Students, faculty, staff, and visitors at Penn State Wilkes-Barre are encouraged to donate blood at the Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Athletics & Recreation Building gymnasium. Blood donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in generally good health. Many medications are acceptable for blood donors. If you have eligibility questions please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit http://www.givelife.org/.

Throwing Toasters, a one-man comedy rock band, will perform at Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday, January 30, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m., in the Student Commons lounge.

Throwing Toasters combines the hilarious songwriting of Tenacious D with the onstage energy of Barenaked Ladies. The only difference is that all the songs are clean there is only one band member, Grant Baciocco. The rest of the members of seem to be figments of Grant’s imagination. This does not seem to deter this one man comedy rock show from being a side splittingly funny and super high energy affair.

Throwing Toasters has toured colleges and clubs all over the United States and played at the Tokyo Dome in Japan helping to open the 2003 – 2004 NFL season. This unique and refreshingly clean “one man comedy rock band” will give the audience a performance they will not soon forget!

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Jackie at 570-675-9284 or email JackieWP@psu.edu.

William E. Bachman, instructor in Communication Arts & Sciences at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, was invited to present "Frances Slocum…A Study in Video Story Telling" at the 2007 Hawaii International Conference on Arts & Humanities on January 12–15 in Honolulu.

Natives of northeastern Pennsylvania may be familiar with the story of Frances Slocum who, at the age of five, was kidnapped by Indians and taken to Indiana where she lived for 60 years as a Miami Indian Queen known as Maconaquah. Frances would never see her parents again, but thanks to the persistence of her siblings, she was reunited with them in 1837.

Bachman has been spearheading an effort to bring a historically accurate video account of the life of Frances Slocum to elementary and secondary schools in both Pennsylvania and Indiana. According to Bachman, bringing this story to life in film presented unique challenges from casting of characters to selection of locations for historically accurate depictions of the time period. “Frances Slocum…Lost Daughter of Wyoming,” is a work in progress with scripting completed and initial shooting begun.  Historical accuracy in both content and location shooting is a prime focus of this presentation.

The film project will carry with it a teacher’s study guide developed by the author.  Upon completion, the finished product will also be offered to regional museums and historical societies where the author’s previous film projects have been received. Additional consideration will be given to the issues of promoting the finished television program and arranging for a combination of public and commercial television airing of the piece.

Bachman earned his B.F.A. and M.A. in Communication Arts from the New York Institute of Technology. He has been an instructor at the Wilkes-Barre campus since 2002 where he teaches a variety of communication courses from speech communication to organizational communications and mass media and society.

One hundred and twelve students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre have been named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2006 semester. According to Dr. Theodora Jankowski, director of academic affairs, full-time students must achieve at least a 3.5 grade point average and be enrolled for twelve or more credits to qualify for the Dean’s List. Part-time students achieve Dean's List status when a minimum total of twelve credits are completed and grades across these combined semesters result in a grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

The following students have been named to the Dean’s List for fall 2006:

Ashley: Michelle K. Cerski

Bala Cynwyd: Ashley D. Gratzinger

Barnesville: Kyle J. Jones

Bear Creek Twp.: David P. Van Maanen

Benton: Jarod K. Salsman

Boyers: Kaitlin M. Harding

Courtdale: Robert W. Winkler

Dallas:  Christopher Grieves, Natalie C. Herron, Julie K. Kapson, Alex J. Tasco, Elliott T. Wright, Robert W. Justice, J.S. Rave

Dalton: Matthew T. Molinaro

Duryea: Scott Lambert, Anthony M. Macario

Edwardsville: Megan Ide, Sarah A. Mioduski

Exeter: Heather M. Frazier, Matthew V. Peppe

Falls: Rebecca Mattei

Forty Fort: Charlene M. Adzema; Eric I. Huff; Jacob N. Kovalchik; Adam M. Wiernusz

Hanover Township: Patrick J. Guesto; Matthew J. Sokola;

Harveys Lake: Christopher A. Moses; John M. Saviano; Adam C. Sutliff

Hatboro: Gwen S. Cunningham

Hunlock Creek: Philip M. Casper; Shannon E. Lazo

Inkerman: Ellen McGinty

Jenkins Township: Jonelle M. Lasky

Jermyn: Anthony P. Shulde

Jim Thorpe: Christopher G. Griffith

Johnstown: James E. Goble

Kingston:  Jessica I. Gabel; Melissa J. Gunshannon; Sarah L. Hohol; Jason P. Moran; Jennifer A. Shumbris; William R. Gabriel        

Laceyville: Kylie L. Salsman

Lagrangeville: Michael J. Michetti

Luzerne: Benjamin F. Moores

McAdoo: David E. Dougherty

Mehoopany: Jeremy D. Denmon

Meshoppen: Collin K. Lunger

Milan: Brittany L. South

Mountaintop: Christopher L. Zawada; Marisa C. Orloski

Nanticoke: Paul J. Richards; Adam J. Walski

Northampton: Monica M. Bugbee

Oakland, NJ: Bryant C. Wright

Oreland: Ashley E. Weber

Pennsdale: Kassondra K. Frantz

Pittston: Michael F. Bressler; Kaitlin Monick; Wendy A. Perschau

Plains: Christopher S. Moore; Eric Pehala; Nicholas A. Shegda             

Plymouth: George R. Jones; Jacqueline Stone; Ann M. Verbyla

Pocono Lake: Alexander Levitin; Christopher J. Wagner

Pottsville: George J. Dronick

Pringle: Alison M. Shilcote

Punxsutawney: Nathan B. Stiteler

Saylorsburg: Afton N. Debarry

Scranton: Alexandra M. Forgione

Shavertown: Tara E. Zukosky; Paul T. Halbach; Janine M. Mitkus; Christopher R. Nelson; Jonathan T. Nutche; Ann Marie Silvestri; Jessica L. Wysocki; Susan K. Wysocki; Catherine J. Zimmer

Stroudsburg: Michelle M. Yosh

Sugar Notch: Christopher P. Spinucci

Sweet Valley: Donna S. Smith; Brian C. Stempien

Swoyersville: Stephanie L. Jacobs; Anthony E. Smith; James T. Waters             

Trucksville: Jeremy B. Gillis

Tunkhannock: Jennifer Higgins; Holly J. Valvano; Kenneth A. Young

Wapwallopen: John P. Webby

West Pittston: Anthony R. Mathers

West Wyoming: Brian Kolesa; John E. Yorina

Wilkes Barre: Adam R. Hughes; Paula P. Perez; Justin M. Roman; Jennifer L. Shubilla; Lee P. Stanziale; Nicholas Sufrinko; Frank J. Tedesco; Michelle Zaleski; Derek E. Miller

Williamsport: Isaac D. Karaffa

Wyalusing: Sergey Kononov

Wyoming: Tami Lanunziata; Amanda M. Panuski

Performances by award-winning slam poet, E-Baby, and inspirational speaker, LeCount Holmes, Jr. as Frederick Douglas, will highlight Black History Month at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

E-Baby will bring his unique blend of rap and poetry to the campus on Tuesday, Feb 6, from noon-1 p.m. in the Student Commons Lounge. Known as poetry's "Competition King," E-Baby is well-known on college campuses for his funny, realistic, and emotional poetry. He has won a number of honors including the 2002 Poetology Contest.

On Monday, Feb 26 LeCount Holmes, Jr. will present a realistic portrayal of historical figure, Frederick Douglass, statesman, orator, and leader in the abolitionist movement, from noon-1 p.m., Hayfield House, room 105. Holmes is a motivational/inspirational speaker/trainer and owner of a consulting firm, I Believe in Me/I Believe in You, which provides professional consulting services and presentations to corporations and educational institutions.

Black History Month events are sponsored by the Campus Environment Team and/or the Student Activity Fee. For more information about these events, contact Jackie at 570-675-9284 or JackieWP@psu.edu.

Penn State's Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP) was recently presented with the 2006 Award for Excellence in Workforce Development from the University Economic Development Association (UEDA) for a new education program, designed in conjunction with Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Continuing Education department. The program, focusing on workforce development and customized training for local companies, has been credited with helping Nardone Brother's Pizza in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. gain the skills they need to satisfy the appetites of school children in 35 states and Mexico. Food safety, a critical training need to any food processing company, was the subject of the computerized training modules.

