Cancer Institute Releases Latest Local Cancer Surveillance Report The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, a local community-based nonprofit organization, has released the latest report on cancer, “Cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Incidence and Mortality for Common Cancers”. The report is available at: http://cancernepa.org/ This unique, locally focused report was compiled by Cancer Institute Director of Cancer Surveillance, Karen Ryczak, RN and Medical Director, Samuel Lesko, MD, MPH. The report documents that both incidence and mortality rates for cancer are significantly higher in NEPA than the U.S. It also identifies those cancer sites for which there is a disparity in either incidence or mortality. In NEPA, we continue to see statistically significantly higher incidence rates for cancer of the lung, larynx, oral cavity and pharynx, esophagus, colon and rectum, urinary bladder, pancreas, thyroid, cervix, and uterus compared to the U.S. Evidence based screenings are available for breast, cervical, colon and lung cancer that can reduce deaths from these cancers and in the case of cervical and colon cancer, prevent cancers from developing. Primary care providers are well suited to direct individuals on what screenings are appropriate based on age, gender, personal and family history, risk factors and eligibility criteria for screenings. The goal in sharing these data is to raise awareness across the community and to promote collaborative efforts to reduce the risk of select cancers through healthy lifestyle choices and adherence to proper screening guidelines. The report offers important insight for Northeastern Pennsylvania residents, health professionals, and government leaders. For additional information or if you would like a hard copy of the full report, please feel free to contact the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute at (570) 904-8808 or admin@cancernepa.org.
Women’s Resource Center Receives Grant Economic abuse is more common than physical abuse and can leave a survivor with their entire financial support structure shattered. The Women’s Resource Center is excited to announce it’s been awarded an $8,000 grant from The Robert H. Spitz Foundation, administered by the Scranton Area Community Foundation to help alleviate some of this financial insecurity. The grant supports WRC survivors in obtaining or maintaining a job or an education that will lead to their financial freedom. “The only way for survivors to remain independent of an abusive relationship is to have access to a sustainable income to support themselves and their children. WRC seeks to increase the economic well-being of survivors by addressing the financial needs that are directly linked to their ability to escape violence and stay out of an abusive relationship.” according to Peg Ruddy, Executive Director, of the Women’s Resource Center. Additionally, the grant also provides services for their pets. Often survivors are forced to decide between leaving their pets behind or staying to protect them. It is estimated that 65% of victims stay in abusive relationships for the safety of their pets. The availability of supplies and access to kenneling enable survivors to be able to leave an abusive relationship. Many times a pet can be a major source of comfort to a survivor and their family. It’s important WRC has resources to bring their pets to help during an extremely difficult time. “The pet program is truly amazing, and a tremendous help. The advocate genuinely cared about my cat and the progress she made at becoming strong and healthy. They were also very attentive toward me with vet appointment reminders, recommendations, and resources. I am very grateful.” said Jamie, a WRC program participant. A huge thank you to the Robert H. Spitz Foundation for making this grant possible.
Treasurer Garrity Celebrates Congress Passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act Treasurer Stacy Garrity and disability advocates across Pennsylvania today hailed Congress’s passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which will expand ABLE program eligibility to include an estimated 6 million more Americans, including one million veterans, by raising the age limit for onset of a disability from 26 to 46 starting in 2025. ABLE accounts are a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses while maintaining means-tested government benefits. “It’s a great day for people with disabilities not only in Pennsylvania, but those across the country, who will now have the ability to save for the future without jeopardizing benefits they currently rely on,” Treasurer Garrity said. “As a veteran, I’m especially grateful to know that my disabled brothers and sisters in arms, many of whom suffered disabilities after their 26th birthday while defending our great nation, will now have access to ABLE accounts and the tax advantages that come with them.” The ABLE Age Adjustment Act was introduced by U.S. Senator Bob Casey. His bill was cosponsored by Senator Pat Toomey, and a corresponding House bill had 17 cosponsors from Pennsylvania’s 18-member delegation, including U.S. Representatives Brendan Boyle, Matt Cartwright, Madeleine Dean, Michael F. Doyle, Dwight Evans, Brian Fitzpatrick, Chrissy Houlahan, John Joyce, Fred Keller, Mike Kelly, Conor Lamb, Dan Meuser, Guy Reschenthaler, Mary Gay Scanlon, Lloyd Smucker, Glenn Thompson and Susan Wild. “I commend Senator Casey for his dedication