Lackawanna County Interagency

Council

Held @ The Salvation Army on January 17, 2007

We had 27 members present representing 27 agencies: Chris Davis, Jane Oswald, Cheryl Rutkowski, Frankie Ferraro, Cheryl Roglich, Jim Fiesta, Nancy Fahey, Keri Nat, Terry Stocki, Mickey McConnon, Maria Munley, Jim Simoncelli, Judi Cimino, William Torres, Marion Figula, Jeff Sadavage, Maria Pappa, Vikki Crosby, Ann Loyek, Linda Denault, Olga Harper, Ann Lynady, Janice Lamm, Ann Pusateri, Janet Burton, Stig Fromm, Dorothy Taticchi.

Introductions were made. Minutes were reviewed and approved. Treasurer reported a balance of

Ø The topic for the Spring Luncheon was discussed and will be focused on health. Topics/speakers will be for childhood obesity and bullying. The luncheon will be held on the 3^rd Wednesday in April: April 18, 2007.

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.

Frankie Ferraro suggested creating a flyer for Experience Works with its eye clinic program. This flyer could be sent via e-mail for members to post and it would also be made available at the next meeting.

Ø Friendly reminder for the Chocoholic Frolic on February 18^th at the Radisson. Cost is $20.00 and benefits SCOLA literacy. Phone: # 570-346-6203 or website: www.scolaliteracy.org.

The slate of new officers for the fiscal year 2007 were introduced, motioned, second and passed by everyone attending. Our new president, Jane Oswald presented out-going president Chris Davis with a gift of appreciation. Chris Davis among many things stated: “It’s been my honor to serve you.”

Chris Davis with all her efforts and kindness will always be a cornerstone to its development and on-going success.

Ø A membership committee was discussed. Next meeting, we are requesting individuals to volunteer for a possible e-mail campaign. In addition, Jane Oswald called for our next meeting to be a General Planning Meeting to layout plans for the year 2007.

Ø The EOTC @ 570-348-6484 and Scranton Area Family Center @ 570-348-6493, offered to the group an outreach program called: Responsible Fatherhood Program. This program helps fathers in many areas: healthy relationships, maintain gainful employment, parenting skills, and access to community service. There are brochures and referral forms available.

Ø The Northeast Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at Friendship House announced their Second Annual Spring Break for Autism. This will be held on March 30, 2007 from 7 pm – 11 pm at The Parish Center in Dunmore. The catering done by Cosgrove’s Clubhouse & Tavern and music by Exact Change. For information or donations call 570-342-8305 ext. 2038.

Ø Mary Ann LaPorta, Director/CAC/NEPA, in a kind letter, thanked the IAC on behalf of the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Christmas was sweeter this year for the Children's Advocacy Center/NEPA, because of your kind & thoughtful Christmas donation...an IAC donation that was worth far more than the $100.00 check...an IAC donation that reflects support & empathy for the CAC mission.

On behalf of the Children's Advocacy Center, & the child victims of abuse & neglect whom we serve, thank you for your personal & professional attention to protecting innocent children & preserving their innocence. Your contribution was used to provide Holiday snacks & fruit juices to the children.

Ø Vicki Crosby from the Maternal Family Health Partnership thanked IAC for their donation at Christmas. A great holiday party was enjoyed and celebrated by forty families of 80-100 people. The donation was much appreciated and their celebration successful.

Ø Consumer Credit Counseling Services announced upcoming information on 2/26 for Identity Theft and on 3/22 for Fight Predatory Lending. Please call for info: 570-602-2227 or check their website: Consumer Credit Counseling http://www.cccnepa.org/.

Ø United Way of Lackawanna County announced free tax prep. Information will be e-mailed.

Ø A Women’s Wellness Day sponsored by AmeriHealth Mercy was announced for May 10, 2007. They are in need of vendors and workshop speakers. Nancy Fahey will provide more information at an upcoming meeting.

Ø AmeriHealth Mercy also had a powerful handout on American Stroke Association. The objective is to serve as a volunteer Power to End Stroke Ambassador to reduce the risk of stroke. The handout described a ten point service with additional supports. Please contact for more info: Call 1-888-4-STROKE or visit Stroke Association.org/power

Ø IAC Newsletter was discussed as bimonthly. For the upcoming Feb/March, send or e-mail info to Janet Oswald by end of January: oswaldj2@scranton.edu.

Ms. Loyek described a wonderful partnership among three leading institutions: Mercy Hospital, Marian Community Hospital (Maxis Health System) and Marywood University. The mission is to offer innovative health and wellness programming to women of NEPA.