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Articles by Laura Rysz
Taste of home: Find family recipes and regional favorites at Laura's Pizza and Hoagies in Scott Twp.
Head to Laura’s Pizza and Hoagies in Scott Twp. for generous portions and homestyle comfort food. Laura Ritzco opened the family-friendly restaurant in March 2009, after working in the food industry for years and aspiring to have a place of her own. The eatery’s menu was created using a combination of local favorites and family recipes that keeps customers coming back. Chef’s Table spoke with Ritzco about the Upvalley eatery that she runs with her son, Aaron Stafursky.
Taste of home: Find family recipes and regional favorites at Laura’s Pizza and Hoagies in Scott Twp.
Head to Laura’s Pizza and Hoagies in Scott Twp. for generous portions and homestyle comfort food. Laura Ritzco opened the family-friendly restaurant in March 2009, after working in the food industry for years and aspiring to have a place of her own. The eatery’s menu was created using a combination of local favorites and family recipes that keeps customers coming back. Chef’s Table spoke with Ritzco about the Upvalley eatery that she runs with her son, Aaron Stafursky.
One Stop Pasta Shop brings fresh, customizable dishes to city's downtown
Enrique Clotter’s focus is to bring a fresh take on pasta to downtown Scranton. Clotter, who owns One Stop Pasta Shop inside the Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave., was inspired to allow customers to create their own pasta dishes. They can choose from either Penne and Cavatappi pasta as their base and add vegetables, sauces and proteins such as chicken, meatballs and shrimp, to customize their own creations.
Lucca Fresca serves up pop music inspired smoothies
Editor's Note: This article was original published on April 21, 2021. Lucca Fresca provides smoothies, smoothie bowls and other healthy snacks with style. The establishment at 802 S. Main St., Taylor, is the creation of owner Mattia Krappa, who wanted a business that gave the community healthy options with a laid-back atmosphere.
Lucca Fresca serves up pop music inspired smoothies
Editor’s Note: This article was original published on April 21, 2021. Lucca Fresca provides smoothies, smoothie bowls and other healthy snacks with style. The establishment at 802 S. Main St., Taylor, is the creation of owner Mattia Krappa, who wanted a business that gave the community healthy options with a laid-back atmosphere.
Peppered with variety: Popular pizza and sub eatery sprinkles in many menu options
Peppers Pizza & Subs offers more than just a slice. Owner Gene Fitzpatrick opened the restaurant in 2005 after years of working in the food industry. He considers himself a self-proclaimed foodie, and over the past 18 years, he has curated a menu that reflects his passion for the culinary arts through an array of different kinds of ciabatta sandwiches, pretzel dogs and sandwiches, burgers, and of course, pizza.
Peppered with variety: Popular pizza and sub eatery sprinkles in many menu options
Peppers Pizza & Subs offers more than just a slice. Owner Gene Fitzpatrick opened the restaurant in 2005 after years of working in the food industry. He considers himself a self-proclaimed foodie, and over the past 18 years, he has curated a menu that reflects his passion for the culinary arts through an array of different kinds of ciabatta sandwiches, pretzel dogs and sandwiches, burgers, and of course, pizza.
Names&Faces: Benefit Art Show & Sale to raise money for United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania's programs
Jul. 28—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Laurie LaMaster about the upcoming United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania's Benefit Art Show & Sale, which will raise money for its programs. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: Director of development and communication at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Title: Organizer Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Names&Faces: Benefit Art Show & Sale to raise money for United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania's programs
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Laurie LaMaster about the upcoming United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Benefit Art Show & Sale, which will raise money for its programs. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: Director of development and communication at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Title: Organizer Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Benefit Art Show & Sale to raise money for United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania's programs
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Laurie LaMaster about the upcoming United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Benefit Art Show & Sale, which will raise money for its programs. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: Director of development and communication at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Title: Organizer Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Names&Faces: Scranton Police Department's National Night Out set to bring law enforcement and community together
Jul. 21—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with administrative Lt. James J. Pappas about the Scranton Police Department's National Night Out Campaign set to take place Tuesday, Aug. 1, at Scranton High School. Education and professional background: He is a graduate of King's College, Wilkes-Barre, and (has been) the administrative lieutenant from 2021 to present. Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Names&Faces: Scranton Police Department's National Night Out set to bring law enforcement and community together
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with administrative Lt. James J. Pappas about the Scranton Police Department’s National Night Out Campaign set to take place Tuesday, Aug. 1, at Scranton High School. Residence: Scranton Education and professional background: He is a graduate of King’s College, Wilkes-Barre, and (has been) the administrative lieutenant from 2021 to present. Title: Event coordinator Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Scranton Police Department's National Night Out set to bring law enforcement and community together
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with administrative Lt. James J. Pappas about the Scranton Police Department’s National Night Out Campaign set to take place Tuesday, Aug. 1, at Scranton High School. Residence: Scranton Education and professional background: He is a graduate of King’s College, Wilkes-Barre, and (has been) the administrative lieutenant from 2021 to present. Title: Event coordinator Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Hot spot: Jalapeño dishes out homemade Mexican cuisine in Abingtons
Jul. 19—Jalapeño Authentic Mexican Grill in South Abington Twp. keeps it spicy. The eatery opened in September under Alma Camacho, who decided to take a chance and open her own eatery. Although she started out with a smaller menu, serving burritos, tacos and quesadillas, she has added enchiladas, fajitas and tamales over the past several months. The dish Camacho takes most pride in, however, are birria tacos, which come from a family recipe passed down through generations.