to helping people with disabilities live more independently and plan for a secure future for themselves and their families,” Treasurer Garrity said. “And I’m thankful to Senator Pat Toomey and the overwhelming majority of members in Pennsylvania’s House delegation who signed on as cosponsors.” Senator Casey also spearheaded the original ABLE Act of 2014, allowing states to establish ABLE programs to make it possible for people with disabilities to save for the future without losing necessary benefits. Pennsylvania’s ABLE program, PA ABLE, launched in 2017 after being introduced by state Senator Lisa Baker. “ABLE has been making a huge difference in the lives of people with disabilities for more than five years,” said Senator Baker. “Here in Pennsylvania, we have experienced tremendous success, with more than 7,000 individuals saving for their futures by opening PA ABLE accounts. I am encouraged by the actions taken to grow the program so millions of additional people who become disabled further into their adulthood can benefit, including our veterans, victims of vehicle accidents, and others experiencing a serious trauma.” “The Arc of Pennsylvania is extremely excited for the people who will now be benefit from ABLE accounts,” said Sherri Landis, Executive Director, The Arc of Pennsylvania. “The adjustment will also allow people with disabilities to save additional funds for retirement. We applaud Senator Casey and members of Congress on passing the legislation and ensuring people with disabilities are not overlooked.” “This is wonderful news,” said Susan Tachau, Chief Innovation Officer of Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation. “When the ABLE Age Adjustment Act becomes law, millions of newly eligible individuals will be able to save safely, and dream and plan for their future without fear of losing critical government benefits. Whether using their account for day-to-day living expenses or saving for assistive technology, such as an adapted vehicle, or for a home of their own, the ABLE program recognizes the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities with the ability to build a better economic future for themselves and their families.” “We would like to thank and congratulate Congress and Senator Casey on the passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act as part of SECURE 2.0! His efforts brought bipartisan support for this critical legislation that removes barriers to economic independence for individuals with disabilities,” said Brandy Burnham, President & CEO, AHEDD. “It aligns well with other programs that focus on employment outcomes for working-aged people with disabilities and will allow more people to work and have increased savings. AHEDD has always promoted ABLE programs since its inception and we are so happy access has expanded, making it available to so many more.” The changes to ABLE eligibility age limitations were included in the bill known as SECURE 2.0, which passed the House and the Senate last week and is expected to be signed into law by President Biden. “The PA ABLE program has already helped more than 7,000 Pennsylvanians save more than $77 million in just five years,” Treasurer Garrity said. “And now more of our friends and neighbors will have the opportunity to save.” PA ABLE is one of the fastest growing ABLE programs in the country, and the largest in the 18-member National ABLE Alliance – accounting for nearly 25% of total assets. PA ABLE allows for up to $16,000 in savings per year (this limit will increase to $17,000 starting on January 1, 2023) and up to $100,000 total without impacting government benefits. Funds are easy to access and may be used for a wide-wide range of disability-related expenses. Treasurer Garrity serves as the inaugural chair of the new ABLE Savings Plan Network, a part of the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST). Increasing the age limit for ABLE account eligibility has been a top priority of NAST since ABLE accounts first launched more than five years ago. For eligibility information and program details, visit paable.gov or call (855) 529-2253.
Mohegan PA Events at the Taphouse Launched this past summer as part of a major property upgrade, The Hive Taphouse at Mohegan Pennsylvania boasts a great lineup of local music as the winter months approach. New seasonal beers are also on tap, as is every big football game, every week. The Hive Taphouse is also home to two popular TopGolf Swing Suites, and special themed nights like Taco Tuesdays and Burger Wednesdays, where guests can take advantage of half-price tacos and burgers! Live Entertainment Calendar (all performances begin at 9:30pm) Hoopla Band Lite | Friday, December 30th Hoopla Band Lite brings an always energetic show playing nostalgic hits from yesterday and today. This band hailing from Wilkes-Barre, PA and fronted by female and male singers bring a dynamic performance every time it hits the stage. Don’t miss them on Friday, December 30th on stage inside The Hive Taphouse! Dueling Pianos featuring Doug Delescavage and Jennifer Hunter | Saturday, December 31st Talented musicians with battle it out during a New Year’s Eve celebration not to be missed at The Hive Taphouse. Doug Delescavage is a Berklee College of Music alum, a vocal instructor, piano instructor and the front-man for Philadelphia Freedom – a Tribute to Elton John. Doug will face-off with another incredible piano talent in Jennifer Hunter, who graduated from West