. On May 21, Gert C. McGowan, Esq., Board Member of the McGowan Charitable Fund, toured the John P. Moses Pediatric Rehab Center in Scranton and witnessed firsthand the transformative care being provided.

“You are doing more than therapy – you are truly changing lives,” said Gert C. McGowan, Esq., following the visit.

The grant will help Allied Services continue delivering high-quality, evidence-based therapies for children facing developmental delays, neurological conditions, and physical disabilities.

“We are incredibly grateful for the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund’s ongoing support,” said Atty. Bill Conaboy, President and CEO, Allied Services. “This funding is vital to ensuring that children in our community – regardless of their financial circumstances – can continue to receive the life-changing therapies they need to reach their fullest potential.”

The support comes at a time when demand for pediatric rehabilitation services continues to grow, making it imperative for Allied Services to maintain both access and excellence in care. The partnership with the McGowan Charitable Fund will allow Allied Services to invest in resources that strengthen outcomes for children and their families.

 
Pictured left to right: Jim Brogna, Vice President Strategic Partnership, Allied Services; Bob Cole, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Chief Analytics Officer, Director of Graduate Medical Education, Allied Services; Katie Colosimo, MS, CCC/SLP, Allied Services; Gertrude C. McGowan, Esq., Board of Directors, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund; Ashley Monetta, MS, CCC/SLP, Allied Services; Cathy Guzzi, PT, DPT, MS, Assistant Vice President of Rehab Therapies, Allied Services; Atty. Bill Conaboy, President & CEO, Allied Services

Career Technology Center (CTC) of Lackawanna County Alumni Survey

Dear CTCLC Alumni,

As the Administrative Director of the Career Technology Center of
Lackawanna County (CTCLC), I am reaching out to ask for your valuable
insight. We are conducting a brief survey to better understand how
your experience at our school influenced your path after high school.

Your feedback will help us strengthen our programs, ensure they align
with workforce and postsecondary demands, and continue to support
students in achieving their goals.

Share Your Story Survey


Thank you for taking a few moments to share your story — your voice can help shape the future for the next generation of students.

The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Partner with AllOne to Host 5k Run With the Bears & Cub Walk

The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children In Partnership with AllOne Charities is excited to host Run with the Bears & Cub Walk. Proceeds from this 5k race will directly support the academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs offered to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students at The Scranton School. 

What: 5k Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk

When: Saturday, May 31, 2025 @ 9:00 AM

Where: The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children, 537 Venard Rd., Clarks Summit, PA 18411

Packet Pick-Up and Day of Registration: 7:30 to 8:30 AM at the Pavilion at the school.

The first 125 participants to register will be receive a race t-shirt. Overall winners will receive a cash prize, and top finishers in each age group will take home awards.

To take part in the 5k run or 1 Mile Fun Run, sign up here

Sponsorship Link: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=NzNeu4

Lackawanna Historical Society, “For the Least of Them” Play Steps back in Time in County Courthouse

Join the Lackawanna Historical Society to step back in time to 1902 in the Lackawanna County Courthouse for a special performance of the play “For the Least of Them” in Courtroom Three on Sunday, June 1 at 2pm.

Written by KK Gordon, the play offers a glimpse into the private thoughts and prayers of Fr. John Curran during the Anthracite Strike of 1902. Fr. Curran played an important role in the strike, supporting the striking miners, counseling UMA president John Mitchell and acting as a trusted confidant of President Theodore Roosevelt, whose decision to set up a neutral commission to intervene in a labor dispute marked a major change in how the US government dealt with labor.  Dramatically set in the courtroom where Curran testified before the Anthracite Strike Commission, this one-man show emphasizes Curran’s role in the strike and his dedication to “the least of them.”

KK Gordon, a proud Scrantonian, poet, author and actor became intrigued by Fr. Curran’s story when he saw Gary Anderson’s critically acclaimed one-man play ‘Clarence Darrow’s Search for Justice’ at the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton in 2010.  Fr. Curran will be portrayed by Plains native Scott Rave under the direction of Art Walsh.

This production is made possible by funding support from the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority and the Anthracite Cultural Board. 

Seating is limited and tickets are $10. Advance tickets can be purchased online at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/lackawanna-historical-society/for-the-least-of-them.

For more information about the program or to make reservations, contact the Lackawanna Historical Society at 570-344-3841 or email lackawannahistory@gmail.com.

Photo L-R: Kelly Ann Walsh, Walter Mitchell, Scott Rave, and Bobby Musto

Outreach – Center for Community Resources Receives Grant

Outreach – Center for Community Resources recently received a $10,000 grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation for the Ways to Work car loan program.

Established in 2024, the Ways to Work program helps low-income individuals obtain a reliable, safe vehicle to maintain and advance their employment opportunities. Eligible participants must meet a series of requirements verified by Outreach staff. Participants can receive up to a $15,000 loan over five years. Outreach employs a Ways to Work program manager who maintains constant contact with the participant throughout the loan, providing support and connections to resources when necessary.

Since starting the program, Outreach has provided vehicles to eight individuals. The program has helped individuals and families attain economic self-sufficiency and family stability, which is the Outreach mission.

Outreach is thankful to the Scranton Area Community Foundation for its support.

Photo (left to right): Kenneth Okrepkie, Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Member; Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO, Scranton Area Community Foundation; Jennifer Shoemaker, Outreach Workforce Development Manager, and Heather MacLennan, Ways to Work Case Manager, Outreach – Center for Community Resources.

Mohegan Pennsylvania, Super Trans Am Performance Inside the Keystone Ballroom

WILKES-BARRE, PA (May 22, 2025) – Tonight’s performance by Super Trans Am: The Super 70’s Concert Experience originally scheduled outside as part of the popular Party of the Patio concert series at Mohegan PA has been moved inside to the Keystone Grand Ballroom due to the combination of rain and colder temperatures in the forecast. Doors will open at 6:00pm and the concert will kick-off at 7:30pm. 

“We’re so thrilled to welcome Super Trans Am tonight for what is a much-anticipated performance at Mohegan Pennsylvania,” -said Anthony Carlucci, President & GM of Mohegan PA. “This is a unique situation where due to an unseasonable cold snap combined with rain, we will move this concert from our Outdoor Concert Venue to the Keystone Grand Ballroom. Capacity will be limited and entry will be first-come, first-served for this free, 21+ concert!” 

The Keystone Grand Ballroom will have a bar for concert goers and nearby dining options include Slice’d, Molly O’Sheas, The Hive Taphouse, Tony Luke’s and more.

Combining unparalleled musicianship with artistic and inspired A/V production, Super Trans Am: The Super 70’s Concert Experience revisits classic singalongs from one of the most definable decades in American history. Performing masterworks from icons such as The Eagles, Hall & Oates, Queen, The Doobie Brothers, Paul McCartney & Wings, Peter Frampton, Foreigner, Kiss, Boston and Journey as well as “Yacht Rock” favorites such as “Still the One” by Orleans and Pilot’s “Magic”, audiences will fall in love with this epic decade of memorable music all over again. See the experience live inside the Keystone Ballroom at Mohegan PA for a 7:30pm show on Thursday, May 22nd.

For more information on Party on the Patio at Mohegan Pennsylvania, visit: moheganpa.com/potp