Serving Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties
2017 Photo Gallery
December 29, 2017 – At the swearing-in ceremony for Wayne County President Judge Janine Edwards, from left, Rep. Jon Fritz, Sen. Baker, Wayne County Senior Judge Raymond Hamill, Judge Edwards, retired Wayne County Judge Robert Conway and Rep. Mike Peifer.
November 13, 2017 - The Dallas Mountaineers, which captured the state’s 4A baseball title this year, paid a visit to the Capitol on Nov. 13. While there they met with Sen. Lisa Baker, an alumna of the school, who introduced the team in remarks from the Senate floor. They also had the opportunity to visit the Senate floor and pose for pictures with the senator. The team defeated South Park High School 5-0 in the title game played at Penn State’s Medlar Field.
November 11, 2017 - At the annual Veterans Day observance and 80th anniversary celebration of the Daddow-Isaacs American Legion Post 672 in Dallas, and acknowledging how veterans have continued to serve our communities well after their military careers.
November 11, 2017 - Sen. Baker served as the keynote speaker at the annual Veterans Day ceremony, in Newfoundland, which was attended by members of The Phillips Zacharias Phillips American Legion Post 859, Boy Scouts of America Troop 158 and many community members. The event was held inside the Wallenpaupack South Elementary School.
November 11, 2017 - Saluting our veterans and Post 457 Dennis Strong American Legion members, and affording the respect and remembrance they have earned, with a breakfast hosted by Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home at the Triton Hose Company in Tunkhannock.
November 11, 2017 - Sen. Baker took a selfie with World War II veteran and Silver Star recipient 2nd Lt. Fran Turner, 98, of Tunkhannock Township, who bravely commanded a platoon in the 17th Engineers in the European Theater in support of the 6th Armored Regiment.
November 10, 2017 - Pro Rehabilitation Services has been offering therapy for 20 years at various locations in NEPA. Sen. Baker took part in the grand opening celebration of their newest location in Dallas.
November 9, 2017 – Along with Wayne County Commissioner Joseph Adams and area veterans, Sen. Baker participated in the dedication of the Veterans Memorial Auditorium at Western Wayne High School.
November 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker attended the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute's 6th Annual Spirit of Hope Celebration at Mohegan Sun Pocono.
November 2, 2017 – Arthur and Gail Frey, of Lake Ariel, were presented with the Ben Franklin Community Service Award at the Wayne County Community Foundation Dinner at Silver Birches Resort in Tafton. On hand to honor them were Sen. Baker, Foundation Board President Warren Schloesser, Ben Franklin portrayer Brian Patrick Mulligan and Donna Fritz, representing her husband Rep. Jon Fritz.
November 1, 2017 – Sen. Baker reported a constructive result on her Pennsylvania 811 (PA OneCall) extension and expansion to the North Central Utility Coordination Committee during their gathering at Bingham’s Restaurant in Kingsley, Susquehanna County. The regional partnership committee is comprised of municipal leaders, utility executives, and others and fosters a dialogue on current and future utility projects.
October 27, 2017 – The Chamber of the Northern Poconos held its annual legislative breakfast forum at Lukan’s Farm Resort near Hawley. From left, Rep. Jon Fritz, Sen. Baker, Lorraine Kloss, chamber board member, Debbie Gillette, chamber executive director, Rep. Mike Peifer, Alana Roberts with PPL Electric Utilities, which sponsored the event, Vince Benedetto, chamber board member, and Greg Frigoletto, chamber board member.
October 27, 2017 – Along with Pike County Commissioner Matt Osterberg, Reps. Mike Peifer and Rosemary Brown and owner Pam Lufty, Sen. Baker helped mark the 25th anniversary of Sunshine Station Day Care in Milford.
October 24, 2017 – Members of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, including Dr. Lynne Coslett-Charlton, of Kingston Township, stopped by the Capitol to discuss legislative matters with lawmakers including Sen. Baker. Also on hand was Dr. Haywood L. Brown, a professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, N.C., who also serves as president of the ACOG executive board.
October 24, 2017 - Connor Maloney, a Holy Redeemer High School senior, served as a guest Senate page and spent the day shadowing Sen. Baker. The Dallas Township resident hopes to major in political science and is a member of his school’s golf team.
October 24, 2017 - Miss Pennsylvania Katie Schreckengast meets with Sen. Baker and her job shadow for the day, Connor Maloney, a Holy Redeemer High School senior. Katie, from Lebanon County, addressed the Senate about her chief platform of adoption and how it played a role in her background.
October 23, 2017 – Pennsylvania Advocacy and Resources for Autism and Intellectual Disability’s 2017 “We Are Worth It” award winners from throughout Pennsylvania visited the Capitol and met with Sen. Baker in her office. The senator recognized their efforts during session.
October 19, 2017 – Auburn Township Supervisor George Gregory is honored by the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors for his 28 years in office. Overall, George has worked for the township for 44 years. Sen. Baker and George’s wife Carol were on hand to celebrate during the Susquehanna County Township officials Association’s membership meeting at Dryer Hall in Montrose.
