December 18, 2018 - Volunteers in Medicine Executive Director Kelly Ranieli and Dr. Susan Sordoni gave Sen. Baker a tour of the Wilkes-Barre free clinic where nearly 100 volunteers dedicate their time. The senator heard about plans to renovate the facility and expand the services offered.
December 11, 2018 - Paden Costanzo, a Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School fifth grade student from Preston Township, Wayne County, was honored at the Capitol for his artwork that has won the cover spot on the 2019 Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Drug-Free calendar. Liz Clancy, who works for Sen. Baker, presented Paden with a signed certificate from the senator recognizing his accomplishment.
December 10, 2018 – Sen. Baker spent the morning with Shannon Kreidler’s 6th Grade Social Studies Class at Lake-Lehman’s Ross Elementary School for a mock Senate session and civics lesson.
December 7, 2018 – A group from Wayne County visited Sen. Baker at her Harrisburg office to discuss several matters. The contingent included, from left, Commissioner Joe Adams, Michael Wood, President of Honesdale-based Woodland Design, Deputy Director of Wayne County Human Services Michelle Valinski, Lucyann Vierling, director of the Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance, WEDCO Executive Director MaryBeth Wood and Commissioner Wendell Kay.
December 5, 2018 - Sen. Baker met with members of Scout Pack 229 from Tafton whom she helped earn their Citizenship Badge. From left, Dawson Lafy, Izabell Almy, Sen. Baker, Mylee Waldie, Zoe Wooster and Joshua Wooster.
November 19, 2018 - The community action agency TREHAB opened a new Community Resource Center in Montrose. The facility in Susquehanna County is dedicated to helping people in recovery or their families. Sen. Baker and Rep. Jonathan Fritz were among the officials taking part in the ribbon cutting ceremony.
November 15, 2018 – Sen. Baker was invited to be a panelist at Wilkes University for a discussion on how to create a mentoring culture for veterans’ success. Other panelists included Team Rubicon CEO Jake Wood, Can Cuddler CEO Melissa Swire, of Noxen Township, and Air Force ROTC Major David Suszko. The program was moderated by Marty Wolff.
November 10, 2018 – At the Polish Falcons Nest with the Greater Shickshinny Business Association honoring volunteers from the Mocanaqua Volunteer Fire Company for their service to the community.
November 9, 2018 – At a Veterans Day event honoring Vietnam War veterans at the Hamlin Fire Company banquet hall in Wayne County, Sen. Baker, Rep. Mike Peifer and Commissioner Joe Adams were on hand to thank more than 100 area veterans for their service. Special medals were presented by U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey.
November 3, 2018 – Sen. Baker listened to local veterans share their remarkable stories of service and sacrifice during Rep. Karen Boback’s veterans recognition event at Misericordia University.
November 1, 2018 - The Wayne County Community Foundation honored Donna Decker with its Ben Franklin Community Service Award during a dinner at the Bryn Mawr Conference Center in Oregon Township, Wayne County. Among those honoring her were Rep. Jonathan Fritz, Sen. Baker, Wayne County Commissioner Wendell Kay, community foundation Executive Director Paul Edwards and board president Warren Schloesser.
October 26, 2018 - Honoring a lifetime of business and community leadership and wishing Bob Tambur a happy 80th birthday. Among those on hand to celebrate are, from left, Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Tarah Toohil, Pat Solano, Tambur, Sen. Baker, Rep. Karen Boback and congressional candidate Dan Meuser.
October 25, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Department of Community and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn congratulating Dinah DiMeolo of Tunkhannock Township, Wyoming County. Dinah was the winner of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council’s emerging environmental leadership award for NEPA that was presented at the 28th Annual Evening for Northeast PA’s Environment dinner at the Woodlands Inn and Resort in Wilkes-Barre.
October 25, 2018 – Sen. Baker, along with students Cindy Perricone, Taylor Slish and Jacob Adams at the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance Regional Meeting held at The Brookfield Environmental Education Center at Lake Wallenpaupack. This forum serves as a quarterly meeting for the regional drug and alcohol agencies from the Poconos, the Lehigh Valley, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Susquehanna and Wyoming counties and the senator was invited to serve as a panelist.
October 23, 2018 – The Rotary Club of Honesdale had Sen. Baker join them to give a legislative update and discuss topics of interest during the club’s weekly meeting at Cordaro’s Restaurant. Club President Dolores Leopardi thanked the senator and presented her with a Rotary glass.
October 23, 2018 – For the ninth consecutive year, Sen. Baker was voted by readers of the Dallas Post as the Best Elected Official. She received her award at the Best of the Back Mountain Award program at Lum’s Overbrook Inn in Dallas and was accompanied by her husband Gary.
October 18, 2018 – Sen. Baker provided an update on PA One Call, elevator safety, lead testing and other legislation at the monthly meeting of the Northeastern Pennsylvania chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals, which works to help occupational safety and health professionals protect people and property. The meeting was held in Dimock Township, Susquehanna County.
October 18, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Jonathan Fritz recognized Supervisor Leonard Bartkus for his 50 years of dedication to the residents of Gibson Township during the fall meeting of the Susquehanna County Township Officials Association at the Montrose Bible Conference Center.
