Publication November 14

June 2016
www.westsidebulletin.net
P1ZZA BELLA
Boneless RIB Platter
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Forty Fort
980 Wyoming Ave.
570-288-3278
pizzabellanepa.com
Dallas Rotary Club prepares for
wine and dine festival
Rotarians pictured
from left: Kim
Reisch, JoAnn Prohaska, Colette
Mahoney
from the
Luzerne County Fair
Association, Kevin
Blizzard, Randy
Loyd
Some of the members of the Dallas Rotary Club recently gathered around their sign
at the triangle on Rt 309/415 to promote their fourth annual rain or shine Wine and
Dine Festival on Saturday, June 25th from noon until 6:00 p.m. at the Luzerne County
Fairgrounds, Rt. 118, Dallas. More than 70 vendors (wineries, food vendors and crafters) will be selling their products at the event, and there will be live music all day long
for your entertainment and enjoyment. Tickets are $15.00 if purchased in advance,
and $25.00 at the gate on the day of the event. Designated Driver tickets will be
available only at the gate for $5.00.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following retail locations: J&J Deli, Dallas; Hilbert's, The Tractor Store, Dallas; Pierce Drugs, Kingston; Valentine's Fine Jewelry, Dallas; Amelia's Diner, Shavertown; Nimble Hill Vineyard & Winery,
Tunkhannock; Gerrity's Supermarkets in Hanover, Luzerne, West Pittston and
Wyoming. They can also be purchased on line at DallasRotaryWineandDine.com
VISIT US ON THE WEB
WWW.WESTSIDEBULLETIN.NET
CALL
570-690-0727
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Westsidebulletin - Page 2
Read the Westside Bulletin
Read the Westside Bulletin
Online at www.westsidebulletin.net
Richard DeHaven - Owner/ Publisher
570.690.0727
Alan Stout - Correspondent
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.westsidebulletin.net
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1677, Kingston, PA 18704
Phone: 570.690.0727 FAX: 570.675.2399
Next Publication Date: July 6, 2016
Deadline June 29, 2016
Locally owned and independently operated not affiliated with any other
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Pringle
Please note:
It is the policy of the Westside Bulletin to publish event notices free of charge, if the
event is free to the public and/or the proceeds are being donated to an organization.
If there is a charge to attend an event, advertising rates may apply.
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To our advertisers, we will strive to exceed your advertising expectations
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Don’t miss an issue!!!
Westsidebulletin - Page 3
“A PLACE TO EXPLORE AND ENJOY”
OPEN HOUSE IN SUPPORT OF BLUE CHIP FARMS
(Animals will be available for adoption - Saturday and Sunday)
Saturday, June 11th and Sunday, June 12th
Face Painting by Jessica - 10:00 To 4:00
Pony Rides - 10:00 To 4:00
Food Trucks - 10:00 To 4:00
Also, Sunday, June 12th
Live Music by 3 Imaginary Boys - 12:00 -2:00
525 River Street, Forty Fort - 570-287-4239 ext. 1
Mon - Fri 8:00am To 6pm
www.edwardsgardencenter.com
Sat - Sun 5:00am To 4:00pm
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KIWANIS CLUB of
PLYMOUTH PENNSYLVANIA
Pictured, from the left, are
Plymouth Kiwanis
Secretary John Gavenonis,
Key Club members Sarah
Lawson, Priya Majamundar, Payton Mendygral, Emily Boney, Keya Patel, Tyler
Wozniak, Lauren Devens,
Prachi Majamundar, Gabby
Care, Plymouth Kiwanis
President James Mahon,
Annamarie Rodriguez, Ariel
Banks and Plymouth Kiwanis President-Elect Richard Schall
The Plymouth Kiwanis Club recently hosted members of the Wyoming Valley West
Key Club at a pizza and hoagie dinner. The Key Club is sponsored by the Plymouth
Kiwanis Club.
Following dinner, Key Club members presented a donation to the Liv with Autism
Foundation located in Mountain Top. The mission of the organization is to promote
autism awareness, improve the lives of those living with autism, help individuals with
autism spectrum disorders find employment and assist those family members and
caregivers in finding information to help them in their journey through the world of
autism. Club members raised $438.04 through T-shirt sales and homeroom donations
to wear the Autism shirts during school hours.
Pictured kneeling, from the left, are Raymond Motyka, Plymouth Kiwanis treasurer; Larksville K-9 Officer Josh Evans, Larksville K-9 police dog Una; James
Mahon, Plymouth Kiwanis president and John Gavenonis, Plymouth Kiwanis
secretary. Standing, from the left, are Plymouth Kiwanian David Bonawits, Plymouth Kiwanis president-elect
Richard Schall, Wyoming Valley
West Key Club members Keya
Patel, Priya Majamundar, Tyler
Wozniak, Key Club President
Payton Mendygral presenting the
donation, Lauren Devens, Sarah
Lawson, Wyoming Valley West
Key Club Advisor Ninaleigh
Wozniak, and Key Club members Gabby Care, Annamarie
Rodriguez, Ariel Banks, Emily
Boney and Prachi Majamundar
The Plymouth Kiwanis Club
recently hosted members of the Wyoming Valley West Key Club and Larksville
Borough K-9 Officer Josh Evans and his K-9 police dog Una. The Plymouth Kiwanis
Club is the sponsor for the Wyoming Valley West Key Club. Key Club members held
several fundraising projects during the school year and raised several hundred dollars
to donate to the financial support of the Larksville K-9 unit.
The canine team is trained in search and rescue, tracking for illegal narcotics, explosives
tracking, and basic police canine skills. In addition to working the Wyoming Valley
West schools, the team works in other local communities that have provided financial
support for training.
Resident of
Forty Fort, PA 18704
Shawnee Fort Chapter DAR
Photo: Front
Gabby Barchik
Back L-R: Cynthia Brenner,
Sara Barchik and Karen
Komorek
Shawnee Fort Chapter DAR
members spent time at the
Shawnee Cemetery, in preparation of Memorial Day,
sprucing up around the first
marker Shawnee Fort dedicated in 2013- Abram Nesbitt.
Nesbitt prepared the Shawnee
Fort for possible attack while
other settlers fought in the battle of Wyoming. He later
joined a local company that
fought with the Wyoming Militia, worked as a farmer, married Bethiah Wheeler and died
in 1847 at the age of 83.
Shawnee Fort Chapter is based in Plymouth and is active in community projects
throughout the area. For information on DAR activities, please contact Kathleen
Smith at: [email protected] or 570-704-9809
Westsidebulletin - Page 6
Filling the sound of silence For thousands of patients, The Hearing Center has helped change life for the better
By ALAN K. STOUT
Westside Bulletin Correspondent
The Hearing Center is
located on Wyoming
Avenue in Kingston. Shown,
from left, are audiologists
Joseph Motzko,
Renee Monahan and
Louis Sieminski.