October 17, 2017 – Honesdale High School senior Hannah Burlein served as a guest Senate page and a student shadow for Sen. Baker in Harrisburg. Hannah, who swims for the Hornets and is an honor roll student, was accompanied by her father, Attorney Steven Burlein, of Berlin Township.
October 17, 2017 - Coaches and players with the Kingston/Forty Fort Juniors Softball team visited the State Capitol and were honored for winning the Little League district, sectional and state championships this year. Pictured, from left, front row: Senator John T. Yudichak, Emily Bevan, Olivia Gayoski, Morgan Shedletsky, Leah Payne, Senator Lisa Baker, Julia Franks, Gabby Razvillas, Courtney May, Katie DeCosmo, Makayla Kobusky, and Rep. Aaron Kaufer. Back row: Coach Anthony Hoskins, Kiley Hardin, Ali Keener, Manager Jason Hoskins, Sara Hoskins, Jess Skladzien, and Coach Rich Kachmarsky.
October 16, 2017 – Sen. Baker welcomed Salus University College of Optometry students Jillian Penney, of Wright Township, and Yubisela Toledo, from Kansas, to her Senate office along with Drs. Gail and Dave Evans, optometrists from Dallas.
October 15, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Boback celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Lake Winola Fire Company in Wyoming County and thanked the volunteers for the countless hours they have given to protect lives and properties in their community.
October 12, 2017 – Senator Baker meets with constituents during the annual Senior Expo she hosts with fellow Luzerne County legislators held at the 109 Field Artillery Pennsylvania National Guard Armory in Kingston.
October 7, 2017 – Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Luzerne County Community College at a gala at the Mohegan Sun Pocono ballroom along with college President Tom Leary and Mary Erwine.
October 6, 2017 – Sen. Baker spoke at the Pike County Association of Township Officials Annual Convention held at the Lackawaxen Inn. She’s pictured with Pike County Commissioners Matt Osterberg, Rich Caridi and Steve Guccini; Jill Gamboni from Rep. Mike Peifer’s office; Melissa Morgan from PSATS and Pike Association officers Keith Raser, Tom Simons, Nick Mazza, Cheryl Schmidt and MaryAnn Conza.
October 6, 2017 – Sens. Baker and John Yudichak and Rep. Aaron Kaufer attended the ribbon cutting for Wilkes University’s Sordoni Art Gallery in Wilkes-Barre.
October 5, 2017 – Honoring Wayne and Pike County business and community members at the annual Chamber of the Northern Poconos awards dinner at Woodloch Pines in Lackawaxen Township. Honorees were: Business Persons of the Year: Charles and Wanda Jurgensen of Top Notch Distributors; Community Achievement Awards: Gerald Margraf and Suzie Calkin Frisch, founders of the Wayne County Heroin Prevention Task Force and the Wayne County Drug and Treatment Court team; Green Business of the Year award: The Cooperage Project and Leeward Construction.
September 21, 2017 –Northeast Pennsylvania members of the PA Association of Realtors visited Sen. Baker’s Dallas office to discuss local housing indicators and real estate matters. Standing left to right, are Joe Scarpaci (Pike/Wayne Association of Realtors president elect), Allan Hetkowski (CEO of Pike/Wayne Association of Realtors and the Greater Scranton Board of Realtors), and Lynn Kimler and Charlie Kimler (both members of the Pike/Wayne Association of Realtors). Seated are Brittany Kinsman, with the state association, Sen. Baker and Larry Dellegrotto (Luzerne County Association of Realtors President Elect).
September 17, 2017 – Sen. Baker took part in the Dallas Harvest Festival at Dallas High School and helped recognize Dallas Township’s 200th birthday and celebrating all of the wonderful things the Back Mountain communities have to offer, including its many active veterans.
September 15, 2017 – Sen. Baker took part in the Back Mountain Harvest Assembly’s 5th Annual Watchfire Ceremony in Trucksville with former Iranian hostage Bruce German, of Lehman Township, offering some powerful reflections to honor POW/MIA Recognition Day.
September 15, 2017 – Rep. Aaron Kaufer and Sen. Baker toured the Ceasetown Reservoir and Dam along with Pennsylvania American Water Co. President Jeff McIntyre. The company spent $21 million upgrading the facility in Hunlock Creek.
September 14, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback, along with Gina Severcool Suydam, the president of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and Wyoming County Commissioner Judy Kraft Mead, attended the Wyoming County Association of Township Supervisors meeting at the Triton Hose Co. Fire Hall in Tunkhannock. Baker spoke about legislative issues and priorities and issues of importance to townships.
September 11, 2017 – At The Hideout’s 9/11 memorial ceremony, Sen. Baker offered remarks and thanked emergency responders and veterans. She also spoke with former FDNY members Larry Lutz, Ted Rohlfing and Dennis Asher, who all live in The Hideout.
September 11, 2017 – Sen. Baker offered remarks and thanked emergency responders and veterans at The Hideout’s 9/11 memorial ceremony. She also spoke with World War II veterans Edwin Frisbie of Lake Township and Walter “Scottie” Ogden, of South Canaan Township
September 9, 2017 – Sen. Baker, along with Royce and Dorrine Engler of Dorrance Township, at the annual fundraiser motorcycle ride and concert in honor of their sons, Royce E. Ree Engler, a Pennsylvania state trooper who died in an accident in 2012, and Edward “Eddie” Engler who died in 2016. The event was held at American Legion Post 781, in Mountain Top.