October 17, 2018 - Coaches and players from the Tunkhannock Majors Little League softball team visited the Capitol and met with Sen. Lisa Baker and Rep. Karen Boback and were honored in both chambers for their runner-up finish in the World Series this summer. Pictured, front row, from left: Sen. Baker, Julie Roote, Ella McNeff, Serenity Kerr, Piper Robinson, Hannah James, Cali Wisnosky, Sydney Huff, and Rep. Boback. Second Row: Coach Bill Huff, Erin Van Ness, Elaina Kulsicavage, Alexis Gilroy, Emily Patton, Kaya Hannon, Paige Marabell, Manager Tim Hannon, and Coach Jason Wisnosky
October 13, 2018 – Observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month by participating in the 1,000 Pink Lights Walk at Saw Creek Estates in Lehman Township, Pike County.
October 10, 2018 – Sen. Baker congratulated Elam Herr at the Wayne County Township Association annual convention at Lukan’s Farm Resort in Palmyra Township. Herr, the assistant executive director at the Pennsylvania Association of Township Supervisors, will retire after 43 years.
October 10, 2018 – Catching up with Salem Township Supervisors Dennis Chapman and Jim Swingle at the Wayne County Township Association annual convention at Lukan’s Farm Resort in Palmyra Township.
October 5, 2018 – The Montrose Area Chamber of Commerce and the Endless Mountains Business Association organized an informative legislative forum at the VFW in Montrose. Sen. Baker, Sen. Gene Yaw and Reps. Jon Fritz and Tina Pickett joined business and community leaders to discuss progress on flooding issues, transportation projects, opioids, and other important topics.
October 7, 2018 – Along with Dan Meuser and Anthony T. P. Brooks, Sen. Baker attended the North Branch Land Trust’s Taste the Local Harvest event at the Huntsville Golf Club. The event showcases the best area farmers, growers, vintners and brewmasters have to offer while supporting land stewardship and conservation.
October 6, 2018 – Enjoying the Noxen Fall Festival along with Rep. Karen Boback. There was plenty of terrific vendors, good food and family fun - all to benefit the Southern Wyoming County Neighborhood Center Corporation.
October 5, 2018 – With Wyoming County Commissioners Tom Henry and Judy Kraft-Mead celebrating the 175th anniversary of the building of the Wyoming County Courthouse in Tunkhannock.
October 5, 2018 – The Montrose Area Chamber of Commerce and the Endless Mountains Business Association organized an informative legislative forum at the VFW in Montrose. Sen. Baker, Sen. Gene Yaw and Reps. Jon Fritz and Tina Pickett joined business and community leaders to discuss progress on flooding issues, transportation projects, opioids, and other important topics.
October 4, 2018 – During a ceremony in Wilkes-Barre, Maternal & Family Health Services, in conjunction with the national office of their program, the Nurse-Family Partnership, has awarded the Force for Good Public Policy Award to Sen. Baker. The group lauded the senator for her advocacy in increasing funding for the program and her leadership and involvement that helped lead to program expansion.
October 3, 2018 - Sen. Lisa Baker, Kitty Moules, Sen. John Yudichak and others involved in the crafting of SB 934 look on as Gov. Tom Wolf signs an elevator safety bill into law. The legislation creates an Elevator Safety Board and memorializes the life of Luzerne County Corrections Officer Kristopher Moules, Kitty’s son, who died two years ago.
September 27, 2018 – Along with Rep. Jonathan Fritz, Sen. Baker visited Mount Pleasant Township Supervisors Al Wildenstein and Phil Eltz to see how the Wayne County township utilized state grant funding to benefit residents.
September 25, 2018 – Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine students Janara Koehler, of Dallas Township, Kristina Borham, of Scranton, and Ashlyn Reiser, of Kingston Township, along with American Congress of Obstetricians & Gynecologists Chapter President Dr. Lynne Coslett-Charlton, of Kingston Township, meet with Sen. Baker in her Harrisburg office to discuss policy and legislation impacting the field.
September 25, 2018 - Joining Steve Ross and Ryan Hogan from Luzerne-Wyoming County Drug and Alcohol Program and Mike Donahue from Wyoming County Human Services for Recovery Advocacy Day at the Capriol. It is a reminder of how we all benefit if we are less judgmental and more willing to extend forgiveness to those willing to earn a chance at a fresh start.
September 25, 2018 – At Widener University Commonwealth Law School for a veterans court panel discussion. Also on hand were Lt. Gov. Mike Stack, Sen. John C. Rafferty, state Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Anthony Carrelli and veteran and attorney Richard Goldberg of Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn. Programs and services aimed at assisting veterans across the spectrum of needs are increasing in number, but a lot remains to be done in identifying eligible veterans and connecting them with these avenues of help.
September 25, 2018 – Sen. Baker was presented with the Guardian of Small Business Award by the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business.
September 24, 2018 – Sens. Baker, Michele Brooks and Scott Martin wearing gold on the Senate floor to recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.
September 20, 2018 - Students from Wyoming Valley West High School volunteered at the annual Senior Expo cohosted by Sens. Baker and John Yudichak and Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Gerry Mullery. This year’s expo was held at the Wyoming valley Mall and attracted more than 1,000. The students helped with the refreshment table.
September 17, 2018 – Sen. Baker attended a Lehman Township, Luzerne County supervisors meeting where Nathan Welby was sworn in as a junior police officer with the township police force. The tremendous bravery he has demonstrated in his battle against cancer is an inspiration for us all.
September 16, 2018 - A perfect day to gather and enjoy the Dallas Harvest Festival - bringing families together and celebrating all the best in our community. Thank you to all the scouts and veterans who were able to attend the event at Dallas High School.
September 13, 2018 – At the Luzerne County Courthouse helping to officially kick-off the Luzerne County STOP Coalition to combat the opioid epidemic and discuss what is being done to counteract this public health emergency and save lives.