Chester University and now teaches music, in addition to serving as an acclaimed music director and keyboardist for over thirty musicals in NEPA! Stealing Neil | Saturday, January 7th, 2023 Stealing Neil is a four-piece high energy Rock band hailing from NEPA, playing rock hits from Pearl Jam to CCR to Bruno Mars! Ostrich Hat | Saturday, January 14th, 2023 From the Finger Lakes of New York to The Atlantic City New Jersey Boardwalk and back home in the Pocono Mountains, Ostrich Hat has been entertaining crowds for a decade. Their high energy show contains all upbeat songs from every genre of Pop music. An Ostrich Hat show is entirely live, as no prerecorded backing tracks are used! CC Music | Friday, January 20th, 2023 CC Music features musicians Chris Iorio, Cierra Cellerari, Michael Iorio and Zach Jones from the Northeastern Pennsylvania area. Their wide range of musical tastes allows for them to produce a sound and show suitable for audiences of all ages and musical interests. With nearly 20 years of experience between them, they offer a professional and polished sound every time they take the stage. The Beer As the name suggests, the Hive Taphouse offers a serious range of beers on tap, including regional favorites like Broken Heels IPA by New Trail Brewing; Antler Brown Ale by Barley Creek Brewing and 570 – American Amber Lager by Benny Brewing. Current seasonal selections include draft beer from Pennsylvania brewers such as Wyndridge Cider; Tröegs Independent Brewing; Evil Genius Beer Company; Susquehanna Brewing and Wallenpaupak Brewing. And for current seasonal bottled options, guests can enjoy Sam Adams, Nimble Hill Brewing and UFO Brewery. Unique options like the Salt and Sea (Strawberry Lime) by Flying Fish Brewing out of New Jersey and the Mango Cart by Gold Road Brewing out of California, are also available. The Hive Taphouse offers energizing beer flights, including “The Fruit Flight,” which includes four fruity beers, “The NEPA Flight,” which includes beers brewed within 60 miles of Mohegan Pennsylvania, “The Seasonal Flight,” which combines the best beers of the season, “The Keystone Flight,” which includes some of the best beers brewed in Pennsylvania, and a “Build Your Own” option which lets you create your own flight. In total, The Hive Taphouse features 30+ beers by way of draft, bottle and can. To view the full drink menu, click HERE. Half-off Tacos and Burgers Every Tuesday inside The Hive Taphouse, a menu of delicious tacos are offered at half price all-day! Favorites include Cajun Shrimp Tacos, BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos, Smoked Chicken Tacos and more. The Hive Taphouse also features “Burger Wednesdays” where options like the mouthwatering Lone Star (pulled pork, pepper jack cheese, smoke BBQ sauce and marinated banana peppers served on an 8oz beef patty and brioche bun) are also half-price all-day every Wednesday. The Games Pro-football fans can head into The Hive Taphouse to catch all the remaining action, including what should be an incredible post-season. Every game is available by way of 12 high-def flat screens that fill-up Mohegan PA’s latest and greatest venue. Big upcoming Pro football games include Buffalo @ Cincinnati on Monday, January 2nd (8:30pm). The first round of the playoffs also arrives on Saturday, January 14th! Not to be outdone, all the major upcoming College Football bowl games will also be featured inside The Hive Taphouse! TopGolf Swing Suites The Hive Taphouse also features its very own TopGolf Swing Suites located near the main bar. TopGolf Swing Suites is open for all ages, allowing for playful competition across various simulated sports, including golf experiences at virtual versions of Pebble Beach, Bethpage Black or 80 other famous courses. If guests aren’t up for golf, they can take a stab at the Quarterback Challenge, Hockey, Zombie Dodgeball, Soccer and more. Walk-ups are accepted as availability permits, though reservations are encouraged. Prices are $20 per person, and guests can visit MoheganPA.com or call 570.985.5759 for more information.
NET Credit Union Donates to Saint Joseph’s Center NET Credit Union recently donated $30,000 to their 2022 charity recipient, Saint Joseph’s Center Trinity Child Care Center. All funds raised from the 9th Annual NEToberfest Golf Tournament at Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club, as well as donations through our branches, benefited the children at Saint Joseph’s Center Trinity Child Care Center. In 2014, Saint Joseph’s Center opened its latest program, Trinity Child Care Center. Their mission is to help children who require medical care throughout the day flourish developmentally, cognitively, and emotionally. Individual programs focus on a child’s abilities and small group activities develop play skills and peer interaction. The need in our area for a facility like Trinity Child Care Center is higher than most think. The center is for children whose parents are working or attending school that struggle finding appropriate childcare. Trinity Child Care Center is a relief for parents due to the professional trained staff and hands on care. Pictured from left to right: Karen Clifford, NET Credit Union Board Member; Michele Johnston, RN, Director of Trinity Child Care Center; Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM, President & CEO of Saint Joseph’s Center; Clarence Baltrusaitis, NET Credit Union CEO; and Lauren Pabst, NET Credit Union Marketing Manager.