September 6, 2017 - Misericordia University Director of Athletics Charles Edkins, Dean of Students Amy Lahart and Office of Residence Life employee Ewelina Taran, joined Rep. Karen Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker at the Capitol for an “It’s On Us” press conference.
August 19, 2017 - Peace, love and drool at Woofstock 2017 at Salt Springs State Park north of Montrose. Sen. Baker brought Finley to the event that benefits the True Friends Animal Welfare Center, which offers a safe refuge and hope for a second chance in Susquehanna and Wyoming counties.
August 16, 2017 – Along with Sen. John Gordner, Reps. Karen Boback and Tarah Toohil and staff members from other elected officials’ offices at Luzerne County Association of Township Officials’ Annual Convention at the Checkerboard Inn’s pavilion in Kingston Township.
August 15, 2017 – At Wayne Memorial Health Center’s Hamlin Family Health Center to mark National Health Centers Week. From left are: Denise Matern, office supervisor; Janice McConnell, primary care manager; Nicole Sklareski, a physician’s assistant; Senator Baker; Fred Jackson, executive director of Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers; and Jenna Siniawa, radiology tech.
August 12, 2017 – Joining members of the Lake Ariel Volunteer Fire Co., Sen. Baker participated in a ceremonial wet down of the department’s new, and desperately needed, pumper truck. As an added bonus, the truck was built right down the road from the fire station at Sutphen East in the Sterling Business Park.
August 12, 2017 – Sen. Baker and her husband Gary were part of a tremendous outpouring of support at the Kris Moules Walk For Heroes 5K Run & Walk at Kirby Park in Wiles-Barre. The fundraiser honored fallen Luzerne County Corrections Officer Kristopher D. Moules.
August 11, 2017 – The ribbon cutting of the Trolley Trail, in Factoryville, which creates another recreational attraction to our region. A collaboration between Keystone College, Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce, PennDOT, Factoryville Borough and the Countryside Conservancy made this happen.
August 8, 2017 – At Pennsylvania State Police Troop P’s annual Camp Cadet program at Camp Kresge, near White Haven, Sen. Baker spent some time with the campers and posed for a group shot.
August 6, 2017 – Sen. Baker presented aa Senate citation to Jason Zubris of Ross Township to mark the occasion of his reaching the rank of Eagle Scout. The senator celebrated with Jason and his parents Karel and John during the ceremony at Scout Hall in Plains Township.
August 5, 2017 – Celebrating Old Home Dayz in Forest City, Sen. Baker was on hand to honor Attorney David Bianco and Dr. Joseph Zasik Jr., who were named 2017 Distinguished Citizens during a ceremony at the Forest City Historical Society Museum.
August 4, 2017 – During the annual State Health Improvement Plan program at Silver Birches Resort on Lake Wallenpaupack, Sen. Baker served as the keynote speaker, discussing health and human services issues at the state level. The event’s topic was ‘The Changing World of Healthcare.’ She took a moment to pose for a photo with Wayne Memorial Health System officials out on the deck.
August 2, 2017 – At the annual Salute To Veterans Open House at Ladore Conference Center in Waymart, Sen. Baker met with veterans and others to discuss legislation, programs and other important matters. Here she is with Joe Esposito, Jim English, and Werner Korteling, of American Legion Post 807 in Hamlin and Fred Baker of American Legion Post 154 in Montrose.
July 23, 2017 – Along with Gary Baker and Mary Erwine, Sen. Baker enjoyed the jazz music of Emily Asher's Garden Party during a summer concert under the stars at the Wells Fargo Amphitheater at Misericordia University.
July 20, 2017 – Sen. Baker attended a public meeting held by PennDOT offering residents a chance to comment on a major restoration of I-81 in the Great Bend and New Milford areas in Susquehanna County. The event was held at the Great Bend Hose Co.
July 16, 2017 – Celebrating Dr. Rose Mattioli’s 90th birthday. I joined Sen. Mario Scavello to present the Pocono Raceway matriarch with a Senate citation marking the milestone.
July 15, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback attended the Eaton Township Bicentennial festivities in Wyoming County and presented Township Supervisors Ken White, Randy Ehrenzeller and Paul Rowker with a Senate citation marking the municipality’s 200th anniversary. Eaton Township was created in 1817 when, as it was still a part of Luzerne County, the township was carved out of Tunkhannock Township.
July 14, 2017 – Sen. Baker took a selfie while visiting the oldest house in Wyoming County. Built in the late 18th century by William Hooker Smith, the house reopened this month after being closed since October as renovations were made. Members of the Laceyville Area Historical Society marked the re-opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
July 13, 2017 – Sen. Baker and others broke ground at Ira Reynolds Memorial Park in Susquehanna Depot. Reynolds was 108 years old and the nation's oldest Boy Scout when he died Nov. 13, 2010. At his funeral, the borough announced that Riverside Park would be renamed after the man who organized Troop 81 in the borough in 1934. The troop still exists and members were at the groundbreaking for the project that will become a community park with walking trails, a pavilion, lighting and access to the river.
