November 2022 Happenings Magazine

Breast cancer isn’t always genetically linked. In fact, over 75 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. If you are 40 or older, don’t pass on your mammogram – make an appointment today at LVHN.org/mammo.

Some things don’t get passed down. Like your mom’s hairdo.

Dear Happenings, Thanks for all your work on this. Happenings Magazine has been a staple in our house for years. A class act production; it is awesome, through and through.

J. Joseph Grady, Esquire O'Malley & Langan, P.C.

Dear Happenings, This is Dave Brown’s wife, Regina. Sorry it has taken me this long to write but Dave passed away in August. The nurses at DaVita in Dunmore loved the poem he wrote and you published (May 2022 Happenings Magazine.) It’s hanging in the waiting room for all to see. Publishing the poem made him so happy and proud. Thank you.

Regina Brown (Wife of the late Dave Brown)

Dear Happenings, My family and I recently spent some time in the waiting room of the ICU at a local hospital. There were a few different editions of Happenings on the tables. I could not help but notice how the maga zines were viewed by so many people. I could see several individuals looking through and reading the articles as we all were letting time pass. It was a great way for myself and others to have a moment to relax and be reminded of the great local area and local people in our communities. As each per son read them it provided a moment of positivity in a place where we really needed it. Thank you for having a great publication each month. Please know that so many are seeing your excellent maga zine simply by chance. It is always a positive thing as we all go through our day!

–Michael Straub Mount Pocono, PA

Dear Happenings, I read my magazine the day it arrived - as always BUT the first two stories were so pow erful (“If you want to see a miracle... and September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,” Sept 2022) and they were topics we do not hear enough. Thank you.

Lissa Bryan-Smith Wilkes-Barre

Publisher Art Director Associate Art Director

Director of Social Media Contributors

Paula Rochon Mackarey

Lisa Kalaha Ragnacci

Peter Salerno

Mary Joyce

Christine Fanning Ben Freda

Account Representative Linette Manley l_manley@happeningsmagazinepa.com (570) 878-5009

On the Cover: November harvest scene. Published Monthly. Also read at HappeningsPA.com ©2022 HAPPENINGS MAGAZINE All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any process except with written permission.

Happenings Magazine published since 1969 Phone: (570) 587-3532

Schneider

Sugarplum

Ballet Theatre

Scranton’s

A Lasting Smile Needs a Strong Foundation

As a dual-certified specialist in both Periodontology and Prosthodontics, Dr. Kristen Frantz brings a high-level of training to the patients of Northeastern PA.

A prosthodontist has specialtylevel training in rebuilding the functional and esthetic components of compromised smiles.

As a board-certified periodontist,

Kristen has extensive training in periodontal regenerative therapies,

periodontal

placement

Dr.

with

Dear Readers,

Ihave decided that the month of November needs a PR image branding campaign and I am going to take it upon myself to chair the committee.

It’s true. All over social media I see folks posting beau tiful pictures of October’s splendor. People are just so in love with October’s bodacious display of color that poor November must have an inferiority complex. The trees of November have lost most of their fullness; the branches are all but bare. As the Mamas and Papas sang… “all the leaves are brown and the sky is grey.”

Even Axl Rose, from the hard rock band, Guns N’ Roses (named one of the greatest singers of all time by Rolling Stone Magazine) seems to dis the month of November!

“… and nothing lasts forever, even cold November rain.”

“November Rain” is a great song in lyrics, vocals, guitar, piano and drums, but seriously, poor, sweet November!

Even Barry Manilow croons on… “It doesn’t matter much how old I grow, I hate to see October go.”

I’ve had enough! Listen up artists, photographers, poets, designers and song writers. We have work to do. There is such beauty in November, especially if you subscribe to minimalist theories. The appeal is in the peace, simplicity and sincerity of November. Consider October to be like hosting a big,

bustling, blast of a party. But when the party is over, and it’s time to put your house back in order, November is like your true friends who stay around to help you pick up the pieces and put everything back in its place.

November is when shades of brown, rust, burnt orange and yellow topaz are classic and fashion able. It’s the time to bring out camel colored sweaters and rich brown plaids. It’s the month when we abandon our porches and retreat to our dining room tables that glow with candlelight, deep red wines and the warmth of loved ones.

Some of my favorite people were born in the month of November, just one of whom is my neighbor Patricia O’Brien who is like a second mother to me. Once all of the leaves of my trees are brown and down, I can look out my window, see across the street and clearly view her house. I know from the glimmer of her lights if she is home and if she is up late finishing a book. Admittedly November is a toned-down month but it also provides beautiful clarity. Who is around when all the leaves are brown? And who will we enjoy most around our harvest tables?

Wishing all of our readers a very sweet and bountiful November.

With Love,

Paula Rochon Mackarey,

Farms supply the basic physiological need of life: food, which along with water, warmth and rest is necessary to preserve life. It has been said that farming is the world’s most important career.

Farmers have no choice but to get the land ready to har vest.

It’s informative to note that in 1870, about half of the nation’s workforce was employed in agriculture. Today,

only 2 percent of Americans work on farms and 96 percent

of farms in this country are family-owned. The average farmer provides food for 155

We enjoy an abun dant food supply thanks to farmers’ hardiness and per severance. An acre of Kansas wheat produces enough bread to feed near ly 9,000 people for one day. Minnesota ranks first in the nation for sugar beet crops, sweet corn for processing and green peas for process ing (fbfs.com). Pennsylvania is a major producer of milk,

American families. (farmfla vor.com)

ive thanks for our farmers!

By Christine Fanning

eggs, and poultry; fruits, including peaches, grapes, cherries, and apples; hay; corn (maize); mushrooms; and Christmas trees. Ice cream and sausages are important processed food products.

So, while farming is an essen tial commodity industry, farm owners are not leading a glamorous existence. They work long hours from plant ing to harvest and face pres sures from climate change, soil erosion, income, finances, government and more.

As Craig Pallman — a mem ber of the family that owns Pallman’s farm in Clarks

Summit (think strawberries in spring and turkey on your Thanksgiving table) says: — “There is nothing easy about a family farm existence. You are at the mercy of mother nature and endure long stretches throughout the year where a day off is not an option. “(But) there is a real sense of satisfaction in being able to work side by side with your family, espe cially during the peak seasons where every family member offers help in some way, shape or form. The nature of our business being built around direct consumer sales allows us to see the fruits of

our labor, go right into our customers hands, hopefully, putting smiles on everyones faces.”

Just in time for Thanksgiving, Happenings has two regional farm families who spoke to us about their harvests, the trials and tribulations in their liveli hood and the benefits of their work.

The last few years have taught us that giving thanks for the hard work of farmers and for God’s blessings is a very wise sentiment for the month of November.

PALLMAN FARMS

Craig and Douglas Pallman are cousins and members of the fifth generation running Pallman Farms in Clarks Summit. Their fathers, Bruce and Brian are identical twins and fourth generation opera tors of the 140–acre turkey, capon and strawberry farm.

Both Craig and Douglas grew up with their fathers on the farm. They left to go to col lege, then started their own agricultural commodity busi ness while their dads ran the farm. Summit Harvest Inc. repackages and sells toma toes grown in Florida, California, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee and Pennsylvania.

Both young men are also involved on the farm. “The strawberry crop is in the ground year ‘round and requires maintenance,” Craig said. “The turkey and capon production begins in June

and keeps us busy right up until December 23. Winter months are spent on continu ing agriculture education at various seminars and trade shows and time is also spent on equipment maintenance and projects associated with future business growth.

Pallman’s turkeys are raised on an all-natural, antibioticfree and steroid-free diet.

“We believe that the environ ment we raise our turkeys and capons in is ultimately what leads to our exceptional quali

ty on a consistent basis. From the day they are hatched, our turkeys are raised with unlim ited access to food and water in climate-controlled houses that provide them with ade quate room to grow uninhib ited and safe from predators.

Craig said he learned a work ethic and value of a dollar early on. The previous genera tions worked hard to create a name and was his inspiration as the next generation to continue his family’s viable business model.

“We believe that the environment we raise our turkeys and capons in is ultimately what leads to our exceptional quality on a consistent basis.”

Bruce, Douglas, Craig and Brian Pallman

MANNING FARM DAIRY

One hundred years ago

Manning Farm Dairy was established by Ken and Louise Manning. In the late 1930s they began to deliver milk. In 1964, the ice cream business got its start. In the mid ‘70s, Paul, Ken’s grandson, and daughter in law, Jean, took over.

Manning Dairy Farm is cele brating 102 years of opera tion and the fourth generation is in the (tractor) driver’s seat.

Brothers Brian, Ken and Kevin

stand to eventually take over ownership.

The family business saw the boys working the farm after school and the girls, Michelle, Traci and Casey working in the ice cream store. Today, the eldest of Paul and Jean’s 21 grandchildren follow in the path of their parents.