Joe Scharf, Nardone’s quality control manager and safety coordinator, called the program a very successful learning tool, custom-fit to the company's operation - even using actual photos of Nardone's equipment and facilities. In its early stages the program netted more than $74,000 in economic benefits, including 90 days times saved and 25 jobs saved for the family-owned Nardone’s Pizza.

Bill Paletski, PennTAP senior technical specialist and project leader, accepted the award for excellence during UEDA’s annual summit on higher education and economic development in Savannah, Ga. Faculty members of Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences’ Department of Food Science produced education content for the program.  Continuing Education at Penn State Wilkes-Barre is directed by Ina Lubin. 

Penn State Wilkes-Barre faculty members, Dr. Albert Lozano and William Bachman provided the English and Spanish voice-overs for the award-winning learning modules.  Lozano is an associate professor of engineering at the local Penn State campus and Bachman teaches in the communication arts and sciences area.

Parents of students who plan to enroll at Penn State University Fall semester 2007 are invited to attend a Financial Aid Workshop on Monday, February 5th at 6:30pm. The workshop will provide assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Guest speaker will be Mr. Paul Simenson, Director of Student Aid Programs, University Park, who will discuss details of the student aid process.

The Penn State Wilkes-Barre Admissions office has announced the dates for its Penn Stater for a Day program. If you are a High School Junior or Senior, you're invited to visit the campus on Wednesday October 24th, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s your time to be a Penn Stater for a Day! Just choose the date that’s convenient for you, then see for yourself what it’s like to be a Penn State student. Spend a day on the Wilkes-Barre campus, and attend classes, meet the professors, have lunch in the cafeteria, and interact with other students and staff members.

Register now! Call 570.675.9238. You can also sign-up online, or email the Admissions office at wbadmissions@psu.edu.

High school seniors, who have been offered admission to Penn State Wilkes-Barre for the fall 2007 semester, are invited to visit the campus on Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Hayfield House room 105. Students will have the opportunity to meet with faculty to discuss academic majors, learn more about financial aid and scholarships, explore housing options, chat with current students, and tour the campus. The information session will be followed by a complimentary lunch.

Students who have applied for admission, but have not received a response yet, are also welcome to attend. Register on-line (preferred), call 570-675-9238, or email wbadmissions@psu.edu.

The December issue of The Wilkes-Barre Collegian is now available. Copies can be found around campus, or you can view it online here.

Hundreds of high school students travel to Penn State Wilkes-Barre every year in March  to take part in regional math, science, and history competitions, namely the JETS/TEAMS competition, the Northeast Regional Science Olympiad, and National History Day.

On Monday, March12, students from area schools will meet on campus in the Center for Technology to compete in The Junior Engineering Technical Society's (JETS) Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics, and Science (TEAMS). In this one-day, two part academic exam, students use their logic and problem-solving skills applying facts and formulas to solve real-life engineering problems. Designed to introduce students to a “team based” work environment, TEAMS also encourages students to think critically across a variety of academic areas. Students compete for local, state and national recognition and awards. For more information contact John Barnes, regional coordinator JETS/TEAMS competition at 570-675-9229, email jsb2@psu.edu or visit http://www.jets.org/.

On Wednesday, March 14, over 1,000 students from 65 high schools and middle schools will converge on the campus to compete in the Northeast Regional Science Olympiad. The Science Olympiad stimulates interest and encourages learning in biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, problem solving, and technology. From high-flying bottle rockets to science crime busters and meteorology, students use their knowledge and skills to compete in a wide array of categories. Robots  built, eggs dropped, crime scenes analyzed, insects identified, computing skills tested, and satellite images interpreted are all in a days work at the Science Olympiad.

The top six teams from the middle schools and the top seven teams from the high schools advance to state competition at Juniata College on April 27.  For more information, contact Dr. Dudley Snyder, assistant professor of chemistry at Penn State Wilkes-Barre and Northeast Science Olympiad regional director, at dcs10@psu.edu or visit the Science Olympiad web site: http://www.soinc.org/. In the event of inclement weather, Science Olympiad snow dates are March 15 and 16.

National History Day competition at the regional level will be held at Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Saturday, March 31. Students will compete with projects based on their own research in one of the following seven categories: individual paper, individual or group exhibit, individual or group performance (a dramatic portrayal of the topic), individual or group documentary. Students can select and research an idea, individual, or event from world or local history, spanning the calendar from ancient times to the recent past. This year's theme is Triumph and Tragedy in History.

Each year approximately half a million students in grades 6-12 participate in National History Day. For more information, contact Jennifer Stombaugh at jls52@psu.edu or visit the National History Day web site: http://www.nhd.org/.

The Penn State Wilkes-Barre bookstore will host Senior Day on Wednesday, March 21, from noon to 4 p.m.  Students who intend to participate in spring commencement on Saturday, May 19, 2007, in the Athletics & Recreation Building, will have the opportunity to order their cap and gown. Other information regarding personalized announcements and rings will also be available. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact the bookstore at 570-675-9230.

On Tuesday, March 20, 2007, at 2:30 p.m., the Council of Commonwealth Student Governments (CCSG), which represents the student governments of 19 Penn State locations, and Penn State students from across the Commonwealth will rally on the steps of the Rotunda in Harrisburg, Pa. 

The CCSG organized this event for the past several years in response to cuts in state appropriations for higher education and the resulting escalation of tuition rates at state-related universities. According to Sing Wong, CCSG governmental affairs director, the rally "serves to promote student awareness, helps to show legislators the solid base of student voters, allows students to get involved in the university community, provides a form of support for the Penn State appropriations request, and overall, helps to provide a chance to create a better Penn State." The CCSG has also invited students from Temple, Pittsburg, and Lincoln as well as representatives from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to support the March 20 event.

This year, the CCSG passed a resolution to persuade more students to attend the rally. The resolution encourages faculty to excuse students from classes in order to attend the Rally in the Rotunda. Students excused from class are responsible for making up any missed work and must be accounted for by an attendance log drawn up by each campus’s SGA to be submitted to each College Faculty Senate.

For more information on the rally, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Student Government Office at 570-675-9287.

Get your cholesterol checked, learn more about lasik surgery, have a complementary chiropractic evaluation, or get a 2-minute massage – this is only a fraction of what's in store for the campus and community at Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Health Awareness Day on Wednesday, March 28, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.  Sponsored by the Student Activity Fee, Continuing Education, and the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, this event will be held in the Athletics & Recreation Building's gymnasium and will feature free information and give-aways, workshops, health screenings, and prevention resources.

Starting at 11:30 a.m., Dr. Martin Blidner will give a general overview on arthritis, followed by a question/answer period. At 12:20 p.m., Mary Ehret, Penn State Senior Cooperative Extension Educator, will present Avoid the Freshman 15, offering students tips on developing good eating habits to maintain a healthy weight, the risks and benefits of dieting, and the USDA guidelines for a healthy diet.  At 1 p.m., a representative from the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute will provide information on colorectal cancer, the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania. This workshop will identify risk factors and guidelines for screening.

According to campus nurse Linda McDade, R.N., B.S.N., representatives from Geisinger Wyoming Valley will conduct blood pressure screenings, cholesterol screenings and cardio vascular health assessments. A Geisinger pharmacist will be on hand to review medicines, and the public is encouraged to bring their medicines in for collective assessment. Geisinger will also offer a thermometer exchange, in which a digital thermometer will be provided in exchange for every mercury thermometer presented. In addition, Northeastern Eye Institute will provide complementary contact lens solution and information on lasik eye surgery; Asby & Ziegler will perform auditory evaluations; chiropractic evaluations will be available from Dr. Chris Sorti of Core Chiropractic; general dental information will be provided by Dr. Richard Grossman, DDS, and a licensed masseuse from Time Out will provide free 2-minute massages. Gun locks will be available from the Luzerne County Sheriff's office. A variety of additional information and literature regarding other health issues will also be available from agencies such as Planned Parenthood and Mist-on Tanning. Drug and alcohol abuse will be addressed by the representatives from the Northeast Highway Safety Program who will give students the opportunity to wear simulation goggles that give the sensation of being "under the influence."

