December 20, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined elected and school district officials, Wilkes President Patrick F. Leahy and Carol Nicholas, executive director of the Luzerne County SHINE program, to celebrate the program’s first anniversary during an event at the West Side Career & Technical Center in Kingston.
December 20, 2016 – Recording an episode of WBRE and WYOU’s Veterans' Views with Judge Tom Munley, right, and Attorney Larry Moran Jr. about the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Veterans' Trust Fund and discussing other topics important to veterans.
December 17, 2016 - Paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of veterans during a Wreaths Across America event along with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at the Gino Merli Center in Scranton.
December 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand at American Legion Post 357, in Great Bend Township to help plan for a memorial to honor Army SPC William "Billy" Evans who died serving in Iraq on September 19, 2005, just six days after his 22nd birthday.
November 27, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand in Lehman Township, Luzerne County, for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Also taking part were township Supervisors Ray Iwanowski and Dave Sutton, State Rep. Aaron Kaufer, township Treasurer Alvin Cragle and Santa.
November 11, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Mike Peifer were at Twin Cedars Assisted Living Center in Shohola on Veterans Day celebrating Barbara Child's inspiring personal story as a World War II Women's Army Corps veteran and a NASA retiree.
November 11, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Wayne County Commissioner Jon Fritz and Madison Haviland stand in front of part of the Wayne County Walk of Honor memorial, which was unveiled in Honesdale, near the Wayne County Courthouse. The monument is dedicated to all county residents who have served in the military and lists which county-based cemetery they are interred in.
November 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker presented veteran Paul Peters, of Slocum Township, with a certificate honoring the receipt of his long-overdue high school diploma. During a Veterans Day ceremony, Crestwood School District presented him with his diploma four decades after he set aside his education to serve our country in Vietnam.
November 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker enjoyed a lively discussion with students and area veterans at Northwest High School as part of a Veterans Day lunch.
November 5, 2016 – During Rep. Karen Boback’s 10th annual Veterans Appreciation Day event at Misericordia University, Sen. Baker and Rep. Boback congratulate the winners of Rep. Boback’s annual student Art and Essay contest. The students, from left, are: Sierra Lynn Ferrey, Lucy Honeywell, Pyper Lechleitner, Jack Barr, Brianna Chewey and Alex Evans.
1. November 4, 2016 – Maura Carlacci, Leo Vergnetti and Sen. Baker attended the 5th Annual Spirit of Hope Celebration at Mohegan Sun Pocono. The fundraising event helped the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute to continue fulfilling its mission to fight the disease in our area.
November 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker was in Forest City for the unveiling of informational signs and maps directing visitors to Susquehanna County attractions and business and points of interest in Forest City.
October 28, 2016 – At the Jeans and Jewells Gala fundraiser to support the Wayne County Victims Intervention Program, Sen. Baker spent some time with VIP Executive Director Michele Minor Wolf and Bonnie Taylor, who works at Wayne Bank, the gala’s corporate sponsor.
October 26, 2016 – Sen. Baker spent some time with close friend and colleague Rep. Sandy Major before her retirement from the state House after serving the 111th District dutifully and exceptionally for 20 years.
October 21, 2016 – Sen. Baker participated in The Arc of Luzerne County’s NEPA Disability Conference along with other elected officials and their staff members. While at the event, held at the Woodlands in Plains Township, Baker was part of a panel discussion and spoke about her legislative accomplishments including I Want To Work and PA ABLE.
October 20, 2016 – Along with Bill Williams, right, and Robert Tambur, left, Sen. Lisa Baker celebrated Attorney Allan M. Kluger, second from left, as he was awarded the Rev. James Lackenmier Award for Achievement & Leadership at the King’s College gala at the Westmoreland Club in Wilkes-Barre.
October 18, 2016 – Sen. Baker welcomed Matthew Dillon, an 11th grader from Dallas High School, who served as her job shadow and a guest page in the Senate for the day.
October 17, 2016 – Members of the Salt and Light Homeschool Support Group visited the Capitol to observe session, take a guided tour and meet with legislators. The Parry family, from Exeter Township, was among those making the trip and met with Sen. Baker on the Senate floor. They include Rebekka and Dan Parry, Rebekka’s mom Sharon Guyer and the Parry’s six children: Noah, Daniel, John, Abigail, Thomas and Ben.
October 15, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Realtor Pete Helms congratulating their friend and community award honoree Pat Solano at The Commonwealth Medical College Black Ties for White Coats Scholarship Gala at Mohegan Sun Pocono’s Ballroom.
October 13, 2016 – Sen. Baker discusses issues with a senior citizen at the sixth annual Luzerne County Senior Expo that she held in conjunction with Sen. John Yudichak and Rep. Aaron Kaufer. The expo, at the 109th Field Artillery Armory in Wilkes-Barre, attracted more than 100 vendors and more than 1,000 area seniors.
October 11, 2016 – A group of Korean War veterans attended a special assembly program at Dallas High School where they received Ambassador of Peace medals from the Korean consulate. The program was hosted by Sen. Baker and Sen. Pat Toomey’s office.
October 11, 2016 - Rolling out the red carpet for LOOK Trailers in Mountain Top, Sen. Baker joined with Governor Tom Wolf, Rep. Gerald Mullery, and officials from Penn's Northeast, the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce and LOOK Trailers for the official ribbon cutting.