Mannings has 100 milk cows and 100 to 120 younger stock. They don’t buy cows, they raise their own. They

also raise all feed including high moisture corn, corn silage, alfalfa and grasses.

All three boys were inspired to remain on the farm. “They were born and raised on the farm and always worked with their dad,” Jean said.

“They have pride in their work and saw the potential for a decent living and the opportunity to expand the ice cream business and the dairy operation.”

The family has five ice cream stores in Clarks Summit, Dunmore, and two in Scranton as well as one at the farm.

Their biggest chal lenge is Mother Nature, Jean said.

“For crops and the ice cream business, rainy weather like we had in the last couple years isn’t good. This was a good growing year.” H –Christine Fanning

Wayne Bank Will Host Drive for Wayne County Food Pantry

From October 31 through November 12, Wayne Bank’s Honesdale Main Street Community Office will host a drive to support the Wayne County Food Pantry.

The office will collect non-perishable food items including food, paper products and personal care items during regular lobby hours. “There are many local families in need this time of year,” explained Jill Hessling, Vice President and Regional Manager for Wayne Bank. “All items col lected will be donated to the

Wayne County Food Pantry right in time for Thanksgiving and the holi day season. Please consider taking a moment of your day to stop by with a donation that can help make a differ ence in our community.”

The Wayne County Pantry Program is spon sored through county gov ernment. It is operated under the leadership of the Wayne County Pantry Board which is comprised of pri vate citizens. Board mem

bers are also coordinators at each of the pantry sites. The Wayne County Pantry Program has five sites locat ed in strategic areas to serve eligible county residents. The five food pantry sites can be found in Honesdale, Lakeville, Newfoundland, Lakewood and Damascus. Contact 570-253-4262 or visit https://www.waynecountypa.gov/169/Pantry for more information.

For Honesdale Main Street Community Office hours, visit wayne.bank.

Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp., Member FDIC, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. The Bank has 29 Community Offices serving Wayne, Pike, Monroe, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties in Pennsylvania, along with Delaware, Sullivan, Otsego, Ontario, and Yates Counties in New York State, including those offices operating under the Bank of Cooperstown and Bank of the Finger Lakes brands. The stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol— NWFL. H

s with just about any illness or disease, a healthy lifestyle helps to keep symp toms under control. Diabetes is one of the most common dis eases among the adult population. Diabetes is controlled by regulat ing the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood stream and by making your body more respon sive to insulin. Your healthcare professional will advise on the best treatment plan that will likely include a healthy nutrition and exercise plan. While medication can help balance your blood

through better nutrition and exercise. While there is no cure for diabetes, we can cer tainly affect a good stride in lowering and achieving healthy glucose levels.

to begin a fitness plan. You are absolutely never too old to exercise! Walking is a great start. Grab a partner, your dog, a pair of earbuds or simply just take in nature and just get moving.

Make Fitness a Part of Your Management Plan ovember is Diabetes Awareness Month

sugar, the foods you choose to eat and the amount of activity you include can make a difference as well. Fueling your body with healthy options and exercising daily can certainly help improve your symptoms.

Type 2 Diabetes is more com monly found in adults. Very often, through regular checkups and bloodwork, individu als are advised that they are “pre-diabetic.” This is an opportunity to possibly lower levels and gain control

In my fitness and nutrition practice, I train and coach clients who have been told that they are “pre-diabetic.”

Exercise helps lower glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity, therefore con tributing to the reduction/reversal of diabetic symptoms. Weight loss, espe cially “belly fat” loss, also plays a big role in helping to pre vent and control diabetes. Getting started with a fitness and nutrition program is the first step. It is never too late

Walking is one of the easiest activities to start and sustain. I suggest walking 20-30 minutes a day which can be achieved all at once or broken into two time segments. Gradually add in some balance and strength training if you are not already doing so. Get to a gym or work with a trainer to be sure you have a plan and execute with the proper form. Research has proven that resistance training has benefitted the management and progression of diabetes and related complications.

Always check with your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise plan and follow the advice for diabetic nutrition. Take it upon yourself to be active and live a healthy lifestyle so that diabetes can be kept under control and, even better, prevented. H

Jackie Kerekes

Jackie Kerekes is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and a NASM Fitness Nutrition Specialist. She trains one-on-one clients and does small group training. She has taught a variety of classes including kickboxing, fat burn pilates, spin, barre, strength training, Bosu bootcamps, TRX, and POUND. Additionally, she designed a class named F.I.T. Factor (Functional Interval Training).

Naked Salmon Tacos

One cup cole slaw mix

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

One green onion sliced

One fresh tomato, chopped

One teaspoon chopped seeded jalapeño pepper

4 tsp canola oil

2 tsp lime juice

2 salmon filets

1/2 medium ripe avocado peeled

Place first five ingredients in a bowl and toss with 2 tsp canola oil, lime juice, salt and pepper. Refrigerate. Pat salmon dry. Remove skin. Black with pepper. Cook in air fryer until done (about 10 min depending on thickness of filet.) Top salmon with slaw mixture and fresh avocado slices.

“Exercise helps lower glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity, therefore, reducing/reversing diabetes. ”

“Upcountry”Pennsylvania’s Stone Walls

Nregion. They have been publicized in magazines and newspa pers and depicted on postcards and calendars. However, not everyone is aware that stone walls can also be found in northeast ern Pennsylvania that rival those of Connecticut and Massachusetts. You can see these Pennsylvania stone walls in Wayne County, an area that has historical roots

northeast corner of the Commonwealth and was named after Anthony Wayne, a Major General in the Revolutionary War. Sparsely populated until after this conflict, settlers from two dif ferent sources were the area’s first non-native inhabitants. According to Barbe and Reed (1998), numbers of Germans, Welsh, Irish and English came from the Allentown and

came to northern Pennsylvania and extended New England culture into all the northern section of the state.”

Like much of New England, Wayne County is covered by areas of forested land that rests atop very stony soil. As the forests were cleared for lumber and hemlock bark (for the tanning industry), small family subsistence farms were established. Alternate freezing and thawing caused stones to rise to the surface, requiring periodic clearing. Perhaps because of having numerous rocks with little apparent use and previous experience with their con struction in New England, farmers erected numerous stone walls in Wayne County during the nineteenth century,

One can view stone walls throughout Wayne County. Some particularly nice sections can be seen while driving along the Cocheton and Great Bend Turnpike (Route 371) from Damascus west to Pleasant Mount, or on Routes 191 and 670 north of Honesdale.

the majority serving as boundaries between fields and farms.

While many have deteriorated and remain only as ruins, you can still see remnants and stretches of standing walls throughout the county that possess all the charm and aesthetics of their New England counterparts. In a situation of art imitating history, you can likewise find properties that have “resurrected” or at least constructed new stone walls to grace their homes. H

Stephen and Tannis Bugaj

One can view stone walls

Once part of “upcountry” Pennsylvania, Wayne County is located in the extreme northeast corner of the Commonwealth and was named after Anthony Wayne, a Major General in the Revolutionary War.

Regional Networking

Fidelity Bank Appoints Marketing Director

Noelle Krempasky has been promoted to Director of Marketing at Fidelity Bank. Since 2018, Krempasky has served as Marketing Manager. In her new role she will oversee the strategic marketing efforts of the organization including digital sales. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Cedar Crest College, Allentown. She’s also a graduate of the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing, where she earned her Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) designation, and is a graduate of Leadership Lackawanna, Class of 2011.

My Mother’s Delicacies

Susan Herlands, the owner of My Mother’s Delicacies, is dedicated to her product. She has received numerous awards and accolades because of her commitment to quality and customer service.

“We absolutely do not com promise on quality. Each hand-rolled Rugelach is guaranteed to be fresh, delivered on time, and will excite your taste buds.”

Galicia, Poland

It began far away from here, in a time and place where baking was almost always done in the home, and recipes were cherished and guarded like gold. It was a

time when ingredients were obtained from neighbors’ farms and modern ovens were but a futuristic dream. Yet, the people of nine teenth century Poland ate well. At mealtimes the wooden dining table would be laden with all sorts of foods – salads and soups and meats and cakes and pastries. This was the world in which Susan Herland’s grandmother, Bertha Hodin, grew up.

Some of Susan’s earliest memories of her grand mother come from holiday dinners. “Nan (as we affec tionately called her) bustled about, serving dishes with the efficiency of a drill ser geant. Nan cooked by feel, following loose recipes

taught to her by her mother. Nan especially loved baking, and her pastries were deli cious. The highlight of every dinner was her rugelach dessert. Whenever she brought out that tray filled with rugelach, conversation ceased and the pastries would be devoured within minutes.

Nan took great pride in her rugelach. Each hand-rolled treat boasted an exquisite cinnamon-nut filling and was baked to perfection. Over the years, Nan passed on her recipes to the next generation. My mother soon learned all of the Old World dishes, adding her personal touch to each one. As Nan grew older, my mother took over the bulk of the baking.