Individuals attending the Health Awareness Day are encouraged to take time to donate blood. The American Red Cross will be conducting a blood drive in the gymnasium from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Most people, who are at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in generally good health can donate blood. Many medications are acceptable for blood donors. If you have eligibility questions please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit http://www.givelife.org/.

For more information on Health Awareness Day, contact Linda McDade at 570-675-9250 or LCM14@PSU.EDU or Ina Lubin at 570-675-9251 or IKL1@PSU.EDU.

As part of its Religious Diversity Series and in recognition of Women's History Month, Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Campus Environment Team (CET) will present Women in Ministry on Monday, March 26, from noon-1 p.m. in Hayfield House 105. The program will feature Rev. Leona M. Irsch, assistant pastor at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Pro-Cathedral, Rev. Lynn Snyder, Shavertown United Methodist Church, and Rabbi Linda Stigman, Temple B’nai B’rith.

A light lunch will be available. This event is sponsored in part by the Student Activity Fee. Faculty members are asked to please RSVP to Jackie Warnick-Piatt at jackiewp@psu.edu if they are sending an entire class. The Women in Ministry program is free and open to the public.

John Geisel, Edwardsville, has been named 2006-2007 Outstanding Adult Learner at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Each year the Luzerne County Council on Adult Higher Education, a consortium of the Adult/Continuing Education offices of College Misericordia, King’s College, Luzerne County Community College, Penn State Wilkes-Barre, and Wilkes University sponsors an awards ceremony and dinner to recognize outstanding achievement by an adult learner at each institution. This year, the Outstanding Adult Learner festivities were hosted by Wilkes University.

John Geisel is an excellent representative of Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Adult Student population, according to Jackie Warnick-Piatt, student activities coordinator. "Returning to university life after being out of school for almost 20 years, John has become an active member of the campus community," said Warnick-Piatt.  "Not only is John an outstanding student, he has also taken on the additional responsibilities of a senator in the Student Government Association and a member of the Surveying Society. He has participated in Penn State University's Student Leadership Conference and sits on numerous campus committees including the Student Activity Fee committee and the Adult Student Management Committee. He is also a member of the 2006-2007 Intercollegiate Leadership class of Leadership Wilkes-Barre. John is well respected by traditional-age students and is an outstanding role model."

Geisel is pursuing an associate degree in Surveying Technology at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

Applications for admission are still being accepted for the fall 2007 semester. Admissions procedures and criteria will be explained and participants can learn more about the academic programs, facilities and resources available at the campus in Lehman. Faculty, admissions counselors, other staff members, and current students will be available to discuss associate and baccalaureate degree programs, student activities, athletic programs, scholarship opportunities and financial aid.

To register or for more information, visit http://www.wb.psu.edu/admevents.htm or call 570-675-9238.

Visiting poet, Patricia Jebbeh Wesley, Ph.D., will read her award-winning poetry at Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday, April 11, at 3 p.m. in Hayfield House 105.

Dr. Wesley earned her master's degree from Indiana University and her doctorate from Western Michigan University. She has won several fellowships including the World Bank Fellowship. She is the author of two books of poetry, Before the Palm Could Bloom: Poems of Africa (New Issues Press 1998) and Becoming Ebony (SIU Press 2003). Dr. Wesley is the 2002 winner of the Crab Orchard Series Award in Poetry. Her interests include African Literature, African-American Literature, and the Liberian civil war. She is currently working on a memoir of her Liberian civil war experiences, a third book of poetry, and a children's book.

Dr. Wesley was invited to speak at the campus by Dr. David Chin, associate professor of English, and the Lazy Artists Society. For more information, contact Dr. Chin at 570-675-9247 or dpc5@psu.edu.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s 2007 Summer Youth Program brochure is currently available at the campus and on-line. The brochure lists complete descriptions and cost information for programs that provide challenging and enriching activities for students at all grade levels.

Created to spark an interest in science and technology, camps are also available for budding artists, actors, chefs, sports enthusiasts, and more.  Hands-on activities, experiments, and projects with experienced instructors are geared to each grade level.

Weekly sports camps start with soccer on June 25, followed by tennis, baseball/softball, golf, volleyball, and basketball. An introductory sports camp will cover the basics of five different sports concentrating on a differnt sport each day of the week.

The Student Support Services (SSS) annual White Elephant Sale will return on Thursday, April 26, 2007 in the Carriage House section of the Student Commons building. Proceeds from the sale benefit the SSS Annual Legacy Award that provides books to students in the SSS program.

The 8^th annual White Elephant Sale gives students, faculty, staff, and community members the opportunity to take a chance on winning some fun, functional, or frivolous items that have been donated to the cause. A sampling of this year's sale items includes a men's leather jacket, jewelry, a walnut jewelry box, 2 Penn State stadium chairs, 1/2 sheet cake from Sanitary Bakery, a round of golf from Shadowbrook Golf Club, tickets to Movies 14, a nice selection of books, an MP3 player, and several gift certificates ($25 Just Judy's, 3 - $10 Pizza Perfect, $50 Crystal Vision Center, $25 Connor's Grillroom, $25 Big Ten Subs, $10 Movie Gallery).

Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. On the sale day, items will go on display at 10:30 a.m. and the drawing will begin at 12:30 p.m. For more information, contact Sue Wysocki at 570-675-9112 or suew@psu.edu.

On Friday, July 20, 2007, the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Alumni Constituent Society will sponsor its 12^th annual "Masters" Golf Tournament at Blue Ridge Golf Club in Mountaintop, Pa. Registration begins at 11:30a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. The tournament follows a captain and crew format and is open to all amateur golfers. Proceeds benefit the Alumni Society's Scholarship Fund, the Student Mentor Program, Academic Excellence Awards, and other initiatives benefiting students.

Cost is $85/person or $340/team if registered with payment before June 1, 2007. After that date, registration fee is $95/person or $380/team. The registration fee includes cart and greens fee, lunch and refreshments, a gift for all golfers, dinner, and awards; deadline for registration is July 13. The Champion flight wins Penn State blazers with 24k gold-plated buttons. Prizes will be given for the longest drive, closest to the pin, and circle of gold. Hole-in-one prizes include a car, round-trip airline tickets, a golf resort vacation, and golf clubs.

A variety of tee and/or green sponsorships are available. For more information or to register, call Karen Brace-Hodle at 570-675-9228 or e-mail klb14@psu.edu.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre students who need a place to study, finish assignments, or prepare for finals will be in good company at the Last Chance Café on Tuesday, May 1, and Wednesday, May 2, from noon to 5 p.m. Outstanding tutors and great food will be available in the Tech Center Atrium.

For more information, contact Lorna Chin, Learning Center specialist, at 675-9285 or bcl3@psu.edu

PSUTXT, a campus-specific text messaging emergency notification service, is now available to students, faculty, staff and others who wish to subscribe. PSUTXT was launched last summer at University Park has now expanded to include most Penn State locations including Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Emergency notices including weather alerts, campus closings, etc. will be sent directly to subscriber's cell phones. Only messages of an important nature will be sent, this text messaging service will not be used for routine news items.

While individuals' phone plans may charge for receipt of text messages, subscription to the PSUTXT service is free. Subscribers also can choose University Park concert information including Bryce Jordan Center concert announcements and other entertainment news or University Park sports alerts. To sign up, visit http://newswires.psu.edu/ online and follow the instructions at the bottom of the page under the PSUTXT heading. For more information, e-mail AMountz@psu.edu and include PSUTXT in the subject line.

The May 2007 issue of The Wilkes-Barre Collegian is now available. Copies can be found around campus, or you can view it online here.

On Saturday, May 19, 2007, commencement was held at Penn State Wilkes-Barre for students who have earned associate and baccalaureate degrees. Students who earned their degrees at the end of fall 2006 semester and those who will earn their degrees at the end of the summer 2007 semester were also invited to participate in the ceremony.

The ceremony began at 10 a.m. in the Athletics & Recreation Building. Anna Cervenak, chair of the campus advisory board, delivered the welcoming address. Class speaker was Melissa Sulima.  Steven Perzia, president of the campus Alumni Constituent Society, inducted graduates into the Penn State Alumni Society.