Hot spot: Jalapeño dishes out homemade Mexican cuisine in Abingtons
Jalapeño Authentic Mexican Grill in South Abington Twp. keeps it spicy. The eatery opened in September under Alma Camacho, who decided to take a chance and open her own eatery. Although she started out with a smaller menu, serving burritos, tacos and quesadillas, she has added enchiladas, fajitas and tamales over the past several months. The dish Camacho takes most pride in, however, are birria tacos, which come from a family recipe passed down through generations.
Escape to paradise at Tropic pop-up bar inside the Loft's new location
As the forecast heats up, cool down at a hot spot in downtown Scranton. Tropic, the second pop-up bar at The Loft is set to open Thursday with specialty cocktails, some craft beers and wines from area wineries and Mackie Girl Wines at The Loft's new location, 503 Lackawanna Ave. with plenty of neon, tropical decor and social media-worthy photo spots. Food for Thought blogger Laura Rysz chatted with owner Jessica Bredbenner about The Loft’s summer pop-up. Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
Dollops of delight: Scoopz serves Olyphant and beyond with ice cream shop and truck
Jul. 12—Scoopz Ice Cream Parlor in Olyphant shakes it up. The Midvalley ice cream shop, 594 Burke Bypass, also operates an ice cream truck that can be booked for special events to provide its sweet treats on-location. As far as its frozen offerings, Scoopz has soft-serve and hard ice cream, sundaes, gelatis and banana splits. Its signature item, however is its Shakearello.
Dollops of delight: Scoopz serves Olyphant and beyond with ice cream shop and truck
Scoopz Ice Cream Parlor in Olyphant shakes it up. The Midvalley ice cream shop, 594 Burke Bypass, also operates an ice cream truck that can be booked for special events to provide its sweet treats on-location. As far as its frozen offerings, Scoopz has soft-serve and hard ice cream, sundaes, gelatis and banana splits. Its signature item, however is its Shakearello. Thicker than a milkshake, the Shakearello combines Italian Ice with ice cream, which makes eating it with a spoon strongly recommended.
Shine Like Susan 5K set to raise money for colon cancer
Jul. 7—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Jack Farrell about the upcoming Shine Like Susan 5K, which raises money for the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: I am a rising junior and president of the class of 2025 at Abington Heights High School. I am a runner on both the cross country and track teams, and I had always wanted to organize a 5K because of the time I've spent cheering for my dad or competing myself.
Shine Like Susan 5K set to raise money for colon cancer
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Jack Farrell about the upcoming Shine Like Susan 5K, which raises money for the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: I am a rising junior and president of the class of 2025 at Abington Heights High School. I am a runner on both the cross country and track teams, and I had always wanted to organize a 5K because of the time I’ve spent cheering for my dad or competing myself.
Best bets for upcoming entertainment
’80s Decade Party This totally awesome ’80s Decade Party will feature popular songs of the time period performed by Leighann and Company. The event takes place from 8 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, at Mount Airy Casino Resort, 312 Woodland Road, Mount Pocono. Guests are encouraged to arrive dressed in neon colors and legwarmers with crimped hair, mullets and other looks that showcase the hottest styles at the time.
Jewish Food Fest set for this weekend at Nay Aug Park in Scranton
Jun. 30—Staff writer Laura Rysz chats with Rabbi Benny Rapoport about the upcoming Jewish Food Fest that takes place Sunday, July 2, through Wednesday, July 5, at Nay Aug Park in Scranton. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: Rabbi, community organizer, educator, co-founder and co-director of the Jewish Discovery Center since 2003. Title: Planner Q: How many years has this fundraiser been a tradition? A: It's been a tradition for 15 years.