America, Susan Herlands decided to share her family delicacy with the world. With her mother’s help, she opened a small bakery and began selling in local markets. H

Awareness Training Program

Heather

Snowshoeing 101

Have you ever walked or meandered through a winter forest with no purpose other than to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the fresh clean air mother nature has pro vided? Since winters in northeastern PA can be conducive to becoming a couch potato, last year I decided not to fall into that trap.

Although I had only seen photos of people “walking on snow” (aka, snowshoeing), I decided to give it a try one cool crisp wintry day last March. Cindy Gillen-Klenk of the Rail Trail Council of NEPA invited me (and other potential couch potatoes) to join her and others on one of their outings.

Like most that day, I did not own snow shoes. However the Rail Trail Council has several pairs available to those willing to try the sport. After a quick lesson on how to apply snowshoes (no special boot is required), several of us started out on an open windy trail under a picture per fect sky of blue. Soon, however, we took a path leading into the forest, and were instantly trans ported to another world. Tall stately trees standing at atten tion like toy soldiers surrounded us, and protected us from the biting wind of the open trail. Except for the crunching sound of our snowshoes on the freshly

fallen snow, the forest was both silent and peaceful.

Our expert guide, Cindy, was very patient with all of us firsttimers, and led us to a beautiful stream, partly frozen, but flow ing just enough for its trickling sound to break the silence around us. We traveled over foot paths created by Native Americans and Revolutionary War foot soldiers hundreds of years ago. We also practiced the art of forest bathing (no bathing required!) by leaning against a tree, closing our eyes, and

immersing our selves in our surroundings.

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-Yoku, emerged in Japan in the 1980’s as a physiological and psycho logical experience to support overall health and wellness. Today it is a prominent feature in preventive medicine and heal ing. That day, as we exited the forest and returned to the open trail, we all felt healthy, refreshed and restored. One participant described it as “magical” and another, “spiritual.”

Awaiting us at the end of our adventure was a fire pit and a country store/deli where we immersed ourselves in hot chocolate and delicious pastries as well as chili for those with heartier appetites.

That first experience will not be my last. I look forward to many more adventures this year. I have purchased my own snowshoes, and I’m ready for the snow.

To those who hate the winter and spend too much time changing the batteries in their remote control, why not recharge your own batteries by bundling up (several light layers rather than one bulky jacket are needed as you will work up a sweat) and head outdoors. Try forest bathing. Remember, no bathing required!.

For information regarding snowshoeing and other winter activities call the Rail Trail Office at (570) 679-9300 or visit www.neparailtrails.org.

H Judy Gretzula

Judy Gretzula is a Carbondale native and has worked as an ER nurse for past 46 years. She enjoys spending time in nature and has been an avid biker for many years.

M ercer Museum & Fonthill Castle

Operated by the Bucks County, PA Historical Society

Located in Doylestown, Bucks County, the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle are historic castles celebrating the legacy of Henry Chapman Mercer (1856-1930), American archaeologist, anthropolo gist, ceramicist and scholar. Both sites are operated by the Bucks County Historical Society (BCHS).

The Mercer Museum, one of Bucks County’s premier cultur al attractions and a Smithsonian affiliate, features both local and national sea sonal exhibits as well as a core museum collection of over 50,000 pre-Industrial tools.

This permanent collection offers visitors a unique win dow into pre-Industrial America through 60 differ ent crafts and trades, and is one of the world’s most comprehensive portraits of American material culture. The museum also features a research library that is a cen ter for local history related to the region, with its roots dat ing back to the founding of the Bucks County Historical Society in 1880.

Fonthill Castle was built between 1908-1912, and was the home to Henry Chapman Mercer. Mercer built Fonthill Castle as his home and as a showplace

for his collection of tiles and prints. The castle serves as an early example of reinforced concrete and features 44 rooms, over 200 windows and 18 fireplaces. Fonthill Castle’s interior features Mercer’s renowned, hand crafted ceramic tiles designed at the height of the Arts and Crafts movement.

Throughout the holiday sea son, historic Fonthill Castle offers daily one-hour guided tours showcasing Henry Mercer’s home decked out for the holidays. On week ends in December, explore the special 2022 Holiday Lights Meander route with your loved ones on your

own. Knowledgeable tour guides will answer questions and make this a seasonal experience to remember.

The Mercer Museum 84 South Pine Street Doylestown, PA, 18901

Fonthill Castle 525 East Court Street Doylestown, PA, 18901

The Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle Hours: Tuesdays – Sundays 10 a.m. – 5p.m.

Visit mercermuseum.org. H

Kevin Crawford Imagery

Chicken Cacciatore

Here is a quick favorite recipe for a delicious Italian dinner. If you prefer white meat over dark, use chicken strips cut into bite size pieces, which cook faster. Vegetables can be substituted to your liking. Recipe makes enough for leftovers the next day or it can be cut in half for a smaller family.

Ingredients:

6 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, divided

2 lb. chicken strips (cut strips into three bite size pieces)

1 large onion (or 2 small onions), cut into ¼ - ½ inch strips

2 medium red or orange bell peppers (one large), cut into ¼ - ½ inch strips

2 small squash (or one large), sliced

2 small zucchini (or one large), sliced

2 – 24 oz. bottles of pasta sauce

2 packets of Good Seasons Italian Dressing (Season to Taste)

of JoAnn Marianelli Finnerty Bella Faccias

Directions:

Pour tomato sauce into pot on medium heat. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in another large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add cut chicken strips. Cook, turning chicken when brown underneath approximately 5-7 minutes. When chicken is browned on both sides, season with 1/2 packet of Italian seasoning and cook through for another 3-4 minutes. Transfer to pot with tomato sauce.

In same pan chicken was cooked, add remaining 3 table spoons of oil. Add onion and cook until translucent. Stir in bell peppers and cover with lid. Let cook on medium-high for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. When peppers are slightly tender, add remaining packet of Italian season ing. Stir seasoning through onion/pepper mixture for a few minutes. Add to pan with chicken and sauce.

While peppers and onions are cooking on stove, place cut squash and zucchini into a bowl and microwave for 5 min utes or until vegetables are a slightly tender. Drain any water from the vegetables out of the bowl and add to pan on stove with sauce, chicken, onions and peppers. Add basil and 1/2 to whole remaining packet of Italian seasoning (to taste). Lower temperature of pot on stove to medium-low and sim mer for 20 -25 minutes.

Serve over pappardelle or your favorite pasta or rice. Italian bread to dip into the sauce is a must!

Buon Appetito!

HELEN & ED’S TREE FARM

The tradition continues...In business since 1957, Helen and Ed’s is a 220 acre tree farm located in Dorrance Township, PA. Find fresh cut evergreens or choose and cut your own from many varieties and sizes. Wreaths and garland are handmade and pin tree stands are available. Come enjoy Christmas music, friendly atmosphere and service. 3758 Saint Mary's Road, Wapwallopen, PA 18660 www.helenandedstreefarm.com (570) 868-6252

THE BRIAR PATCH AT THORNHURST NURSERIES CHRISTMAS TREE FARM & GIFT SHOP

Pre-cut Fraser and Douglas Fir. Choose & cut (7’ & above) Colorado Blue Spruce & Norway Spruce. Available tree sizes 6ft - 14ft. Fresh handmade wreaths & garland. Check out the gift shop…woodsy…eclectic…nature oriented. 278 Pine Grove Rd, Thornhurst, PA 570-842-1266. Follow us on Facebook.

L

eadership Lackawanna Core Program Announces Class of 2022-2023

The Leadership

Lackawanna core pro gram class of 20222023 met on Thursday, September 8, 2022 for their first session which included an orientation and an introduction to leadership basics. This mark’s the organi zations 40th year. Leadership Lackawanna strives to enhance the skills, connec tions and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, hence strengthening our communities, workplaces and organizations. Leadership Lackawanna Executive Director, Nicole A. Morristell commented, “I’m excited for the adventures and opportunities that lie ahead. This year’s participants have accomplished great things in their past and I look forward to seeing how they will utilize the leadership skills they acquire over the next ten months.”