September 1, 2018 - Great fun joining Wyoming-Lackawanna County Dairy Princess Emma Loch for the Wyoming County Community Fair’s first-ever celebrity milking contest. We took first place while raising funds to support the Feeding Pennsylvania and PA Dairymen’s Association’s Fill A Glass With Hope milk bank efforts.
August 30, 2018 – Sen. Baker, as well as superintendents with the Crestwood and Hazleton Area school districts and other school officials participated in an episode of WBRE/WYOU’s Newsmakers to discuss school safety efforts, including the senator’s bill to replicate a successful behavioral health program in our area to help children and families statewide.
August 30, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Aaron Kaufer congratulated PIAA AAA Boys Javelin champion Marc Anthony Minichello on his gold medal finish. They wished the Wyoming Area graduate well as he continues to pursue excellence at the University of Pennsylvania.
August 26, 2018 – Along with Rep. Mike Peifer celebrating the grand opening of the new trails at the Dingman Township Park and dedication of the Dennis Brink Rink Loop and the William Mikulak Trail in honor of their tremendous service to the community. The legislators were joined by Mikulak, Brink and Dingman Township supervisors Tom Mincer and Ed Nikles Jr.
August 25, 2018 – With Rep. Jon Fritz and members of the Susquehanna County Farm Bureau at the Harford Fair.
August 23, 2018 – Visiting the Jaggars’ Farm in Lake Township to learn about environmental improvements and best practices being implemented on farms across the region during the annual Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau legislative tour. Besides Sen. Baker, Reps. Mike Peifer, Jon Fritz and Eddie Day Pashinski were also on hand to hear farmers speak about their challenges and success stories.
August 21, 2018 – Members of Cub Scout Pack 281 in Dallas visited with Sen. Baker and earned their citizenship badges. The scouts discussed their ideas about how we can all work together to build a better world.
August 18, 2018 – It might be August but Sen. Baker and Rep. Jon Fritz celebrated Oktoberfest with Mark and Ingrid Eifert and hundreds of others at the Alpine Wurst and Meat House in Honesdale. It was the 40th annual event the landmark has hosted.
August 16, 2018 – Sen. Baker attended the ribbon cutting for the new Dallas Township Municipal Building and spent some time with Luzerne County Dairy Princess Toni Traver, Luzerne County Dairy Miss Juliet Price, Luzerne County Dairy Ambassador Kaelyn Traver and Annli Mitchell.
August 13, 2018 - Sydney Miller, of Honesdale, visited with Sen. Baker to discuss careers, community involvement, civics and government. A senior at Lock Haven University studying political science, she is preparing to deploy with the Pennsylvania National Guard.
August 11, 2018 - The Kristopher D. Moules Memorial 5K and Walk for the Heroes at Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre honors the fallen corrections officer and raises scholarships for deserving students pursuing careers in criminal justice. The senator, who cosponsored a law that improves elevator safety and was named in memory of Moules, brought her dog Finley along.
August 2, 2018 - Wishing the Tunkhannock Majors Softball team – the 2018 district, sectional, state and regional champions - good luck as they prepare to compete on the international stage at the Little League Softball World Series in Portland, Oregon. Sen. Baker provided the team with Pennsylvania pins to trade and a Pennsylvania flag to proudly display.
August 1, 2018 – Sen. Baker stopped by the Salvation Army’s Ladore Retreat and Conference Center in Waymart for the annual Veteran’s Salute and Open House. She addressed the hundreds gathered about the importance of honoring our nation’s veterans and appreciating the sacrifices they have made for our freedom.
July 27, 2018 - Attorney General Josh Shapiro speaks at a press conference in Tunkhannock lauding the passage of Sen. Baker’s SB 978 into law. The law allows home hospice workers to properly dispose of a patient’s prescriptions after they pass. Shapiro and Baker were joined by members of the human services, hospice, law enforcement and health care fields.
July 27, 2018 - Wyoming County Coroner Tom Kukuchka, Diane Baldi, chief executive director Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Wilkes-Barre, Sen. Lisa Baker, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro, Tom Johnson-Medland from BAYADA Hospice in East Stroudsburg, and Mary Erwine, owner of Erwine Home Health and Hospice in Kingston at a gathering in Tunkhannock celebrating the passage of Sen. Baker’s SB 978 into law. The law allows home hospice workers to properly dispose of a patient’s prescriptions after they pass.
July 24, 2018 - Breaking ground on the Hawley Flood Risk Management project, a crucial piece of public safety infrastructure. Sen. Baker and Rep. Mike Peifer worked closely with borough leaders to address this need. The borough was able to secure grants totaling more than $400,000 to fund the vital project.
July 20, 2018 - Secretary of Aging Teresa Osbourne visited the Tunkhannock Senior Center to discuss grandparents raising grandchildren. Sen. Baker and Rep. Boback were on hand to participate in the discussion.
July 8, 2018 – Sen. Baker was the winning bidder for Caroline Stallard’s painting at the 72nd Annual Back Mountain Memorial Library Auction. Stallard is a Dallas High School student who previously earned a blue ribbon at the Rossetti Memorial Art Show for her painting bearing a likeness of Sen. Baker’s dog Finley.
July 16, 2018 – Sen. Baker attended a ribbon cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Keiper Park in Kingston. Those gathered were on hand to celebrate all of the improvements made to the park and the senator was pleased to be a part of community efforts to secure grant funding for such a worthy project.