FNCB Bank Invests in Scranton Project FNCB Bank, locally based since 1910, today announced an $11,013,953 Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Investment for the Scranton Square Apartments project through the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA). The project, located on Dickson Ave. in the Green Ridge section of Scranton, will consist of 36 newly constructed senior housing units. Of the 36 units, 32 are slated to be one bedroom and four are two bedrooms. The units will be affordable to low-income households falling below various levels of the area median income (AMI). “The need for affordable, safe and accessible housing is great in our community,” said Jerry Champi, FNCB Bank President and CEO. “This project will not only provide much needed housing for low-income senior citizens, but it is also redeveloping a large vacant lot in the city. FNCB Bank is pleased to be a partner on this project by providing a significant portion of the total cost.” Additional partners include Quandel Construction Group as the general contractor, and the project’s developer, QSP Development, which is a Quandel Enterprises affiliate. Scranton Square Project is part of FNCB’s larger Community Caring initiative. As a true, local community bank, FNCB is making a difference through volunteerism, donations, and outreach programs.
HNB Contributes to Construction Project The Honesdale National Bank has made a $124,250 contribution to the Wayne County YMCA. The funds will go towards phase one on their construction project which includes, development and completion of engineering design, site development plans, development approvals, sewage, and PennDOT approvals of highway access. HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “We are pleased to support our local YMCA as a financial partner forth is impactful project.” He continued, “It is an organization that puts forth a facility and programs for our community, which can be influential for development for generations to come.” Located at 105 Park Street in Honesdale, and in communities across the nation, the Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. With a mission centered on balance, the Y brings families closer together, encourages good health, and fosters connections through fitness, sports, fun, and shared interests. As a result, millions of youth, adults, and families are receiving the support, guidance, and resources needed to achieve greater health and well-being for the spirit, mind, and body. Paul Edwards, board member of the Wayne County YMCA, mentioned, “Every journey begins with a first step. This exciting new building project for the YMCA is a first step in enhancing our services to the local community. It wouldn’t be possible without the support of The Honesdale National Bank. We so appreciate HNB’s community spirit and the great support as we initiate this project.” The funding has been contributed through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) managed through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237. Photo Caption (from left to right): YMCA Board of Directors, Sherman Bronson, Tim Minella & Elise Burlein, YMCA Board of Trustees Eric Linde, Paul Meagher, Honat Bancorp, Inc. Board of Directors, Bill Schweighofer, Chairman of Honat Bancorp, Inc. & Thomas E. Sheridan, President and CEO, The Honesdale National Bank.
Johnson College Receives $2,000 Contribution for the Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship Members of the Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association recently presented a $2,000 contribution to Johnson College to support the annual Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded to two students in the Automotive Technology Program for the 2023-2024 academic year. The Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association was established in 1975 and has been funding the scholarship at Johnson College since 2009. The club raises funds through Cruise Nights held at the Viewmont Mall parking lot throughout the year.
Wolf Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians to Heed Winter Weather Threats This Holiday Weekend The Wolf Administration is urging Pennsylvanians to pay attention to weather forecasts and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions and brutal cold this holiday weekend. “Many people are traveling to spend time with friends and family this weekend, so it’s important to know the forecast for your home, your destination and points along your intended travel route,” said PEMA Director Randy Padfield. “We can’t control the weather, but we each can control how informed and prepared we are, so that we can make decisions that keep our loved ones safe.” According to the National Weather Service, a dangerous winter storm arriving Thursday will bring numerous hazards from west to east across the state, including icing, snowfall, a flash freeze, and dangerous winds and cold that will last through the weekend. Thursday morning, we can expect ice and snow, particularly in the central and northern mountains. Throughout the day temperatures will rise, bringing rain statewide and the threat of isolated flash flooding for central and eastern Pennsylvania overnight into Friday. A dramatic drop in temperatures Friday morning and early afternoon could cause of a flash freeze, meaning any water left on the roadways or sidewalks will quickly freeze and make travel difficult. Strong winds gusting up to 50-60 miles per hour could also bring down power lines and tree limbs. Wind chills will reach negative teens and 20s Friday night, creating hypothermia and frostbite hazards. Homeowners should also be aware of the threat of frozen water pipes. The dangerous cold and windy weather will continue into Sunday, for the Christmas holiday. For northwestern Pennsylvanians, lake effect snow will kick in on Friday with blowing and accumulating snow lasting into Sunday. “We know that many Pennsylvanians are looking forward to their holiday plans,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. “If