In Leadership Lackawanna’s 10-month Core Program, partici

pants gain direct and indirect leadership, interpersonal and managerial skills, as well as an enhanced understanding of the issues relevant to the Greater Scranton region, through monthly sessions. Areas of focus can include community development, eco nomic development, govern ment, health care, law, educa tion, quality of life, sustainabili ty, history and media, with ses sions featuring widely recog nized specialists. Members of the class also devote a large portion of their time to devel op and implement community projects, hence enhancing their leadership abilities, foster ing teamwork and benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program accepts applications from candidates who live, work or play in Lackawanna County. The Leadership Lackawanna Core Program participants include:

Jasu Acharya, Community Bank, NA; Jennifer Aglialoro, Children's Advocacy Center of NEPA; Ariana Argust, Allied Services; Kristin Armstrong, NBT Bank; Paul Ballard, Marywood University; Kristin Bender, Gertrude Hawk Chocolates; Patricia Castillo, Barry Callebaut; Rebecca Cerra, Lackawanna College; Thomas Chairge, Prudential Financial; Joseph Cholko, Sordoni Construction Services; Paul DePrimo, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Dee Desai, Hilton Scranton & Conference Center; Kelley Dougherty Laird, Fidelity Bank; Lisandra Garcia, PNC Bank; Kyle, Gattuso, PNC Bank; Hannah Gaul, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Ciera Grimsley, Procter & Gamble; Caleb Hicks, Northeast PA Youth for Christ; Joy Hubshman, United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA; Drew Kirby, Montage Mountain Resorts, LP; Ted Kowalick, FNCB Bank; Brianna Larose, Procter & Gamble; Taylor Lewis Carito, Benco Dental; April Martinborough, Real by Nature, LLC; Alyssa McQuillan, NBT Bank; Jessica Mislinski, Girl Scouts in the Heart of PA; Nicole Paolicelli, Penn State Scranton; Tressa Parker, Greater Scranton YMCA; Joel Perkins, Penn State Scranton; Karla Perks, Empower Retirement; Anthony Portanova, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Carmelo Rivera, El Coqui Construction LLC; Patrick Ruane, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Alexandria Small, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine; Jennifer Thomas, FNCB Bank; Gerard Walsh, The Azek Company - Vycom; Jim Warren, Warren Construction; Alissa Weiss, The Honesdale National Bank H

Pictured above: Front row (l to r): Lisandra Garcia, PNC Bank; Taylor Lewis Carito, Benco Dental; Jasu Acharya, Community Bank, NA; Alissa Weiss, The Honesdale National Bank; Alexandria Small, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine; Kristin Bender, Gertrude Hawk Chocolates; Brianna Larose, Procter & Gamble; Ciera Grimsley, Procter & Gamble; April Martinborough, Real by Nature, LLC; Nicole Paolicelli, Penn State Scranton; Drew Kirby, Montage Mountain Resorts, LP; Alyssa McQuillan, NBT Bank; Joy Hubshman, United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA; Tressa Parker, Greater Scranton YMCA; Ariana Argust, Allied Services; Back Row (l to r): Carmelo Rivera, El Coqui Construction LLC; Anthony Portanova, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Joel Perkins, Penn State Scranton; Hannah Gaul, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Karla Perks, Empower Retirement; Rebecca Cerra, Lackawanna College; Jennifer Aglialoro, Children's Advocacy Center of NEPA; Sarah Sorrells, Penn East Federal Credit Union; Kelley Dougherty Laird, Fidelity Bank; Jessica Mislinski, Girl Scouts in the Heart of PA; Kyle Gattuso, PNC Bank; Jim Warren, Warren Construction; Dee Desai, Hilton Scranton & Conference Center; Paul DePrimo, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Thomas Chairge, Prudential Financial; Joseph Cholko, Sordoni Construction Services; Gerard Walsh, The Azek Company - Vycom; Paul Ballard, Marywood University; Caleb Hicks, Northeast PA Youth for Christ; Jennifer Thomas, FNCB Bank; Ted Kowalick, FNCB Bank; Patrick Ruane, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Absent from the photo: Patricia Castillo, Barry Callebaut and Kristin Armstrong, NBT Bank

Eric Speece: Perseverance Against Setback

E

of Fame. He has been dedicated to football since he played it in his childhood backyard in his hometown of West Pittston.

Although he broke his leg at age 4, Eric wanted to continue playing football. At age 7, his father was asked to coach the local mini-football team for the West Pittston Rams. Eric joined this team in 1974 and continued until 1980. During this time his team won the Greater Pittston Junior Football League 'C' Team Superbowl in 1976 and the 'B' Team in 1978.

"My father was my first coach initially got me inter ested in foot ball,” said Eric.

Eric also played little league base ball joining the Halls /Nursery / Millers Economy, a team within the West Pittston Little League (WPLL), in which he won the championship in 1979.

Eric attended Wyoming Area Secondary Center and participated in bas ketball and track and field, but he succeeded best in football when he played it from 10th to 12th grade. He was a running back and a defensive back and scored 27 touchdowns and rushed for over 1,700 yards during his sophomore and junior years. When he was a senior, he scored 20 touchdowns and rushed for over 1,100 yards. He became the Wyoming Valley Conference's second leading rush er scoring 124 points. He was named both Citizen's

Voice Offensive Player of the Year and VFW Player of the Year. Other high school accolades include Honorable Mention All-Scholastic and First Team All-Scholastic. He was a mem ber of the UNICO Team.

Eric credits his coaches for his accomplishments.

"Coach Marranca pushed me to be the best I could and allowed me to grow as a player," he said. "Bobby Langan was my running back coach. He believed in me as a player, even at a young age, and gave me the confidence to excel."

What Eric enjoyed best about high school football was being under the lights on Friday night and the friendships that were built as being part of a team.

Eric continued to play football at Lock Haven University, where he majored in business. He let tered in football in 1984 and 1985. He was the leading rusher and started seven games.

Unfortunately, he was involved in a car accident causing part of one of his kidneys to be removed.

"I wasn't sure if I would be able to play again, and I needed to be closer to home if there were any

Therefore, Eric transferred to Bloomsburg University, where he changed his major to exer cise science. After two years of not playing foot ball, Coach Pete Adrian still saw his fire and drive and decided to give him a chance despite his injury. The next year, Eric was back in lettering in 1987 and 1988. He was able to accomplish 203 carries for 1,055 yards, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. He also scored six rushing touchdowns as well as two receiving touchdowns.

After his graduation from Bloomsburg Eric returned to his hometown of West Pittston and became the head coach of the West Pittston Rams A Team from 1997 to 2006.

"I taught the players the basics of RAMS - right atti tude means success," he said. "I tried to instill the fundamentals of the game, and to prepare them to play on the high school level for Wyoming Area. I tried to mimic what my father taught me, the love of the sport and why exercise is important for the body and mind."

The Rams played in nine of the ten playoffs during Eric's tenure. They won the WVWYFCC (Wyoming Valley West Youth Football and Cheer Conference) Championship in 1999 and runner-up in 2000. He has been an active member of the Wyoming Area Coach Staff, in which he is a volunteer running back coach and helps with the offensive line.

In 2006, Eric went back to school at Marywood University. He earned his HPE (Health & Physical Education) certificate in 2008. The next year, he was inducted into the Wyoming Area Ring of Pride. In 2010, he earned his Master of Arts in Teaching.

Eric became assistant principal at Greater Nanticoke Area High School.

"It is extremely rewarding as an administrator to guide and watch students grow into mature young adults," he said.

This past July, Eric accepted the position of prin cipal at his former high school, Wyoming Area Secondary Center.

"I love being back at my alma mater and can't wait to see what this stage of my career brings, and what these students will accomplish," he said.

Eric lives in West Pittston with his wife, Cathie, and their son, Ethan.

Ethan is continuing his father's tradi tion of playing football at Wyoming Area. He also participates in wrestling, lacrosse, track and field and has a black belt in karate.

Eric was incredibly hon ored and humbled being inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. H Ben Freda

Sharon Ann Toman

Penn State Scranton Associate Teaching Professor of Music

as a part-time faculty member, then becoming a full-time music instructor in 2000, the same year she created the Campus Chorale.

She is the Director of Music for the Penn State Scranton Chorale, The Roc[k]tet, and Campus Jazz Band; campus Arts and Humanities program coordinator; and the University’s Arts and Architecture College referral rep resentative.

Toman received her Bachelor of Music at Marywood University and her Master’s in Music at The Catholic University of America. She conducted post graduate studies at the Manhattan School of Music and doctoral studies at Temple University.

Penn State Scranton’s Chorale is comprised of students, faculty and staff. It first performed at campus events and increased in popularity over time. It is to

Students can participate for credit or as an extracurricular activity.

As Director of Music, it is Toman’s job to help each stu dent be his or her musical best. “I will work with them even if they are not a sea soned or experienced musician. Over the years, this process of developing their love for singing or playing an instrument has been highly successful for our campus’ music program,” she said.

The students who comprise the chorale and campus jazz band are not music majors. Both groups consist of students, facul ty, staff, retirees, alumni and local professional musicians. The blending of the individuals has added to the learning experi ences and creates a fun environ ment that contributes to the suc cess of the performances.

Over the years, as the Scranton

music groups. Another group, now known as “The Roc[k]tet” , began as a group of eight female vocalists called the Lionettes. Eventually, under Toman’s direc tion, it morphed into a mixedvoice show choir of four female and four male vocalists, whose repertoire includes a cappella and a show choir format with singing and dancing. Students must audition for a place in this group.