Dr. Joyce M. Van Eck delivered the commencement address. Dr. Van Eck grew up in Plains, Pa. and attended Penn State Wilkes-Barre after graduating from Coughlin High School in 1976. She earned a bachelor's degree in biology at University Park, a master's degree in plant science from the University of Delaware, and her doctorate in plant breeding and genetics from Cornell University.  She is currently a senior research associate/project leader at The Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. She is widely published and is co-owner of several patents.

Graduates are:

Back Mtn. Area: Dallas: Gina Chocallo, B.S. Biology & B.S. Secondary Education; Jason W. Harabin, Surveying;  Jim Kaminski, B.S. Organizational Leadership; Richard D. Kapson, B.S. Administration of Justice; Patrick Lyons, B.S. Administration of Justice; Ryan E. Mc Grady, B.S. Administration of Justice; Kevin J. Tanner, A.S. Business Administration; Christopher P. Teetsel, B.S. Administration of Justice; Derek Traver, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Harveys Lake: David Lamoreux, B.S. Administration of Justice; Hunlock Creek: William H. Evans, B.S. Business; Shavertown: Brian P. Gula, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Kevin A. Gula, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Keri A. McDermott, B.S. Business; Jennifer A. Malak, B.S. Administration of Justice; Matthew J. Morgan, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Kerri Stephens, B.S. Business; Ralph W. Wysocki, A.S. Business Administration; Sweet Valley: Brian C. Stempian, A.E.T. Electrical Engineering Technology; Michael G. Hoprich, B.S. Business; Trucksville: Paul R. Wisnieski, B.S. Business

Bear Creek: Sterling B. English, B.S. Business

Hazleton/Mountaintop Area: McAdoo: David E. Dougherty, B.S. Administration of Justice; Andrew L. Trimmell, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology

Nanticoke: Pamela Stadts, B.S. Business

Pittston Area: Jenkins Twp.: Jeffrey D. Chiampi, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Melissa A. Sulima, B.A. Administration of Justice; Pittston: Wendy Perschau, B.A. Administration of Justice; Charles D. Vaccaro, B.S. Administration of Justice; West Pittston: Ronald L. Orth, B.S. Administration of Justice

Scranton Area: Carbondale: Tessa S. Lynady, B.A. Letters, Arts, & Sciences; Clarks Summit: Peter T. Hoban, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Duryea: Matthew Balchune, B.S. Administration of Justice; Moosic: Amanda L. Stevens, B.A. Administration of Justice; Scranton: Rosemaria Dodge, B.S. Administration of Justice; Patrick Duffy, B.A. Administration of Justice; Maura Harris, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Taylor: Dennis J. Stinson, B.S. Surveying Engineering

Tunkhannock Area: Meshoppen: Collin K. Lunger, A.S. Business Administration; S. Montrose: Andrew Honeychuck, B.A. International Politics; Tunkhannock: Michael T. Gozdiskowski, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Jennifer Higgins, B.S. Business; Jere P. Pallis, B.S. Industrial Health & Safety, A.S. Business Administration

West Side: Edwardsville: Megan Ide, B.S. Business; Exeter: Heather M. Frazier, B.S. Business; Forty-Fort: Christopher Youron, B.S. Administration of Justice; Kingston: Michael R. D'Amico, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology; Jessica Gable, B.A. Administration of Justice; William Gabriel, B.S. Business; Sarah L. Hohol, B.S. Business; Jessica L. Pleskach, B.A. Administration of Justice; Jennifer Shumbris, B.A. Administration of Justice; Larksville: James M. Gill, B.A. Communication Arts & Sciences; Gary Travinski, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology; Luzerne: Todd A. Distasio, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Jonathan T. Nutche, B.S. Business; Jessica L. Williams, B.S. Business; Plymouth: Lori Bolesta: B.S. Information Sciences & Technology, A.S. Business Administration, A.A. Liberal Arts; Cassie Massaker, B.S. Health & Human Development; Pringle: Alison Chilcote, B.A. Business Administration; Shickshinny: Jennifer R. Engle, B.S. Administration of Justice;  Charlene A. Estus, A.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Wendy L. Leiby, A.S. Business Administration; Thomas Pentangelo, B.S. Administration of Justice; Swoyersville: Edward P. Connolly, B.S. Surveying Engineering; Stephanie L. Jacobs, B.A. Business Administration; Wyoming: Tami Lanunziata, A.S. Information Sciences & Technology

Wilkes-Barre Area: Hanover Twp.: Nicole M. Hoisington, B.S. Administration of Justice; Matthew J. Sokola, B.A. Business Administration; Patrick Guesto, B.A. Letters, Arts, & Sciences; Daniel Garnett, B.S. Business; Plains: Kara Bernardi, B.A. English; Jennifer M. Bruno, B.S. Business; Christopher S. Moore, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Bryan J. Potter, B.A. Administration of Justice; Wilkes-Barre: Thomas R. Conti, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Adonea E. Groce, B.S. Business; Adam R. Hughes, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology; Heather M. Mosley, B.S. Business; Jamie L. Mudge, B.A. Administration of Justice; Sarah A. Popky, B.A. Administration of Justice; Robert P. Rother, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Lee P. Stanziale, B.A. Business Administration

Outside Area: Barnesville, Pa.: Kyle Jones, B.S. Administration of Justice; Brownsville, Pa.: Justin J. Brezovsky, B.S. Surveying Engineering; Coopersburg, Pa.: Douglas B. Harwick, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Hatboro: Gwen S. Cunningham, B.S. Surveying Engineering; Jersey Shore, Pa.: Nathaniel H. Hollick, A.E.T. Surveying Technology; Milford, Pa.: Sherri Rimli, B.A. Administration of Justice; Milton, Pa.: Kurt A. Savidge, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Montoursville, Pa.: Joshuha D. Miller, B.S. Business; New Albany, Pa.: Daniel R. Diffenbach, A.E.T. Electrical Engineering Technology; Orangeville, Pa.: Raymond R. Reichart, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology; Pocono Lake: Sean F. Angley, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Pottsville: George J. Dronick: B.S. Surveying Engineering; Sayre, Pa.: Kerissa R. Bentz, B.S. Administration of Justice; Joseph J. Rhodes, B.S. Surveying Engineering; Shawanese, Pa.: Chad M. Sakoski, B.S. Information Sciences & Technology; Stillwater, Pa.: Kimberly A. Mazaika, B.S. Business; Stroudsburg: Nicholas J. Lebel, A.E.T. Electrical Engineering Technology; Towanda: Andrew J. Becker, B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology; White Haven: Krista K. Stolpe, B.A. Administration of Justice; West New York, N.J.: Kyle Jameson, B.S. Business

Graduates with Distinction:

Distinction at graduation is awarded to baccalaureate degree candidates with: at least 60 credits (30 credits for associate degree candidates) earned at Penn State; a minimum of a 3.5 cumulative grade-point average; and are in the top 12% of a college's graduating class. The grade point average distinction table is created in September for the coming semesters and varies by college. The table can be viewed at: http://www.registrar.psu.edu/.

Students graduating with Highest Distinction: Jonathan T. Nutche and Melissa A. Sulima

Students graduating with High Distinction: Justin Brezovsky, George J. Dronick, and Keri A. McDermott

Students graduating with High Distinction: Sterling B. English, Pamela Stadts, Lee P. Stanziale

Academic Achievement Awards: Business Dept. Awards: Alison Chilcote, Sarah Hohol, Matthew Sokola; Engineering Dept. Awards: College of Engineering: Jarod K. Salsman; Electrical Engineering Award: Anthony R. Mathers; Mechanical Engineering Award: Jared R. Kloda; Electrical Engineering Technology Award: Daniel R. Dieffenbach;  Civil Engineering Award: Vernon W. Gernhart; Surveying Engineering Award: Justin J. Brezovsky, Gwen S. Cunningham, George J. Dronick; Surveying Technology Award: Todd A. Distasio; 4-year Information Sciences & Technology Dept. Awards: Jeffrey Chiampi; 2-year Information Sciences & Technology Award: Tami LaNunziata; Mathematics Div. Award: Jarod K. Salsman; Science Award: David vanMaanen; Biology Award: Alexander Levitin; Physics Award: Jarod Salsman; Chemistry Award: Scott Gay.  Special Awards were presented, as follows: W-B Alumni Society Academic Excellence Award: Michael Gongora, Alexander Levitin; Outstanding Achievement by an Adult Learner: John Geisel; Evan Pugh Scholar Award: Jonathan Nutche; President's Freshman Awards: Natalie Herron, Nicholas Sufrinko; John R. Murphy Award for Excellence in Leadership and Service: Thomas Conti; Eric A. & Josephine Walker Award: Jacob Kovalchik.