Imagine the sense of gratification you
would feel if someone who could once
not hear well was now able to help to
hear with perfect clarity, and you helped make it happen. Imagine if, for someone,
conversations that were once muddled were now clear and you helped make them
clear. Imagine if someone who could once no longer enjoy music could now sing and
dance again, thanks to you. Imagine if, for the first time in years, someone could simply watch TV at a normal volume, or - for the very first time - they could hear their
grandchild’s laughter.
For 40 years, Dr. Louis Sieminski has helped make such things happen for the people
of the Wyoming Valley. And as the founding partner of The Hearing Center, located in
Kingston, he says that has brought him great joy.
Sieminski, 70, is a native of Swoyersville and is a graduate of Swoyersville HighSchool. He received an undergraduate degree in speech pathology and audiology from
West Virginia University and master’s degree and a Ph.D in audiology from Temple
University. He and his wife, Libby, have a son, Jason, who is an attorney. They live
in the back Mountain. He says he first became interested in becoming an audiologist
after seeing a close childhood and high school friend struggle with hearing loss.
“He was a great athlete and a great basketball player and he went to school on a full
Division 1 basketball scholarship,” says Sieminski. “But he was born hearing impaired. And his hearing impairment caused him to have a speech problem, and he
didn’t do well academically, and he wouldn’t wear a hearing device because they were
big and ugly, and they made him look different, and he did not want to look different.
He ended up failing out of college and never finished.”
Sieminski says that watching the difficult situation unfold peaked his interest about
hearing loss and its effect on people. In college, he began to study audiology.
“I wanted to be able to help people like him,” he says. “I had an interest in wanting to
help kids that have hearing loss.”
He has done just that.
In 1995, Sieminski worked with former Pennsylvania State Senator Charles Lemmond
in writing legislation that mandated infant hearing screenings throughout the Commonwealth. He also helped set up hearing screening programs at Nesbitt Hospital and
General Hospital and served on both boards for many years.
“In 2001 it was acted into law mandating that every hospital test babies, day one, for
hearing loss,” he says. “We screen 160,000 babies every year. In our office, we fit
hearing aids as early as five weeks of age.”
Sieminski has now worked in the field of audiology for four decades.. The Hearing
Center, located on Wyoming Avenue, has been at its current location since 2007.
Renee Monahan, Au.D., and Joseph Motzko, Au.D, are partners in the practice, which
currently has more than 6,000 patients wearing hearing aids.
“We mainly diagnosticians,” says Sieminski. “ We test and evaluate for hearing loss
and determine if you have hearing loss or not. That could be an autistic child, it could
a mentally challenged individual, it could be an elderly person, or a medical/legal
thing. We have 125 physicians that refer to us for diagnostic evaluations. We also contract with the VA and we do work with veterans, and we work with John Heinz. We
also do industrial audiology, where we set up hearing conservation programs with
companies that have very noisy environments to make sure they don’t hurt their employees and cause them hearing loss.”
New technology, according to
the staff at The Hearing Center, has helped make hearing
aids virtually invisible.
Monahan, 50, who has worked in thefield for 28 years, says the work is very
rewarding.
“There’s an immediate gratification of
helping people and immediately seeing
the help,” she says. “The improved hearing is there and people are just thankful to be
able to have that improvement. And often they didn’t even realize what they were
missing. The birds outside. The Rice Krispies making noise in a bowl. And it’s nice
to have the updated technology be a part of that. In the 28 years I’ve been doing
this, I haven’t been bored a day.”
Monahan adds that improved hearing can have a positive impact on entire families.
“For children with elderly parents - if they’ve been after them for so long and struggling for so long to convince them to get help with their hearing - when the parent first
puts the hearing aid on, often the adult child tears up,” she says. “They can suddenly
just talk in a normal voice and Mom doesn’t even have to be looking at them to have a
conversation and understand what’s being said. It gets emotional.”
Motzko, 30, has been with the practice for two years. He too says working directly
with patients is his favorite part of the work.
“The best thing about this job is meeting all of the interesting people,” he says.
“Everybody’s got a story. It might not be a story that they make movies about, but
they’re interesting people with interesting life experiences.”
Sieminski agrees.
“I still get a kick out of changing people’s lives and watching them as people who –
and we get this a lot – haven’t heard for years, and suddenly we fit them with the
latest technology in the world, and we change their lives,” he says. “And you can’t
see the device. It’s virtually invisible. We have doctors, lawyers, judges, senators,
housewives, elderly, babies. You name it. We help them to hear better. And we still
get a kick out of doing that.”
On the web: www.hearing-center.net
Westsidebulletin - Page 7
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2 Locations – Same great taste!
Sun. & Tues. - Tray of red
14 cuts $12.99
Wed -Tray of red 14 cuts &
12 wings $17.99
Thurs - White Tray
w/ onions & broccoli $15.99
Fri. & Sat - 2 Trays of Red
14 cuts each $26.99
Fresh Cut Chicken Bite’s
$4.99 ½ Lb.
$8.99 Full Lb.
Additional $.50 for a ½ tray &
$1.00 for a full tray
Luzerne (570) 287-2020 Wilkes - Barre (570) 822-1500
Luzerne, PA 18709
Licensed in NJ & PA
Member AICPA
Phone - 570-288-0791
Cell - 908-963-0791
[email protected]
Backyard Swimming Pool Etiquette
By Jill Evans Kryston, Etiquette Consultant - Westside Bulletin,
June 2016
Q: Our new swimming pool is ready to open and
I was excited until I started hearing all sorts of
wild stories about how friends and neighbors
come out of the woodwork and try anything to get
an invitation to swim, and I’m getting a little
panicky. Can you help me with some guidelines
and rules that won’t offend or sound selfish?
A: Since after WWII backyard swimming pools
have grown in popularity. They serve as a convenient source of summertime family fun and a way to
entertain friends. However, along with recreational pleasure comes responsibility for
setting rules and liability for keeping everyone safe which can cause an enormous
amount of stress if not well orchestrated.
Think of your new pool as you would a new sports car; would you give the keys to
everyone to drive? Absolutely not! By the same token you shouldn’t feel selfish about
setting rules for pool use that work for your family and your lifestyle. The important
thing is to define the boundaries early on and be firm but polite about sticking to the
rules. After all, this is your property and your prerogative; you have the right to expect
respectful behavior from your potential guests.
First and foremost, safety is the number one factor. Check with your insurance agent
about coverage, liability, and security. The last thing you want is trouble. It may make
sense to implement a guest waiver. It doesn’t necessarily protect you from liability, but
the formality of it can act as a deterrent to friends and neighbors that suddenly show
up at your doorstep wanting to cool off. Also, take inventory of your guest’s swimming ability level and require Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) as needed, provided
by the parents, of course.