In 2005, with three successful musical groups, Toman decided to showcase the immense talent and organized the campus’ first ever public spring concert. Held on campus and free of charge to the community, it was a huge success. An annual spring con cert and a holiday concert have occurred since then. Due to its growth, Toman the event held the event off campus at The Theater at North in North Scranton in 2017, giving the per formers a bigger stage with a larger audience capacity. She then successfully advocated for the campus to add a public holi

day concert at an off-campus venue to accommodate larger audiences, leading to the com munity holiday concert being held at Grace Bible Church in Dunmore, in addition to an oncampus community perform ance.

This year’s performance will take place there on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. at the Theatre at Lackawanna College. This con cert is free to the public.

With four concerts each year, Toman prides herself on being a hands-on director. “There are many challenges to conducting multiple performances both on and off campus,” she said. “I over see the entire process, which includes everything from rehearsals, programs, moving musical equipment, prep work with venue staff, sound and light

ing and everything behind the scenes. Every performance prep is different and requires atten tion to detail both musically and physically.”

In addition to her teaching, directing and performance duties, she has also helped create a music and technology course at Penn State Scranton.

Toman and Deb Smarkusky, asso ciate professor of IST at Penn State Scranton, have created “Integrating Music and Animation with Technology” (INART), which introduces stu dents to the music and technolo gy environment through soft ware applications. Course con cepts include composing/arrang ing electronic music; sampling, editing and processing digital audio; creating musical software applications and animations; and

utilizing active learning oppor tunities through the learning and development of music and technology applications.

The course’s success inspired the pair to create an interdisci plinary course project for stu dents in both a music course and a technology course inte grating music and choreogra phy using JAVA with LEGO Mindstorms Robots. This has resulted in the publication of journal papers, conference papers and presentations.

“Being able to teach and work with students in helping them learn about music and motivat ing and encouraging students to use their musical creativity brings me the most joy. The stu dents in our music program are dedicated to their musical ensemble,” said Toman. H

Regional Theater

Attending live theatre perform ances can tap into emotions the brain normally does not access. All types of dramatic performanc es have positive benefits that can affect emotional health, whether it be laughing, crying or just connecting on an empathetic level. Supporting the diverse options available in the region help these offerings to continue. November is the perfect time to reserve tickets and plan for wonderful nights with family and friends.

Hershey Theatre

Located in downtown Hershey, this magnifi cent theater has established itself as the area’s premier performing arts center, pre senting the finest in touring Broadway shows, classical music and dance attractions and world-renowned entertainers. Hershey Theatre was conceived by entrepreneur and philanthropist Milton S. Hershey in the early twentieth century. Lancaster architect C. Emlen Urban drew the plans for the Community

in 1915; however, it was built between 1929 and 1933 as part of Mr. Hershey’s “Great Building Campaign” of the Great Depression.

he Theater at North is located in the for mer North Scranton

Junior High School building atop the hill where Green Ridge Street meets North Main Avenue in Scranton. This historic landmark was built between 1922 and 1924 in a late Gothic Revival style, featuring a four-story clock tower, and is on the National Register of historic places. In 2015, with Gerald T. Langan at the helm, Goodwill Industries of Northeastern Pennsylvania fully renovated this historic land mark into 58 senior-living units. The building was aptly renamed, “Goodwill at North, Gerald T. Langan Apartments.” In the heart of the building lies the majestic Theater at North, a fully restored and renovated

800 seat performing arts the ater, featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and equipped for movie screenings and live feeds to a projection screen. Amenities include dress ing rooms, a green room and a box office, along with a beauti ful gallery and lobby. Throughout the year, the venue hosts touring shows and con certs, along with local recitals, gradua tions, lectures and communi ty/social events. The Theater at North is owned by Goodwill Industries of NEPA which provides employment opportunities, education, training, social ization and housing for persons with disabilities, sen iors and indi viduals with other needs to develop skills

that

Industries

their lives. All

individu

who are intellectual ly and developmentally dis abled.

roadway in Scranton is excited to present their 2022-23 Season at the Scranton

Center!

the season is On Your Feet! (November 4 - 6), the inspiring true story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Legally Blonde (December 24) is the ultimate Broadway tribute to Girl Power! Inspired by the beloved films, Anastasia (January 27 - 29) is a romantic and adventurefilled new musical. The inter national favorite Riverdance (March 17 - 19) returns with its 25th Anniversary production. The season concludes with the uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy - Fiddler on the Roof (April 21 - 23)!

Shawnee Playhouse

OThe Shawnee Playhouse is a small theater gently nestled in the historic village of Shawnee on Delaware, PA. Productions include musicals, dra mas, children's theater, original works and more presented by a variety of profes sional and community performers.

A Christmas Carol is a novella by Charles Dickens about Ebenezer Scrooge, an old man, who is well-known for his miserly ways. This musical adaptation of the classic has a fresh script and score written by Michael DeMaio.

On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visit ed by a series of ghosts, starting with his old business partner, Jacob Marley. The three spirits which follow, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come, show Scrooge how his mean behavior has affected those around him. At the end of the story he is relieved to discover that there is still time for him to change and we see him trans formed into a generous and kind-hearted human being.

Weekends from November 25-December 18, this classic is sure to be a family favorite for all ages. Directed by Shawnee Playhouse Executive Director Midge McClosky. TheShawneePlayhouse.com 570-421-5093

The Gift of Dance

BALLET THEATRE OF SCRANTON’S

HE

UTCRACKER

allet Theatre of Scranton, under the artistic direc tion of Joanne Arduino, will kick off the holiday season with its 47th annual performances of The Nutcracker at the Theater at North on Nov 25, 26 and 27 at 2 and 7:30 pm. This traditional gift to the community has been offered free to the public since 1976. Tickets can be picked up at the box office at the Theater at North on the day of the specific performance, two hours prior to curtain.

Over 100 local dancers from ages 9 to adult will perform. Elizabeth Schneider will perform as the Sugarplum Fairy, in three performances; Laura Durkin as Clara and Brennan Connor as the Nutcracker Prince. Guest artists Dayesi Torriente and Arian Molina Soca, princi pal dancers with Philadelphia Ballet, will perform as Sugarplum Fairy and Cavalier in three performances.

Additionally, you can also see the 2020 professionally filmed production of Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker on local FOX affiliates from Dec 23-26. Check local listings.

On floor left to right: Laura Durkin, Charlotte Buser Kneeling: Brennan Connor; Standing center: Elizabeth Schneider; Standing left to right: Kamryn Kincel, Lizzie Karpiak, Paris Santee, Carlin Hokien, Cora Chichura, Jadye Waibel, Biana Talarico, Gianna Vachino Elevated left to right: Nicola Pugliese, Enzo Cicco, John Roman VachinoGuest artists, Dayesi Torriente and Arian Molina Soca

Factoryville Christmas Market 2022

Tyear, December 3 and 4.

Held in Christy Mathewson Park, the event was inspired by European Christmas Markets known for cozy wooden storefronts, hand made gifts, warm drinks, comfort foods and festive cheer. The park will once again transform into what has been described as a scene out of a Christmas movie, with twinkling lights and whimsical holiday decor.

Items such as hand-blown glass snowmen and one-of-akind wooden toys will be fea tured. Wood carving and blacksmith demonstrations, caroling and plenty of food round out the event. For adults, hot mulled wine and local craft beers will be avail

your-own crafts, story time with Santa and other special treats. The Market opens on

an Ugly Sweater Run and on Sunday, enjoy complimentary horse and carriage rides. A new preview night on Friday will include live music, food, drinks and the annual tree

It truly takes a village to pull off such an event. Dedicated volun teers spend hours planning with help from Lackawanna Trail, Keystone College, commu nity organizations and local businesses. Many of the ven dors are located within a five mile radius, making it a truly hometown event with broad appeal. An effort has been made to retain the event’s charm by keeping it small. Vendors, which do not exceed

35, are carefully selected. Founded in the early 1800s, the Borough of Factoryville is located in the Endless Mountains Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Nestled between Clarks Summit and Tunkhannock, it is a closeknit community of 1300 resi dents. The town is home to Keystone College, established in 1868. Factoryville is also known for its most famous son, Baseball Hall of Famer Christy Mathewson. Each August, the life and legacy of the pitcher are celebrated dur ing Christy Mathewson Day. Whether you enjoy the warm ease of the summer or the festive cheer of the winter, Factoryville has been able to create two unique weekends that welcome all to its small town. H

Koziar’s Christmas Village

estled on a farm in Berks, arriving at Koziar’s is a little like coming to the North Pole. Millions of Christmas lights welcome visitors from the darkness. The Koziar family has entertained thousands of guests for nearly 75 holiday seasons. What began as a private Christmas display created by William H. Koziar has grown into a major destination– even earn ing a place as one of the Top 10 Travel Attractions in Pennsylvania by the PA Travel Council. Tour the grounds at your own pace. Paved walkways wind through hundreds of holi day displays, lighted decorations and festive scenes. Two giant outdoor train setups chug through a miniature village and farm scenes. Small buildings

along the way house scenes of holiday traditions. Peek through the giant windows to get a glimpse of Santa’s Post Office, an old-fashioned bak ery, a candy shop and Santa’s Toy Shop plus beautiful

Nativity scenes. Warm up with hot chocolate and warm cookies or other festival food. Koziar’s Christmas Village is open daily through January 1. www.koziarschristmasvillage.com H

Holiday Gift Guide

Alpacas of Sunshine Farm, New Milford

The Essential Sweater does it all! It’s a shrug, it’s a cardigan, it’s a hoodie, it’s a shawl collar! Available in a variety of colors. Best worn with a dark shirt and jeans to bring out its beautiful color and texture! 70 percent alpaca - 30 percent acrylic Reg $130, XL $140 570-465-3360

Bella Faccias, Old Forge

An exquisite, memorable gift for some one who has everything. Original gifts the Magi carried to Bethlehem in a beautiful handcrafted wooden box. Keepsake box contains pouches of authentic frankincense and myrrh and a handblown glass ball infused with 23 karat gold flakes. Includes certificate of authenticity. $31 570-343-8777

The BriarPatch at Thornhurst Nurseries, Thornhurst

Soy candles with an invigorating fragrance such as newcomers ‘Birch’ and ‘Mountain Mist’. And the always popular ‘Forest Crunch’ with its true aroma of freshly cut pine. 14 oz jar $21.99 278 Pine Grove Rd, Thornhurst, PA 570-842-1266.

