Lackawanna College Culinary Students Open “MISFITS” Lackawanna College is thrilled to announce the return of its holiday pop-up event, Misfits, a festive and inclusive experience set to open in downtown Scranton at 409 on Adams, the College’s student-run restaurant. This event will run from November 13th through December 21st, and invites guests to embrace the holiday spirit in an unconventional way – where everyone is welcome and being different is celebrated. Following the success of last year’s inaugural season, which saw over 7,000 guests, Misfits is set to be bigger and better in 2024. The theme of the event is inspired by the heartwarming story of Charlie, a kindhearted but misunderstood soul who inherits an old boarding house. Inside, the rooms are filled with unique characters and festive tales that bring a fresh perspective to the holiday season. Attendees are encouraged to come, find their tribe, and celebrate the holidays with a twist. “Misfits is about creating a space where everyone can come as they are and be part of something special,” said [Name], [Title] at Lackawanna College. “It’s a unique celebration that brings together our community, our students, and everyone who supports the College and its mission. Last year was a huge success, and we look forward to welcoming even more guests in 2024.” A Meaningful ImpactBeyond being a fun and festive experience, Misfits plays a vital role in supporting the mission of Lackawanna College and empowering its students. All proceeds from the event help fund initiatives that provide tangible support for the College’s diverse student body, including: Loaner Laptops for Students – Providing 130 students with the necessary tools to succeed in their education by loaning out laptops to help bridge the digital divide. Fighting Food Insecurity – Through programs like The Common Kitchen, Lackawanna College combats food insecurity among students by offering nutritious food staples, culinary training, and access to a community-driven food bank. Student Leadership Opportunities – Scholarships and workforce training opportunities are provided to upperclassmen who take on leadership roles within the College, preparing them for real-world success. Nourishing Neighbors – In partnership with the Scranton Counseling Center, Lackawanna College has provided over 2,300 meals to local families in need, supported by over 100 hours of student and faculty volunteer time. “We’re not just celebrating the season – we’re supporting our students and our community,” added [Name]. “By attending Misfits, you are helping to make these programs possible, and together, we can continue to create opportunities for those who need it most.” Become a SponsorLackawanna College is actively seeking sponsors for the 2024 Misfits season. Sponsorships not only provide visibility and recognition within the community but also directly support the College’s mission to empower students and give back to the Scranton area. For more information about becoming a sponsor, or to inquire about event details, please contact [Name] at (570) 504-7945 or via email at deckers@lackawanna.edu.
The Swiftwater Makes its Mark with Triple Award Win Newly Opened Pocono Mountains Hotel Wins Prestigious AAA Four Diamond, “Newcomer of the Year” from Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association, and a Bizzy Award for Interior Design. The Swiftwater, the Pocono Mountains’ newest luxury destination, has achieved a remarkable trio of industry accolades within just four months of opening. The Swiftwater is celebrating the coveted AAA Four Diamond rating, the title of “Newcomer of the Year” from the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association, and a Bizzy Award for Interior Design. This trifecta highlights the hotel’s dedication to excellence, elevating the guest experience in this iconic region. AAA Four Diamond Rating: A Symbol of Superior Hospitality Receiving the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award, Swiftwater has distinguished itself as a premier destination in the Poconos. This rating is a testament to the hotel’s exceptional service, upscale amenities, and meticulous attention to guest satisfaction. From personalized concierge services to luxurious on-site dining, Swiftwater offers an experience that redefines modern luxury in the region. Named “Newcomer of the Year” by the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association The Swiftwater has also been named “Newcomer of the Year” by the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association, celebrating its swift rise in popularity and its impactful contributions to Pennsylvania’s hospitality landscape. This award speaks to the hotel’s unique combination of locally inspired charm, innovative experiences, and community commitment that have resonated with visitors and locals alike. Interior Design Excellence Recognized with Bizzy Award Swiftwater Hotel was honored with the Bizzy Award for Interior Design, a nod to its visionary blend of elegance and mountain-inspired aesthetic. This award recognizes the hotel’s commitment to creating an immersive environment that harmoniously reflects the Pocono region’s natural beauty while delivering sophistication in every detail. The design features custom décor, inviting public spaces, and stunning guest rooms crafted to evoke both relaxation and inspiration. “We are immensely honored by the recognition we’ve received in our first few months,” said Dante Trapasso, Managing Partner of The Swiftwater. “These awards reflect our team’s dedication to delivering a hospitality experience that blends the scenic allure of the Poconos with a level of service that leaves a lasting impression.”With its luxurious accommodations, signature dining, and dedication to a refined guest experience, The Swiftwater is already making waves in the hospitality industry, poised to become a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the Pocono Mountains.