Set guest rules or otherwise you’ll be babysitting, and may I add feeding, the entire
neighborhood before you know it for the whole summer. Some parents will not allow
other children unless they are accompanied by an adult, and some only allow one
friend per child, period. For other families a flag system works; for example, red for
family time, green for friend time. Whatever your decision, be consistent.
As with public pools, rules of conduct are important for home pools, too, so everyone
can enjoy themselves while remaining safe. Don’t be afraid to set strict rules because
it is easier to relax than tighten them. Consider these: no swimming without adult
supervision; no running, diving, splashing, dunking, or playing chicken; no food/
beverages or urinating in the pool. Decide whether you will allow babies/toddlers that
aren’t potty trained. Print your rules in bold letters on a board and hang it by the pool
for everyone to see.
One final tip: Prior to your guest’s arrival, make it a point to e-mail “The Smith Family
Pool Rules” so parents can prepare their children for what you expect when they
arrive. Remind them that rule-breakers sit out for 5 to 10 minutes. This is the perfect
opportunity to list what they are responsible to bring: bathing suits, towels, sunscreen,
goggles, PFDs, shoes, and snacks – pool and beverages are on the house!
Email your etiquette questions to Jill at: [email protected] or
mail to: P.O. Box 1703, Shavertown, PA 18708. Defining Manners School of
Protocol offers certified social and business etiquette courses. For more information
visit: www.DefiningManners.com or call 570-696-3209.
© 2016 Defining Manners. All Rights Reserved.
Westsidebulletin - Page 9
Plymouth Active Adult Center
160 East Main Street
Plymouth, PA 19651
570-779-9664
Joyce Rutherford – Director
JUNE 2016 ACTIVITIES
National Safety Month
Daily Activities: Coffee Clutch, Cards, Puzzles, Socialization
Mondays & Fridays: 11:30 Sit & Be Fit/Weights/Bands/Tai Chi
Tuesdays: 10 – 12 Crochet/Knitting Club – donations of yarn from the community are
appreciated. Please come to participate or learn. Bring your own project or learn a
new one. Come and enjoy!
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays: 12:30 – 3:00 BINGO, 5 cents/card, 10 cents/
coverall
1st and 3rd Thursday of the month: Cody from Representative Mullery’s Office is here
to answer legal questions and do rent rebates.
Wednesday, June 1 – 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Thursday, June 2 – 10:00 – 12:00 PM Crochet Club 10:00 – 12:00PM Cody from Representative Mullery’s Office for legal questions and rent rebates
Friday, June 3 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Monday, June 6 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Tuesday, June 7 – 10 AM – 11:30 AM Crochet Club; Centers Close at 11:30 AM
Wednesday, June 8 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Friday, June 10 – 8 - 4:30 PM Jewish Community Center – Training Healthy (Steps in
Motion) 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Monday, June 13 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Wednesday, June 15 – Beth from The Guardian on Summer Safety, 12:30 – 3:00 PM
BINGO
Thursday, June 16 – 10:00 – 12:00PM Cody from Representative Mullery’s Office for
legal questions and rent rebates
Friday, June 17 – Father’s Day Special Luncheon. 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00
PM BINGO
Monday, June 20 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Tuesday, June 21 – Cathy from Drug & Alcohol Center to speak on Prescription Medications & Safety. 10 – 12:00 PM Crochet Club
Wednesday, June 22 – Blood Pressure by Ellie from Timber Ridge, 12:30 – 3:00 PM
BINGO
Thursday, June 23 – Employee Recognition Day!
Friday, June 24 - 11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Monday, June 27 – 11AM – Wendy from Geisinger to speak on Life Reminiscing
11:30 AM – Exercise; 12:30 – 3:00 PM BINGO
Tuesday, June 28 – Kristi from Traditional Hospice to speak on Dehydration Prevention,
Wednesday, June 29 – 10:00 – 12:00PM - Farmer’s Market Voucher Day. 12:30 –
3:00 PM BINGO
Thursday, June 30 – Farmer’s Market starts on the Square. Prime Time Health Fitness
Walk at Kirby Park 9:30 AM Registration, 10 – 1 PM Walk, Geo Rittenhouse Entertainment & drawing for Rail Rider Tickets
Plymouth Active Adult Center
Wish List
Yarn for the Crochet Club
Puzzles, Pens
Monetary Donations
Assorted Greeting CardsParty Supplies – plates, napkins,
decorations
Plymouth Active Adult Center Fund Raiser - $1.00 for Gertrude
Hawk Candy Bars
90 + and May Birthdays
Mother’s Day celebration at Plymouth
Learning to play the
Accordion
Plymouth Historical
Society 150 Yr. Celebration
Westsidebulletin - Page 10
SIZES :
Newborn - - - - Size 8
Babyvogue
162 United Penn Plaza . Kingston, PA
18704
(570) 714-2229
Hours Mon. - Sat. 10am - 5 pm
Unique Selection of Boys and Girls
Clothing and Accessories
10% Off with this AD FOOD ITEMS ONLY
We Carry a Great Selection of New
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WESTSIDE BULLETIN
Westsidebulletin - Page 11
1133 Wyoming Avenue – Forty Fort, PA 18704 - Phone: (570) 714-1246
AUTISM AWARENSS - NEPA PRESENTS GRANT TO THE CHILDREN AT THE WYOMING VALLEY
CHILDREN'S ASSOCIATION (WVCA)
THROUGH THE AUTISM FUND AT THE LUZERNE FOUNDATION
Featured in the attached photo at the check presentation at the Autism Vigil at the Luzerne
County Court House, are, from left to right: Luzerne Foundation Executive Director Charles
Barber, parent/speaker Amy McDonough and son Jameson McDonough-Radish, WVCA
Service Coordinator Bonnie MacDonald, and WVCA Board President Karen Martin.
The Wyoming Valley Children's Association recently received a $3600 grant from Autism Awareness - NEPA through their Autism Awareness Fund of the Luzerne Foundation. WVCA provides
families with three different settings for their child who is diagnosed with Autism to best meet specific needs. The grant will fund the purchase of sensory support materials to create specific additional
sensory areas within those classrooms, allowing staff to maximize children's educational achievements and develop to their fullest potential.
The goal of Autism Awareness - NEPA is to promote awareness and to support community programs
serving individuals with Autism.