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Van Gorders’ Furniture, Lake Wallenpaupack, Honesdale, Milford

Unique rustic bottle barrel hutch by Fighting Creek. American-made, Amishcrafted showpiece to adorn your home bar or man cave. $1,799 570-253-1860

The Beehive, Moscow

This old-time feel snowman is among the unique pieces you can find at the Beehive. He would make a great addition to any collection. Prices start at $34 570-780-9005

My Mother's Delicacies, Inc., Scranton

Small, medium, large and extra large gift tins filled with authentic butter and cream cheese rugelach in cinnamon walnut, apricot, raspberry, and/or chocolate flavors. Approx. 16-48 pieces

Straight from Galicia, Poland! $22.49-$52.49 570-343-5266

Weddings

Devin Nicole Zombek and John Robert Wentland

Photo: Meaghan Stevens Photography

Devin Nicole ZombekJohn Robert Wentland

Devin Nicole Zombek met her now husband, John Robert Wentland, entering Grade 6 at South Scranton Intermediate School. They later discovered that they lived a street apart from one another and were best friends through middle school and high school. The pair began dating senior year of high school. Devin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Zombek, graduated from Scranton High School and later Marywood University. She is currently a registered nurse at Trinity Child Care Center. John, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wentland, graduated from Scranton High School and later the Carpenter’s Union Training. He is currently a carpenter.

John proposed in Alexandria Bay, 1000 Islands with their family at Bolt Castle on July 3, 2019. They had taken a boat tour to the island where they later took family photos and John popped the question.

The wedding was held October 8, 2021. Both the ceremony and recep tion were held at Constantino’s Event Venue with a modern rustic theme. The brief ceremony was viewed by family and

included a very heartfelt message from their pastor, Pastor Ginger (Dabenhouser). The entire wedding and vendors were either family friends or small, local entrepreneurs.

Photos: Meaghan Stevens Photography

The couple honeymooned in Lancaster and Hershey Camping at Elizabethtown KOA. Together, they enjoy camping and riding SxS with family and friends.

The couple offers this advice to future couples planning to get married: “Remember it is just the two of you in the midst of things but cherish every moment with those around you!” H

Ashley Ann McDonoughJake Joseph Dunda

&

Ashley Ann McDonough, daughter of Jeffrey and Michele McDonough and Jake Joseph Dunda son of John and Mary Dunda were united in marriage on August 27, 2022 at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Moscow, PA. Father Thomas M. Muldowney officiated. The bride graduated from North Pocono High School

is a foreman for Southwestern Energy.

The couple met through mutual friends in November 2016 after Ashley moved home from Philadelphia. The wedding proposal took place at a Seneca Lake Winery in the Fingers Lakes when Jake surprised Ashley with a round brilliant cut diamond set in a custom made platinum hidden halo with accentuating diamonds on both sides.

A wedding reception followed the ceremony at

live music was also provided by the Black Tie Stereo Band. A special moment that the couple shared was a private last dance after the guests had exited the reception room to the song “Cover Me Up” by Morgan Wallen.

The couple took a honeymoon trip to the Intercontinental Thalasso Resort in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

The couple offered this advice to others plan ning a wedding: “Enjoy every minute of wed ding planning and do not stress over minor

Photos: Liza Gillette Photography

&Kelley DoughertyDustin Laird

Kelley Dougherty and her now husband, Dustin Laird, met while both were working at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. Kelley, daughter of Diane and the late William Dougherty, graduated from Dunmore High School and Temple University with a degree in tourism and hospitality management. She cur rently works as a retail branch manager at the Financial Center Branch of Fidelity Bank in Scranton, a dance teacher at Ballet Theater of Scranton and a Zumba instructor. Dustin, son of Gloria David Hooper and Michael “Dusty” Laird, graduat ed from Coughlin High School and King’s College with a major in communication studies. He is currently a pro duction supervisor at J&J Snack Foods in Moosic and an entertainment specialist with Jumpin’ Jeff Walker DJ Services.

Dustin proposed with a ring designed from a dia mond that Kelley’s late father had purchased for her mother.

The couple married on May 7, 2022, at The Banks Waterfront in Pittston. It rained all day but stopped right before the ceremony creating a perfect “golden hour” at the end of the day. The reception was also held at The Banks Waterfront in Pittston, where Kelley organized a flash mobstyle dance to surprise Dustin and the guests. The choreographed dance included 20 others! Dustin and his groomsmen also performed the "YMCA" dance dressed as the Village People. The couple’s first dance was to “Joy of My Life” by Chris Stapleton since the couple had attended one of his concerts together. Kelley’s sister gave a beautiful “Irish Blessing” in honor of their father before the dinner.

The couple honeymooned at the Renaissance Wind Creek Resort in Aruba.

Kelley and Dustin offer this advice to future couples: “Enjoy every minute because it goes by in a flash. Right after introduc tions and speeches, have the DJ announce that you are coming around to each table to take a photo, then take 10 min utes to do it. It gets all of your guests involved, creates special memo ries and captures each guest that attended your wedding.” H Elizabeth Haikes

Photos: Julie Jordan Photography

201 Jefferson Avenue Scranton, PA ● 570.344.9021

SHOP OUR WEBSITE: boccardojewelers.com

Kathy Pope is approaching 50 years of “doing hair.”

As I approach my 50th year of doing hair I realize how times have changed. When I started working in 1973 we were taught to razor cut in beauty school and as soon as I got out, all of a sudden the word came out that razor cutting was not good for the hair! So we had to teach ourselves to cut with scissors. As time went on texturizing came out and then razor cutting came out all over again. Now today anything goes. You can point cut, texturize, razor cut or do all three on the hair.”

Kathy started beauty school after she turned 14 years old. “I graduated both beau ty and high school at the same time. I worked for other com panies for six years before opening my own business in1980.”

ment business for women with thinning hair issues and alopecia. While doing this she also began helping women who were undergoing chemotherapy. “I custom design high quality wigs so that they look just like how the woman would normally wear her hair,” she said.

Kathy also has laser hair therapy programs that help improve thinning hair of women. “Everything takes time. If you give me the time it takes I will help you feel your very best. Self esteem is priceless and I love when I can make women smile and feel better about themselves,” she said.

Kathy has been married to her husband Jim for 44 years. She quilts, sews, does embroidery and makes rag bowls in her spare time. She enjoys making unique gifts for family and friends. H

Kathy started

“I

time.”

Kathy says that business has changed over the years from having the same clients coming weekly and being booked solid week after week. “Things changed. Roller sets went away for most and the perms came. Then perms were out and straight hair is in. People started coming monthly for their colors so you had more time to take in other clients.”

Kathy has been witness to many people’s lives and how you have the power to influence them. “You can make a woman feel like a million dollars and help celebrate all her special occasions. You watch as kids grow up, get married and then see grandbabies being born. You realize that many clients become close as you end up seeing them more often than some family members.”

As times change businesses also change. Kathy decided to go into the non-surgical hair replace

Dr. Laura Spence, DMD

Dentistry

in the Catawissa Military Band with my dad) so I was excit ed to have the opportu nity to play in a variety of ensembles throughout college. I also loved the study abroad opportuni ties and completed a semester in Nicosia, Cyprus. My absolute favorite aspect of Susquehanna University is the people who I met there,” she said.

During her undergraduate years Dr. Spence returned to Guatemala where she accompanied a medical team to distribute basic medications and translate for the Spanish-speaking villagers. She attended dental school at The University of Louisville where she was an active member of the American Student Dental Association and the American Association for Women Dentists. While in dental school, she volunteered at a den tal clinic in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. She also com pleted a year-long internship with Geisinger’s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, fur thering her surgical skills and care with patients in a hospital setting.