October 11, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Karen Boback spent some time with Dallas High School students after a special assembly honoring Korean War veterans. Eighteen veterans, and their families, attended the ceremony where the men received Ambassador of Peace medals issued by the Korean consulate.
October 4, 2016 - Enjoyed helping members of Boy Scout Troop 281 in Dallas learn more about our great state and earn their citizenship merit badges
October 2, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Think Pink luncheon and hat contest at the Woodlands Inn and Resort in Plains Township. The event raised funds for cancer support programs at Candy's Place Cancer Wellness Center in Forty Fort.
October 2, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Think Pink luncheon and hat contest at the Woodlands Inn and Resort in Plains Township. The event raised funds for cancer support programs at Candy's Place Cancer Wellness Center in Forty Fort.
September 30, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Wyoming Seminary’s new President Kevin Rea. The senator attended the installation ceremony that saw Rea become the school’s twelfth president.
September 28, 2016 - Sens. Kim Ward, Camera Bartolotta, Lisa Baker and Pat Vance spent some time with Libre, a Boston terrier that was the impetus for Sen. Richard Alloway’s proposed Libre’s Law. The rescued terrier that was abused and left to die by its Lancaster County breeder was the poster puppy for the legislation that seeks to increase the penalties for the most heinous of animal abuse cases.
September 28, 2016 - Sen. Baker has been named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business, Pennsylvania's leading small business advocacy group. The award was presented to select legislators for their outstanding voting records on behalf of Pennsylvania's small businesses in the 2015-2016 session of the General Assembly. NFIB’s Legislative Director Neal Lesher stopped by Sen. Baker’s Capitol office to present the award.
September 27, 2016 - Members of the 2016 AAA National Champion Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, including Mountain Top native Matt Wotherspoon, were welcomed to the Senate and lauded for their championship season. While at the Capitol, Wotherspoon caught up with the senator and her son Carson, who played against him in Little League.
September 24, 2016 – Sen. Baker was in Shohola marking the 100th anniversary of the Shohola School Building. The school was opened in 1916 and educated thousands of students over the years. It was later renamed the Smith-Nelson School in honor of two of the school’s dedicated teachers, Anna Smith and Mary Nelson. It is now used as the Shohola Township Municipal Building.
September 24, 2016 – Sen. Baker was in Waymart to meet with South Canaan Telephone customers at the company’s annual customer appreciation day celebration. The event included entertainment, food, prizes and music
September 21, 2016 – Attending the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ Hall of Fame Ceremony in Ft. Indiantown Gap, Sen. Baker spent some time with Helen Sajer, the widow of Maj. Gen. Gerald Sajer. The Sajers founded the non-profit Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors in 2006. Maj. Gen. Sajer was a 2010 inductee and Baker was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014.
September 20, 2016 - Sen. Baker spent time discussing STEM (science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education with Wallenpaupack Area student Hannah Smith and Wayne Highlands teacher Michelle Tonkin. They were at the annual Women in Science Symposium at The Heritage Nightclub at Woodloch Resort in Lackawaxen Township, Pike County.
September 18, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback presented citations from the Senate and House to Pastor Roland Ferdinand Preisler marking the 50th anniversary of Grace Community Church in Dallas.
September 17, 2016 – Friends and supporters, including Sen. Baker, joined with Rep. Sandy Major to celebrate her 22 years of representing the 111th House District in the state legislature. Major is retiring at the end of this year and an event celebrating her career was held at Green Gables Restaurant in New Milford, Susquehanna County. Here, Baker and former Lt. Gov. William Scranton III share a moment with Major.
September 16, 2016 – Celebrating 25 years of sportsmen, Sen. Baker joined community leaders and volunteers for Hunters Sharing the Harvest, at the Beaumont Inn in Monroe Township, Wyoming County.
September 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker offered remarks at the Tobyhanna Army Depot during a POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony.
September 16, 2016 – Legislators including Sen. Baker, Rep. Rosemary Brown, Rep. David Parker and Sen. Mario Scavello, were on hand to celebrate Rep. Karen Boback being named the legislative fellow at East Stroudsburg University. ESU President Marcia Welsh, some trustees and representatives of other Monroe County legislators also attended.
September 12, 2016 – Dozens of elected officials, state police and other dignitaries attended the dedication of the Memorial Garden, in honor of State Police Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson II. The ceremony was held at the state police barracks in Blooming Grove, Pike County. From left are Captain Chris Paris, Rep. Rosemary Brown, former State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan, Sen. Baker, Penn State Master Gardener Robert Weintraub, who spearheaded the project, and Rep. Mike Peifer.
September 11, 2016 - Dedicating the Nicholson Bridge in honor of fallen Vietnam Marine PFC Jody Allen Cron with American Legion
September 11, 2016 – In Wyoming County, Sen. Baker and event volunteers celebrate Nicholson Bridge Day. The event celebrates the Tunkhannock Viaduct and brings residents and railroad fans together for old-fashioned fun.
September 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Aaron Kaufer and community leaders were on hand to help dedicate the new Fort Fort Police Station in honor of Officer Robert Mack who died in the line of duty in 1949.