you’re planning to travel, don’t forget to check 511PA.com or the 511PA smartphone app for the latest weather and travel information. The PennDOT team is ready and will work before and throughout the storm to help keep motorists safe during this busy travel season.” Because temperatures will be very low, the potential for icy roads is high, and PennDOT urges motorists to avoid travel if possible. But if travel is necessary, use caution, reduce speeds and be aware of changing weather conditions. PennDOT has been pre-treating roadways to help prevent ice from forming a bond with the pavement during the early stages of a storm. However, salt is not a silver bullet, and drivers may encounter icy spots on the roadway. With freezing temperatures, roads that look wet may actually be icy, and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form without warning. If motorists encounter snow or ice-covered roads, they should slow down, increase their following distance and avoid distractions. Last winter in Pennsylvania, preliminary data shows that there were 151 crashes resulting in three fatalities and 81 injuries on snowy, slushy or ice-covered roadways where aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding or making careless lane changes were factors. To help make decisions regarding winter travel, motorists are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” by checking conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. Users can also see plow truck statuses and travel alerts along a specific route using the “Check My Route” tool. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts. For more information on safe winter travel, an emergency kit checklist and information on PennDOT’s winter operations, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/winter. Additional winter driving and other highway safety information is available at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety. “This upcoming frigid weather will create safety hazards, so it is important to bundle up to stay safe if you must go outside,” Acting Secretary of Health and Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson said. “To avoid frostbite and hypothermia, I advise you to cover all exposed skin, dress in layers, wear water resistant clothing to stay dry, drink warm beverages and take frequent breaks from the cold. Please keep an eye on yourself and your neighbors for effects of freezing temperatures. If anyone starts to continuously shiver, they should go inside, as that is their body’s way of saying it is getting too cold.” The PSP reminds motorists that Pennsylvania has a new law requiring snow and ice removal from motor vehicles and motor carrier vehicles. The law says drivers must reasonably attempt to remove accumulated snow and ice from hoods, trunks and roofs within the 24 hours following a winter storm. Drivers face a $50 fine if the buildup endangers people or property, regardless of whether any anow or ice was dislodged. State law also makes it unlawful to drive a motor vehicle if ice or snow on the windshield, rear window, or side windows obstructs, obscures or impairs the driver’s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway. Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law requires drivers who are approaching an emergency response area and are unable to safely merge into a lane further away to slow at least 20 mph under the speed limit. Emergency response areas include tow trucks that are assisting disabled motorists. Finally, headlights must be turned on any time the windshield wipers are being used continuously or intermittently for precipitation such as rain, snow or sleet. The State Police urges drivers to postpone any travel that isn’t absolutely necessary. If you must travel, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you expect to arrive. Be sure to have your cell phone and a charger. Check weather forecasts and travel advisories before you walk out the door. “Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures could make this a dangerous and costly winter storm for Pennsylvanians who aren’t prepared for closed roads and high winds,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “We urge those in the agriculture industry, as well as pet owners, to plan ahead to minimize risks for your animals and your facilities. Provide shelter for livestock and pets, stockpile feed, monitor your buildings for wind damage or ice and snow accumulation.” Redding provided the following pet and livestock safety tips: Protect animals from the wind.Provide adequate clean, dry bedding.Keep animals clean and dry to maximize the insulating properties of their coats.Change water often to prevent it from freezing. Pets need water to prevent dehydration, which can contribute to hypothermia.Provide additional feed, including hay and grain, to livestock. Ensure that it remains unfrozen.Never leave pets in parked cars. Parked cars amplify the effects of cold weather.Contact your veterinarian if your animals show signs of hypothermia including shivering, lethargy, low heartrate and unresponsiveness.Monitor buildings – especially those with gently-pitched roofs – and remove accumulated snow, ice, and overhanging limbs to prevent collapse. Travelers should be sure to pack an emergency travel kit. The kit should include a flashlight with fresh batteries, jumper cables, first aid supplies, blankets, cell phone charger, bottled water, and non-perishable foods. Families who must travel with infants or pets should consider extra formula or pet food. More information about how to prepare for any type of emergency, including free downloadable checklists of items to keep in your home, car, and at work, and specific information for people with access and functional needs or pets, is available on the Ready PA webpage. MEDIA CONTACTS: Ruth A. Miller (PEMA) – ruthmiller@pa.gov Alexis Campbell (DOT) – alecampbel@pa.gov Shannon Powers (Ag) – 717.603.2056, shpowers@pa.gov PSP Communications – ra-pspcomm@pa.gov Mark O’Neill (DOH) – ra-dhpressoffice@pa.gov