Dr. Laura Spence grew up in Berwick. During high school, she had the opportunity to participate in a service trip to Guatemala. “I was introduced to dentistry during high school when I went on a service trip to Guatemala. I volun teered at a school where I assisted in teaching preschool children. Looking back, I realize that I learned far more from the children than they did from me. Each night after dinner, I would wash the dishes with the dentist who would tell me about his work.” She was drawn to the combination of artistry and patient care that is involved with dentistry. “I loved the concept of sculpting smiles and simultaneously fighting tooth decay and gum disease,” she recalled.

Dr. Spence graduated from Susquehanna University with a biology degree and minors in chemistry and Spanish. She was first drawn to Susquehanna University by its music program. “I first visited the campus for a summer wind ensemble institute. I play the trombone (I still play

As evidenced by her experiences abroad, Dr. Spence loves to travel. “This past year, I have been to Denver, Sedona, Los Angeles, Charleston and Nashville,” she said. In addition to travel Dr. Spence loves to spend time with friends and family, especially outdoors. Indoors she loves to curl up with a good book. She generally loves whichever book she is currently reading, but an all time favorite is “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr.

Dr. Spence advises young people who may be considering dentistry: “Good grades and shad owing are important. But it’s okay to not have it all figured out. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, get involved in activities and surround yourself with the people who make you smile, while helping other people to have their healthiest, best smiles too.”

Dr. Spence’s favorite aspect of meeting new patients at Electric City Dentistry is making them feel comfortable in the dental chair. “If you fall victim to any of my bad puns while in the chair, I apologize in advance,” she laughed.

r. John McGuire grew up near Lake Wallenpaupack. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Finance degree from Penn State University and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Temple University. Dr. McGuire completed a general prac tice residency in Bethlehem that focused on restorative dentistry and oral surgery. He then returned to the region and has been providing dental care for the Scranton community ever since. In addition to general dentistry he focuses on restorative treat ment, root canals and prosthetics.

We asked Dr. McGuire about his best dental/ brushing tip: “Floss first! It removes more plaque than brushing. Run the floss down both sides of the tooth, and get in between the gums and the tooth each time. Then brush using a soft-bristled brush. Move it in small circles, get every surface of each tooth, and don't forget the gum line,” he said.

joyfully anticipated events so we asked Dr. McGuire for some insight on the proce dure: “Root canal thera py is great because we can use it to save a tooth that would oth erwise need to be removed. The tooth is anesthetized through out the procedure. The biggest difference between having a root canal and a filling is that the root canal procedure takes longer. Bring headphones,” he offers.

Dr. McGuire’s interests are very broad and include kayaking, golfing, music production and reading

Dr. John McGuire, DMD

While it may seem like he changed course since his undergraduate degree this is not the case. “Dental school was the plan from the begin ning,” Dr. McGuire said. “I chose to major in

finance because I've always been a math fan and it was a useful subject to learn. Having the extra classes helped with my time management when I got to dental school.”

Root canals are not often high on anyone’s list of

Electric City Dentistry

anything from his favorite authors. He misses a thing or two about living in Bethlehem, such as a particular burger bar that had over 60 types of burgers and a fun Monday night trivia. “Try to imagine that many burger fla vors…it's not easy,” he sur mised. “Regarding authors he notes: “There are so many good writers out there! If I kept my favorite author list to three, I would choose H.G. Wells, Stephen King and Charles Dickens. My favorite novel however is a coin flip between “The Fountainhead” and “The Stand” . I'm working through the “Dark Tower” novels and I'm pretty sure they will be my favorite series once I'm finished,” he added.

Is there anything left to know about this versatile dentist? “I support crocs with socks and I’m a Gemini,” said Dr. McGuire. H

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Pines Senior Living was proud to support Alzheimer’s awareness. On October 7 seniors walked for a cure at The Pines to help build awareness about the disease. The Pines’ parking lot was decorated to the nines and an afternoon full of events for both residents and fami lies was enjoyed by all. Manning’s fall ice cream was served to support local small business owners. The event also helped raise awareness and support of the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Alzheimer’s chap ter. The residents loved all the horn honks they received from passersby who loved the lively parking lot. H

NATIONAL

Hospice of the Sacred Heart

November is National Hospice Month. Former President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation in 1979 rec ognizing the value of hos pice to raise awareness about the benefits and services of hospice care for people facing late-stage illnesses. This distinction also highlights the growth of hospice care and expands awareness of the great benefits it provides to not just patients but

also families and care givers. Shining the light on volunteers nationwide who contribute their expertise in medical, emo tional, spiritual and social services to patients and families every day is also a goal of the National Hospice Month designa tion. Each year, nearly 1.5 million people in the United States receive hospice care. Almost 50% of Medicare enrollees were in a hospice program at the time of death.

Hospice of the Sacred Heart is approaching its 20th year anniversary of providing hos pice care in the region. The staff and volunteers of Hospice of the Sacred Heart reflect on another year of pro viding expert end-of-life care and personalized support to families across eight counties of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The organization is commit ted to delivering care and dig nity at the most challenging times, while ensuring families have all the information to navigate the various situa tions that arise with late-stage illnesses.

Hospice of the Sacred Heart is a not-for-profit, free standing hospice offering care to resi dents in eight coun ties in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Founded in 2003 by local ophthal mologist surgeon, Dr. Frank A. Bucci, Jr., the hospice has served over 18,000 patients to date. With a main office located in

Moosic and a 10-bed Inpatient Unit in Dunmore, Hospice of the Sacred Heart remains dedicated to its mis sion of providing Comfort, Care, Hope and Choice to patients and their families while guiding them through the end-of-life journey.

Service includes state-of-theart hospice care for patients with a terminal prognosis, expected to live six months or less. The staff of nurses, social workers, bereavement and pastoral counselors, physi cians and volunteers are dedi cated to providing patients and their families with exem plary care addressing spiritual and psychosocial needs as well as the physical effects of the dying process. Care is pro vided in the patients' homes, wherever that may be, includ ing private residences, com

munity group homes, assist ed living and skilled nursing facilities. Patients experienc ing a burden of symptoms incompatible with in-home care have the option of a short stay at our Inpatient Unit in Dunmore, a ten bed facility with home-like and tranquil environment for both patients and visitors.

With a dual focus of provid ing information to help lead a healthy life and targeting

underserved populations experiencing the effects of grief and mourning, Hospice of the Sacred Heart remains committed to providing community education.

Programs offered by Hospice of the Sacred Heart are open to all members of the community, and remain free-of-charge since their inception.

Visit HospiceSacredHeart.org or call (570) 706-2400. H

Allied Services Hospice andPalliative Program

There are many aspects to hospice that the typical reader may not think about until they are faced with making end of life decisions for a loved one or themselves.

Laura A. Marion RN, BSN, Assistant Vice President at Allied Services Hospice and Palliative Program, recently discussed a few unique facts.

“Allied Services Hospice is so focused on person-centered care, meeting our patients and families where they are in their end of life journey. Our patients and families come first; we focus on care, moving the attention away from disease and instead putting needs and goals first. There are so many reasons why we are the only 5 Star rated hospice in the region.”

Allied became certified last year in the “Pet Peace of Mind Program” (PPOM), being the only hospice in this region of the state to have such a distinction. The pro gram is based in Oregon and 47 states currently have facilities with certifications.

For many in hospice care, a decline in physical condition impacts a patient's ability to enjoy socializing and main taining human relationships. Pets often fill that relational void as they offer uncondition al love, acceptance, comfort and companionship when it is needed most.

“Our nurses, social workers and aides all reported different scenarios where our patients needed assistance with their pets. Prior to our involvement with PPOM, our hospice did its

best to assist with pet needs as they arose. Now however, this program gives us much more that we can provide for the pets, alleviating that par ticular stress from the patient and family. In order to obtain our PPOM certification, we needed to align our selves with a board certi fied veterinarian, recruit volunteers specifically for this program and provide training for our volunteer coordinator, Laurie Fleming who oversees the program. To date we have assisted in the care and placement of both cats and dogs. Very recently, we had a patient with a beautiful dog that would need a home. Our patient was very concerned that he would not find a home, and could not find peace while worrying about her beloved pet. We had the pet checked by our veterinarian, getting him up to date with his care, and then matched him with a PPOM volunteer foster family. Through networking with our volunteers we were able to place the dog with a family who had lost their own just six months prior. We were thrilled to inform the patient’s family that we found a new forever home for the beloved pet. This could not have been accomplished without our program.”

Another patient‘s dog lay

faithfully on his bed at the Scranton Hospice Inpatient unit. Allied not only welcomes pets but encourages families to bring pets to the hospice center. Pets must be managed by the family during visits.

“It really is a huge relief to patients and families, knowing

their pets will continue to be cared for and loved. Our volun teers are involved with trips to the veterinarian, exercise, foster ing and grocery shopping for pet food among other tasks. We have nine volunteers and are always welcoming more pet lovers to our team!”