Students recognized for membership in the Honor Society are: Charlene Adzema, Aaron Blockus, Monica Bugbee, Jamie Carey, Thomas Casey, Chris Deater, Scott Gay, Vernon Gernhart, Kaitlin Harding, Kendra Hufsa, Sergey Kononov, Shawn Lees, Michelle Llewellyn, Anthony Mathers, Charles Medico, Sarah Miodulski, Guthrie Mitchell, Paula Perez, Eric Petrow, Melissa Rollo, Benjamin Rother, Aaron Slaff, Desiree Thorne, Ray Tomasacci, David vanMaanen, Jaquana Windsor.

Overall Academic Excellence Awards were given to students in their final semester at the campus who earned grade point averages of 3.66 or higher: Justin Brezovsky, Jeffrey Chiampi, George Dronick, Melissa Gunshannon, Kaitlin Harding, Jennifer Higgins, Sarah L. Hohol, Tami LaNunziata, Anthony Mather, Jarod K. Salsman, Matthew Sokola, Lee Stanziale, Melissa Sulima, David vanMaanen, James Waters, Ashley Weber, Adam Wiernusz, Jessica Wysocki.

Academic Excellence Awards were given to students in their final semester at the campus who earned a grade point average of 3.33-3.66: Thomas Casey, Gwen Cunningham, Afton Debarry, Daniel Dieffenbach, Todd Distasio, Courtney Ely-Denberg, William Evans, Vernon Gernhart, Michael Gongora, Ashley Hoeffner, Nicole Hoisington, Megan Ide, Stephanie Jacobs, Julie Kapson, Richard Kapson, Jared Kloda, Jacob Kovalchik, Alexander Levitin, Eric Loefflad, Anthony Macario, Ryan Marascio, Amanda Panuski, Benjamin Rother, Brian Stempien, Jessica Williams.

Shown in the photo, seated, first row, from left: Ryan Marascio, Paula P. Perez, Ashley Hoeffner, Jamie Carey, Jessica Wysocki, Monica Bugbee, Kendra Hufsa, Megan Ide, Ashley Weber, Afton DeBarry, Scott Gay; 2^nd row: Eric Petrow, Vernon Gernhart, Amanda Panuski, Alison Chilcote, Sarah Hohol, Nicole Hoisington, Jessica Williams, Thomas Conti, Melissa Gunshannon, Jacob Kovalchik, George (Jim) Dronick; 3^rd row: Alexander Levitin, Nicholas Sufrinko, Anthony Mathers, Matthew Sokoal, Charles Medico, Daniel Dieffenbach, Shawn Lees, Guthrie Mitchell, Jr., David vanMaanen, John Geisel, and Jarod Salsman.

Absent from photo are: Jared Kloda, Justin Brezovsky, Gwen Cunningham, Todd Distasio, Tami LaNunziata, Jeffrey Chiampi, Kaitlin Harding, Tami LaNunziata, Michael Gongora, Natalie Herron, Jonathan Nutche, Jacob Kovalchik, Charlene Adzema, Aaron Blockus, Thomas Casey, Chris Deater, Kaitlin Harding, Sergey Kononov, Michelle Llewellyn, Sarah Miodulski, Melissa Rollo, Benjamin Rother, Aaron Slaff, Desiree Thorne, Ray Tomasacci, Jaquana Windsor, Jennifer Higgins, Lee Stanziale, Melissa Sulima, James Waters, Adam Wiernusz, Courtney Ely-Denberg, William Evans, Stephanie Jacobs, Julie Kapson, Richard Kapson, Eric Lowfflad, Anthony Macario, Brian Stempien.

The Family Summer Movie Nites series, co-sponsored by Penn State Wilkes-Barre Continuing Education and the Tudor Bookshop & Café, presents parents and grandparents the opportunity to introduce to their children and grandchildren to outstanding works of literature that have been reproduced on film. Each film has been carefully selected for its content and story development and all are suitable for 7-12 year olds. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult family member. Immediately following the movie, Bill Bachman, instructor in communication arts and sciences at Penn State, will facilitate a brief discussion. Reading the book is not required prior to viewing the film, however, Tudor Bookshop & Café will offer a 20% discount to each family who wishes to purchase a book or books in the series

The works of three British authors will be featured. James and the Giant Peach will kick off the series on Thursday, July 12. Author Roald Dahl spins this delightful tale of young James and his bug friends as they travel to New York with the help of a giant peach. The Secret Garden will follow on Thursday, July 19. Frances Hodgson Burnett's children's classic of how magic, hope and love grow and bloom in a secret garden for a young girl who has lost her family in an earthquake in India. The series will end on Thursday, August 2, with National Velvet, an Academy Award winning classic from the book by Enid Bagnold. This film, featuring Elizabeth Taylor and Mickey Rooney, tells the story of young Velvet Brown who rescues a horse from destruction and trains him to compete in the Grand National Steeplechase.

The movies will be shown in Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Science Building 101 each evening starting at 6:15 p.m. and will end no later than 8:30 p.m. The cost is $20/movie for a maximum of four family members; $3 additional per person per movie for families of five or more. Registration is requested at least one week in advance prior to each movie date. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Jean Pall at 570-675-9219 or jpp14@psu.edu.

Two full-time instructors will join the faculty at Penn State Wilkes-Barre this fall. Daniel Blessner will come on board as a math, physics, and astronomy instructor and Marshall R. Davis will instruct courses in the administration of justice program.

Students enrolled in the administration of justice program may already be familiar with Marshall R. Davis who has been teaching at this campus as an adjunct instructor since 1994. In addition to his teaching background, Mr. Davis brings over thirty years of experience in the criminal and juvenile justice systems where he has served in areas of law enforcement, corrections, and community supervision. He holds a master's degree in administration of justice from Shippensburg University and a bachelor's degree in law enforcement and corrections from Penn State University. He is affiliated with numerous professional organizations including the PA Probation & Parole Officers Firearms Education & Training Commission, the PA Council of Chief Juvenile Probation Officers; and The American Society of Criminology. He was co-founder of the PA Driving Under the Influence Association. Along with his teaching duties, Mr. Davis will also be responsible for academic advising and supervising students' internships and research projects. "As a Penn Stater myself, it is a privilege to be associated with the dedicated and professional faculty and staff here at the Wilkes-Barre campus," said Davis. "I am excited about the opportunity to interact on a full-time basis with our students and hope that I can contribute to making the AOJ program even stronger." Mr. Davis' office will be located in the Science Building, room 104.

Daniel Blessner comes to Penn State Wilkes-Barre from Johnson College where he taught mathematics, chemistry, and physics. He earned his bachelor of science degree in civil and environmental engineering and his master's in science in chemical engineering from Penn State University. Teaching at the college level for more than ten years, Blessner has been an adjunct faculty member at College Misericordia, Penn College, and Luzerne County Community College. Mr. Blessner prides himself on his ability to relate to students beginning their college experiences who are often unsure of their abilities in math and science. "My academic beginnings were very similar," he said, "which allows me to better understand the struggle many students have with these subjects. I try to adapt my teaching style to accommodate all learners, particularly those with difficulty comprehending difficult or complex material." Mr. Blessner's office will be located in the Science Building, room 109.