September 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the opening ceremonies for the 54th Annual Luzerne County Fair. Eleven-year-old Anna Rinehimer of Hollenback Township did a fantastic rendition of our National Anthem.
September 7, 2016 – Elected officials, including Sen. Baker, state Reps. Aaron Kaufer, Eddie Day Pashinski and Karen Boback and Luzerne County District Attorney Stefanie Salavantis, joined Luzerne County Fair officials at the opening ceremonies for the 54th annual fair in Lehman Township.
September 3, 2016 – Sen. Baker watches the American and Pennsylvania flags being hoisted during a dedication ceremony at the Back Mountain Regional EMA
September 2, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the annual Wyoming County Community Fair at the fairgrounds in Meshoppen. Behind her is the new Veterans Memorial Pavilion.
September 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined with PennDOT, Harveys Lake and other officials to bring attention to the newly installed speedminders installed strategically around the lake to make motorists more aware of their speed.
August 29, 2016 - At the Bloss Family Dairy Farm in Hobbie, Hollenback Township, Sen. Baker listened to agriculture officials and farmers discuss negative regulatory impacts. The event was attended by elected officials and members of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and Luzerne Conservation District and a tour of the farm and hayride was included in the day’s program.
August 27, 2016 - Kicking-off the start of the Delaware Valley school year by dedicating the new elementary school in Matamoras. Also attending were Pike County Commissioner Matt Osterberg and Margaret Berger, who at age 100, is the oldest living graduate of the old Matamoras Elementary School.
August 27, 2016 – Sen. Baker celebrates another great year of exhibits, food and entertainment at the 159th Annual Harford Fair in Susquehanna County.
August 26, 2016 – The Susquehanna County Economic Development Board and the Central Bradford Progress Authority honor business and community leaders at their annual economic development breakfast at The Summit Inn in New Milford. Sen. Baker was on hand to celebrate the positive news and congratulate the honorees.
August 25, 2016 – Attended the Pike County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner where Fox News Senior Judicial Analyst Judge Andrew Napolitano offered the keynote address. While at the dinner at Silver Birches on Lake Wallenpaupack, Sen. Baker caught up with JoAnn Rose of Paupack.
August 23, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Sandra Major and Wayne County Commissioner Jonathan Fritz congratulated Adam MacDonald of Susquehanna for receiving a Claire Williams O’Neil Foundation scholarship funded by DTE Energy to study oil and natural gas at Lackawanna College.
August 21, 2016 - Rain didn't dampen the Quality Deer Management Association’s North Branch Chapter Women in the Outdoors event at the Sorber Mountain Cabin near Noxen.
August 18, 2016 – Sen. Baker and other elected officials celebrated Procter & Gamble’s 50 years in Wyoming County at the company’s Mehoopany location. Sen. Baker was pleased to honor a fantastic corporate citizen and a fabulous community
August 17, 2016 – Sen. Baker and other elected officials serving Luzerne County spent some time discussing issues and legislation with Luzerne County Township Officials and the PA State Association of Township Officials at their meeting at the Checkerboard Inn in Kingston Township.
August 17, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Sen. John Gordner, and Reps. Aaron Kaufer, Karen Boback and Eddie Day Pashinski, and other officials, attended the annual Luzerne County Township Association meeting at the Checkerboard Inn’s pavilion in Kingston Township
August 14, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Saint Jude Parish Picnic in Mountain Top and spent some time with long-time friend Barb McLaughlin of Wright Township.
August 12, 2016 – Sen. Baker stopped by the Hawley Farmers Market and couldn’t resist buying some bread from Myrtle Avenue Bakehouse.
August 11, 2016 - Sen. Baker spent the morning demonstrating the importance of citizenship and voting rights with future leaders at Pennsylvania State Police Troop P’s Camp Cadet program at Camp Kresge near White Haven.
August 11, 2016 – Meeting with attendees of the Not One More rally to combat overdose and addiction in Wyoming County. Liz DeWolf, a mother who organized the rally, is a true voice of hope.
August 11, 2016 - Congratulating the Holy Redeemer Lady Royals, 2-time PIAA Class AA Softball Champs. Sen. Baker presented the team with a Senate citation during a ceremony at the bandstand on Wilkes-Barre’s Public Square.
August 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker proudly spent some time with the Tunkhannock girls Little league softball state champions. The team went 3-1 in the East Region pool play, including a 3-2 win over the eventual regional champions from Delaware.
August 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker visited the Wayne County Fair where she took in the sights, sounds and tastes. In addition to having a harness race named in her honor, she also spoke with fair officials about the 154th annual fair in Dyberry Township.
August 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand at Hayfield House on the campus of Penn State University Wilkes-Barre in Lehman Township to congratulate Ryan William Cohen of Boy Scout Troop 281, in Dallas, on becoming the troop’s 159th member to achieve the rank of Eagle. Joining the senator were Rep. Aaron Kaufer and Ryan’s parents Kathleen and Alan of Kingston Township.
August 5, 2016 – Sen. Baker served up all things blueberry at the Susquehanna County Historical Society and Free Library Association Blueberry Festival in Montrose.