The organization can bereached at [email protected]. The Luzerne Foundation is
"Here For Good"-- supporting donors with their charitable giving, helping them invest strategically in
causes they care about and in ways that make a difference in our community. The Foundation is a
philanthropic leader, a community resource and a financial steward thathelps people and groups create funds to do good things today and lasting good for tomorrow. More information can be found on
Westsidebulletin - Page 12
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Regina Rubino
Insurance Sales
Representative
Bankers Life
570.406.4175
VISIT US ON THE WEB www.westsidebulletin.net
ALL OF OUR EDITIONS HAVE BEEN
ARCHIVED
Submit your articles to:
[email protected]
Westsidebulletin - Page 14
Coffee with ...Greg Fellerman
By Alan Stout
Westside Bulletin Correspondent
Greg Fellerman is an attorney at law and the founding member of the
Fellerman Ciarimboli law firm in Kingston, Scranton and Philadelphia. Fellerman, 50, is a native of Kingston and is a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School. He studied at Luzerne County
Community College and Penn State University before receiving a
bachelor’s degree in business administration from King’s College.
He then received his MBA from Wilkes University and his Juris
Doctorate from Widener University. He has three children: Elise, 16;
Eva, 13; and Aiden, 10. He lives at Harveys Lake with his girlfriend
Melanie Rittenhouse and her daughter Carly, 7.
What first made you want to become an attorney? I always had an interest in legal
proceedings. From criminal to civil, I always followed them and found them very interesting. I liked what lawyers did. Conversely, my father was a physician and I
watched him work very, very hard. Not that we don’t work hard, but when I watched
him work as hard as he did, there was a point where I didn’t know if that was for me. I
put in big, big hours, but my Dad was literally working 18 hours a day, seven days a
week. His work devoured his life. And the legal profession, to me … there was a draw
to it. I saw some local lawyers trying their cases — from the district attorneys to the
civil litigators — and I found it very intriguing. The courtroom atmosphere was something I really liked. The law, the constituion, protecting people’s rights … I always
wanted to wear the white hat and I know I do.
Is that what you enjoy about it the most? We’re representing people — everyday
people. Moms. Dads. Your neighbors. We’re not representing the big insurance companies. We fight those insurance companies. We fight corporate America. We fight the
trucking companies. It’s nice when someone comes in off the street and we get to help
them and bring them the justice they deserve. It’s very fulfilling when you help someone whose life has just been totally blown apart by a tractor trailer and they’re laid up
for years and you force this insurance company or trucking company to accept responsibility and help these people. I like people. I like to help people. And that’s what I
think I do. When I worked in the district attorney’s office, I was protecting the victims
— people that were hurt by a criminal. To me, that’s the white hat.
You and your partner, Edward Ciarimboli, also appear on WBRE-TV’s 5 p.m.
Newscast every day. Do you like television? It’s a segment called “The Law and
You.” We take questions from people about all different types of legal issues. It’s a
great way to interact with the people. I love it and it has been very well received by the
people.
You recently sold the Rush Inn in Kingston, one of the most popular corner bars on
the west side of the Wyoming Valley. It’s was a great opportunity to get into the community. We had a great little corner bar with a great following. It’s a fun place and
we’ve had a lot of success there. And it ties in with my love of people. I used to be a
bartender at Market Street Square and my love of that business translated into wanting
to open a bar and run it. It’s was a great run fo re but everything must come to and end
and I wish the new owners all the luck and success in the running one of the best corner bars in
all of NEPA.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I like to work out. I run. I lift. And I do
Brazilian jiu-jitsu and I love it. It’s a mental chess game and it’s a physical chess
game. I also play guitar. I used to be able to sing a lot better, but I’ve had some problems with my voice. But I just love to sit around and play. And I like to travel with my
girlfriend.
Favorite music? I have my ’80s love. I just listened to Judas Priest this morning.
KISS. I’m still a huge KISS fan from my early days. Def Leppard. Van Halen. Kix.
And I love the ’90s, too. 3 Doors Down. Love Dave Matthews. Love The Foo Fighters. And I’m a huge Breaking Benjamin fan. I love their music. Most of my stuff is
heavy. I’m not a big dance/rap guy, though I love old Run-D.M.C. But my roots are
basically Zeppelin, The Who, Black Sabbath and even heavier stuff like Metallica and
Megadeth. My iPod is crazy, but at the end of the day, the heavier and louder the better.
Follow sports? I’m a huge NBA fan. And I love Penn State. And I’m a New York
Yankees guy. And I don’t even like to say this, but I like the Dallas Cowboys and my
son likes the Dallas Cowboys, but I’m also an Eagles fan. And that doesn’t make any
sense. But I love Philadelphia. We have an office in Philadelphia and we go to Eagles
games and follow them pretty closely.
Favorite color? Blue.
First car? A brown 1976 Dasher. Thanks, Dad. But then he stepped up and I got a
1985 Mustang GT, which I still have. And it’s sweet.
Favorite city? Miami.
Favorite vacation spot? Any beach in the world.
Favorite thing about NEPA? The people. The people are just absolutely wonderful.
The hard work, the heart, the ethnicity … the people are just really good people. We
get knocked around a bit, but this world needs more people from northeast Pennsylvania.
Favorite food? Pizza.
All-time favorite movies? The “Star Wars” franchise and anything from Marvel or
D.C. Universe.
Favorite TV show? “The Flash” and “D.C. Legends.”
Favorite holiday? Fourth of July.
Favorite quote or catchphrase? “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” And what that
means is just work hard. That’s it. You’ve got to work hard.
Guilty pleasure? Chocolate.
What might surprise people about you? The guitar playing and singing. That just
throws people for a loop. My voice is not nearly as strong as it used to be, but that
would probably be something that you wouldn’t expect — that I can pick up a guitar
and sing and do it pretty well.
Defining personal moment? It was the moment that I learned that I could do well in
school. I didn’t like high school. I have all of these degrees, but if you asked me which
was the hardest to get, it was high school. But when I was in college, I learned, “I can
do this. I am smart. And I also work hard.” Once that light switch went on, I knew the
world was whatever I wanted to make of it. As long as I was willing to study hard and
work hard, I could do pretty much whatever I wanted and I’ve done that. I’ve been
blessed and I had great parents, but when you realize that you believe in yourself and
you’re not afraid to work hard, anything is possible. I remember working really hard
on a test and all of a sudden you’re getting A’s and doing well. My academic career
was not an easy road, but I learned to work from my father. I delivered papers. I delivered pizza. I shoveled sidewalks. I learned how to work hard. With education, if you’re
not a great high school student, you question yourself and it just wasn’t for me. But
then all of sudden, in college, you’re making the dean’s list and making the dean’s list
at Luzerne County College was a defining moment. At that point, you realize, “You
can do this.”
Westsidebulletin - Page 15
Wyoming Free Library
*Summer Reading Club Registration*
Registration for summer reading will begin on Monday, June 20 at 10:00 a.m. Parents can call the library or register in person. A complete list of activities is
available at the front desk, on the library webpage and on Facebook.