PennDOT License Centers Closed for Veterans Day Weekend The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, November 9, 2024, through Monday, November 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; REAL ID pre-verification; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services. A complete listing of PennDOT driver and photo license center closings in 2024 is available online. If you are planning to visit one of PennDOT’s On-Line Messenger Service Centers, please call ahead for hours of operation during holidays. Traveling by domestic aircraft on or after May 7, 2025? You will need a REAL ID-compliant product or other federally-accepted form of identification if you do. Visit www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID for information on how you can get a REAL-ID compliant driver’s license or identification card today. There are only six months left to prepare. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways 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. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
Maternal and Family Health Services Awarded Coalition Grant Maternal and Family Health Services (MFHS) has received $900,000 in funding to develop a Regional Maternal Health Coalition (RMHC) in a 14-county service area within its existing footprint. Utilizing the CDC’s State Strategies for Preventing Pregnancy- Related Deaths and principles of community engagement, MFHS will work to select, implement, and evaluate the PA Maternal Mortality Review Committee’s (2024) recommendations for improving maternal health outcomes, promoting maternal health equity, and reducing health disparities. The goal of the project is to help improve care for pregnant women and babies by addressing maternal health issues at the local level through the creation and enhancement of regional coalitions. “There is an increasing need for access to health care and support services for women, especially during pregnancy and during the postpartum period. We’ve seen the need for these kind of services for years, and it continues to grow,” said Maria Montoro Edwards, PhD, MFHS President and CEO. “This funding will have a tremendous impact on women and families in need. MFHS is focused on improving the health outcomes related to pregnant and postpartum mothers. To lead coalition activities, MFHS hired Project Coordinator London McPhatter, MPH, who will ensure the formation of activities to find and implement real solutions to high maternal morbidity rates especially among vulnerable communities. MFHS is uniquely positioned to deliver this program given the organization’s long-standing commitment to serving women, children, and families with programs that are proven to have a positive impact on maternal and child health outcomes. The coalition will serve the 14 PA counties of Bradford, Carbon, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Luzerne, Northampton, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Schuylkill, Tioga, Wayne, and Wyoming.
Junior Achievement of NEPA Celebrates a Successful October Junior Achievement (JA) of Northeastern Pennsylvania had an incredible month of October, engaging hundreds of local students through hands-on career exploration, personal finance education, and community-driven initiatives. From impactful YES! Day Experiences to continued partnerships with local foundations, JA NEPA is making a lasting difference in the lives of young people in the region. YES! Day Highlights In October, JA NEPA held three successful YES! Day Experiences across local schools, where 7th and 8th grade students participated in interactive learning activities about career readiness, financial literacy, and life skills. These engaging programs were powered by the support of dedicated volunteers from the local community, who brought their expertise to the classrooms. Dunmore Junior High School – On October 9, JA NEPA reached 246 students with the help of 24 volunteers, making the event a resounding success. Solomon-Plains Middle School – On October 17, 502 students took part in the YES! Day Experience, supported by 43 volunteers. Special guests included Gwen Ross of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, who helped make the day even more memorable. JA NEPA also extends a special thank you to Enterprise Mobility for their generous support of the event. Tunkhannock Intermediate School – On October 29, JA NEPA engaged 290 6th and 7th grade students with the help of 30 volunteers. The event was a great success, and JA NEPA is grateful for the teachers and administrators who helped make this program run smoothly. Volunteers Needed for Upcoming YES! Days As JA NEPA continues to expand its reach and impact, we’re looking for passionate volunteers to help bring YES! Day experiences to even more local students this year. These dynamic events are designed to introduce students to a wide variety of career opportunities, essential life skills, and personal finance concepts, all led by community volunteers. Upcoming YES! Days: West Scranton Intermediate School – Friday, November 15, 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM.We need 10 more volunteers. Wallenpaupack Area Middle School – Monday, November 25, 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM.We need 29 more volunteers. Carbondale Area Jr/Sr High School – Wednesday, December 11, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM.We need 10 more volunteers. Interested individuals can Sign Up Here to volunteer for any of these upcoming events. For more information about YES! Days, or to register as a volunteer, please visit our What is a YES! Day page or contact Alysia Clancy at alysia.clancy@ja.org. A Special Thank You to Our Supporters We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to The Luzerne Foundation and the Pasco Schiavo Memorial Foundation for their continued support. In October, our President, Susan Magnotta, and Program Manager, Suzanne McCabe, had the honor of presenting JA NEPA’s programs, including the YES! Days and JA Inspire Career Discovery Experience, to The Luzerne Foundation. Their support, along with the contributions of other local partners, helps us continue our mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.