One hundred and fifteen students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre have been named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2007 semester. According to Dr. Theodora Jankowski, director of academic affairs, full-time students must achieve at least a 3.5 grade point average and be enrolled for twelve or more credits to qualify for the Dean’s List. Part-time students achieve Dean's List status when a minimum total of twelve credits are completed and grades across these combined semesters result in a grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

The following students have been named to the Dean’s List for spring 2007:

Apalachin, NY: Dawn C. Phillips

Bala Cynwyd: Ashley D. Gratzinger

Benton: Jarod K. Salsman

Boyers: Kaitlin M. Harding

Carbondale: Tessa A. Lynady

Charlotte, NC: Gwen S. Cunningham

Courtdale: Robert W. Winkler

Dallas:  Michael P. Barlow; Lisa M. Desando; Scott E. Gay; Ian Jeffrey C. Herron; Julie K. Kapson; J.S. Rave; Benjaman J. Rother

Danville: Kathryn B. Mazol; Trey R. Shrawder

Delaware Water Gap: Tiffany A. Velez

Duryea: Ashley S. Hoeffner; Anthony M. Macario

Exeter: Michelle M. Llewellyn; Matthew V. Peppe

Falls: William J. Voorhees; John B. Zdaniewicz

Forty Fort: Eric I. Huff

Hanover Township: Matthew J.Sokola; Donna M. Kubaugh

Harveys Lake: Christopher A. Moses

Hunlock Creek: Kristin M. Coldedo; Shannon E. Lazo; Kelly L. Wasylkewicz

Jenkins Township: Jeffrey D. Chiampi; Melissa A. Sulima

Jermyn: Anthony P. Shulde

Jim Thorpe: Christopher G. Griffith

Johnstown: James E. Goble

Kingston:  Melissa J. Gunshannon; Sarah L. Hohol; Michael A. Kocet; Jason P. Moran; Jennifer A. Shumbris

Kunkletown: Kayla C. Smith

Laceyville: Kylie L. Salsman; Deann Superko

Lagrangeville: Michael J. Michetti

Larksville: James M. Gill

Leraysville: Gary Lunn

Luzerne: Tara L. Clark; Ashley L. Derby; Jessica L. Williams

Milan: Brittany L. South

Mountaintop: Christopher L. Zawada; Tessa L. Maciejaszek

Nanticoke: Kristen M. Durso; Christi L. Ricci; Adam J. Walski

New Albany: Kenneth McGrath

Northampton: Monica M. Bugbee

Oreland: Ashley E. Weber

Pennsdale: Kassondra K. Frantz

Pittston: Michael F. Bressler; Joseph Casale; Stephen A. Haynes

Plains: Vernon W. Gernhart; Nicholas A. Shegda             

Plymouth: Amy E. Brobst; Jacqueline Stone; Ann M Verbyla

Pocono Lake: Alexander Levitin

Pottsville: George J. Dronick

Punxsutawney: Chad M. Phillips; Nathan B. Stiteler

Saylorsburg: Afton N. Debarry

Shamokin: Bradley A. Zeigler

Shavertown: Julie L. Howell; Jacob N. Kovalchik; Eric D. Loefflad; Ryan F. Marascio; Janine M. Mitkus; Carla C. Reino; Grant M. Roberts; Dina M. Sarmonis; Jessica L. Wysocki; Ralph W. Wysocki

Shickshinny: Melinda S. Gordon

Stroudsburg: Michelle M. Yosh

Sweet Valley: Donna S. Smith; Nicole J. Walsh

Swoyersville: Stephanie L. Jacobs           

Trucksville: Jeremy B. Gillis

Tunkhannock: Jennifer Higgins; Stephen L. Huffsmith; Mary C. Kitlan; John P. Nice; Holly J. Valvano

Wapwallopen: Amy M. Thomas; John P. Webby

West Pittston: Anthony R. Mathers

West Wyoming: Desiree L. Thorne; John E. Yorina

Wilkes Barre: David M. Hicks; Paula P. Perez; Jennifer L. Shubilla; Nicholas Sufrinko; Frank J. Tedesco; Daniel P. Elliott; Derek E. Miller; Corey S. Suda; Sandra M. Kobos; Robert P. Rother

Williamsport: Isaac D. Karaffa

Wyalusing: David Eastabrook; Sergey Kononov

Wyoming: Neil L. Bellanca; Amanda M. Panuski

Wysox: Deborah Grose

Orientation for new incoming students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre has been planned for Thursday, August 23, 2007 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. New students can expect to receive orientation information and a pre-registration card in the mail in early August. This mandatory program is free of charge and provides new students the opportunity to meet faculty, staff, and fellow students and attend workshops to assist them in their first year at the campus in Lehman. Students will confirm their pre-registration in the Athletics & Recreation Building at 8:30 a.m.

This year's orientation is packed with informative, entertaining, and fun activities. Sessions feature a general information get-together and campus tour, ice-breaking activities with Jack Chambers, and a coffee house chat with the 2007 student orientation leaders. Faculty members will facilitate a student centered discussion on the book, A Man Without a Country, by Kurt Vonnegut (Random House Trade Paperback, ISBN# 978-0-8129-7736-3). This book is available at a discount at the Penn State bookstore and students are asked to read the book prior to orientation.

Students with questions or concerns about orientation may contact Jackie Warnick-Piatt, Student Activities Coordinator, at 570-675-9284 or jackiewp@psu.edu.

New building construction continues on the Abram Nesbitt, III Academic Commons. Located at the epi-center of the campus, this state-of-the-art classroom and library complex has been designated as a “green” environmentally friendly building. According to Reese Smith, Director of Maintenance and Operations for Penn State Wilkes-Barre, “This one-of-a-kind structure is the only building in the Penn State regional area that’s Leeds certified. That means the building is made up of recycled and energy efficient products.”

The  $8 million dollar building will house the new 7600 square foot Nesbitt Library and Barry Hall as well as the Friedman Art Gallery, a cyber café, four technologically smart classrooms, and a gracious lobby to host events. Nesbitt Commons will also serve as a destination stop for cultural and educational activities. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson of Wilkes-Barre is the firm behind the design, and Lobar Incorporated is the local general contractor.

With seating to accommodate large lecture classes and musical and theatrical performances, the new academic building is set to open for Penn State students and the community in January of 2008.

On September 10^th the large blue-green planet known as Uranus will be at its closest approach to Earth and the best place to see this planetary occurrence will be at the Friedman Observatory at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Known as the seventh planet from the sun, this impressive planet shines non-stop within our solar system like a blue gem. Originating from Greek mythology, the planet is named after the god of the heavens Uranus.

Established in 1990 through the generosity of Sidney and Pauly Friedman, the well equipped Observatory has a computerized 16” Meade LX200GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, the largest one of its kind in the area. With this type of technology, you’ll be able to participate in this fun galactic event, and view the first planet discovered in modern times.

The Friedman Observatory is open to the public and the Penn State community on clear Monday nights beginning at 9:00PM Daylight Savings Time and then at 8:00PM Standard Time.  Weather permitting, aspiring astronomers will get the chance see Uranus at Opposition.

For more information about the Friedman Observatory, contact Dr. Thomas Winter at 570.675.9278.

The expectations are high as the Wilkes-Barre Nittany Lions look to improve on last year’s performance. The Men’s Baseball team returns starting pitchers Zack Artim and Mike Peterson from Wyoming Area. Both pitchers will provide strong leadership on the mound. According to Head Coach Joe Lohin, “Infielders Matt Drumheller and Dayton Ward, along with outfielders Rich Kaminski and Randy Wholaver—all from Nanticoke Area High School—will provide the defense needed to make a run at the playoffs in 2007.”

The Women’s Volleyball squad will start their home schedule on September 25^th against Penn State Worthington Scranton. Returning Head Coach Regan Palfey wants to improve on last season’s re-building year, as the Lady Nittany Lions of Wilkes-Barre bring four starters back to the line-up. Amanda Supey, Elizabeth Kemmerer, Jill Chocallo and Michelle Yosh will supply the power required for the Nittany Lions. Palfey says, “I’m very confident that this team has the ability, skill, and drive to take us back into the post season and the PSUAC playoffs.”

The Wilkes-Barre Men’s Golf team had an impressive season coming off a 3^rd-place finish at the 2006 State Championship. This year, the Golf team will count on former Wyoming Valley West standout and current team captain Zack Stull to lead them to a PSUAC title. Head Coach Ed Keil in his 18^th year at Wilkes-Barre says that “If everyone can play up to their potential, we could be in the hunt for the 2007 title.”