July 10, 2018 – Sen. Baker took part in Government Day during Kingston Township’s Summer Recreation Program at Center Street Park. The program included a great bunch of kids was a great way to keep their bodies and minds active during the summer months.
July 7, 2018 - Patriotism is on full display at the Thompson Hose Company’s Independence Day celebration in Susquehanna County. Along with County Commissioner Alan Hall, Sen. Baker enjoyed the fantastic food, parade, fireworks and time spent celebrating our nation’s birthday with wonderful volunteers.
July 4, 2018 – At the annual Mountain Top 4th of July Parade, which included a ceremony at the Wright Township Municipal Building.
July 2, 2018 - At the swearing-in ceremony for new Pike County Commissioner Ronald Schmalzle. Sen. Baker joined Rep. Mike Peifer, Wayne County Senior Judge Ray Hamill, Pike County President Judge Gregory Chelak, and Pike County Commissioners Matt Osterberg and Steve Guccini at the ceremony at the Pike County Courthouse in Milford.
July 1, 2018 - Joining Pike County & Delaware Township officials to celebrate the generosity of volunteers at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Dingmans Ferry. The expansion of the food pantry in memory of Patricia Ann and Richard Louis Wentzler was made possible by their tremendous commitment to families in need.
June 26, 2018 – Sen. Baker was in Tobyhanna Township, Monroe County to join Todd Nelson and his team at Kalahari Resorts as they broke ground and celebrated the next exciting chapter of investment and expansion in our area - more than doubling the size of their convention center at their Pocono location.
June 20, 2018 – From left, Maddie Lewis, Sarah Wood, Rachel Musetti, Sen. Baker, Rylee Arenson, Mackenzie Meagher, and Renee Arnold. The students, from Wayne, Susquehanna, Pike and Luzerne counties, visited the Capitol as part of the Keystone Girls State program. The week-long initiative is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary and designed to teach the importance of responsible citizenship and to empower young women to make a change in their community.
June 19, 2018 - Pennsylvania American Legion Keystone Boys State participants from the 20th District were in Harrisburg and had the chance to meet Sen. Baker. Among those making the trip were, front row, left to right: Sen. Baker, Joseph Ciaccia, David Marcial, Nicholas Hamer, Brendan Frederick, Jacob Federo, and Tim French, Legion Mentor. Back row, from left: Robert Clemens, Ryan Sweeney, Joseph Falcon, and Nash Hamill.
June 19, 2018 – Sen. Lisa Baker with Jodi Wilson, left, and her daughter Mallory, of Lake Township, Luzerne County, on the Senate floor. Mallory will be spending her summer as an intern in the senator’s district office in Dallas. Mallory, who visited the Senate chamber and was introduced in floor remarks, is a rising senior at Chestnut Hill College where she studies criminal justice. Mallory was a standout lacrosse player at Lake-Lehman High School and is certified to officiate PIAA lacrosse games.
June 19, 2018 – Sen. Baker helped offered remarks in the Capitol rotunda to recognize Rare Disease Awareness Day in Pennsylvania and to shine a spotlight on the good work being done by the state’s Rare Disease Advisory Council that helps nearly 1.2 million Pennsylvanians suffering from rare diseases.
June 19, 2018 – At a Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee hearing, Sen. Baker’s SB 933 received unanimous support. The bill would earmark any fines collected as a result of the violation of Pennsylvania’s “Stolen Valor” law to the Pennsylvania Veterans’ Trust Fund.
June 19, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback meeting with members of the PA Rural Electric Association at a legislative mixer.
June 15, 2018 - Joining Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Karen Boback at Irem Temple Country Club to answer questions and listen to concerns at the back Mountain Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast. The senator appreciated the interactive and informed discussion.
June 13, 2018 - Susquehanna County Career & Technical Center’s Dr. Alice Davis, a respected leader & champion of children, visited the senator’s Harrisburg office advocating on behalf of her students.
June 9, 2018 - Saluting our veterans and the Stars and Stripes, the senator attended Waymart Borough’s Pride and Patriotism ceremonies along with Rep. Jon Fritz, Mayor Chip Norella and local American Legion Post 889 members.
June 7, 2018 - Dallas High School student Caroline Stallard presented her award-winning likeness of Sen. Baker’s dog Finley to the senator. The Bakers will hang it in their home.
June 6, 2018 – Wallenpaupack Area High School seniors Evan Sennefelder, of Dreher Township, and Andrew Stuart, of Lackawaxen Township, were victorious in the National Automotive Technology Competition held in New York City. Sen. Baker invited them, and their automotive technology teacher Dr. Mark Watson, to Harrisburg and shared their championship news with the Senate and presented them each with a citation. The competition’s national champions in 2015 also hailed from Wallenpaupack Area.
June 6, 2018 – The senator was delighted to join this terrific group of students from the transition assistance program at Northeast Sight Services and Executive Director Sara Peperno. This innovative offering helps with college, career and independent living preparations. They put the skills they’ve developed to good use at the Capitol advocating for others with visual impairments.
June 6, 2018 - Lori Phillips from Ski Big Bear in Lackawaxen Township did a great job showcasing the Pike County ski resort to the rest of the state while joining other Pennsylvania Ski Areas Association members at the Capitol to explain the importance of winter snow sports to our tourism industry.
June 5, 2018 - Kicking off the 2018 Keystone State Games at the Capitol with the induction of Field Hockey State Director Karen Klassner, of Kingston, to the Keystone State Games Hall of Fame.
