The Settlers Inn Earns Award for World’s Best Restaurant for Wine

The Settlers Inn has been honored for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards, which celebrate the world’s best restaurants for wine.

“A wine list is a restaurant’s identity in print, and this year’s Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners reflect both deep knowledge and a passion for discovery,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “I proudly present the 3,811 restaurants worldwide that earned a Restaurant Award this year—we raise a glass to all our winners.”

“The Settlers Inn team is proud to be the only restaurant in Northeast PA to receive the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence in 2025,” explains Sommelier Claude Briere. “We have curated a wine list covering the most important wine regions of the world, packed full of gems for everyone to experience. From novice to connoisseur, there is a wine for everyone to discover, at prices that can accommodate all budgets.”

Launched in 1981, the Restaurant Awards represent the world’s only program focused exclusively on restaurant wine service. They are assigned on three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award, with 2,010; 1,704; and 97 winners this year in each respective category.

The Settlers Inn has won the Best of Award of Excellence for the fourth consecutive year.

Best of Award of Excellence recipients display excellent breadth across multiple winegrowing regions and/or significant vertical depth of top producers, along with superior presentation.

Wine Spectator’s special Restaurant Awards issue is available to readers now.

Follow Wine Spectator on Instagram (@wine_spectator) and use hashtag #WSRestaurantAwards for posts about this year’s awards. WineSpectator.com/Restaurants also features coverage of winners, interviews with leading wine directors, wine picks and pairing tips from sommeliers at award-winning programs. In the Restaurant Search, all winners can be searched by name, location, award level, cuisine,

wine specialties and pricing. Winners are also profiled in the free Restaurant Awards app, available for iPhone and iPad users.

Pennsylvania Treasury, Secretary Visits Coffee Inclusive for National ABLE Savings Day

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today visited Coffee Inclusive in Pittston, Luzerne County to celebrate National ABLE Savings Day and promote the PA ABLE 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.

Frank Bartoli, founder and CEO of PA Inclusive, parent organization of Coffee Inclusive, led a tour of the coffee shop and bakery. Coffee Inclusive employs over twenty people with intellectual disabilities and autism. 

“The opportunities provided by Coffee Inclusive are life-changing, and their facility is incredible,” Treasurer Garrity said. “I’m always inspired by the people I meet in every corner of the Commonwealth who save with PA ABLE, and I encourage everyone who has a family member or friend with a disability to learn more about what PA ABLE can do for them.”

“It was an honor to host Treasurer Stacy Garrity at Coffee Inclusive for National ABLE Savings Day and to learn more about improvements coming to ABLE eligibility,” said Frank Bartoli, Founder and CEO of PA Inclusive. “As a parent of an adult child with Down Syndrome, an ABLE account will allow my daughter, Ellie, to live an even better life.” 

Since 2021, annual account maintenance fees have been reduced five times for PA ABLE account owners. Currently, to be eligible to save with an ABLE program, a person’s disability must be onset prior to their 26th birthday. Starting in January 2026, ABLE eligibility will be expanded to include those whose disability is onset prior to age 46. This gives more than six million more Americans, including one million Veterans the opportunity to save with ABLE programs.

States were authorized to create ABLE programs with the passage of federal ABLE legislation in 2014. PA ABLE was enacted in 2016 with leadership from Senator Lisa Baker; the first PA ABLE account was opened the following year. Since then, the program has grown to be the fifth largest in the nation with nearly $170 million saved and over 11,000 accounts. Under Treasury Garrity’s leadership, PA ABLE account assets have more than tripled.

PA ABLE account owners can save and pay for a wide variety of disability-related expenses, like groceries, rent, healthcare, transportation, and longer-term expenses including education and assistive technology.

“PA ABLE is a tremendous tool to help our family and friends with disabilities live more independently and plan for a secure future,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Treasury is celebrating National ABLE Savings Day by helping more and more families learn about this great program with a live webinar tonight. Anyone can register to learn more about this empowering program, and I encourage anyone with a family member or friend who can benefit from PA ABLE to attend and learn more.”

PA ABLE offers several different savings and investment options, including a checking account. PA ABLE account owners can contribute up to $19,000 per year. Contributions can be deducted on PA state income taxes. 