Men’s Varsity Soccer will be loaded with exciting players to watch, as they compete for the 2007 PSUAC championship. Defensive stand-outs include Grant Roberts (Lake-Lehman High), Reese Smith, Max Winters (Dallas High) and Chris Deeters.  Freshman goalkeeper Gerard Cebulski and returning keeper Sarah Tomulatis from Holy Redeemer will anchor the defensive unit. When the Nittany Lions go on the attack, Head Coach Paul Callahan will rely on All-Conference player Phillip Baumunk to be the main scoring threat. Controlling the mid-field will be Mario Oliveri (Dallas High), Ryan Mauser and Steve Huffsmith from Tunkhannock High. Callahan will also supplement the attack with a talented group of local freshmen including Ian Carpenter, Mike Snyder, Ryan Grabinski and Mike Ortiz.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre recently sent seven students to a three-day Summer Leadership Conference held in Harrisburg, PA. Over two hundred students representing the Commonwealth Campuses and University Park attended this educational and fun event.

According to Jackie Warnick-Piatt, PSU Wilkes-Barre Student Activities Coordinator, “Students took advantage of training programs that were offered on time management, leadership skills, event planning, diversity, overcoming obstacles, listening and communication skills, and more. Workshops were presented by both University Administrators and Staff, as well as professional speakers like Jack Chambers of Creative Educational Concepts, and Educational Consultant Tom Segar.”

The local students and staff that participated in this year’s Leadership Conference were (L. to R.): Bobby Cragle; Jonathan Williams; Aaron Slaff; Kathie Flanagan-Herstek, Director of Student and Enrollment Services; Jamie Carey; Paula Perez; Amber Kaminski; Jaquana Windsor; and Jackie Warnick-Piatt, Student Activities Coordinator.

A little bit of Hollywood comes to the Wilkes-Barre campus, as west coast movie stars that live in Northeastern Pennsylvania will be highlighted at a University film series. The Film, Food and Fun Facts concept was developed by Bill Bachman, an instructor in the Penn State Communication Arts and Sciences department. According to Bachman, “By attending the series, you can find out who from Northeast PA has been involved in some of Hollywood’s greatest films. It’s a real opportunity to meet local big-screen actors.”

The educational film series will kick off at 6:30PM with Jack Steblinski on Thursday, September 27^th in lecture hall Science Center 101. A Forty Fort native who now lives in  Mountaintop, Steblinski has starred along side Academy Award winner Daniel Day-Lewis in The Last of the Mohicans. He also has been involved with some impressive behind-the-scenes work as a Prop Master in movies such as Glory, Gettysburg, Taking Liberty, and One Man’s Hero. The local actor will be on hand to open the film series with artifacts from The Last of the Mohicans. Plus, Steblinski will host a discussion with the public, students, and faculty immediately following the screening of the movie. Cost of the program is $12.00 per person, $8.00 with valid college ID. Refreshments will be served.

To purchase your tickets call Penn State Wilkes-Barre at 570.675.9219.

By participating, you can make a difference in the life of a Penn State student. It’s a simple two-step process. First, call the Times Leader at 570.829.5000 and order a new one-year subscription or renew your existing one. Then, just tell the customer service representative to donate $25.00 to the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Scholarship Fund at P.O. Box PSU, Lehman PA, 18627. “When the Times Leader contacted us, I thought it was a fantastic way to build our scholarship fund program. We have a lot of students who depend on scholarship assistance to earn their Penn State degrees. This was a great way to partner with the Times Leader,” said Nora Blessner, Director of Development at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

In addition, contributors’ names and the Penn State Wilkes-Barre name will appear in the Times Leader every day up until November 20^th, 2007. According to the Times Leader, “Everyone benefits by getting essential news delivered to their doorstep. Plus, what’s important is that your favorite non-profit organization gets $25.00.”

More than 8.3 million copies of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows were sold within the first 24 hours of its release. With all the hype centered on this famous wizard, the Penn State Bookstore invites you to participate in a fun Harry Potter reading group at the Wilkes-Barre campus. The magic of Harry Potter has touched a huge audience of all ages all over the world. Now, it’s your chance to jump aboard the Hogwarts Express and go inside the mind of J.K. Rowling, creator and author of this famous character.

According to Linda Major, bookstore manager at Penn State, “With the excitement that’s been generated from all the Harry Potter books and movies, we felt that there was a demand from the local community to put together a reading group that discusses the characters and writing style of J.K. Rowling.” Major, who developed the program, says, “Joanne Rowling or J.K. Rowling will make you laugh and cry all at the same time. She’s a brilliant writer.” Her latest book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, is available and on sale at the Wilkes-Barre campus bookstore.

The next Harry Potter reading session is scheduled for 7pm on Tuesday, Oct. 9, in Hayfield House room 105. All Potter fans ages 16 and up are encouraged to attend. Admission is free to Penn State students, faculty, and the public.

For more information, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Bookstore at 570.675.9230.

According to Jackie Warnick-Piatt, Student Activities Coordinator, “We use our natural environment and historic Hayfield house as a perfect backdrop for something like this. In the beginning there were only 4 or 5 other haunted events around the Wyoming Valley. Now we compete with over 20 other haunted programs in the area, many of which are raising money for very good charitable organizations.”

This Halloween attraction is coordinated by Penn State Wilkes-Barre students, staff, faculty and volunteers. Head committee member Dan Migliori says, “Weeks of planning by students is what makes this so successful. We’re always rehearsing and dedicating the time needed to produce very scary skits that everyone will enjoy.”

The Haunted Forest starts Friday Oct. 11, at 7pm and runs through selected dates in October. Admission is $7.00 for kids 13 and over. Children under 12 pay $6.00. A discount is available for groups of 10 or more. 

For dates and times, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Student Activities Office at 570-675-9284.

Following the events of 9-11, the U.S. government enacted laws designed to prevent future attacks. As a result of these circumstances, thousands of new jobs were created, many requiring civil or military law enforcement experience. 

At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, the University has been developing innovative, educational courses in law enforcement to help combat crime at the local and national level. The Administration of Justice (AOJ) program is specifically designed for the incoming student who wants the flexibility to pursue a variety of career opportunities with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The curriculum also prepares those who are interested in the challenges that are associated with today’s crime problems.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre faculty member, Marshall Davis says that, “As we move into the 21^st century, we’re facing some of the most serious criminal threats ever faced by society, including how to effectively deal with high tech crime and domestic terrorism. Today’s Administration of Justice students are tomorrow’s first responders.”

Penn State Wilkes-Barre announces its one-day Open House for Saturday, Oct. 20, starting at 10am in the Athletics and Recreation building. The statewide event, known as Penn State Day, is a program designed to help High School students and their families learn more about the University, its facilities, resources, and admissions procedures. Students can find out about scholarship opportunities, financial aid, academic programs, athletics, and student activities. During the day, admissions counselors will be on-hand to help students explore their degree options and weigh their academic strengths. Plus, everyone that attends the Open House can meet Penn State faculty, staff, and students, all while enjoying a complimentary lunch in the Student Commons.

Students and graduates who are interested in attending Penn State can choose to begin one of over 160 programs here, then go on to complete their degree at another Penn State location, including University Park. Prospective students can also decide to stay close and enroll in one of 8 Bachelor's and 6 Associate degree programs that are offered at the Wilkes-Barre campus. With convenient class schedules, affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides the resources of a large research university in a small college setting.

To learn more about Penn State Day, contact the Admissions office at 570-675-9238, or register online at http://www.wb.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm.

In today’s leadership and management development arena, organizations who want to invest in their future managers are turning to Penn State Wilkes-Barre and the Continuing Education department to provide high-quality management development programs for their employees.

The University offers professional development classes for individuals who want to enhance their leadership and supervisory skills, whether they are newly promoted managers or supervisors seeking formal management training. By participating in the Leadership Development Series, an organization can choose to enroll their managers in public courses related to management development, or they can contract directly with Penn State Wilkes-Barre to provide customized on-site programs for their work-force. Employees can select from entry level Micro Lessons which teach a variety of workplace issues, to the Advanced Senior Leader program which offers high-level courses like problem solving.

Local organizations have discovered that no other institution is better equipped at handling the training needs of future corporate managers than Penn State Wilkes-Barre. With unparalleled satisfaction, 98 out of 100 participants said that they were satisfied with both the content and the instructor of their Management Development program. All courses are taught by expert Penn State faculty members who have over 10 years of industry management experience.

For information, contact Ina Lubin, Director of Continuing Education at 570-675-9251, or Janet Rosenbaum, Assistant Director at 570-675-9102.

To learn more about the Financial Aid 101 workshop, register on-line at www.wb.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm, or contact the Admissions office at 570-675-9238.