August 4, 2016 - Sen. Baker presented Kingston Township resident Royal Sutton with a Pennsylvania Senate citation recognizing his selection by The Dallas Post as the Charles D. Lemmond Jr. Community Spirit Award. Joining Baker and Sutton is Barbara Lemmond, the widow of the award’s namesake. Sutton was nominated for the award by Dallas Post readers for his commitment to volunteering in the Back Mountain. The award is named after the former state senator, Luzerne County judge and assistant district attorney, who died in 2012, and it honors those who endeavor to improve the lives of Back Mountain residents through outstanding community service, public service or philanthropy, according to the newspaper.
August 4, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback visited the annual Triton Hose Company Carnival and Parade in Tunkhannock.
August 4, 2016 – Sen. Baker enjoyed discussing legislative issues and priorities with members of the Wayne/Pike Association of Realtors and the Greater Scranton Board of Realtors
August 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback marked a historic milestone in Wyoming County as Tunkhannock Borough turns 175 years old. The county seat is strong and growing as it reaches its Dodransbicentennial.
July 30, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand to celebrate the Bethany Public Library’s 80th birthday in Wayne County. The rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of those gathered, including Bethany Mayor Margaret Freeman and Wayne County Commissioners Wendell Kay and Jonathan Fritz.
July 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback attended a youth skills camp near Noxen to help teach safe and ethical hunting practices. The program was hosted by the Quality Deer Management Association’s North Mountain Branch.
July 15, 2016 – Sen. Baker celebrated the passage of her Senate resolution marking the third Saturday of July as Anthracite Heritage Day in Pennsylvania during a ceremony at the Luzerne County Courthouse. Korean War veteran Bob Alper, of Kingston, who proposed the idea to Sen. Baker was essential in the creation of Anthracite Heritage Day and his hard work was noted during the ceremony, which included Rep. Aaron Kaufer and Luzerne County Manager David Pedri
July 12, 2016 - Senator Baker celebrated her own birthday along with birthday girl Cora Kukosky, who turned 3.
July 10, 2016- “Going once, going twice, sold!” Sen. Baker tried out her auctioneering skills during the Back Mountain Memorial Library annual fundraising auction. Pictured with the senator is Carol Sweeney from State Representative Karen Boback’s office.
July 10, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined residents, including Russ Newell, for the Southern Wyoming County Community Center's 2nd Annual Strawberry Social in Noxen. Homemade strawberry treats were plentiful and Sen. Baker was at the ready with the whipped cream.
July 10, 2016 – Eager children took part in the dedication of the new playground area and equipment in Noxen as Sen. Baker helped cut the ribbon for the facility near the walking trail along Route 29.
July 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker presented a certificate to the Dyberry Day Camp in Wayne County to commemorate its 45th year. On hand to accept the honor were Bette Baerenklau, the camp’s director; Kathy Highhouse, the treasurer of The Arc of Wayne County, which runs the camp; and Ginny Motsko, the president of The Arc.
July 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Sandy Major and Wayne County Commissioners Jonathan Fritz and Brian Smith congratulated Louis Matoushek, of Clinton Township, for voting in 50 consecutive general elections. Matoushek was one of 18 newly inducted members into Wayne County’s Voter Hall of Fame, who were honored during a ceremony at the county courthouse.
July 4, 2016- President of the Wyoming Commemorative Association Frank Conyngham and Sen. Baker were on hand to commemorate the 238th anniversary of the Battle of Wyoming and honored those who lost their lives. Each year, since 1878, a ceremony is held on the grounds of the stone obelisk in Wyoming. The monument marks the gravesite of the bones of the 300 patriots who died during the Wyoming Massacre, which took place on July 3, 1778.
June 28, 2016 – Brian Rose, a Palmyra Township, Pike County resident and Colgate University student, is serving as Sen. Baker’s intern this summer in her district offices in Dallas and Hawley. He visited the Capitol and was introduced by Sen. Baker during session. The political science major is a Wallenpaupack Area High School graduate.
June 28, 2016 – Mary Blase, a Dallas Township resident who has worked for Sen. Baker for three years handling constituent services in the district office in Dallas, was in Harrisburg to observe a session day. She was introduced from the Senate floor by Sen. Baker.
June 25, 2016 – Sen. Baker celebrated Tunkhannock Founders Day with local veterans and Rep. Karen Boback. The street festival included 150 vendors of different varieties, live music, and insight into the local history and culture of the Wyoming County seat.
June 20, 2016 – Four low-volume state roads in Pike County are getting some much-need attention thanks to the Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) method, which uses recycled asphalt taken from the Interstate 84 project to repave local roads. Sen. Baker put on a hardhat and got an up close view of the RAP process in action as she sat on the paver as it spread blacktop along Greeley Lake Road in Lackawaxen Township.
June 17, 2016 - Lake Lehman’s Dominic Hockenbury and his coach, John Sobocinski, met with Sen. Baker after Hockenbury captured his third track and field state title in the 3200 meter run. Hockenbury will be attending Syracuse University in the fall to compete on its cross country and track and field teams.
June 17, 2016 - Sen. Baker stopped by to see Misericordia University’s new Mary & Allen Erwine Hall. The building will house Misericordia’s entire nursing program along with a physical therapy clinic that is dedicated to serving those in the community who lack insurance or are underinsured. Pictured in front of the new building is Sen. Baker and Mary Erwine.