June 5, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback kicked off the 2018 Keystone State Games at the Capitol with the induction of Competition Director Bob Parkison, of Tunkhannock, to the Keystone State Games Hall of Fame.
June 5, 2018 – Sen. Baker, Rich Kutz from the Weinberg Regional Food Bank and Dairy Princesses from Wayne and Wyoming counties taking part in the PA Dairymen’s Association and Feeding Pennsylvania’s Fill a Glass With Hope initiative. To date, farmers have offered over 3.3 million servings of milk to families in need through the state’s food bank network.
June 4, 2018 - Sen. Lisa Baker welcomed Dallas High School students who are members of the three-time national champion LifeSmarts Team, which recently captured the 24th annual competition held in San Diego. Coach Kevin West and students Vidhan Dhol, Hannah Wolfe, Raymond Perez, Caleb Swetizer and Matt Metzloff joined Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback on the Senate floor to be honored for the feat.
June 4, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Jon Fritz congratulating snowboarder and Paralympic Gold Medalist Mike Minor from Waymart on his impressive showing at the 2018 Winter U.S Paralympics showing in South Korea. He took first in banked slalom and also brought home a bronze in snowboard cross. The legislators got a chance to see and hold the medals.
May 31, 2018 – Department of State Deputy Policy Director Jessica Meyers as at Blue Ridge High School in New Milford to present the Governor's Civic Engagement Gold Award. These impressive juniors achieved gold status in promoting voter registration. Sen. Baker and Rep. Jon Fritz praised the effort of these students and their active participation in the democratic process.
May 30, 2018 – Celebrating another small business success story in the 20th District. Kitty Hawk Technologies, in Honesdale, recently received their ISO 9001:2015 certification allowing the veteran-owned business access to military and aerospace clients. Celebrating the designation, from left, are NEPA Alliance President Jeff Box, Dale Parmenteri, vice president of consulting operations at Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC), company President David Suhosky, Sen. Baker and State Rep. Jon Fritz.
May 28, 2018 - Eagle Scout Matthew Roberts of Troop 146 brought the community together on Memorial Day to remember and pay tribute to veterans through the dedication of the 1st Lt. Michael J. Cleary Veterans Memorial near the Dallas High School tennis courts.
May 28, 2018 – Honoring veterans and our nation at Carlton-Drake Park in Dreher Township, Wayne County for a Memorial Day ceremony with Rep. Mike Peifer and members of American Legion Post 859 from Newfoundland. The senator was the keynote speaker and shared the personal sacrifice of her own great-grandfather, Adam Calhoun, who was wounded in the Battle of Burton's Farms during the Civil War.
May 28, 2018 – A great day for a parade as Sen. Baker and Rep. Karen Boback join the Lake-Lehman High School Band at the Sweet Valley Memorial Day Parade in Luzerne County.
May 26, 2018 - A heartwarming Memorial Day ceremony organized by the Falls Lions Club and area scouts. The gathering and ceremony, at George Hock Park in Exeter Township, Wyoming County, was well-attended.
May 26, 2018 – Congratulations to the members of the Dallas Lions Club and all of the dedicated volunteers who worked so hard to help the Back Mountain Community Library improve on the past by installing a replica of its original sign and adding some fabulous new landscaping.
May 23, 2018 – Sens. Baker and John Yudichak met with Luzerne County-based engineering firm Borton-Lawson’s Leadership Development Institute team and had a discussion on issues facing the state and their industry. Pictured, front row from left, are: Sen. Baker, Lou Spaciano, Chris Morgan, Chris Borton, Monica Marshalonis, Dave Wieller, Lisa Clementoni, and Sen. Yudichak. Back row, from left, are: Tim Schoen, Mike D’Amico, Dave Summers and Mike Rodriguez.
May 23, 2018 – Sen. Baker met with Northeast Behavioral Health Care Consortium CEO James Gallagher and Forest City Regional School District Superintendent Jessica Aquilina. The two provided testimony to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Health/Human Services regarding a behavioral health program for students and families being used in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties.
May 22, 2018 - ALS advocates Erica Smith and Cathy Malkemes, met with Sen. Baker and Rep. Jerry Mullery in Harrisburg. Cathy, of Wright Township, continues to fight for those afflicted with this terrible disease in memory of her husband, Ken, who lost his battle in 2016. Erica, a nurse, is from Fairview Township.
May 22, 2018 – Sen. Baker welcomed Father Joseph Evanko to the Senate where the pastor of St. Jude Parish, in Mountain Top, served as guest chaplain for the day. Accompanying Rev. Evanko on the trip down I-81 was Dan Frascella a retired Wright Township supervisor who served in that capacity for 24 years and is an active member of St. Jude Parish.
May 22, 2018 - MMI Preparatory School junior and Rice Township resident Angelica Alday, who was in Harrisburg as part of her participation in the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences, spent some time with Sen. Baker on the Senate floor.
May 19, 2018 - Horses for Heroes Open House at GAIT Therapeutic Riding Center in Milford. They are doing some amazing things to help current and former servicemen and women recuperate, recreate and reintegrate into our community with $15,000 in support from Vetstock to help vets heal. Sen. Baker joined Pike County Commissioner Matt Osterberg and members of Vetstock at the event.
May 18, 2018 - An investment in the future of higher education in Luzerne County for babies born this year and next, the Keystone Scholars initiative offers $100 to grow along with them through a special partnership with the Pennsylvania Treasury Department, the United Way of Wyoming Valley, Family Services Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania, 211 NEPA and Luzerne County Head Start. Sen. Baker, state Treasurer Joe Torsella, Luzerne County Manager David Pedri, Luzerne County Council Member Tim McGinley and Sens. John Gordner and John Yudichak and Reps. Tarah Toohil and Eddie Day Pashinski took part in the launch at the Head Start center in Wilkes-Barre.