July 8, 2017 - Community Day in Lehman Township, Luzerne County, gave residents, municipal leaders, churches and organizations a chance to showcase all of the reasons why it's such a wonderful place to live, work and play. Sen. Baker, a resident of the township, met with Supervisors Dave Sutton, Doug Ide and Ray Iwanowski in front of the township garage.
July 4, 2017 – At the annual commemoration of the Battle of Wyoming, Sen. Baker offered the keynote address and received a plaque as a token of the association’s appreciation. From left: Christian Wielage, Sen. Baker, Frank E.P. Conyngham, Marcella Starr and Rev. Chuck Gommer.
July 1, 2017 – Along with Rep. Karen Boback, Sen. Baker congratulated the Dallas High School baseball team, which won the PIAA Class 4A championship.
July 1, 2017 - Celebrating Dallas Township's 200th Birthday with a Fireman's Parade and Bazaar at the Luzerne County Fairgrounds. Sen. Baker and Rep. Boback were among those given horse drawn carriage rides during the event.
June 24, 2017 - Lots of sunshine and smiling faces at the annual Tunkhannock Founders Day celebration. Always a good turnout for this wonderful event.
June 21, 2017 – Pennsylvania American Legion Keystone Girls State participants, including many from throughout the 20th District, visited with Sen. Baker during a Capitol visit. The students included: Victoria Rojas, of Hawley, Dominique Azzollini, of Milford, Anna Cowfer, of Renovo, Lauren Kutch and Elizabeth Williams, both of Honesdale. Alexandra Buckman and Chayni Carroll, both of Lake Ariel. The weeklong, non-partisan government and civics program is designed to teach the importance of responsible citizenship and to empower young women to make a change in their community.
June 20, 2017 – Pennsylvania American Legion Keystone Boys State participants from throughout the 20th District visited with Sen. Baker while they were at the Capitol. They included: Billy Bekanich of Starlight, Sean Sweeney, of Hawley, Andrew Kidd, Tyler Fitzgerald, Shane Fagan, Teegan Kokubun and Christian Santiago, all of Milford, Joey Rutledge and Sam Corcoran, both from Honesdale, Thomas Parry, of Tunkhannock, Joe Ciaccia, of Dallas, and Issa Dahdal, of Shavertown. The weeklong summer program is designed to supplement the information taught in high school civics classes.
June 19, 2017 - The Duggan family, along with Sen. Lisa Baker, in the Senate chamber. From left, Mary Duggan, Patrick Duggan, Patrick Duggan, Sen. Baker and Leo P. Vergnetti. Patrick Duggan served as a summer intern for the senator in her Harrisburg office.
June 17, 2017 – The rain did not keep Sen. Baker and others away from the Market on the Pond at the Meadows in Dallas. The senator found a nice piece of jewelry one of the vendors was selling.
June 15, 2017 – At a surprise party recognizing Jack Pevec on marking 50 years as a member of the Browndale Fire Company and a lifetime of service to the community where he was born and raised, Sen. Baker presented citations from the Senate and House to the long-time volunteer from Clinton Township, Wayne County.
June 15, 2017 – State Police officials answer questions from Sen. Baker and fellow members of the Senate’s Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee during a hearing in Lords Valley, Pike County regarding the deadly shooting at the Blooming Grove state police barracks and the 48-day manhunt for the shooter.
June 14, 2017 - Officials from Roamingwood Sewer and Water and residents of The Hideout Property Owners Association took a Capitol tour and met with Sen. Baker. From left: Bill Fentress, Roamingwood’s President; Betty Sullivan, board chairwoman; Tony Sabia, chairman of South Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority; resident Virginia Sabia, Sen. Baker, Kellyn Nolan, property owners association board chairwoman; Larry Lieberher, South Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority board member; and Jack Lennox, Roamingwood’s executive director.
June 13, 2017 - Matt Dougherty, a Mountain View High School freshman, served as a guest Senate page and had the opportunity to shadow Sen. Baker for the day in Harrisburg. The Lathrop Township resident was accompanied to the Capitol by his parents George and Kim.
June 12, 2017 – Pastor Lori Robinson, of the Lehman-Idetown United Methodist Church, served as the guest Senate chaplain for the day. She was joined on the Senate floor by Sen. Lisa Baker, who introduced her, her father James Welch Sr., who is a 69-year-member of the Triton Fire Company in Tunkhannock, and her daughter, Shannon, who serves as a probation officer for Wyoming County.
June 12, 2017 – Sen. Baker and dozens of other legislators listen to Sen. Pat Browne offer remarks prior to the governor signing Senate Bill 1, a pension reform bill, into law.
June 10, 2017 – Sen. Baker spoke at the Swoyersville American Legion Riders Post #644 program welcoming "The Wall That Heals" to Swoyersville. The wall, a replica of the Vietnam War Memorial, travels the nation making stops in about 40 towns annually. The wall lists the names of more than 58,000 Americans killed in action during the Vietnam War.
June 6, 2017 - Brigadier General Andrew Schafer, of Delaware Township, Pike County, along with Sen. Lisa Baker in the senator’s Harrisburg office. Schafer is nominated for promotion to the rank of Major General with the Pennsylvania National Guard.
