Clarks Summit
Every year around Christmastime, Henry Smith, M.D., sends a gift to Allied Services Integrated Health System.
This year, the director of pulmonary services at Heinz Rehab Hospital in Wilkes-Barre produced a calendar showcasing the different services offered at Allied Services.
The 9-by-12-inch calendar features 15 pictures of Dr. Smith's "favorite exterior locales," as well as 12 pediatric patients served by Allied and Heinz who have achieved significant milestones, said Julie Judge, a public relations specialist for Allied Services.
"It is great because it puts the spotlight on our patients who are making great strides in their rehab," Ms. Judge said. "We are so grateful for him."
miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @rmiorfinoTT on Twitter
Honesdale
Residents of Wayne Woodlands Manor and Wayne Memorial Hospital received some seasonal surprises on Monday.
Members of the Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary delivered 190 potted plants at the long-term-care facility and hospital, a tradition that has been in place for years.
Joan Buehl wasn't sure when it began, but it has been a yearly practice at least since she became a member in 2003.
"Just seeing somebody bringing something in, smiling and talking, would make anybody happy," she said of the gifts, adding that the active organization holds many fundraisers throughout the year to support the hospital with supplies and the residents with cheer.
For more information on upcoming events or becoming a member, call 226-9750.
rbrown@timesshamrock.com, @rbrownTT on Twitter
La Plume
A number of Keystone College officials are working to ensure Sandy Hook Elementary students in Newtown, Conn., will feel welcome when they arrive at a Monroe, Conn., school after winter break.
As part of a "Snowflakes for Sandy Hook" program launched by the Connecticut Parent Teacher Association, officials have created snowflakes to help decorate the walls at the school.
The goal, a news release said, is to have students welcomed back by a "winter wonderland."
"Alissa Lastres, the career outreach assistant, read something about it online and wanted to help," Keystone College spokesman Fran Calpin said. "The community wants to help in any way it can."
Among those involved are Robert Perkins, Ph.D., vice president of student affairs and dean of students, and area coordinators Lori King and Robert Griffin.
miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter
Mayfield
For their service to the borough, council members are provided a $900 stipend each year.
This year, Councilmen George Pittsman and James Depoti are using that money to benefit organizations close to their hearts.
Mr. Depoti will donate his money to the Wounded Warrior Project to honor his nephew, Marine Staff Sgt. Patrick Dolphin, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2011 at the age of 29.
"We do this in memory of our nephew," he said.
Mr. Pittsman will donate to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Jermyn, where he is a member, as well as the Bishop's Annual Appeal and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
"I've been fortunate enough to have three happy and healthy children," he said. "Unfortunately, that dream doesn't work out like all parents want it to."
He hopes his actions will set an example for his children.
rbrown@timesshamrock.com, @rbrownTT on Twitter
Old Forge
Another year means another holiday toy drive in Old Forge that filled two SUVs with toys.
Borough Manager MaryLynn Bartoletti attributes the success to the generosity of the borough employees, the community and the University of Scranton baseball team that her husband, Michael, coaches.
"It ranged from balls to remote-control cars to princess dolls," Mrs. Bartoletti said, describing the toys that were donated.
The fifth annual drive lasted from Dec. 1 to 17, with all toys donated to Catholic Social Services.
jkohut@timesshamrock.com, @jkohutTT on Twitter
Taylor
For 25 years, a holiday basketball tournament in Taylor has attracted a large crowd and raised a lot of money for the community.
Gene Evanish, treasurer of the Taylor Lions Club and chairman of the tournament, wants to make the 26th a proper addition to that legacy.
"It is successful because good people and good teams want to play," Mr. Evanish said. "And partly a little bit of luck."
The tournament will run every day from Wednesday to Saturday at Riverside High School. The first game is at 6 p.m. with the second game starting 20 minutes after the first.
General admission is $4 and student admission is $2.
jkohut@timesshamrock.com, @jkohutTT on Twitter