*Fill-a-Bag Book sale*
The Wyoming Free Library will have a fill-a-bag book sale on Saturday, June 11
from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The cost is $5.00 per bag. The library is accepting books
for the sale. Please contact the library for more information about the sale or donations.
*LEGO Club*
The LEGO Club of the Wyoming Free Library will meet on June 25 from 11 a.m. –
Noon. This program is free and suitable for children of all ages. Registration is
required. Please call 570-693-1364 to reserve spots.
*Hypnosis for Goals, Fun, and Career*
The Wyoming Free Library will host return guest speaker Chris Halbohm, CHt, director of Kingston-Keystone Hypnosis Institute and Weight Loss Center on Saturday, July 9 from 2:00-3:00PM. Please call the library at 570-693-1364 to register.
*Tea Tips and Treasures*
The library will begin the 3rd year of its successful “Tea Tips and Treasures” themed
tea parties. There will be tea and a snack, an interactive display and a short workshop. Children can dress up and bring a doll or stuffed animal to match each theme.
Ages 3 and up may attend. There is no cost for the program and an adult must stay
with the child. Please sign up one week ahead.
The teas are from 12pm-1pm. The library is seeking sponsors and item donations for
each program. For sponsorship details, a list of donations or to sign up a child;
please contact Lindsay at the library. The dates and themes are as follows: June 18
Visiting the Zoo
General Federation of Women’s Clubs-West Side
Clancy Harrison, Registered
Dietitian and Anti-Hunger
Advocate, was the featured
speaker at a recent meeting
of the General Federation of
Women’s Clubs-West Side,
a volunteer community service organization. The presentation focused on the
stigma and misconceptions
surrounding the 1.8 million
residents of Pennsylvania
who are food insecure. Mrs.
Harrison discussed lessons
she learned as a Food Pantry President and her innovative efforts to bring fresh food to
clients. She demonstrated how effective community partnerships working together can
end hunger. From the left are: Nancy Dietterick, programs chairman; June Gavenonis
, programs chairman; Harrison and Deidre Miller-Kaminski, President GFWC-West
Side.
Westsidebulletin - Page 16
FOR SALE
Amigo RD Scooter
Wheelchair
Completely refurbished,
new batteries, power
seat lift, turn signals,
headlight, flip up arms
Excellent Condition
Cliche Consignment
570-606-6161
Kristen Favata
Owner
100 Wyoming Avenue
Wyoming, PA 18644
Mon - Tues Closed
Wed - Sat 11-6
Sun - 12-4
ALL CLOTHING $16.00 AND LESS!!
New $3,000..
Selling for $600..
570-779-2424
We Update FACEBOOK Daily
W/Sales, Specials, & New Items
Special OFFER
Vacuum Cleaner Service
Tune up Your Cleaner!!
New Belt,
New Filter,
Clean Out Main
Hose For
Suction, Oil &
Grease All Parts
For $19.95
Free Pick-up & Delivery
Call 570-903-1098
ADVERTISE
FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH
THE MOST INEXPENSIVE WAY
TO ADVERTISE
CALL 570-690-0727
www.westsidebulletin.net
Westsidebulletin - Page 17
Students of Good Shepherd Academy
The fourth grade students of Good Shepherd
Academy held their class field trip to Harrisburg.
The students were able to explore and participate
in hands on activities at the Whitaker Science
Center and tour the Pennsylvania State Museum.
The trip culminated with a tour of the Pennsylvania State Capitol.
Pictured in the Capitol Rotunda are first row,
from left, Olivia Thomas, Noah Rokosz,
Jorden Lech, Madison Westawski,
Angela Ambrose, James Locke, Michael
Dubaskas, Abigail Williams, and Louis Michaels. Row two: Sadie Frusciante, Dominick
Gibson, Brandon Shay, Brian Rowlands, Dylan Zoranski, Haley Gorr, Hannah Jones, Maria Castillo, Brianna Van Why, Richard
Carey, and Joseph Skoronski. Row three:
Frankie McCloskey, Matthias Ryder,
Briseus Shupp, Nico DeMark, David Stochla,
Cole Beck, Mercedes Hughes, William Brady,
Liam Mullery, and Jack Tuzinski. Row four:
Chase Rasmus,Luke Hajkowski, Mae Mathis
Baliatico, Keeley Lynett, Lukas Kachinko, Alyssa Evans, Janelle Sando, Sarah Yudichak,
Ivan Vnuk, Julia Desciak, and Theresa
Khoudary. Good Shepherd Academy is located
in Kingston. It is the largest elementary school
in the Diocese of Scranton.
2016 Kindergarten Graduates
IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Gianna Albright, Makayla Covin, Ava Demark, Furia Donnelly, Daniela
Escobar, Grace Ferretti, Blake Fisher, Spencer Frusciante, Kendra Glasson,
Joseph Guastella, Jacob Holocheck, John Hornlein-Johnson, Ariana
Hughes, Taj Johnson, Alexander Kistanov, Chase Liska, Amara Makarzyk,
Caleb Marcy, Sarah Mera, Mary Jane Michaels, Madelyn Miller, Emelia
O'shea, Kendyl Onzik, Edie Perzia, Hannah Pius, Christian Santos, Colton
Smith, Liam Tamkus, Nina Valenti, Elizabeth Van Kuyk, Joseph Vitali,
Nelia Wicht, Cole Zagata, Bryce Zoranski
Westsidebulletin - Page 18
From the Graham Academy Classroom
The end of the year is upon us! The start of June signals the final few days of the
school year. We hope you have enjoyed reading updates from our students throughout
the year. This column has provided the basis for future lessons on how newspaper
businesses operate. As we move into next year, we are hoping to include more stories
written by our students to share with you. Ms. Karen’s class concludes our school year
by highlighting some of the things they learned and did.
Our school year has been a productive year full of exciting opportunities to enrich our
academic experience. Looking back over the year we thought we would share with
everyone a few of the highlights we had during the 2015-2016 school year in each of
our classes.
As part of our Hillside Farms curriculum, our school was given chicken eggs to watch
hatch and help raise chicks until they were old enough to return to the farm. Our class
had the chance to care for the chicks for two weeks once they were hatched. We
studied the lifecycle of the chicken and learned about how to put together a brooder to
properly care for the chicks. During our last field trip to Hillside Farms we returned
the chicks. It has been a very exciting school year and we are really looking forward to
a fun filled summer!
Established in 2008, The Graham Academy is a special education school in Kingston
which serves students living with autism or emotional challenges. Students are
enrolled in grades K - 12 from school districts throughout Luzerne, Lackawanna,
Carbon, and Schuylkill counties. For more information about The Graham Academy,
please contact Nick Ouellette at 570-283-0641 or [email protected]. You
can also visit thegrahamacademy.com to learn more.