June 6, 2017 – Sen. Baker, Mike Cortez, Patrick Duggan and Jane Smith enjoyed a milkshake on the Capitol grounds from the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association in support of Feeding Pennsylvania and Fill A Glass With Hope.
June 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker was at the 2017 Wilkes University Founder's Gala at the Westmoreland Club to help honor Frank Martz Henry with the President's Medal and supporting the First Generation Scholarship Fund. Henry received a Senate citation from the senator.
May 30, 2017 – Miss Luzerne County’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Courtney Richards visited with Sen. Baker in the senator’s Dallas office.
May 29, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback joined the Lake-Lehman High School Band as participants in the annual Sweet Valley Volunteer Fire Co. Memorial Day Parade.
May 29, 2017 - Jim Holmes, a governor with the board of the Triton Hose Co. in Tunkhannock, along with Sen. Baker at the Dennis Strong American Legion Post 457 Memorial Day Parade in Tunkhannock.
May 28, 2017 - Sen. Baker along with Joanne Hummer and Carolyn Lanning at the Harveys Lake American Legion ceremony marking Memorial Day.
May 27, 2017 – Sen. Baker was at The Moose Lodge in Tunkhannock to present citation from the Senate and House to Janice Shaffer, who was honored as the Tunkhannock Business and Professional Women’s Woman of the Year, as Janice’s husband Edward looks on. Shaffer founded the Seven Loaves Soup Kitchen in Wyoming County.
May 26, 2017 – Pike County Sheriff Phil Bueki, who is retiring at the end of 2017 after 40 years in law enforcement, was honored for 27 years with the DARE program in Pike County during a graduation ceremony at Bushkill Elementary School in Lehman Township. Also on hand were Rep. Mike Peifer, Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Kerry Welsh, Lehman Township Supervisors Rob Rohner and Dick Vollmer and Sen. Baker.
May 25, 2017 – Sen. Baker was in Mike Soskil’s fifth grade STEM class at Wallenpaupack South Elementary School in Newfoundland helping kids learn about natural resources with an experiment using different types of pasta as stand-ins for oil, gas, wind and coal.
May 25, 2017 - Students from West Side Career and Technical School in Kingston and SHINE After School Program of Luzerne County are "Giving Back Through Engineering" by making raised beds, dish stands and tasty treats for the dogs and cats at Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge in Dallas. Sen. Baker was on hand to meet with the staff and students to hear all about the effort.
May 23, 2017 – Sen. Baker and some fellow legislators joined staff members from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center at the Capitol to promote training and lifesaving hemorrhage control kits during a Stop the Bleed rally in the rotunda.
May 23, 2017 - Western Wayne High School freshman Nadia Vanyo stands on the floor of the Pennsylvania Senate along with Sen. Baker. Nadia served as a guest page and was able to job shadow the senator on May 23. Nadia is from Lake Ariel and is the daughter of Bill and Vicki Vanyo.
May 23, 2017 – During ALS Lobby Day at the Capitol, Paul and Eileen Miller, of Scranton, and Kerrie Copelin, from The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter, met with Sen. Baker to share their inspirational story and advocate for funding for the disease.
May 23, 2017 – Fourth graders from Faith Mountain Christian Academy in New Milford visited Sen. Baker’s office at the State Capitol.
May 23, 2017 – Sen. Baker joined Senators Camera Bartolotta Guy Reschenthaler and Judy Schwank and officials from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center to promote the #StopTheBleed campaign to bring attention to hemorrhage control kits.
May 23, 2017 – Penn Vet students Amy Kraus, Emily Griswold, and recent graduate Dr. Grace Nebzydoski met with Sen. Baker in Harrisburg. Dr. Nebzydoski is a Texas Township, Wayne County resident, who works at Wallenpaupack Veterinary Clinic in Palmyra Township, Pike County.
May 20, 2017 – Sen. Baker was on hand in Union Township for the ceremony rededicating Northwest School District's Ranger Athletic Center and dedicating the Ron Powlus, Sr. Memorial Athletic Complex.
May 20, 2017 – Shickshinny Mayor Beverly Moore and a young visitor welcomed Sen. Baker to the Shickshinny Fireman's Carnival and Parade, the first one held in the borough since flooding devastated the town in 2011.
May 17, 2017 - Elected officials from Luzerne County, including Sen. Baker, were at the Medico Industry’s Hanover Township facility to hear Manufacturing Division President Tom Medico talk about the business’ success and continued efforts to increase manufacturing jobs.
May 17, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback celebrated the Dallas Kiwanis Club’s 90th Anniversary at the Irem Temple Country Club in Dallas.
May 13, 2017 – Sen. Baker, Rep. Jonathan Fritz and retired Rep. Sandra Major honored Boy Scouts of America Baden-Powell Council’s Susquehanna County Distinguished Citizen Donna Cosmello at a ceremony at Elk Lake High School.
May 12, 2017 – Sen. Baker was a speaker at the Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association's Annual Membership Meeting in Hershey. She discussed the state budget and proposed health and human services consolidation.