Knowing many veterans were passing away in soli tude, Allied also launched its Veterans Honors with leadership from Volunteer Retired SGT First Class, US Army Vietnam Veteran Ron Skamanich.

Allied is also collaborat ing with Geisinger Commonwealth Medical College students as part of a national program, “No one Dies Alone.”

The medical students are onboarded as volunteers and sit vigil with patients at Allied’s inpatient facili ties who do not have family or when there are gaps of time where family cannot be present.

“We are so proud of the patient-centered care we provide day in and day out,” Laura said. H

Laura with her own dog, Micky

James Coursen shield ed his top teeth from view all the time, even adopting an awkward way of holding his hand in front of his mouth during meals with friends.

His smile had become a cause of embarrassment. His mouth, a source of misery.

The Scranton resident, now 21, sustained an injury in 2019 around the time he graduated from high school. A heavy metal object fell and smashed into his mouth, he says, shatter ing the enamel across most of his top row of teeth.

the injured teeth. He stopped eating all sting-inducing foods, including ice cream.

But he could no longer care for his teeth with his daily regi men; even the simple act of brushing or getting minty gel on the damaged areas would radiate extreme pain. “It felt like my entire head was throbbing

ego-bruising prospect that he wanted to avoid, he says.

Then a neighbor suggested that he visit The Wright Center for Community Health.

Coursen scheduled an exam and met a caring dental team whose members soothed his nerves about the complexity

Wright Center dental team salvages man’s damaged teeth, confidence

Coursen, like many young adults, had neither a high-pay ing job nor a top-shelf insur ance plan to pay for oral care, so he coped with the situation as best he could. When he chewed, he pushed his food away from

constantly,” he says.

At wit’s end, Coursen visited the local office of a large dental chain. It was recommended that all his damaged teeth be extracted. It seemed as if before he even reached the age to legally consume an alcoholic beverage, he would be fitted for dentures – an

of his case, and soon began a long-term restoration plan that called for minimal, if any, extractions.

“I was very happy,” he recalls. “I could have cried, I was so happy.”

To meet a significant demand in Northeast Pennsylvania for affordable, high-quality dental care, The Wright Center has in recent years hired more den tal professionals and greatly expanded its services. Today it offers exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, oral cancer screenings, emergency services, extractions, crowns, bridges, root canals, implants and denture care.

The Wright Center currently operates two state-of-the-art dental clinics, one at its Mid Valley Practice in Jermyn, and

one at its Scranton Practice. It also schedules dental clinics each month at its Hawley Practice and can deploy its mobile medical/dental vehicle rural and other underserved communities.

“If you haven’t visited a dentist for a while, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to make an appointment with us,” says Dr. Caitlin McCarthy. “The Wright Center is committed to providing excellent care to every single person, no matter who they are or where they come from or their financial situation.”

McCarthy is one of the providers who assisted Coursen during his extensive treatment, and she serves as program director for an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency offered at The Wright Center through a partnership with NYU Langone Dental Medicine.

Dentists in the training pro gram gain valuable experience while also helping The Wright Center by further expanding access to dental care in the region, where oral health can be negatively affected by high rates of tobacco and illicit drug use, a lack of fluor idated public water supplies and poverty.

After a long road, there’s reason to smile.

The team working with Coursen ultimately

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recently awarded two Community Health Quality Recognition awards to The Wright Center for Community Health.

HRSA annually reviews health centers’ performance data and bestows badges on federal Health Center Program awardees and Look-Alikes that have made notable quality improvement achievements. New for this year was an Addressing Social Risk Factors to Health badge. The Wright Center was awarded that recognition as well as a 2022 Advancing Health Information Technology for Quality badge.

performed nearly a half-dozen root canals and did crown work and fillings over multiple visits. They succeeded in not only filling the gaps where decay had spoiled Coursen’s smile, but also rebuilding the esteem of a young man who admittedly viewed pandemic masks as a mixed blessing, because they hid his face.

“Today I can actually smile. I’m definitely more confident,” he said.

A “Star Wars” devotee and gamer, Coursen par ticipated dur ing his high school years in graphic arts training through the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County. He twice

advanced to state-level competition in the SkillsUSA program.

Coursen was supported by The Wright Center’s staff in determining how to afford the procedures, which had been a primary concern. “My family and I were very thankful,” he says.

These days, Coursen is quick to display his pearly whites and looking forward to re-entering the job market. He also is back to his usual healthy dental care routine of regular flossing and brushing – with one notable improvement.

“The Wright Center’s recommended I get an electric toothbrush, and I did,” he says.

Visit

TheWrightCenter.org/services or call 570-230-0019 H

W ho is the cutest of them all?

Bentley Chewy

Chewy is blind but it doesn’t bother him one bit, says the Peters family from Mount Carmel. He is the most lovable dog they have had.

Gilbert

Fluffy acts like a dog. He’s intelligent, friendly and full or personality according to the McKane family of Archbald.

Gilbert loves to play with his pink uni corn and run in his backyard. He lives in Scranton with the Noreika Family.

Finnegan

Finnegan lives in Clarks Summit with the Warpus family. This smart one enjoys car rides, cuddling and going everywhere with his mom.

Hank with Gina and Brendan. He loves treats, biting toes and cuddling with mom and dad.

Bentley lives in Clarks Summit with the Lesjack family. He prefers walks and family time.

favoriteNovember

for

Emily Artmont says that this yellow lab enjoys playing in her Dickson City yard with her brother.

The votes are in... October’s Pet of the Month is Reggie Congratulations!

Oreia

The Mangan family from Dunmore claim that Oreia is loving, intelligent, intuitive but a fussy eater.

Remi & Sig

Remi and Sig are rescue dogs who love keeping an eye on the neighborhood of the Spurkeland family of Clarks Summit.

Rosko

Rosie is an adorable lab/catahoula rescue from Louisiana. He loves to talk, sigh and play with his Andia family in Hawley.

Piglet

Piglet is a medical alert service dog who loves to practice water rescue work. The Lazaro family from Hawley report that she adores visiting children and the elderly.

Sophie

attention of her parents, the Werners. They live in Gouldsboro.

Luna Star

Signature Dishes FROM AREA RESTAURANTS

ABBIOCCO Vodka Cream Risotto

Our signature Vodka Cream Risotto topped with spinach, mushrooms and broccoli. Classic and Marinara Risotto are also available. Add chicken, shrimp and more!

GRESHAM'S CHOP HOUSE Beef Brasato

Brasato style braised beef roast served with roasted root vegetables and baby spinach, sauced with a savory rosemary demi glacé served over parmesan polenta.

LIGHT

AND

SandwichApple

Crisp apple slices, turkey, bacon and cheese, layered with spinach on focaccia bread with a bit of ranch on the side.

Note! All hours are subject to change without notice. Call ahead, consult website and Facebook pages of each individual restaurant for updated information.

Abbiocco

Try our signature dishes, such as Chicken Abbiocco, manicotti or blackened salmon. BYOB. Text Abbiocco to 51660 to receive our texts every Wednesday or see weekly specials. Tues-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 639 N. Blvd., Clarks Summit. www.abbiocco.net 570-319-9633.

Coney Island Lunch

Try our Texas Wiener with mustard, onions and chili sauce! Tues.-Sun.11 a.m.-3 p.m. 515 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton. www.Texas-wiener.com. Delivery by DoorDash! 570-961-9004.

Gresham's Chop House

Steaks, seafood, Italian specialties & more. Book your holiday parties now! Closed Sunday and Monday, Open Tuesday-Saturday at 4 p.m. 570-226-1500 greshamschophouse.com

Northern Light Espresso Bar and Café

Downtown Scranton’s original Espresso Bar. Celebrating 20 years! Enjoy locally roasted brewed coffee, Espresso, Tea and more. Grab and go for breakfast and lunch! Fresh baked goods daily! northernlightespresso.com M-F 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. S 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 536 Biden Street, Scranton (formerly Spruce St.)

Pettinato’s Restaurant

Try our grilled salmon in Asian sauce. Take out and delivery. Mon.-Sat. 4-8 p.m., Sun. 4-7 p.m. 78 Dundaff St., Carbondale. 570-282-5860.

Dining around the Region

Sibio’s Restaurant

Our fettuccine Alfredo is a customer favorite! Lunch and dinner regular hours, full menu with specials. 1240 Quincy Ave., Dunmore. Sibiosrestaurant.com 570-346-3172.

Savory Maza

Shish barak special on Wednesdays this season! Indulge in fresh, homemade vegetarian and meat meals, plus daily specials. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 N. Main St., Scranton. savorymaza.com 570-969-2666.

Stirna’s

Our Stirnaburger is full 1/4 lb. top choice ground beef with tomato, bacon and American or Swiss on a semi-hard roll. Wed.-Sat. 4 p.m.9 p.m. 120 W. Market St. Scranton. On/off premise catering daily. 570-961-9681. H

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