June 12, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand to see the Freedom Express at Dallas American Legion Post 672 during a Veterans' Memorial Celebration and chicken barbecue. Standing in front of the powerful and moving mobile tribute to veterans that is owned by the Gallerie family of Pocono Summit are Post Commander Jim Baloga, Sen. Baker and Gary Gallerie.
June 9, 2016 - Pat Perkins, of Ledgedale, who serves as director for the senior centers in Wayne County was at the ?Capitol participating in a hearing on senior centers and stopped in to say hello.
June 9, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Aaron Kaufer and Kingston Mayor James Haggerty were among those cutting the ribbon on Kingston’s refurbished swimming pool complex during a rededication ceremony. The $1.2 million project, paid for with a state grant, included slides, a mushroom waterfall and security cameras.
June 8, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Mauree Gingrich received Legislator of the Year awards from The Arc of Pennsylvania. From left: The Arc Executive Director Maureen Cronin, Sen. Baker, Rep. Gingrich, and The Arc Board Director Ken Oakes.
June 8, 2016 - The Pike County Historical Society honored Barbara J. Buchanan at its Annual Membership Banquet at the Settlers Inn in Hawley. Sen. Baker presented Buchanan with a Senate citation and offered a few words. From left are Baker, Society Director Lori Strelecki, Buchanan and Rep. Rosemary Brown
June 7, 2016 - Senator Baker and Weinberg Regional Food Bank Director Rich Kutz and Operations Director Rod Blaine in Harrisburg celebrating the Fill a Glass With Hope initiative, which delivers milk to neighbors in need. The event included those from Feeding PA, the Commission on Economic Opportunity, the Pennsylvania Dairymen's Association and PennAG Industries Association.
May 30, 2016 – Sen. Baker helps break ground on the Wayne County Walk of Honor next to the Wayne County Courthouse in Honesdale. Once erected, the monument will ensure that those who sacrificed for our freedom hold an honored place in our hearts and memories.
May 30, 3016 – Sen. Baker participated in the annual Honesdale Memorial Day Parade, along with Wayne County officials including District Attorney Janine Edwards, Commissioner Wendell Kay, Treasurer Brian Field and Commissioner Brian Smith.
May 29, 2016 - Sen. Baker and Rep. Aaron Kaufer were at the Columbian Volunteer Fire Department's Memorial Day Service in Kingston along with firefighters Charles Cooper and Leonard Chesterfield.
May 28, 2016 – Sen. Baker ?attended a ceremony marking the end of the Dallas Lions Club’s Hometown Heroes banner program, which ran for five years. The banners were returned to the banner sponsors, including Sen. Baker.
May 26, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Karen Boback, Luzerne District Attorney Stefanie Salavantis, law enforcement, PennDOT and Harveys Lake borough officials participated in a safety day event at Harveys Lake to discuss speed enforcement efforts and other safety measures.
May 24, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Sen. John Blake were on hand to officially name the new pool complex at Lackawanna State Park in honor of former Governor William W. Scranton. Also in attendance were the late governor’s family, DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn and Beach Lake resident and former park ranger Joseph Ehrenhardt, who suggested the honor.
May 22, 2016 – Gladys Wilson of Wyoming was honored by family and friends at the Wyoming United Methodist Church to celebrate her 100th birthday. She received a Senate citation from Sen. Baker and Sen. John Yudichak to mark the occasion.
May 21, 2016 - Daniel Burkhart, of Troop 281 in Dallas, met with Sen. Baker to celebrate his newly attained rank of Eagle Scout. The senator presented Daniel, a Kingston Township resident, with a congratulatory Senate citation.
May 20, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined advocates from the #IWantToWork campaign to celebrate a new law that will better prepare disabled students for the workforce. Seated, from left, are Jenn Murphy, Caregivers of America; artist and advocate Robert Zotynia; and Jim Kennelly, Caregivers of America. Back row, from left, are Karla Porter, program director for The Arc of Luzerne County; Sen. Baker; and Pamela Zotynia, executive director for The Arc of Luzerne County. Robert presented a painting to Sen. Baker in appreciation for all she’s done for the disabled community.
May 20, 2016 - Sen. Baker met with Sidney and her mom, Carrie Marko, to discuss Lyme Disease and potential legislative avenues to assist with treatment and costs. The Dorrance Township residents are advocates who raise awareness of the tick-borne illness.
May 19, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined Sen. Gene Yaw to discuss proposed legislation with students during a student government seminar at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport.
May 18, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Pennsylvania Chamber Workforce Summit in Hershey. While there she met with some Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center students and staff members who were in attendance.
May 18, 2016 – Sens. Baker, Blake and Yudichak welcomed students from the Scranton School for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children in Clarks Summit to the Senate floor. The students were at the Capitol for a day of learning.
May 18, 2016 – Miss Pennsylvania Ashley Marie Schmider, second from left, stopped by the Senate. Among those she met with were, from left, Sen. Guy Reschenthaler, Sen. Patrick Stefano, Sen. Baker and Sen. Mario Scavello. The Duquesne University graduate represented Pennsylvania in the Miss America pageant in Atlantic City in September.
May 17, 2016 – Sen. Baker offered remarks during a press conference in the Capitol Rotunda recognizing the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation and Senator Pat Vance for their efforts to make life fuller and more fulfilling for so many of Pennsylvania’s citizens. Looking on are Vance and Susan Tachau, the CEO of the foundation.
