Lackawanna County Interagency

Council

Held @ The Salvation Army on February 21, 2007

We had 21 attendees present representing 20 agencies: Jane Oswald, Chris Davis, Cheryl Rutkowski, Ann Lynady, Linda Denault, Janet Burton, Maria Pappa, Judi Cimino, Jim Fiesta, Mark Taffera, Cheryl Roglich, Joanne Stephens, Nancy Fahey, Margaret Suarez, Sharon Quinn, Kim Jones, Brooke Addley, Marion Figula, Janine Crosby, Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, Evie Vitali,

Introductions were made. Minutes were reviewed; Judi Cimino motioned to approve and

Ann Lynady seconded. Treasurer reported a balance of $ 622.37 as of January 31, 2007.

Ø The discussion of the Spring Luncheon was continued from the last meeting. Chris Davis suggested that Castaldis from South Scranton be contracted again this year to cater the luncheon. Everyone was satisfied with the food last year and we would be assured a good event on April 18 at the Salvation Army site. Members are asked to bring desserts.

Ø An up-date was given about the Chocoholic Frolic which was conducted on February 18^th at the Radisson in Scranton. Area restaurants and food suppliers donated chocolate foodstuffs to benefit the SCOLA Literacy program. It was a great success again this year.

Ø Nancy Fahey of AmeriHealth MERCY is willing to sponsor the Spring Luncheon. However, a Federal ID number is required by the organization in order to provide the sponsorship dollars. If a number is secured, the organization will be eligible for additional donations in the future. Also, many members can not get dues paid for by their non-profit without the tax ID number.

Jim Festa of the Red Cross suggested that the United Way be contacted and ask for advise about how about to go about getting/or if the group should try to get a number of its own. In the past, the IRS has advised group members that it is not necessary considering our disbursements have been less than $1000.00 per year. Chris Davis suggested contacting John Bogdonovitch at Legal Aid; he has worked with the group in the past and may be able to give us direction.

It was mentioned that the Monroe County IAC may be able to help since they are an established and active organization. Sharon Quinn, who is also a member of the Monroe County IAC, will contact them and get information about their Federal Tax ID status.

Ø Mary Ann LaPorta of the Children’s Advocacy Center has forwarded a letter regarding its national accreditation. A copy is printed in the February/March Council newsletter.

Ø Marian Fagula of Experience Works spoke about an on going low-cost eye clinic. The next clinic will be February 28, 2007 from 11 AM – 12 noon at Career Link. There are income guidelines, although proof of income is not necessary. The eye clinic program is for anyone, all ages. The cost is $36.00 with a prescription from your eye doctor of your choice. Payment is made at the time of the appointment with cash or money order. Call to make an appointment at 1-800-704-9170.

Ø Margaret Suarez of the Salvation Army reminded members that Crisis and LIHEEP dollars are available until March 8. These funds will cover shut-off notices from February 1 or later.

Ø Mark Taffera of the Rose Center announced a workshop on Mediation and Conflict Resolution Skills will be conducted by his group. He is looking for referrals. This program could be an alternative to litigation.

Ø Linda Denault announced that the Shriner’s Hospital will conduct a free Orthopedic Outreach Clinic for children in Wilkes-Barre on March 18^th from 10-2pm. For more information, please call 1-800-282-4040.

Ø Jane Oswald of the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute asked for team captains for the annual Colon Cancer Awareness Day which is scheduled for March 18. Participants are allowed to dress down on job sites which are part of the fundraiser.

Ø Jim Festa of the Red Cross told members about the April 10 planning session at the Salvation Army about pandemic planning. “How to Develop a Coop Plan” will help businesses and organization make necessary decisions regarding this important issue. It is important to have a continuity of operations throughout our region and these sessions help develop these plans.

Ø Judi Cimino of the Department of Public Welfare is the agency’s new contact person.

Ø Officers are interested in suggestions for future meeting speakers. Each member is asked to provide the name of six potential speakers.

Ø Jim Festa will contact Dr. Yuroski who works with the Red Cross regarding Pandemic Planning for possible presentation in the spring.