May 18, 2018 – Along with Pennsylvania Treasurer Joe Torsella, Sens. John Yudichak and John Gordner, Reps. Eddie Day Pashinski and Tarah Toohil and Luzerne County officials celebrating the Keystone Scholars program, which makes an investment in the future higher education for babies born this year and next in Luzerne County. The announcement was held at Luzerne County Head Start in Wilkes-Barre.
May 17, 2018 – Sen. Baker joined some inquisitive and invigorated legislators-in-training at Pennsylvania College of Technology for Sen. Gene Yaw’s 2018 Student Government Seminar. The students learned how government works and got some insight from legislators about the jobs they do.
May 9, 2018 – Sen. Baker looks at the Wall That Heals, a scaled replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., that is on display at the Capitol for several days. She’s joined by Sen. Gene Yaw and Patrick Solano.
May 9, 2018 – Sen. Baker walks and talks with former Gov. Tom Ridge while visiting the Wall That Heals, a scaled replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., that is on display at the Capitol for several days. They’re joined by Patrick Solano.
May 8, 2018 - Sen. Baker presented Susan Rollison, owner of Prompton Tool in Honesdale, with a Senate citation marking 50 years in business. The wooden sign behind them is the original company sign from 1968 that hung in the business when it was located in Prompton.
May 8, 2018 - Wallenpaupack Area High School Student Ambassadors showcasing their model servant leadership program and highlighting its impact during a visit by Sen. Baker.
May 3, 2018 - Sen. Baker met with members of Pike-Wayne Trout Unlimited Chapter 462 in the Hawley District Office. At left is Tony Capitano and at right is Paul Ranello. They’re holding vintage fishing creels owned by the Baker family that are on display at the office.
May 3, 2018 – Sen. Baker, Sen. John Yudichak, county judges, other legislators, courthouse staff and others gathered at the grand reopening of the Luzerne County Courthouse rotunda following major renovations to improve and preserve this historic structure. Such pride in the past bodes well for a bright future.
May 1, 2018 – Meeting with Fish and Boat Commissioner Conservation Officer John Cummings to discuss local fishing and boating matters and to present him with a commemorative pen used to sign SB 899 into law.
April 29, 2018 – The senator helped kick-off Pocono Raceway’s inaugural Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania/Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania’s Girl Scout Badge Day and to recognize the good work of the Rose Pedals in empowering women and giving back to the community. The Rose Pedals, the female staff of the raceway and named after raceway matriarch Dr. Rose Mattioli, have come together to follow in her footsteps by volunteering their time by doing community service, supporting community organizations and developing a mentoring program for women and girls in the community.
April 29, 2018 - A big surprise party at the Lenox VFW Post for Lenox Township Supervisor Fred Benson who thought he was headed to a christening and wound up attending his 80th birthday celebration instead. Sen. Baker was joined by former Rep. Sandra Major and Rep. Jon Fritz at the milestone-marking event.
April 25, 2018 – Sens. Baker and John Yudichak along with West Pittston Mayor Tom Blaskiewicz and his father-in-law Pat Solano. The mayor was among invited panelists discussing local impacts during a joint Senate hearing on flooding and emergency response.
April 24, 2018 - Three Dallas High School students visited the Capitol and shadowed Sen. Baker and served as guest pages. During the experience, students, from left, Calvin Polachek, Eric Weiss, Noah Delevan, also attended meetings with the senator, toured the capitol and observed a committee hearing and a committee meeting.
April 23, 2018 - Sen. Baker welcomed current and aspiring social work professionals to the capitol, including Misericordia University Professor Dave Hage and his students as part of The National Association of Social Workers’ Pennsylvania Chapter’s Legislative Education and Advocacy Day. The Misericordia group included, from left, Brianna Smith, Deanna Warren, Christine Ward, Jaqueline Tadeo, Karley Kandel, Professor Hage, Sen. Baker, Olivia Mayorowski, Ashlilyn Steblinski, Allison Butow and Julianna Stella.
April 23, 2018 - Pastor Brian Korner, of the Grace Independent Baptist Church in Slocum Township, served as the Senate’s guest chaplain. Sen. Baker introduced Korner, of Dorrance Township. Accompanying Korner on his trip to Harrisburg are his wife Stacey, their three children Khloe, Brian and Caitlyn and members of his church and homeschool group: Kristi Kronk, her two children Jordan and Kaitlyn and Ronald Naugle.
April 23, 2018 - The 20th District is always well-represented by many township officials at the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors annual educational conference and exhibit show in Hershey.
April 21, 2018 – Recognizing 60 years of excellence at Woodloch Resort with owner John Kiesendahl. The family-owned Pike County destination is consistently on Pennsylvania’s list of Best Places to Work and prides itself in making family memories.
April 20, 2018 - Joining my colleagues to hear about important initiatives to educate and train our workforce at Luzerne County Community College’s legislative information session.in Nanticoke.
April 20, 2018 – Sen. Baker spoke at and participated in the ceremony marking the grand opening of the Children’s Service Center’s new outpatient clinic in Wilkes-Barre.