May 17, 2016 – Several employees from Borton-Lawson Engineering and Architecture were at the Capitol. In addition they took a tour of the treasury building, met with several legislators from Luzerne County and were introduced during a Senate session. Taking a photo on the Senate floor were, bottom row, from left: Sen. John Blake, Geoff Gribble, Samantha Albert, Doreen Rushton, MaryAnn Cooney, George Mehallo, Sen. Baker and Sen. John Yudichak. Top row: Charles Battle, Brian Derenick, Stephen Boone, Christopher Borton, Hess Kronenwetter and Aaron Sisler.
May 13, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker attended the 15th Annual Open House and Carpentry Skills Expo at the Pittsburgh Carpenters Training Center and discussing apprenticeship programs.
May 12, 2016 – Sen. Baker was on hand, along with the Back Mountain Chamber of Commerce and Rep. Karen Boback, to celebrate the grand opening of 415 PRO Hardware Garden and Pet Supply in Dallas.
May 12, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Karen Boback , Misericordia University President Thomas Botzman and others took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening the new sidewalk that connects Dallas Borough to the college’s Dallas Township campus.
May 11, 2016 – Sen. Baker looked through exhibits and spoke to Lisa Troy at the 2016 Institute on Disabilities at Temple University Expo held in the Capitol. The event showcased all the excellent work the institute does to support Pennsylvanians with disabilities.
May 9, 2016 – Along with Sen. John Yudichak, Sen. Baker welcomed the Wyoming Valley West Middle School Chorus to the Capitol where they performed on the Rotunda steps.
May 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Wright Twp. Volunteer Fire Department’s open house event focusing on public safety. Among the organizations on hand were the American Red Cross, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Boy Scouts of America.
May 7, 2016 – Sen. Baker was at the Town Hill United Methodist Church in Shickshinny to congratulate Troop 17’s newest Eagle Scout, Noah McGovern of Union Township.
April 28, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended Dave Rinehimer’s surprise retirement party and presented a Senate citation to the Slocum Township resident who was a 35-year employee of PennDOT. Rinehimer was heavily involved in the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful effort and was based in PennDOT’s facility in Ashley.
April 27, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the annual WEDCO dinner and business meeting held at the Bryn Mawr Conference Center in Oregon Township. Among those in attendance were Molly Rodgers, administrator of the Wayne County Library Authority, Donna LaBar, who retired from the Chamber of the Northern Poconos; and Vicky Botjer, Wayne County’s chief clerk.
April 24, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback were on hand to present Barbara Landon with citations from the Senate and House. Landon, who was selected as Woman of the Year by the Tunkhannock Business and Professional Women, was honored during the organization’s luncheon at the Tunkhannock Moose Lodge.
April 24, 2016 – Brothers Paul and Michael Smith attained the rank of Eagle Scout and were congratulated by Sen. Baker and Rep. Aaron Kaufer during a ceremony in Luzerne. The brothers are with Troop 281 in Dallas.
April 22, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast at Stonehedge Golf Club in Tunkhannock Township.
April 20, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Susan Slocum, a constituent services coordinator from the senator’s Dallas District Office, were on hand at the Back Mountain Chamber Expo at Misericordia University. The expo showcases many of the businesses and organizations based in the Back Mountain area of Luzerne County.
April 19, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker attended the Rotary Club of Honesdale’s lunch meeting at Cordaro’s Restaurant and gave those in attendance a legislative update on happenings in Harrisburg. She was invited to speak by club president Andy Lane Chapman.
April 19, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker stopped by The Alpine Wurst and Meat House in Texas Township to present a Senate Citation to Mark and Gretchen Eifert congratulating their establishment for winning three gold medals, one silver medal and one bronze medal at a competition in Wisconsin organized by the German Butchers’ Association in conjunction with the American Association of Meat Processors. Mark and his father Klaus will fly to Frankford, Germany in May to accept their medals in person.
April 18, 2016 – Sen. Baker was proud to attend the Children’s Service Center’s event at Genetti’s in Wilkes-Barre. Baker introduced her Senate colleague, John Yudichak, who received the organization’s Commitment to Children award. Fellow local legislators Eddie Day Pashinski and Karen Boback and Mike Hopkins, the CEO of the Children’s Service Center, joined Baker and Yudichak in this photo.
April 15, 2016 – Sen. Baker took part in a legislative panel during the Luzerne County Association of Realtors Meeting at the Fox Hill Country Club in Exeter. Other legislators taking part included Sen. John Blake and Reps. Aaron Kaufer, Mike Carroll and Eddie Day Pashinski.
April 14, 2016 – Sen. Baker was at the Julia Ribaudo Extended Care Center in Lake Ariel, along with Rep. Mike Peifer, to celebrate 101st birthdays for residents Irene McLain and Frances Gagliardi. Each of the centenarians was presented with a citation from the Senate.
April 12, 2016 – During the Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Pennsylvania’s Student Aid Advocacy Day at the Capitol, Misericordia University students Michael Gombita and Alexa Malloy joined Sen. Baker on the Senate floor. Also on hand were Misericordia’s Foundations Relations Manager Phil Swank and Lailani Augustine, the school’s Alumni Services coordinator.