During Family and Consumer Science class we had the chance to make all types of
foods from snacks and desserts, to main course dishes and fresh vegetables we helped
grow in our garden. A few of our favorite dishes over the course of the year were
making stuffed chicken breasts, dehydrating different types of apples to make apple
chips and making homemade pizzas with a variety of toppings.
For our Transition period, we really enjoyed working on our school yearbook. Our
class took pictures in all of our classes and at our school events. We designed the
layout for the text and pictures on certain pages including our class page. We also
learned about resume writing and interview skills, including the importance of being
on time and being properly dressed. Our class also talked about driver’s education and
what the requirements are to get a learner’s permit in Pennsylvania. We watched safety
videos and talked about the importance of not only not drinking and driving, but also
not to text when driving.
In Humanities class we studied different countries and their cultures leading up to
our World Discovery Day at the end of February. The country we researched in depth
and presented was Canada. We made a traditional Canadian dessert and made a table
hockey game along with a Power Point presentation on famous Canadian facts and
locations. The second half of the school year we learned about various artists. We
learned about Monet, Van Gogh and Cezanne as painters. We also studied
photographers such as Ansel Adams, Margaret Bourke-White and Andrew
Goldworthy, the famous naturalist artist. Goldworthy used only natural materials in his
art such as leaves, twigs, and stones when creating art.
The class that we enjoyed the most was our Environmental Science class in which we
were able to work in the garden. We had the opportunity to grow chestnut trees from
saplings in our classroom. We also made a Mason beehive to help attract bees to our
garden to increase our pollination rate. We worked on our problem solving skills by
deciding where to mount the Mason beehive to find the optimal location in the garden.
We also had the opportunity to design and build keyhole garden beds for the front of
our school. We really enjoyed measuring the wood and then constructing the beds
using the electric drill.
In physical education, the games we enjoyed playing the most were team handball,
flag football, and kickball. Team handball taught us the importance of communicating
with our teammates and passing the ball to every person on the team in order to score a
point. Flag football and kickball helped energize us for the rest of the day by getting
our blood pumping and our endorphins increasing!
425 Tioga Avenue Kingston, PA 18704
(570) 288-6543
www.kingstonpeds.com
Family Summer Safety Class
Spending time outside is both fun and important to our health. Summer is a fun time to
enjoy activities both inside and outside. Whether they are young children or teenagers,
learn ways to keep your kids safe and healthy while they enjoy summer fun. This class
will discuss water safety, sunscreen, heat exhaustion, insect bites, insect repellents and
street safety. This is a FREE CLASS we offer call today to register or visit us on line.
Ready, Set, Home Class
By now you probably attended Prenatal Classes - you know how to breathe through
those contractions and the proper way to “push”. But now it is time to take your little
bundle of joy home! When do I feed the baby and how much? Why is the baby crying?
Why are they pooping all of the time? How do I soothe the baby? Why isn't the baby
sleeping like they did in the hospital? Let our Baby Whisperer guide and prepare you
for what to expect in both the most exciting, yet scariest times!!
By attending this class you'll learn how to read your baby's cues. How to soothe your
baby those first few nights home and beyond. You will learn key tips and tricks on how
to care for your baby and help alleviate common fears new parents often feel when
bringing baby home for first time. This is a FREE CLASS offered every second
TUESDAY of the month call today to register or visit us on line.
Asthma Summer Management Class
Don't let Asthma spoil your Summer Fun! Summer is a great time for children to
recharge and play outdoors. But not a good time to take a break from asthma
medications and asthma management.
In this class we will review summer tips to prevent asthma attacks, we will review and
demonstrate the various medication delivery devices, and discuss some summer travel
tips for kids with asthma, all to help you maintain control as you move into the next
fall season. Please bring all asthma supplies and join me in a relaxed family friendly
atmosphere. This is a FREE CLASS we offer call today to register or visit us on line .
Westsidebulletin - Page 19
The Edwardsville Active Adult Center
57 Russell Street
Edwardsville, Pa. 18704
Manager: Rachael Kiwak (570)287-3381
Rotary Club of Kingston
June 2016 Newsletter
Daily Activities- Books, magazines, puzzles, shuffleboard, cards, coupon swap,
computer use, coloring, T.V. and Wii
Weekly Scheduled ActivitiesMonday – 1:00pm to 1:30pm Card Club
Tuesday – 11:30am to 12:00pm Healthy Steps
12:15pm to 12:30 Nutrition Discussion
Wednesday – 11:00am to 11:30am Singing Club
1:00pm to 1:30pm Shuffleboard Club
Thursday – 11:30 to 12:00pm Healthy Steps
1:00pm to 1:30pm BINGO!!!!
Friday – 1:00pm to 1:30pm Crochet Club
Special Events and Programs for the month·
Every Tuesday and Thursday in June: 10:00am to 12:00pmA Matter of
Balance – instructed by Peggy Austin, Master Trainer
•
June 3rd (Friday) 10:30am – Blood Pressure Checks provided by Ashley
Adams, CRNP from SpiriTrust Home Care
·
June 6th (Monday) 11:15am Speaker: Alyssa Stencavage (Home Instead) Topic: Medication Management
·
June 8th(Wednesday) 12:30pm – Smoothie Day!!!
·
June 10th(Friday) 12:00pm-3:00pm OPEN HOUSE!!! Pierogi Festival –
12:00pm – 10:00pm
•
June 11th(Saturday) 10:00am – 2:00pm OPEN HOUSE!!! Pierogi Festi
val – 10:00am – 10:00pm
·
June 13th(Monday) 10:00am- 2:00pm – Farmers Market Voucher Dist.
Volunteers arrive at 9:00am – BAG LUNCH!!!
·
June 15th(Wednesday) June Birthday Party!!!!
·
June 16th(Thursday) 1:00pm – Special BINGO!!! Sponsored by Maryanne from Highland Manor
·
June 17th(Friday) Special Father’s Day Lunch Speaker: Rep. Aaron
Kaufer – Time: 11:15am Topic: Update and Discussion on Current State
Government Topics
Standing: Ed Kopec Kingston Rotary, Stephanie O’Keefe, Mooretown Mill,
Amy Campbell, Amy Craig, Lori Girvan, Families for Forty Fort Park.
Kneeling: Brian O’Keefe, Mooretown Mill, Rob Craig, Families for Forty Fort,
Brian Wilson, Ed Stanks, Kinston Rotary, and Josh Weale, Forty Fort Lions.
The Rotary Club of Kingston along with members of the Lions club of Forty Fort and
members of the Families for Forty Fort Park meet to discuss their plans for a future
project that would benefit the Forty Fort community. They are currently working together to finalize grants for the building of a 24’ X 60’ Timber Frame Pavilion.
June 20th(Monday) 1:00pm – Entertainment provided by Vocal Accord
Barbershop Quartet
·
June 23rd(Thursday) Center Closed – Bag Lunch given day before .