April 19, 2018 – The senator was asked to be part of the EmpowerNEPA Women’s Leadership Conference at Mohegan Sun Pocono. The event, hosted by several local chambers of commerce, brings women together to support one another and to highlight their ability to create positive change. She took some time to speak with Susan Unvarsky, COO of Prudential Retirement, during the conference.
April 18, 2018 - Learning more about how criminals skim credit and debit card information and what we can do to prevent it during the Pennsylvania Credit Union Association’s Credit Union Legislative Day at the Capitol.
April 18, 2018 - Recognizing the important role the American Red Cross plays in our communities with Sen. Mario Scavello, Michele J. Baehr, Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region executive director, and Rep. Rosemary Brown during Volunteer Appreciation Week at the Capitol.
April 18, 2018 – Discussing the role of safety net providers in meeting the health care needs of rural underserved populations with the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health at the 2018 Rural PA Legislative Briefing.
April 17, 2018 - Visiting with Becky Place of Monroe Township, Wyoming County, and Emily Holmes, of Dunmore, who proudly represented Johnson College as part of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania Student Aid Advocacy Day in Harrisburg.
April 17, 2018 – A farmer’s work is never done, so when Kim and Jim Barbour, Bill Bayne, Jim Decker, Joe Loomis, and Dave Payne made the trip to Harrisburg to participate in Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s State Legislative Conference, Sen. Baker gladly met with them to discuss issues impacting farm families. The farmers are from Susquehanna, Wyoming and Lackawanna counties.
April 17, 2018 – Misericordia University students visited the capitol to showcase their work and share their personal stories as part of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania’s Student Aid Advocacy Day. Along with Sen. Baker, from left, are Gardyney Deshommes, Kathleen Klatt, Cara Imbalzano, Tristan Snyder, Brandon Dean and Rep. Karen Boback.
April 17, 2018 - Impressed by the A+ exhibit of award-winning research projects at the Undergraduate Research at the Capitol: Pennsylvania Poster Conference. The skills and principles employed by these amazing students and their advisors have lasting value in life and in professional endeavors.
April 6, 2018 – Sen. Baker, along with Rep. Mike Peifer and Pike County Conservation District Executive Director Michele Long at the Pike/Wayne Conservation Partnership Legislative Breakfast at Lacawac Sanctuary.
April 16, 2018 – Welcoming Wilkes University pharmacy professors Tom Franko and Judith Kristeller and Philadelphia College of Pharmacy at University of the Sciences student Samantha Frear to the capitol as part of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association’s Pharmacy Legislative Day.
April 14, 2018 - Enjoying great food and catching up with good friends along with Rep. Mike Peifer at the annual Dingman Township Volunteer Fire Department’s Beefsteak Dinner in Pike County.
April 13, 2018 – Along with Rep. Aaron Kaufer at the Pierce Street Deli in Kingston toasting the Hoyt Library’s 90th anniversary with library officials and supporters.
April 13, 2018 – Visiting the Shickshinny Area Historical Society’s museum. Jim Bach of Shickshinny has been the champion for the renovation of the Historical Society Museum to preserve a vast collection of artifacts inside the historic FLT Building on Main Street. With the help of a $110,000 LSA grant, preservation and renovations will be completed.
April 13, 2018 – Sen. Baker joined Rep. Tarah Toohil, officials from Frontier Communications, Shickshinny Borough and Conyngham Township and local veterans to replace the tattered flags on the Shickshinny- Mocanaqua Bridge.
April 11, 2018 – Sen. Baker provided a legislative update for members of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Shrine Club during a dinner meeting at Newberry Estates in Dallas.
April 11, 2018 - Reading some books and singing some songs with the wonderful students at Trinity Learning Center in Dallas.
April 11, 2018 – Sen. Baker held an iimportant conversation regarding the challenges of recruiting and retaining fire and EMS volunteers in rural areas with Slocum Township Supervisors Charlie Herring and Norb Dotzel at her Dallas District Office.
April 11, 2018 – Meeting with area nurses and nurse educators to learn more about patient care and discuss health care issues.
April 7, 2018 – North Mountain Branch Quality Deer management Association/NEPA Whitetails Unlimited’ s annual banquet and auction at Shadowbrook Inn and Resort in Tunkhannock. The event supports wildlife habitat and educational programs and the preservation of shooting sports and hunting traditions.
April 6, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Reps. Mike Peifer and Rosemary Brown at a surprise retirement gathering for Pike County Conservation District Director Sally Corrigan in appreciation of her commitment to continuing this area’s proud conservation legacy. Thank you Sally for 38 years of distinguished service to the Pike County Conservation District and the Pike County Office of Community Planning.
March 24, 2018 – At the Susquehanna County Resource Fair, which helps connect residents with vital programs and services.
March 24, 2018 – Sen. Baker attended the Endless Mountains Empowerment Summit at Elk Lake Junior-Senior High School in Springville. The program offered dynamic speakers and networking opportunities and raised money for student scholarships.
March 23, 2018 – State Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller accompanied Sen. Baker on a visit to The Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program at Misericordia University to learn more about the program and speak with students. From left, Kristin Crawford, director of legislative affairs, Department of Human Services; Ann Houssock, Dallas office manager for Rep. Karen Boback; Sen. Baker; Ayanna Dexter, a student in the Women with Children program; Lisa M. Watson, deputy secretary, Office of Income Maintenance; and Sec. Miller.