April 12, 2016 – Sen. Baker rolled up her sleeve to donate blood during the annual Capitol Blood Drive benefitting the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. Baker served as the Senate Republican Caucus sponsor of the event.
April 8, 2016 – Sen. Baker joined Congressman Lou Barletta and other officials and community members at Rep. Karen Boback’s opening of her 117th District Office in Tunkhannock.
April 6, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker attended and spoke at the Shrine Club of Greater Wilkes-Barre’s annual dinner program in Dallas.
April 6, 2016 – Wilkes University pharmacy students joined Sen. Baker in Harrisburg to discuss legislative issues on Pharmacy Day at the Capitol.
April 5, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker welcomed Bloomsburg University students to the Senate floor during the annual Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Advocacy Day.
April 5, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker welcomed students and faculty members from her alma mater, Shippensburg University, to the Senate floor during the annual Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Advocacy Day.
April 5, 2016 - Luzerne County Community College students and staff members visited the Capitol and met with Sen. Lisa Baker during a college lobby day.
April 5, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker met with Misericordia students and staff members who were in Harrisburg as part of the annual Undergraduate Research at the Capitol Conference. From left, Larry Pellegrini, director of the Dallas Township school’s Corporate, Government and Foundation Relations; student Rachel Bohn, of Mountain Top; Sen. Baker; student Kelsey Glavich of Browndale; and Phillip Swank, Misericordia’s manager of Government Relations.
April 5, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker met with local police department members at the Capitol where they rallied for road safety and the use of radar to enforce speed limits. The members of law enforcement and the departments they serve: Officer Scott Rozitski, Wright Township; Officer Richton Penn, White Haven and Dennison Township; Chief Mike Moravec, Kingston Township; Chief Royce Engler, Wright Township; Chief Albert Walker, Hanover Township; Sgt. Martin Maransky, Kingston Township; and Chief Thomas Szoke, White Haven and Dennison Township.
April 4, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker and Rep. Aaron Kaufer met with Dallas School Board members Jeff Thomas, Patrick Musto and Kathy Wega to discuss education issues as part of the Pennsylvania School Board Association's Advocacy Day.
April 4, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker, Senator Ryan Aument and Senator Bob Mensch highlighted budget reform proposals with members of the Pennsylvania Business Council.
March 24, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker offered insights and advice on public service at the Women's Leadership Forum held at Prudential Retirement in Scranton.
March 23, 2016 - Commonwealth Health and Hospital and Health System Association of Pennsylvania officials visited with Sen. Baker in Harrisburg to discuss priorities to improve access and quality of care in our communities. Along with Sen. Baker are, from left, Cor Catena, CEO of Wilkes-Barre General Hospital; Mederic McLaughlin, CEO of First Hospital in Kingston; Justin Davis, CEO of Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton; and Ann Marie Stevens, CEO of Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock.
March 15, 2016 – Penney A. Luhrs of Delaware Township, Pike County, spent a portion of the day shadowing Sen. Baker at the Capitol. Luhrs sat in on several constituent meetings, a press conference and a committee meeting as part of her shadowing that was part of the Anne B. Anstine Excellence in Public Service Class.
March 15, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker welcomed members of the Tri-State Society for Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Rehabilitation to the Senate. The organization serves Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Among the specialists on hand were, from left, Michael Zehner, Pat Comoss, Lynne Xhilone, Senator Baker, Nadine Greco, Ruth Akers, Sue Acri and Stephen Lerner.
March 15, 2016 – Sen. Baker was at the Best Western Inn at Hunt’s Landing in Westfall Township attending the 18th Annual Chefs Do Dinner fundraiser benefitting the Center for Developmental Disabilities of Pike County. She was honored with the Children’s Champion Award and while there she spent time with four-year-old Gianna Grompone, who has Rett Syndrome and receives services at the center.
March 15, 2016 – Sen. Baker offered remarks in the Capitol Rotunda during a ceremony highlighting the good work the Red Cross does in the state. The senator cosponsored a resolution designating March as Red Cross Month in Pennsylvania. The ceremony included legislators, State Fire Commissioner Timothy Solobay, pictured to the left of the senator, and volunteers and staff members from Red Cross chapters from across the state.
March 14, 2016 - Sen. Baker welcomed PIAA Class AA Cross Country champions from Dallas High School to the Senate chamber for special recognition on March 14. The Dallas boys team, back-to-back girls AA state champion Ally Rome, and Coach Matt Samuel, the PIAA Cross-Country Coach of the Year, were recognized by Baker during session. Pictured, front row, from left: Sen. Baker, Mitchell Rome, Robert Martin, Jason Culp, Ally Rome and Coach Samuel. Back row, from left: Stephen Postupak, Jack Zardecki, Adam Borton and Josh Wyandt. Josh Jarden, another member of the championship team, was not pictured.
March 11, 2016 – Sen. Baker holds a baby bruin in Pike County. The senator and others participated an educational fields trip in the Poconos where they learned about the black bear population from Pennsylvania Game Commission bear biologist Dr. Mark Ternent.
March 5, 2016 – With Dale Butler at the National Wild Turkey Federation's Red Rock Chapter’s 22nd Annual Hunting Heritage Banquet at Appletree Terrace in Dallas.