Pennsylvania Treasurer Thanks Governor for Signing Tax Reform Bill New law will streamline and improve the process of resolving tax disputes in PA Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today applauded Governor Josh Shapiro for signing Senate Bill 1051, pro-taxpayer legislation sponsored by Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21) and supported by overwhelming bipartisan majorities in the General Assembly. A companion bill was introduced in the House by Rep. Tim Briggs (D-149). The new law will streamline and improve the process of resolving tax disputes with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (DOR) by allowing the Board of Finance and Revenue (BF&R) to accept late-filed personal income tax appeals in certain circumstances and to create a new independent settlement process for taxpayers as an alternative to the formal and lengthy court appeals process. “This law will make tax appeals more fair for Pennsylvania families and businesses by removing silly bureaucratic obstacles and implementing a strong settlement process,” Treasurer Garrity said. “I’m grateful to Governor Shapiro for signing this bill into law, and to Senator Hutchinson and Representative Briggs for their hard work to create an even playing field for Pennsylvania taxpayers.” SB 1051, now Act 123 of 2024, was supported by numerous organizations, including the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the NFIB, and the Pennsylvania Society of Enrolled Agents. Act 123, which goes into effect in 90 days, will allow BF&R to accept late-filed personal income tax appeals if cause is shown by the taxpayer. When the new law becomes effective, taxpayers who disagree with a final decision made by DOR involving personal income tax assessments have a 90-day deadline to appeal the decision to BF&R. It was previously only 60 days. That strict timeline led to cases being dismissed on a technicality rather than being decided on their merits. On average, of the approximately 4,200 appeals BF&R receives annually, only about 13 percent of eligible appeals are resolved through settlement prior to an appeal being filed before the Commonwealth Court. The new law also empowers BF&R for the first time to direct parties through an independent settlement process, which is intended to facilitate the amicable resolution of more tax disputes, thus reducing litigation costs for taxpayers. Treasury estimates that up to 500 cases annually could be eligible for this new process. BF&R is an independent administrative tax tribunal, administered by the State Treasurer, responsible for the second and final level of administrative appeal (with minor exceptions) before appealing to court. The Board consists of three members – two are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate; the third is the State Treasurer or her designee and serves as Chair.
Hospice of the Sacred Heart to Deliver Meals to Patients for Thanksgiving On Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 28th, Hospice of the Sacred Heart will deliver meals to patients and their families. This is the 19th year the hospice will provide this service project. Over 700 meals complete with roasted turkey, all traditional Thanksgiving sides and pumpkin pie will be prepared by Mansour’s Market Café in Scranton, packaged, and delivered by hospice staff members and volunteers. “We so look forward to this day. Many of our hospice staff and volunteers enjoy this beautiful tradition of blessing the meals, the friendship of our colleagues and the delivery of over 700 Thanksgiving meals to our patients and their families. This project demonstrates our gratitude for the blessings in our lives,” said Diane Baldi, CEO, Hospice of the Sacred Heart. Media outlets are invited to photograph the distribution process beginning at 7:50 am at Mansour’s Market Café, 969 Prescott Avenue, Scranton. Deacon Patrick J. Massino will bless the meals at 8 am and deliveries will begin immediately afterwards. Diane Baldi, CEO, will be available for interviews between 8 and 10 am.