·
June 29th(Wednesday) Celebrating our PETS!!! Refreshments, Snacks
and FUN!!!!
Enjoy the Festivities and check us out next month!
Brian and Stephanie O’Keefe explain the structure and details of how the Timber
Frame Pavilion will be constructed and the materials used to complete the Pavilion.
All of the lumber used is 6 X 8 and all trusses will have plates on both sides of truss.
Mooretown Mill is located in Sweet Valley, Pa 18656. www.mooretownmill.com
Westsidebulletin - Page 20
KINGSTON ACTIVE ADULT CENTER
335 THIRD AVENUE
KINGSTON PA 18704
570-287-1102
Sandy Acornley-Director, Jean Spindler-Asst. Director
Michele Fagula-Nutrition Manager
Senior Aides-MaryAnn Diaz, Sandy Ostrowski, Bruce Yarmey
Kingston Active Adult Center
JUNE, 2016
Daily Activities: Coffee, Computer Use, Shuffleboard, Puzzles, Games
Monday: 10:45 Healthy Steps, 1:00 Line Dancing, 1:00 Drama/Comedy Group
Tuesday: 10:00 Let Your Yoga Dance, 10:00 Computer Class, 11:00 Aerobics,
12:30 Bingo, 12:45 Belly Dancing
Wednesday: 10:00 Seniorcize, 10:45 Weights, 1:00 Mahjong
Thursday: 10:45 Healthy Steps, 12:30 Bingo, 12:45 Belly Dancing
Friday: 10:45 Weights
Thursday, June 2nd – 8:00p.m. – WVIA will broadcast “Our Town: Kingston”
and the Kingston Active Adult Center will be featured in it! 11:40 – Nutrition – “Vary
Your Protein Routine”
MONDAY, JUNE 6TH – FARMER’S MARKET VOUCHER DAY AT KINGSTON!!! 9:00 – 2:00 – Bring a photo ID and proof of residency to receive your 4 $5.00 vouchers to use at local farmer’s markets this summer. Bag Lunches may be preordered. There will be NO center activities that day, and there will be NO van transportation.
Tuesday, June 7th – 10:30 BP Checks with Traditional Hospice 10:45 – Special Presentation on “IDENTITY THEFT” by Janene Holter, a special agent from the Office of
the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of PA
Thursday, June 9th – 11:40 - Nutrition – “Make ½ Of Your Grains Whole Grains”
Wednesday, June 15th – 12:45 SPECIAL BINGO sponsored by RIVER RUN
REHAB AND NURSING CENTER
Thursday, June 16th – 10:30 –Staff from State Representative Aaron Kaufer’s
Office will be on-site to assist with Property Tax/Rent Rebate Forms
11:40 – Nutrition – “Food Safety” 1:00 – Alzheimer’s Support Group
Friday, June 17th – FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL LUNCH
Tuesday, June 21nd – 10:30 – BP Checks with Manor Cal1 1:15 Meditation with Jean
Thursday, June 23rd – BAG LUNCH – CENTER WILL BE CLOSED FOR ACTIVITIES “Employee Enrichment Day” - Agency Meeting
Tuesday, June 28th – 11:15 – “Open Mic” – speak with Jean if you want to showcase
your talent
Wednesday, June 29th – 1:00-5:00 – AARP DRIVER SAFETY REFRESHER CLASS
AARP Members $15.00, Non-Members $20.00, must be pre-registered
Thursday, June 30th– 10:00-1:00– 3rd Annual “SPRING INTO SUMMER” Fitness
Walk at Kirby Park – Pavilion #3, Bag Lunches and entertainment by DJ George Rittenhouse SALAD BAR ALTERNATE LUNCH MENU – at center 11:40 –
Nutrition – “Tips For Dining Out”
The Kingston Active Adult Center recently held a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon.
Individuals who have contributed to the center in various ways during the past year
were recognized and presented with a gift bag.
Those honored were: Seated, Barbara Millikin and Kathleen Yanchuk. Standing, Barbara Piestrak, Dan Piestrak, Carolyn Tavella, Sarah Derhammer, Frank Warunek, Margaret Craig, Jack Granahan, Joe Kozich, John O'Rourke, Art Spindler, Esther Paratore,
MaryAnn Prince, Jude Lane, Sylvia Phillips and Robert Aaron.
Carla C. Jagodzinski
Financial Services Professional*
and Licensed Agent
PA Ins. Lic. #403788
New York Life Insurance Company
220 Penn Avenue, Suite 100
Scranton, PA 18503
Cell 570.991.0434
Tel. 570.340.1327
Fax 570.343.0617
Bus. 570.969.3111
[email protected]
Life Insurance, Annuity and Ling-Term
Care Options from New York Life
Westsidebulletin - Page 21
Our Own
Sheep
Casing
HOT
DOGS
Fetch’s
Kielbassi Shop
Meat Market
Ribs
Without Fetch’s
Kielbassi
NO WAY!!!
Great BBQ Specials
Foot Long Hot Dogs
12 in. Buns most of the Time
Chicken Tenders & Breast
Choice Steaks
T-Bone Steaks
Spare Ribs
Baby Back Ribs
Porketta Patties
Sausage Patties
Bacon Cheese Patties
Beef Patties
Chicken Legs, Breast, & Thighs
Fresh Beef Briskets
180 Wyoming Avenue
Wyoming, PA 18644
570-693-3069
Students Place in GFWC Art Contest
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs of
Pennsylvania sponsored an art contest, “The Arts
Cupboard”. The GFWC-West Side Women’s
Club, a volunteer community service organization,
sponsored the area contest in the Wyoming Valley
West School District. One hundred and eight-six
students entered the contest. Judges were Erin
Murray, art teacher at Wyoming Valley West Middle School and Jill Barrouk, art teacher at State
Street Elementary School. Becky McCuen was
chairman of the event. Each student received a certificate of participation and a coupon for tokens to Chuck E cheese. The ninety-eight
students who finished first through fourteenth place also received gift certificates from
Marquis Art and Frame, Movies 14, Sue Hand’s Imagery, Grotto Pizza, Tommy’s
Pizza Corner, Ollies Family Restaurant, Abe’s Hot dogs Wilkes-Barre, Chicken Coop,
Sweet Frog, Hoopla, That Bounce Place, Reese’s Classic Pizza and Budd’s Pizza Café. The top twelve winners were also given membership into the Junior Art League of
Wilkes-Barre. Seven art kits were donated by GFWC-West Side.
First row from left: Maggie Lupcho, first place, living things photography, at
club, county and district level; Aubrey McManus, second place, photography, at
club level; Jordyn Kuharcik, Alexis Fassett, first place, art water color, at club
level and second place at district level; Heath Stochla, second place, art water
color, at club level; Rowan Clark, 3rd place, art water color, at club level; Victoria O’Konski, and Mackenzie Bucheister.