May 11, 2017 - Celebrating a 70 year legacy of preservation at the Susquehanna County Conservation District’s Legislative Breakfast at the Montrose County Club with Sen. Gene Yaw and Reps. Jonathan Fritz and Tina Pickett.
May 10, 2017 - Decorated war veteran Army Ssgt. Earl Granville, of Carbondale, who inspired the nation during the Boston Marathon, was honored by the Senate and met with Sen. Baker and Sen. John Yudichak. During this year’s marathon, the wounded veteran, who lost a leg in Afghanistan, became an internet sensation when he was caught on camera carrying his race guide across the finish line.
May 7, 2017 – Sen. Baker attended Adam Barberio's Eagle Scout Court of Honor at the Irem Country Club in Dallas. The senator presented Adam, of Dallas Township, with a Senate citation marking the occasion.
May 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker spent some time reading to Iva and Cora Kukosky, Jade Dalessandro, and all of the other inquisitive young minds at Trinity Learning Center in Dallas.
May 1, 2017 - Several Senate committees held another informative joint hearing on the proposed consolidation of the departments of Aging, Drug and Alcohol Programs, Health, and Human Services. This one was held at the University of Pittsburgh.
April 29, 2017 – The Ritz Company Playhouse in Hawley held its 45th Reunion Celebration and Sen. Baker was on hand to celebrate with cast, crew and community members.
April 26, 2017 - Proud to support our men and women in uniform, Sen. Baker stood with them on the rotunda steps during Pennsylvania National Guard Day at the Capitol.
April 25, 2017 - Caroline Keeler, of Falls Township, Russell Keeler, of Kingston, and Diane Sickler, of Lehman Township, stopped by the senator’s Harrisburg office to advocate for cancer patients and their families as part of American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network Day in Pennsylvania.
April 24, 2017 - Employees from Victims’ Intervention Program in Wayne County were in Harrisburg and met with Sen. Baker to discuss their priorities and to give an update on the work they are doing in the community. Pictured on the floor of the state Senate, from left, are: Brittney Wolf, mental health advocate; Chelsea Rutledge, child counselor; Sen. Baker; Michele Minor Wolf, executive director; and Jessica Zaccari, shelter advocate.
April 24, 2017 - Sen. Baker and Rep. Jonathan Fritz attended the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors’ 95th annual educational conference and trade show in Hershey and met with several elected and appointed officials and their guests from Wayne County. Pictured back row from left: Rep. Fritz, Preston Township Supervisor Alan Jones, and Canaan Township Supervisors Paul Curtis, Ron Shemanski, and Lewis Henshaw. Pictured front row: Becky Jones, wife of Alan Jones, Sen. Baker, Dave Cummins, a Lake Township Planning Commission member, and Timothy Jaggers, a Lake Township supervisor.
April 22, 2017 – Celebrating the Wayne County Historical Society’s 100th anniversary at an event in Honesdale. Accepting the Senate citation from the senator are, from left: Ab Rutherford, Dorothy Kieff, Carol Dunn and Tracy Schwarz.
April 22, 2017 –Sen. Baker and Rep. Jonathan Fritz provided a legislative update to the Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs Association’s Zone 2 semiannual meeting hosted by the Wayne County Fair in Honesdale.
April 20, 2017 – Sen. Baker and other dignitaries look on as Penney Luhrs uses a chainsaw to cut the ribbon marking the official grand opening of the hardware store Penney and her husband Doug, far left, own in Palmyra Township, Pike County.
April 20, 2017 – State Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding was the keynote speaker at the annual Wayne Economic Development Corporation dinner that Sen. Baker attended. Pictured are Redding, Baker, Robert Watts from the Governor’s Action Team and Mary Beth Wood, WEDCO’s executive director.
April 19, 2017 – During Pharmacy Lobby Day, pharmacy students and faculty from Wilkes University and members of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association met with Sen. Baker and her staff to discuss potential impacts of proposed cuts to Medicaid and PACE reimbursements.
April 18, 2017 – Sen. Baker welcomed interim president Dr. Barbara Lyman and students from her alma mater, Shippensburg University, to the Capitol.
April 13, 2017 – Michael Donahue, from Wyoming County Human Services, was among those who offered testimony in West Reading during a joint Senate committees hearing on the proposal to merge four state departments into one. Sen. Baker chairs the Health and Human Services Committee, one of the committees holding the hearing.
April 11, 2017 - Students from the Tunkhannock Future Business Leaders of America club got some real world experience at the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast while interacting with Sen. Baker and other business and community leaders who were on hand.
April 10, 2017 – Sen. Baker received the Commitment to Children Award during the Children's Service Center's 155th Anniversary Luncheon in Wilkes-Barre. She celebrated the honor with her husband Gary and their son Carson.
April 10, 2017 – Elected officials including Sen. Baker were on hand to honor Bill Jones, third from left, and the United Way off Wyoming Valley for their Commitment to Community award from the Children's Service Center during the center’s 155th anniversary awards luncheon in Wilkes-Barre.
April 7, 2017 – During the annual Pike-Wayne Conservation Partnership Legislative Breakfast in Honesdale, Sen. Baker discussed the state’s hardwood industry with Sarah Hall, a program manager with the Northern Tier Hardwood Association.