To learn more about PA ABLE, the Pennsylvania Treasury will host a free webinar tonight at 6 p.m. with additional webinars slated for September and October. To register for this webinar, or others, please visit paable.gov/webinars.

To learn more about program eligibility and how to start saving with PA ABLE, visit paable.gov, email info@paable.gov or call 855-529-2253.

Misericordia University Program Supports Early Literacy Development

Misericordia University recently concluded its Free Kindergarten Readiness Program, designed to help preschool-aged children build the foundational literacy skills needed for a confident start to school. The two-hour, small-group sessions were held at the university’s Literacy Center in Passan Hall and led by Kathleen Scaler Scott, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, along with experienced graduate student clinicians in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology.

This summer, the program served 12 children—six in a morning group and six in an afternoon group—and generated significant community interest, with 35 children placed on a waiting list. Due to this overwhelming demand, the university is already accepting names for next summer’s program.

The program introduced children to essential skills proven to support strong reading and writing, including phonological awareness, oral and written language comprehension, letter-sound knowledge, and understanding narrative structure. Delivered in a fun and engaging environment, the sessions provided small group instruction while giving student clinicians valuable hands-on experience.

“It was so exciting to provide this service to children in the community,” said Dr. Scaler Scott, who has been a speech-language pathologist (SLP) for more than 30 years and has worked in three schools for children with literacy challenges. She is a professor, Board-Certified Specialist in Stuttering, Cluttering, and Fluency (BCS-SF), and ASHA Fellow. “This is just the start of the literacy programs we’d like to provide for preschoolers through adults. We hope to provide programming to address skills in reading, writing, and spelling. Since these skills are

language-based, SLPs play a critical role in assisting with their development. According to the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association, SLPs play a role in preventing, identifying, assessing and treating literacy challenges. We collaborate with educators, reading specialists and other professionals to support literacy acquisition. Because we are training SLP student clinicians, we are able to provide affordable services.”

The initiative reflects Misericordia University’s commitment to serving the community through accessible, evidence-based literacy support. Plans are already underway to expand offerings to additional age groups, from early learners to adults, ensuring that individuals at all stages of life have access to the tools they need for literacy success.

For more information about future literacy programs, or to add a child’s name to the waiting list for next summer, contact Dr. Kathleen Scaler Scott at 570-674-1437 or kscott@misericordia.edu.

The Greater Scranton Chamber Announces Two New Additions to Its Team

The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the hire of Kira Loomis as business development specialist and Lindsay May as workforce and leadership assistant.

Kira Loomis, business development specialist
Lindsay May, leadership and workforce assistant

In her new capacity, Loomis will support the Chamber’s business development divisions: The Scranton Plan and Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO). Her responsibilities encompass site selection marketing, business recruitment and expansion, and client engagement, in addition to assisting in the coordination of community-facing events aimed at fostering investment and employment opportunities in Lackawanna County.

Loomis brings with her experience in marketing, communications, and community engagement. Her most recent position was as marketing and community outreach coordinator at the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC), where she managed prominent events, spearheaded workforce awareness initiatives, and oversaw marketing strategies, both digital and print. A native of Scranton, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Media and Journalism with a specialization in Public Relations from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania.

As Workforce and Leadership Assistant, May will provide administrative and programmatic support for two of the Chamber’s divisions: Leadership Lackawanna and Skills in Scranton—while also assisting with daily operations and office management across the organization.

May brings expertise in client support, operations, and team leadership across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Her recent role was as Customer Specialist at DealerOn, where she managed high-level customer inquiries and website operations. Her previous positions at Benco Dental and Uline further demonstrate her skills in relationship management, training, and sales support. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Kutztown University.

“We are enthusiastic about welcoming both Kira Loomis and Lindsay May to our team,” stated Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development. “Their impressive skills and experience, complemented by a genuine passion for our mission and the communities we serve, will undoubtedly contribute significantly to our business and workforce development initiatives.”

The Chamber leadership is delighted to welcome Loomis and May and anticipates their valuable contributions toward advancing the organization’s mission to support local enterprises and fortify communities throughout the region.

TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty Extend Application Deadline

The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna County announce that applications for a fourth cohort of TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty are extended to August 29, 2025. The program is a partnership between Lackawanna County, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA, and The Chamber, in collaboration with tecBRIDGE as the program administrator.

TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a 10-week, in-person experience in which participants can access mentors, educational resources, and subject matter experts on business formation strategies, customer discovery, marketing, financial planning, and risk management. The goal of the ten weeks is to build, share, and pitch their early-stage start-ups.

Previous TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty programs have helped 23 entrepreneurs gain traction toward achieving their American dreams. In this fourth cohort, eight more can experience the same resources and excitement.

TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty is a competitive application process. Residents of Lackawanna County with tech, for-profit business, or early start-up ideas are encouraged to apply. Participants who complete all program requirements may be eligible for a $10,000 reimbursable grant towards select start-up costs.

To apply, visit ScrantonChamber.com and look for TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty under events. Applications close on Friday, August 29.

The Wright Center, Breastfeeding a Healthy Habit for Mother and Child

August is National Breastfeeding Month, which is a great opportunity for us to talk about the many health benefits this critical practice provides to mother and child.

Breastfeeding Month was established to promote human milk in child development and lactation practices and policies. We’re all for that here at The Wright Center, where we support it for patients and employees, alike.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health recognizes breastfeeding as the ideal nutrition for infants, while the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that women exclusively breastfeed their babies for at least the first six months after birth, and up to two years or beyond, depending on the mother and child’s wants and needs.

Simply put, mother’s milk is the ideal nutrition for babies, providing benefits that can’t be found in baby formula. The research is clear on this — breastfeeding can lower a baby’s risk of certain infections, asthma, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome. And for mothers, it can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and breast and ovarian cancers.

Any discussion about breastfeeding should also include its relation to the workplace, as women with infants and young children are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. labor force. Unfortunately, too many women cease breastfeeding when returning to work, due to the challenges of finding a safe, private place to pump and store milk.

However, I’m happy to report that an increasing number of employers are now providing designated lactation stations for breastfeeding employees. It’s a trend that hopefully will only continue to grow, especially since breastfeeding-friendly workplace programs are relatively easy and inexpensive to implement, and provide savings through reduced health care claims and employee absences.

The Wright Center has been highly supportive of breastfeeding employees, and we’ve gone above and beyond to support patients through our primary and pediatric care services, as well as the Healthy MOMS (Maternal Opiate Medical Support) program, a collaborative effort between The Wright Center and several other community organizations that assists pregnant women and new mothers overcome addiction and embrace a life in recovery.

That includes a $7,500 grant we secured from the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to provide essential breastfeeding resources and supplies to Healthy MOMS participants, including manual breast pumps, breast milk storage sets, educational materials, consultations with lactation specialists, and access to breastfeeding counselors. The grant also went toward doula training for Healthy MOMS collaborators.

If you’re interested in learning more about resources pertaining to breastfeeding, the Pennsylvania Breastfeeding Referral Guide contains detailed information on lactation specialists, community programs, support/mother groups, community coalitions, breast pump rentals, and local, state, and national help lines. For additional information, call the Healthy Baby Line at 1-800-986-BABY (2229).

Breastfeeding women and their children are high priority here at The Wright Center, and we’ll continue doing our part to ensure their good health.

Manju Mary Thomas, M.D., board-certified in pediatrics and obesity medicine, serves as deputy chief medical officer and medical director of pediatrics and school- and community-based medical home services at The Wright Center for Community Health. She is also a physician faculty member for The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Family Medicine Residency Pediatrics Program. She is accepting pediatric and adolescent patients at our Mid Valley Community Health Center. To make an appointment, call 570-230-0019.

Indraloka Encourages Planning During Make-A-Will Month

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a time to reflect on the future and ensure our loved ones—and the causes we care about—are cared for after we’re gone. Indraloka is joining nonprofits across the country to raise awareness about the importance of estate planning and the powerful role of legacy giving.

“Having a will is one of the most compassionate and empowering acts we can take—not just for ourselves, but for those we love,” said Robin Olson, Indraloka’s Director of Development. “It ensures that your wishes are honored and that your family, friends, and even your values are protected during a difficult time.”

A will is the foundation of any estate plan, and yet millions of Americans haven’t created one.  The most common reason? People say they “haven’t gotten around to it.” But the consequences of putting it off can be serious.