With convenient class schedules, affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides the resources of a large research university in a small-college setting.

To learn more, call Dr. Albert Lozano at 570-675-9245 or send e-mail to axl17@psu.edu.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre announces its one-day Information Session for Thursday, Nov. 8, starting at 6:30pm in Hayfield House room 105. The program is designed to help High School students and their families learn more about the University, its facilities, resources, and admissions procedures. Also, students can find out about scholarship opportunities, financial aid, academic programs, athletics, and student activities. During the evening, Admissions counselors will be on-hand to help students explore their degree options, and weigh their academic strengths.

In addition, students and graduates who are interested in attending Penn State can choose from over 160 programs here, then go on to complete their degree at another location, including University Park. Prospective students can also decide to stay close, and enroll in one of 8 Bachelor’s and 6 Associate degree programs that are offered at the Wilkes-Barre campus.

With convenient class schedules, affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides the resources of a large research university in a small college setting. Plus, everyone that attends can meet Penn State faculty, staff, and students.  

To learn more about Penn State Wilkes-Barre, register on line today at www.wb.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm, or call the Admissions office at 570-675-9238.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre business department faculty member Ms. Terry Clemente has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Visiting Nurses Association.

According to Clemente, “It’s a great organization that will be celebrating their 100 Year Anniversary in 2008. Professionally, Clemente is no stranger to service- based organizations. She has been a marketing consultant for the Downtown Collegetown Initiative, a community-based revitalization program for the city of Wilkes-Barre. Additionally, Clemente has held numerous, high profile, marketing positions with top-level firms located in the Philadelphia area. “It’s a pleasure to be part of the VNA. The nurses and therapists are the humble heroes who go beyond the call of duty,” said Clemente.

With headquarters locally in Kingston, the Visiting Nurses Association provides care for patients of all ages from infants to the elderly. They offer comprehensive services that begin with maternal/child health programs, and end with hospice care. The Visiting Nurses Association offers a broad range of essential home health care and support services to patients in the security and comfort of their homes.

A long-time business professor, Clemente began her teaching career in the Greater Wilkes-Barre area in 1981. She holds a MBA from St. Joseph’s University, and is currently a full-time instructor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. In her spare time, Clemente is a lector at St. Therese Church in Shavertown, as well as a member of the local YMCA, and the Ladies Golf Association at Fox Hill Country Club.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre student leaders are having an impact upon the University and the surrounding neighborhoods in ways that will leave meaningful and lasting contributions. Currently, one way that Penn State Wilkes-Barre students are giving back to the community is through their participation in the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, known as THON. For nearly 35 years, students of THON have raised more than $46 million dollars and have helped thousands of children and families fight pediatric cancer.

At the Wilkes-Barre campus, students Marco Cosgrove, an Information Sciences and Technology major, and Lauren Ciavarella, a Communications major, have been coordinating year-round fund-raising events to benefit THON. All the proceeds go to the 4 Diamonds Fund at the Hershey Medical Center to help fight childhood cancer with superior care, comprehensive support, and innovative research. According to Jackie Warnick-Piatt, Student Activities Coordinator, “Both Marco Cosgrove and Lauren Ciavarella do a marvelous job at providing the leadership that’s necessary for planning exciting activities such as the THON Date Auction and the Haunted Forest. These two programs alone have raised over $4,000 dollars for THON.”

THON weekend is scheduled for Feb. 22-24, 2008 at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College. During this time, 700 dancers and thousands of supporters will come together in the hopes of one day finding a cure for pediatric cancer. This collective effort has become one of Penn State's greatest and most unifying traditions.

For more information on how to make a donation, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Student Activities Office at 570-675-9284.

Clothing retailer Talbots has announced the launch of its 11th annual Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund, a program that awards college scholarships to women  wanting to attend college later in life. Sponsored by the Talbots Charitable Foundation, this unique scholarship fund annually awards five $10,000 scholarships and fifty $1,000 scholarships. The fund was created to fill a void in scholarship programs, which typically make awards to traditional college students. Eligible applicants are women currently residing in the United States who earned a high-school diploma or GED at least ten years ago; are currently seeking a degree from an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school; and have at least two full-time semesters or twenty-four credits remaining to complete their undergraduate degree. The deadline for entries is January 2, 2008, or until one thousand eligible applications have been received, whichever happens first.

More information and applications for the 2008 Talbots Women's Scholarship are available at the Talbots Web site: www.talbots.com/about/scholar/scholar.asp

“It’s a story that Hollywood couldn’t even write,” says Penn State Wilkes-Barre Communication Arts and Sciences faculty member Bill Bachman. It’s the story of Frances Slocum, and Bachman, along with two co-producers, is bringing the events of her abduction to life through an hour-long documentary. 

According to Bachman, who wrote the script, “This is the most incredibly true story that Hollywood couldn’t even conjure up. Our overall goal is to keep the Frances Slocum story alive.” The movie features over 20 local actors, and scenes from the film were shot on location in towns around Pennsylvania and Indiana.

The feature-length project details the time line of when Frances Slocum was kidnapped in Wilkes-Barre on Nov. 2, 1778. Eventually, she was taken to Ohio, where she lived with a family of Delaware Indians. When Slocum got older, she married a Miami Indian chief, and from that point, she went on to live a comfortable and prosperous life in Indiana until the time of her death. “A lot of people know and a lot of people don’t know the story of what really happened to Frances Slocum,” said Jesse Teitelbaum, Executive Director of the Luzerne County Historical Society, and one of the cast members in Bachman’s film.

In the coming months, Bachman hopes to have the movie aired on the History Channel or other educational stations. In the meantime, you can see the documentary Frances Slocum: Child of Two Americas, on Dec.15-16, at the RC Movies 14 Theatres in Wilkes-Barre. Advanced tickets may be purchased by calling Penn State Wilkes-Barre Arts at Hayfield at 675-9232.

A long-time Arts and Sciences professor who lives in Dallas, Bachman began his teaching career in the Greater Wilkes-Barre area in 1982. He holds a Master of Arts degree from the New York Institute of Technology, and is currently a full-time instructor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Outside the classroom, Bachman is no stranger to film-making and video editing. He’s held numerous, high profile positions, such as the Public Affairs Director at WNEP TV and Senior Director of Corporate Communications for Blue Cross.

For more information, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Public Information Office at 570-675-9269.

Give the gift of health this holiday season, and think fitness for yourself in 2008! The Penn State Wilkes-Barre Athletics and Recreation Building, a premiere fitness facility situated in the Back Mountain area, is hosting a free day of fitness for the public on Saturday, Dec. 15, starting at 8:00am. The state-of-the-art fitness facility, which is located on the Wilkes-Barre campus, can become your partner for success in meeting individual fitness and wellness goals. Attend the event, and learn how you can achieve better health through their various types of exercise and sports equipment.

Members of the community are encouraged to visit the Athletics and Recreation Building during the Free Day of Fitness to receive a complimentary workout, and a tour of the facility. No purchase necessary. Those who attend will have the opportunity to use the regulation size gymnasium, racquetball courts, and the fully-equipped Cybex Weight Room, complete with a full range of free weights. Participants, can also try-out the Precor treadmills, exercise cycles, and elliptical trainers, as well as the Stair-Master, and Concept 2 rowing machines. 

In addition, the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Athletics and Recreation Building offers aerobics and step aerobics, Pilates, volleyball, and spinning classes, which are all taught by certified instructors. Plus, at any time visitors can give the gift of fitness by purchasing gift cards, or membership certificates.

For more information on membership programs and rates, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Athletics & Recreation Building at 570-675-9259, or go to www.wb.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/fitness.htm.

The Student Mini-Grant program, designed in 2005, is a means to empower students to develop creative, effective initiatives to reduce high-risk drinking and prevent tobacco and other drug use on their campus.  CSAP recognizes that students’ best understand their own issues and concerns as well as the type of programs and events that will appeal to their peers.  CSAP provides funding to student groups for initiatives such as alcohol-free social activities and the development of peer advocacy groups that will work to create environmental or policy change. To learn more about CSAP and its initiatives, including the student mini-grants, please visit their website at http://www.csap.psu.edu/.

For more information, please contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Public Information Office at 570-675-9269.