Jewish Food Fest set for this weekend at Nay Aug Park in Scranton
Staff writer Laura Rysz chats with Rabbi Benny Rapoport about the upcoming Jewish Food Fest that takes place Sunday, July 2, through Wednesday, July 5, at Nay Aug Park in Scranton. Residence: Clarks Summit Professional background: Rabbi, community organizer, educator, co-founder and co-director of the Jewish Discovery Center since 2003. Title: Planner Q: How many years has this fundraiser been a tradition? A: It’s been a tradition for 15 years.
Ice cream social: Mayfield Tasty Scoops a cool spot in Upvalley community Original
A sweet place in the Upvalley, Mayfield Tasty Scoops began as a happy accident. Owners and husband and wife duo Gina and Lou DeMarco decided to start an ice cream shop on a whim. The couple had backgrounds in the real estate business, but never in food service. When they bought and tore down the building housed on the lot, 513 Lackawanna Ave., Mayfield, they kicked around some ideas of what to open and realized an ice cream shop would be the perfect fit.
July Monthly Calendar
Jun. 25—Ongoing: Party on the Patio, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Mohegan Pennsylvania, 1280 Route 315, Plains Twp. moheganpa.com. July 1 Rotary Club of the Abingtons fireworks, 5 p.m., Abington Heights Middle School, 1555 Newton Ransom Blvd., Clarks Summit. facebook.com/RotaryCluboftheAbingtons/. Red, White and Brews, Groove Brewing, 1401 Sanderson Ave., Scranton. 570-800-5440 or groovebrewing.com.
July Monthly Calendar
Ongoing: Party on the Patio, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Mohegan Pennsylvania, 1280 Route 315, Plains Twp. moheganpa.com. July 1 Rotary Club of the Abingtons fireworks, 5 p.m., Abington Heights Middle School, 1555 Newton Ransom Blvd., Clarks Summit. facebook.com/RotaryCluboftheAbingtons/. Red, White and Brews, Groove Brewing, 1401 Sanderson Ave., Scranton. 570-800-5440 or groovebrewing.com.
Names&Faces: Picnic on the Patio fundraiser to raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Educational Programs
Jun. 23—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Christine Zike about the upcoming Picnic on the Patio fundraiser, which will raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic educational programs. Residence: Moosic Professional background: Development director of the NEPA Philharmonic board and president of the Philharmonic League Title: Co-chair with league member Dalida Walton Q: What was the inspiration for Picnic on the Patio?
Names&Faces: Picnic on the Patio fundraiser to raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Educational Programs
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Christine Zike about the upcoming Picnic on the Patio fundraiser, which will raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic educational programs. Residence: Moosic Professional background: Development director of the NEPA Philharmonic board and president of the Philharmonic League Title: Co-chair with league member Dalida Walton Q: What was the inspiration for Picnic on the Patio?
Picnic on the Patio fundraiser to raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Educational Programs
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Christine Zike about the upcoming Picnic on the Patio fundraiser, which will raise money for Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic educational programs. Residence: Moosic Professional background: Development director of the NEPA Philharmonic board and president of the Philharmonic League Title: Co-chair with league member Dalida Walton Q: What was the inspiration for Picnic on the Patio?
Delia Riggi
Announcement is made of the engagement and upcoming wedding of Delia Riggi to Paul J. Walsh, both of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The bride-elect is the daughter of Vincent and Jane Riggi, Lake Winola. She is a graduate of Abington Heights High School and Lehigh University. She is a civil engineer working for HNTB as a project manager on the Newark AirTrain Replacement Project. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Nancy Adomiak, Avoca, and the late Paul M. Walsh.
Two area restaurants to close
Today is the last day for two businesses in Lackawanna County. Chop Top’s Burgers & Malts, 100 S. Main St., Archbald, announced that tonight, Friday, June 16, will be its final night serving the community. “From the bottom (of) our horror loving hearts, we would like to thank you all for your support over the past few months, but we have made the difficult decision to close the restaurant,” the Facebook post said.
Craft Supply Swap to bring crafters together at Albright Memorial Library
Jun. 16—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Briana Cimino about the Craft Supply Swap at Albright Memorial Library, which will bring crafters together to swap new, unused supplies for their personal projects. Name: Briana Cimino Residence: Old Forge Educational and professional background: She earned her bachelor's degree in English and history from Misericordia University, and is pursuing a master's degree in library and information science from Pennsylvania Western University Clarion.