Second row: Becky McCuen, arts chairman; Abigail Atchue, Caitlynn Semanek,
Jayslin Pritchard, Anna Myers, Zibiah Walton, Alyssa McClellan, Ryan Roth,
and Deidre Miller-Kaminski, President GFWC-West Side.
Third row: Jill Barrouk, art teacher; Nathan Fox, Alexiana Davison, Isabella
Fenner, Cierra Gaffney, Julianna Stull, Joanne Temarantz and Irv DeRemer,
Director of Elementary Education WVW.
Participants absent from photo are: Nathan Higgins and Brooke Stevenson.
Amy Owen
Owner
77 Wyoming Avenue
Wyoming, PA 18644
570-510-9008
Mon - Closed, Tues - Fri 11-6, Sat 10 - 6, Sun 12 - 4
ALL CLOTHING $16.00 AND LESS!!!
Westsidebulletin - Page 22
To Roll Over or Not to Roll Over?
By Martin A. Federici, Jr., CEO of MF Advisers, Inc.
When someone leaves a job and they have a retirement plan that
was offered from that employer (ex: a 401(k) or 403(b) plan), the
person has 2 options:
Find an experienced financial advisor who frequently deals with potential rollovers,
works for an RIA firm, earns his/her money from fees (NOT commissions), believes in
having an abundance of investment choices for clients, and has the heart & demeanor
of a teacher, NOT a salesman, and chances are you’ve found the right financial advisor
to help you prepare and plan for retirement.
For more information, please visit http://www.mfadvisers.com, email
[email protected], or call (570) 760-6524.
1.
Leave the retirement funds in the employer plan (provided
certain rules are met), or
About MF Advisers, Inc.
2.
Roll the plan over into their own IRA or another former employer plan that is
still funded
MF Advisers, Inc. is a full-service, fee-only RIA firm and fiduciary based in PA & FL
specializing in 403(b)s, 401(k)s, wealth management, investment advice, and financial
planning (including retirement planning).
So the big question is: when does it make sense to roll over a retirement plan? There
are a few reasons to consider rolling it over into your own IRA, and there are a few
considerations if you want to keep it in the employer’s plan. Let’s discuss the options,
and see which factors come into play when deciding what is best for your situation.
With 20+ years of licensed experience, over 10 years of professional education, and an
unwavering commitment to improving your financial situation, MF Advisers, Inc. is
the advisory firm to best serve YOU.
Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIN
Let’s tackle one of the big factors: fees charged. Does your former employer’s plan
have a lot of fees (administrative, expensive fund charges, etc.)? If the plan is too expensive that may be a bad sign. Remember: More expenses = less growth of your
money over time. Do some homework on the plan’s charges, and the expense ratios of
the investment choices offered. You may have a great plan in this area, or it may be a
fee disaster that you need to get out of ASAP!
Wyoming Seminary is offering an engaging and exciting mix of arts, athletics, academic and activities camps in June, July and August to area students in early childhood, elementary, middle and high school.
Another factor: number and quality of investment choices. Does your former
employer’s plan have a sufficient number of investment options to choose from? If
you don’t have between 20-30 choices to pick from, chances are the plan may not be
as diverse as you may need it to be for you to reach your retirement goals with the
proper allocation (everyone’s different). How is the quality of those investment options? Are they well-known funds that have performed well over long periods of time,
or are they just average at best? Are they expensive? Does the expense ratio of each
fund outweigh the potential gains over time? These are all important questions that
need answers as well.
The Early Summer Fun at Sem camp runs June 6-24 and includes a wide variety of
activities in adventure, writing, crafts, technology and sports. Children ages 4 to first
grade may choose from workshops featuring fairies, Mini Olympics, crafts, Sport-ADay, superheroes and birds, among others. Children entering grades 2-4 will enjoy
workshops on LEGO stop-motion movies, “Fancy Nancy,” LEGO robotics, Magic
Treehouse, Sem Chef Junior, Pinkalicious and others. Students entering grades 5-8
may sign up for sessions on LEGO simple machines and stop-motion movies, SportA-Day, Mandarin Chinese, iOS Photography, computer coding, Masters of Music
and “Fearless Girls—Wise Women,” among others.
If you decide to roll the money over into your own IRA, you can typically gain a
greater measure of control over your investment options (why limit yourself just to
funds, esp. if your former employer’s plan is lacking in that area and/or has expensive/
poor-performing options?). In an IRA at a brokerage firm, you can invest in bonds,
stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, CDs, etc. You truly have a lot more options in your own
IRA. You also may be able to lower your expenses (depending on the commissions
charged, expenses, advisory fees, etc.), which can be important over time. Why pay
more than you need to pay? No one should!
All sessions will be held at the Lower School, 1560 Wyoming Avenue, Forty Fort.
You may have access to an advisor at your former employer’s plan, or maybe you
don’t – and if that’s an important factor to you, you may want to hire your own financial advisor to help you with retirement matters (a fiduciary would be best). It’s not an
easy decision, but having the right financial professional can help you to decide
whether it makes sense to keep that former plan where it is, or to roll it over into an
account that has more benefits for your particular situation. If you’re not a do-it-yourselfer, make sure you hire a fiduciary to advise you on whether you should roll over
that plan or stay put. You’ll be glad that you did, and you’re welcome!
Wyoming Seminary
A new middle-school Summer STEM Program, featuring workshops on computer programming and the physics of sports, will be held at Wyoming Seminary Upper School
June 27-July 8. Students entering grades 6-9 will learn the basics of computer programming using Raspberry Pi, will build bat houses and will construct and launch
water rockets during the first week. The second week of the program will include opportunities to learn about sports equipment and how different materials affect speed;
students also will build and race cardboard canoes. The program will focus on small
daily projects and explorations, followed by a large challenge project.
The Junior Performing Arts Institute, running July 25-August 6 at the Upper School,
is a high energy and high quality musical experience for children in grades 5-8 who
have two years experience with their instrument. Open to voice, string, woodwind,
brass, percussion and piano players, Junior PAI is designed to inspire young
musicians to make the leap into a lifetime of music making through classes and a
recital which begins PAI's final weekend.
For more information on any of these camps and PAI, call the Summer at Sem office
at570-270-2161 or visit the web site at www.wyomingseminary.org/summer.
Westsidebulletin - Page 23
Pictures Of The Valley From Years Past
Young men
Bathing at the
Old Plymouth Rock,
Plymouth, PA
C. 1900
“From the Collection
of the
Luzerne County
Historical Society”
Toombs Fine
Grocery Store
Located at 343 S. Main
Street,
Wilkes-Barre, PA
C.1900
Westsidebulletin - Page 24