April 7, 2017 – Sen. Baker, joined by Reps Mike Peifer and Jonathan Fritz and Brian Fenstermaker from Rep. Rosemary Brown’s office to honor Wayne County Conservation District Director Bob Muller for his retirement after more than 32 years of service during at the Pike-Wayne Conservation Partnership Legislative Breakfast in Honesdale.
April 7, 2017 – Celebrating the 200th anniversary of Dallas Township at the Irem Temple Country Club. From left, Sen. Baker, Township Supervisors William Grant and Liz Martin, township resident Jeff Dickson, Rep. Karen Boback and Township Supervisor Frank Wagner.
April 4, 2017 - Sara Wolff, a Moscow resident and National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) board member, addressed those gathered in Harrisburg on Monday at the official launch of the Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, savings accounts. The first one in the state was assigned to her. Among those looking on are state Sen. Lisa Baker, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr. and state Treasurer Joe Torsella. Wolff noted that because of ABLE, families like hers are able to take care of their children with disabilities, as ABLE allows individuals to save for their future, hold meaningful jobs and contribute to society.
April 4, 2017 - State Sen. Lisa Baker and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr. chat in the state Capitol rotunda at the official kickoff announcement of the state’s Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, savings accounts to benefit families and caregivers of those with physical and developmental disabilities.
April 4, 2017 - Advocates of the state’s Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, saving accounts gathered in the state Capitol rotunda on Monday to celebrate the official launch of the program championed by Sen. Lisa Baker that will benefit families and caregivers of those with physical and developmental disabilities.
April 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker welcomed Susquehanna County 4-H members who visited Harrisburg as part of Capital Days. The group got a chance to gather around the senator’s desk on the Senate floor and learn about Senate history.
April 3, 2017 – During the 25th Annual Crime Victims Alliance of Pennsylvania rally with the Office of the Victim Advocate, Sen. Baker met with victims and advocates and listened to their stories.
March 31, 2017 – Along with Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Eddie Day Pashinski, Sen. Baker was at the Luzerne County Courthouse to help dedicate pinwheels in honor of the 532 courageous children who came forward and sought help from the Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center. April is Child Abuse Awareness Month.
March 28, 2017 – Sen. Baker was among the legislators invited to take part in a panel discussion during the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania’s Spring Conference in Harrisburg.
March 23, 2017 – While at the ARC of Luzerne County annual awards dinner, Sen. Baker and her husband Gary met with Pittsburgh Steeler great Rocky Bleier. The four-time Super Bowl champion even let her try on his championship rings.
March 23, 2017 – Sen. Baker was among those recognized at the ARC of Luzerne County at its annual awards dinner at The Woodlands in Plains Township. Pictured standing, from left: Leah Popple, Sen. Baker, Pamela Zotynia, Gerard Durling and Gary Edwards. Seated, from left: Shawn Casey, Larry Fitzpatrick, Rocky Bleier and, Ed Ciarimboli.
March 22, 2017 - Sen. Baker and staff member Maggie Gianelli met with Wayne Memorial Hospital’s Nadine Greco and Denise Sheffield, the president of the Tri-State Society for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Sen. Baker’s resolution designating the week of March 12 through 18 as "Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week" in Pennsylvania was unanimously approved by the Senate.
March 22, 2017 – Penn State students met with Sen. Baker on the floor of the Senate during Penn State’s annual Capital Day visit.
March 22, 2017 – Sen. Baker received the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Dallas’ 90th Charter Night Dinner and Celebration at Appletree Terrace in Dallas.
March 22, 2017 – Sen. Baker joined with other legislators and Red Cross officials and volunteers in the Capitol Rotunda to mark Red Cross Month in Pennsylvania and to remember the organization’s founder Clara Barton.
March 22, 2017 – American Red Cross Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter Executive Director Bill Goldsworthy and American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region CEO Judge Renee Hughes visited Sen. Baker’s Capitol office to discuss the good work the Red Cross is doing throughout the communities it serves.
March 22, 2017 – Sen. Lisa Baker and Rep. Karen Boback presented citations to Dallas Rotary Club President Jason Jolley to recognize the club's 90 years of community service to the residents of the Back Mountain and others contributions to our country and around the world.
March 22, 2017 – Sen. Lisa Baker received a Paul Harris Fellow service award from the Rotary Club of Dallas for the many contributions she makes on behalf of the citizens she represents. Seated from left: Gary Baker, Sen. Baker and Rotarian Kerry Freeman who made the nomination. Standing from left: Sen. Baker's staff members Mary Blase, Jen Wilson, Susan Slocum and Heather Kukosky.
March 21, 2017 - Bill Jones, right, of the United Way of Wyoming Valley and Gary Drapek of the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne counties visited Sen. Baker and held Informative discussions on PA 211, Pre-K funding and the delivery of human services.
March 20, 2017 – Sen. Baker welcomed members of the East Stroudsburg North High School Select Chorus to the Senate Chamber during their visit and performance at the state Capitol.
March 20, 2017 – Sen. Baker welcomed Amy Skiba of Susquehanna and representatives of the American Heart Association to her Capitol office to discuss legislative priorities.