March 4, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Sandy Major met with Susquehanna County dairy ambassadors and royalty during Susquehanna County Ag Day at Elk Lake High School.
March 4, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Sen. Gene Yaw and Rep. Sandy Major take a break to grab a cold carton of milk during a visit to the Susquehanna County Ag Day event at Elk Lake High School.
March 3, 3016 – Sen. Baker with Leadership Wilkes-Barre participants and other elected officials at King’s College. While there she offered some comments on the importance of voting.
March 1, 2016 – Members of the Pennsylvania Rehabilitation Council Bob Fox, Madonna Long and Bill Chrisner met with Sen. Baker to discuss public vocational rehabilitation and other issues relating to employment of persons with disabilities.
February 26, 2016 - Sen. Baker read a Dr. Seuss book to students at Dallas Elementary School to kick off Read Across America and Dr. Seuss Week.
February 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Mike Peifer and other elected officials and well-wishers gathered at The Grotto restaurant in Milford to laud Pike County Auditor Ann Seaman on her retirement after 20 years of dedicated service.
February 13, 2016 – Sen. Baker proudly served as the honorary chair for Marley's Mission’s 6th Annual Blue Ribbon Gala helping kids and vets, which was held at the Hilton Scranton. She’s pictured with April Kemp, the founder of Marley’s Mission and Gene Talerico, president of the non-profit.
February 5, 2016 – Sen. Baker and other legislators representing the region took part in the annual NEPA Manufacturers & Employers Association's Legislative Roundtable discussion and breakfast at the Top of the 80s restaurant in Butler Township. Topics discussed included the budget, pension reform, workforce development and taxes.
February 4, 2016 – Sen. Baker was honored to take place in the 44th annual ice fishing party at Tall Oaks Hunting Club in Blooming Grove Township. At the event, hosted by Pete Helms, the family of fallen State Police Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson was honored, as were State Police Captain Christopher Paris, Lt. Brian Vennie and Major George Bivens.
February 2, 2016 – Sen. Baker and State Reps. Rosemary Brown and Mike Peifer took part in a roundtable discussion on veteran issues at the American Legion Post in Milford. Among those veterans taking time to meet with the senator were Bill Glanville of Dingman Township and Fausta Phelan, of Milford Township.
February 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker offered a few words and met with those at the Crestwood Lady Comet Basketball team's "PinkOut" game supporting Candy's Place Center for Cancer Wellness. Among those she met, who were wearing pink, were Barbara Macko and her granddaughter Abby Macko of Mountain Top.
February 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Jacklyn Ganz at the Crestwood Lady Comet Basketball team's "PinkOut" game supporting Candy's Place Center for Cancer Wellness.
February 1, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended and spoke at the Crestwood Lady Comet Basketball team's "PinkOut" game supporting Candy's Place Center for Cancer Wellness. She watched event organizer Dawn Chalk, of Nuangola, being escorted to the court by a Lady Comet player.
January 31, 2016 – Sen. Baker attended the retirement party and roast for long-time Pike County Coroner Kevin Stroyan at Mount Haven Resort in Dingman Township. While there she presented him with a certificate of appreciation for all he’s done.
January 29, 2016 – At the Chamber of the Northern Poconos’ annual membership meeting at Ladore Lodge in Waymart, Sen. Lisa Baker met with dozens of business and community leaders, including Rep. Sandy Major and Robert G. Bee, the vice president and general manager of WBRE-TV.
January 27, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Sen. Christine Tartaglione cosponsored a Senate Resolution marking February 5 as National Wear Red Day in Pennsylvania to bring attention to heart disease. The resolution was adopted unanimously.
January 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker, her legislative staff and their families enjoyed an evening of pizza and bowling at Back Mountain Bowl in Dallas Township.
January 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback were on hand at the Dallas United Methodist Church to present citations to Michael Santora on the occasion of his attainment of the rank of Eagle Scout. Michael, of Troop 281, Dallas, became the 155th scout from this troop to achieve this rank.
January 16, 2016 – Sen. Baker was at the Lehman-Idetown United Methodist Church in Lehman Township to present a Senate citation to Riley Neuman of Boy Scout Troop 241 for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
January 14, 2016 – Sen. Baker took some time during the annual Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg to stop by the Harford Fair display, which was honored with a first place recognition in the Preferred Products Display Contest. The display promoted items grown and made in Susquehanna County.
January 12, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker visited the Farm Show in Harrisburg and issued a certificate to Forest City resident Greg Kowalewski, a 2016 recipient of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Scholarship Foundation Award, congratulating him on the honor. In attendance, from left, are: Hoss's CEO and Founder Willard E. (Bill) Campbell, John Kowalewski, Judy Kowalewski, Senator Baker, Greg Kowalewski, Rep. Sandy Major, and Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.
January 10, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker attended the annual White Mills Sportsman’s Festival sponsored by the White Mills Fire Department in Wayne County. Among the attendees were Rep. Sandy Major, Wayne County Commissioner Jonathan Fritz and Texas Township residents John Haggarty and Gary Brown.
January 8, 2016 – Sen. Lisa Baker and State Reps. Aaron Kaufer, Karen Boback and Tarah Toohil joined U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey at the Jewish Community Center in Kingston where Toomey spoke to guests about his opposition to lifting sanctions on Iran and other matters.
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