March 23, 2018 – Officials from the state Departments of Education and Human Services participated in an informational program at Misericordia University about the school’s Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program. Some of the participants included, seated from left, Rep. Karen Boback, Pennsylvania Department of Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera, Department of Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller, Department of Education Deputy Secretary for Postsecondary and Higher Education Noe Ortega, and Sen. Lisa Baker. Standing: Katherine Pohlidal, program director; Sandy Johnson, program coordinator; Sister Jean Messaros, program founder; Ayanna Dexter, a student in the program; Carol Sweeney, from Rep. Boback’s office; and Misericordia University President Thomas J. Botzman.
March 15, 2018 – Sen. Baker visited Dave Hage's Social Welfare Policy & Services class at Misericordia University to discuss the legislative process.
March 11, 2018 - Congratulations to this year’s Rossetti Memorial Art Show participants including Dallas student and creative talent Caroline Stallard, who took home a Blue Ribbon for her likeness of Sen. Baker’s dog Finley.
March 10, 2018 - Pleased to recognize the contributions of dedicated community leader Lyle Oakes and celebrate his 80th birthday along with state Reps. Jonathan Fritz and Tina Pickett in Susquehanna County.
March 8, 2018 – At the NEPA Council Boy Scouts of America's 35th Annual Distinguished Citizens Award Dinner honoring recipients Dan and Scott Meuser.
February 23, 2018 - Discussing legislative issues and state budget matters with elected officials and human services providers in Luzerne and Wyoming counties and members of the state’s Rehabilitation and Community Providers Association.
February 19, 2018 – Sen. Baker stopped by the Wayne County Lyme Disease Task Force table at the annual Wayne County Dairy and Agriculture Day held at Honesdale High School.
February 19, 2018 - Katie Nebzydoski, the North East Maple Producers Maple Sweetheart for 2018-2019, meets with Sen. Baker at the annual Wayne County Dairy Day event at Honesdale High School. Katie, from Pleasant Mount, is a student at Forrest City Regional High School.
February 13, 2018 - Senators Baker and John Yudichak hosted a roundtable on lead exposure, lead testing, and lead abatement policies in Pennsylvania at a task force hearing at King’s College.
February 11, 2018 – Enjoying camaraderie and supporting our dedicated volunteers at the monthly breakfast supporting the Kunkle Fire Co.
February 9, 2018 – Sen. Baker stopped in to the Dingman Township Volunteer Fire Co. emergency shelter to speak with volunteers and Pike County residents who had to leave their homes because of the massive, lingering power outages.
February 6, 2018 – Sen. Baker stopped by the Pennsylvania State Council on Farm Organizations’ Taste of Pennsylvania 2018 Cornucopia event at the Capitol. While there she discussed issues with Dallas native Jane Clements-Smith who was representing Feeding Pennsylvania.
February 3, 2018 – Legislators, including Sen. Baker, participated in the Wyoming Valley League of Women Voters Legislative Breakfast at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre.
February 1, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Reps. Jon Fritz and Mike Peifer along with members of the Wallenpaupack Area High School Student Ambassador Club during an event at Wallenpaupack Area High School.
February 1, 2018 – Pennsylvania Agriculture Russel Redding, right, along with Rep. Jon Fritz, Sen. Baker, Wayne Highlands Superintendent Gregory Frigoletto and Kayla Hack, Honesdale High School’s agricultural sciences teacher. The group got an update on the school’s new curriculum and learned about its revitalized Future Farmers of America program
February 1, 2018 – Sen. Baker and Rep. Fritz met with Honesdale High School students and heard about exciting learning and career opportunities through the school’s new agricultural sciences curriculum.
January 30, 2018 – Sen. Baker participated in kick off effort at the Capitol to create a crime victims’ bill of rights known as Marsy’s Law.
January 25, 2018 – Sen. Baker, Reps. Fritz and Peifer, Congressman Marino and Salem Township Supervisor Merel “Jim” Swingle participate in the ribbon cutting of Hamlin Heights in Salem Township, Wayne County.
January 25, 2018 – Celebrating the distinguished career and retirement of Donna Decker from Wayne Memorial Hospital. She was truly dedicated to community health in rural Pennsylvania.
January 23, 2018 – Sen. Baker looked on as Gov. Wolf signed her SB 242, the expansion of Pennsylvania 811 program, into law
January 20, 2018 – Sen. Baker attended the Mistletoe Ball at Silver Birches Resort along Lake Wallenpaupack. The annual fundraiser for Wayne Memorial Hospital and gives attendees a chance to recognize the many employees and volunteers who work to benefit the region’s health.
January 18, 2018 - Celebrating 100 years of service by the Wilkes-Barre Association for the Blind with the opening of a state-of-the-art Low Vision Resource Center in Exeter. The event also marked the unveiling of the organization’s new name -- Northeast Sight Services -- to better reflect the tremendous work they are doing in our community.
January 16, 2018 - White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Ivanka Trump, an advisor to the president, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, and Linda McMahon, who heads the Small Business Administration, listen as Sen. Baker asks a question during the White House Empowering Women Symposium.
January 16, 2018 - Sen. Baker had the chance to meet and discuss issues with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma while in Washington.
January 16, 2018 - Standing with the flags displayed in the Vice President’s ceremonial office at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
January 14, 2018 – An annual tradition, the White Mills Fire and EMS Sportsmen’s Fest in Texas Township, Wayne County. Sen. Baker, along with Wayne County Treasurer Brian Field, Wayne County Commissioners Brian Smith and Joe Adams and Texas Township residents John Haggarty and Gary Brown.
January 11, 2018 – Taking in the sights, sounds and tastes of the annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, Sen. Baker enjoyed an ice cold chocolate milkshake courtesy of the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association.
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