March 17, 2017 - The senator’s district office in Dallas served as a drop off point for the Back Mountain Chamber's Spring Food Drive benefitting the Back Mountain Food Pantry.
March 4, 2017 - Supporting the preservation of wild turkey at the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Red Rock Chapter Hunting Heritage Banquet at Appletree Terrace in Dallas.
March 4, 2017 – At the “Books and Brew" event at Stone Hedge County Club featuring craft beer from Nimble Hill Brewing Company and raising money for the Tunkhannock Public Library.
March 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker joined Sen. Gene Yaw, State Reps. Jonathan Fritz and Tina Pickett at Susquehanna County Ag Day at Elk Lake High School in Dimock. Plenty of great vendors, informative workshops and, of course, delicious food and milk.
February 24, 2017 - Applauding community-based senior care at the grand opening of the Wayne County Adult Day Services Center in Hawley along with Aging Secretary Teresa Osborne, Rep. Mike Peifer and officials and residents from Pike and Wayne counties.
February 24, 2017 – Department of Aging Secretary Theresa Osborne visited Hawley to announce grants being awarded for parking lot paving at the Hamlin and Hawley senior centers. Our Pennsylvania Lottery dollars at work.
February 23, 2017 – At J&J Deli in Dallas at the Leadership Wilkes-Barre Pints for Pauly fundraising event to aid Misericordia University’s Women and Children’s Program kitchen renovation project.
February 15, 2017 – Sen. Baker visited Jimmy and others at St. Joseph’s Center at the Adult Day Services Center in Wilkes-Barre to listen to concerns about funding and workforce challenges.
February 14, 2017 – Sen. Baker made some new friends while touring Geisinger Health System’s LIFE Program in Wilkes-Barre, which offers support services to help seniors live independently.
February 14, 2017 – Sen. Baker visited Professor Dave Hage's Social Welfare Policy class at Misericordia University to hold a cconstructive health policy discussion and to discuss the legislative process with students.
February 8, 2017 – Sen. Baker joined Sen. Mario Scavello to learn more about his efforts to support spinal cord research.
February 7, 2017 – On the floor of the House of Representatives, along with Sen. Gene Yaw, just before the governor gave his 2017-18 budget speech.
February 4, 2017 – Sen. Baker was in Greentown to help induct David Guccini and Thomas Haser into the Legion of Honor Chapel of Four Chaplains. The men are members of Phillips-Zacharias-Phillips American Legion Post 859 in Newfoundland.
February 1, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Sen. Mario Scavello got an early start in supporting the annual Go Red For Women Day, celebrated on Feb. 3 this year.
January 26, 2017 – Sen. Baker met with a group of Girl Scouts from Troop 256 at Evergreen Elementary School in Lake Ariel as part of the girls’ effort to attain their leadership badge.
January 26, 2017 – Sen. Baker, Sen. John Yudichak and Rep. Gerald Mullery met to address the media regarding their efforts to successfully keep SCI Retreat, Waymart and Frackville open during a get together in Nanticoke. Joining them, were, Newport Township Supervisor Paul Czapracki, left, and Mark Truszkowski, right, the local representative of the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association.
January 21, 2017 – Sen. Baker and Wayne Memorial Hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation Coordinator Nadine Greco at Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary's annual Mistletoe Ball at Silver Birches Resort on Lake Wallenpaupack.
January 19, 2017 – Sen. Baker offered a legislative update at the Chamber of the Northern Poconos’ annual legislative lunch and membership meeting. She also attended a pre-lunch meet-and-greet and discussed issues with, from left, Keith Williams, Juliann Doyle and Gina Ehrhardt.
January 19, 2017 – Sen. Baker met with officials from The Hideout and Roamingwood Sewer and Water Authority in Lake Ariel. Standing, from left, Hideout POA President Richard Straczynski, Roamingwood Sewer and Water Vice Chairman John Schesny, POA General Manager Joe Acla and Roamingwood Sewer and Water General Manager Jack Lennox. Sitting, from left, POA Chairperson Kellyn Nolan, Senator Baker and Roamingwood Sewer and Water Chairperson Elizabeth Sullivan.
January 18, 2017 – Sen. Baker joined Rep. Karen Boback at the Wyoming County 9-1-1 Center for Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Wyoming Government Day program.
January 13, 2017 – Sen. Baker stopped in to meet with some friendly folks at the Great Bend Senior Center in Susquehanna County.
January 9, 2017 – Along with Pike County Commissioner Matt Osterberg, Sen. Baker stands next to the newly installed drug drop off box inside Lords Valley Pharmacy, in Blooming Grove Township. The drop box marks the first private-public partnership in the state where unwanted prescriptions can be safely and securely dropped off in a pharmacy.
January 5, 2017 – Sen. Baker attended the swearing-in ceremony for Wayne County Commissioner Joseph Adams at the courthouse in Honesdale. Wayne County President Judge Raymond Hamill, who presided over the ceremony, stands between the senator and Adams.
January 3, 2017 – Sen. Baker nominated fellow Shippensburg University alum Donetta D'Innocenzo to continue serving as Senate Chief Clerk for the 2017-18 legislative session. She then spent some time with the chief clerk and her husband Jim.