According to the American Bar Association, when someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed under state intestacy laws—which often do not reflect the deceased’s personal or charitable wishes. In many states, close friends, unmarried partners, and nonprofit organizations are excluded entirely from inheritance unless specifically named in a will.  This often leaves loved ones without clear guidance, causes family stress during an already difficult time, and can delay or complicate the settlement process.

Indraloka is encouraging its supporters to take this step and consider including a gift to the sanctuary in their estate plans. Legacy gifts—also called planned or bequest gifts—make a lasting impact on Indraloka’s life-saving work for rescued farm animals, while offering peace of mind and potential tax benefits for donors.

Why Make a Will?

  • Protect your loved ones and avoid confusion or conflict
  • Name guardians for your children or dependents
  • Choose who will manage your affairs
  • Ensure your assets are distributed as you wish
  • Leave a legacy aligned with your values

How to Include Indraloka in Your Will

Adding a charitable gift to Indraloka is easy and can be done with a simple sentence through an estate planning attorney or by using online resources, many of which are free to use. Donors can designate:

  • A specific amount
  • A percentage of their estate
  • A residual amount after other needs are met

For those who have already included Indraloka in their will, the sanctuary invites them to share that decision so they can be recognized as members of the Penny’s Pals Legacy Society.

“This isn’t just about giving—it’s about ensuring that the things you value most are cared for, creating a future that reflects the love and compassion we lived by,” said Olson.

To learn more about legacy giving or to get sample language for your will, visit:
Legacy Giving | Indraloka Animal Sanctuary

WVIA Launches Kickstarter Campaign for New Documentary

WVIA is proud to announce production of a powerful new documentary that uncovers one of Hazleton’s most compelling and little-known stories: the underground mine tunnels that helped build the region and shaped its identity.

To bring this important project to life, WVIA has launched a Kickstarter campaign and is offering two exclusive sponsorship opportunities designed specifically for local businesses that want to play a role in preserving Hazleton’s rich mining heritage.

Business Backer Tiers

🎬 $5,000 – Business Backer Plus
Businesses that support at this premium level will receive:

  • A 15-second underwriting announcement at the beginning and end of the film (broadcast and digital)
  • Special recognition in the film’s credits as a Kickstarter Business Backer
  • Recognition in promotional materials related to the film’s premiere
  • Tickets to a local screening event
  • All rewards from lower tiers
    *Note: Announcements must comply with PBS underwriting guidelines

💼 $2,000 – Business Backer
At this level, businesses will receive:

  • Special mention in the film credits as a Kickstarter Business Backer
  • A custom-designed “Business Backer” banner to proudly display
  • Recognition in promotional materials for the film’s premiere
  • Tickets to a local screening event
  • All rewards from lower tiers

This is a meaningful and visible way for businesses to support local storytelling and align with a legacy project that will educate and inspire for generations. For more details visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wvia/the-secrets-beneath-hazleton

SWB RailRiders, Spencer Jones Named Player of the Month

Outfielder is the first RailRider to nab monthly honors since September 2023

Major League Baseball has announced that RailRiders’ outfielder Spencer Jones was tabbed as the International League’s Player of the Month for July. MLB honors the best player and pitcher in each of the 14 leagues of the player development system, and Jones is the seventh player in franchise history to capture the distinction.

Jones, 24, batted a league-best .419 in July with a league-high 11 home runs. He also led the IL in on-base percentage (.477), slugging percentage (.946) and OPS (1.423). He was second in runs (25) and total bases (70) and was third in hits (31) and RBI (23). He recorded 10 multi-hit games, including consecutive four-hit games on July 19 and 20.

Jones was selected by the Yankees in the first round, 25th overall, of the 2022 Draft out of Vanderbilt University. He began 2025 in Double-A, hitting .274 with 16 home runs over 49 games for Somerset before a June 27 promotion to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. His 29 total home runs led all Minor League players at the end of July.

Jones joins Brandon Duckworth (Pitcher- July 2001), Jose Pirela (Player- June 2014), Aaron Judge (Player- June 2016), Jake Cave (Player- July 2017), Michael King (Pitcher- August 2018) and Will Warren (Pitcher- September 2023) as the seventh player in franchise history to earn an MLB/ MiLB monthly honor.

Three homestands remain on the 2025 schedule. For tickets and promotional information, visit swbrailriders.com.