Craft Supply Swap to bring crafters together at Albright Memorial Library
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Briana Cimino about the Craft Supply Swap at Albright Memorial Library, which will bring crafters together to swap new, unused supplies for their personal projects. Name: Briana Cimino Residence: Old Forge Educational and professional background: She earned her bachelor’s degree in English and history from Misericordia University, and is pursuing a master’s degree in library and information science from Pennsylvania Western University Clarion.
Cool treat: Josie's Frozen Custard & Italian Ice of Scranton serves 'something for everyone'
Jun. 14—Josie's Frozen Custard & Italian Ice of Scranton serves something for everyone. From hand-dipped ice cream to frozen custard and Italian ice, to name a few. Customers also can top off their treats with several choices, including crushed cherries, butterscotch and chocolate. Josie's Frozen Custard also features a weekly custard flavor that customers can twist with vanilla. Any way you scoop it, ice cream is one of the highlights of the summer season, especially in Northeast Pennsylvania.
Cool treat: Josie's Frozen Custard & Italian Ice of Scranton serves 'something for everyone'
Josie’s Frozen Custard & Italian Ice of Scranton serves something for everyone. From hand-dipped ice cream to frozen custard and Italian ice, to name a few. Customers also can top off their treats with several choices, including crushed cherries, butterscotch and chocolate. Josie’s Frozen Custard also features a weekly custard flavor that customers can twist with vanilla. Any way you scoop it, ice cream is one of the highlights of the summer season, especially in Northeast Pennsylvania.
Names&Faces: Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge to raise money for swim team
Jun. 9—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Diana Dempsey about the upcoming Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge, which raises money for the Stingray Swim Team and the Greater Scranton YMCA's automatic timing system. Name: Diana Dempsey Residence: Dunmore Professional background: She is a retired aquatic director of the Greater Scranton YMCA.
Names&Faces: Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge to raise money for swim team
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Diana Dempsey about the upcoming Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge, which raises money for the Stingray Swim Team and the Greater Scranton YMCA’s automatic timing system. Name: Diana Dempsey Residence: Dunmore Professional background: She is a retired aquatic director of the Greater Scranton YMCA.
Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge to raise money for swim team
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Diana Dempsey about the upcoming Greater Scranton YMCA Inaugural Lap Swim Challenge, which raises money for the Stingray Swim Team and the Greater Scranton YMCA’s automatic timing system. Name: Diana Dempsey Residence: Dunmore Professional background: She is a retired aquatic director of the Greater Scranton YMCA.
Area businesses to close this summer
Two Lackawanna County businesses announced that they will close their doors this summer. Peculiar Kitchen posted on its social media accounts Thursday that they will close their brick-and-mortar eatery at 307 Penn Ave., Scranton, at the end of the month. Peculiar Slurp, owned by Gene and Miranda Philbin, opened its doors on May 16, 2018, then rebranded to Peculiar Kitchen in May 2021.
Nothing says it's almost summer like food festivals in Northeast Pennsylvania
Although it is not officially summer yet, food festivals are plentiful in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Summer Greek Food Festival kicked off yesterday at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church at 505 N. Washington Ave., Scranton. The festival is serving up Greek staples such as spanakopita, dolmades, gyros, to name a few, through Saturday, June 10, and takes place daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., while supplies last. There also will be a variety of desserts on hand as well and an ATM on site.
Twist on dessert: Main Ave. Ice Cream remains a sweet staple in North Scranton
Soft serve is on tap in Scranton. Main Ave. Ice Cream was established more than two decades ago and continues to serve a variety of flavors, which can be served individually or as a twist. Over the next several weeks, Chef’s Table will spotlight ice cream shops throughout the region where residents can fulfill their cravings for sundaes, soft-serve and much more. This week is Main Ave. Ice Cream at 1706 N. Main Ave., Scranton.
Katelyn Ehnot
Announcement is made of the engagement and upcoming wedding of Katelyn Ehnot to Thomas Moran, both of Charleston, South Carolina, formerly of Dunmore. The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Ehnot, Dunmore. She is a graduate of Dunmore High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Temple University and a juris doctorate degree from the Charleston School of Law. She is a real estate attorney for a law firm in Charleston.
Sky's the limit: Downtown's Northern Light continuously expanding offerings
Scranton doesn’t have to look towards the sky to experience the Aurora. They can visit Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe. Aurora, the shop’s house-blend, is served up daily at the downtown Scranton staple, which sits at 536 Biden St. and first opened in 2002. Today, owned by Jenn Saunders, the coffee shop sells a variety of loose leaf teas, homemade bakery items, salads, sandwiches and more.
Unwind Cafe serves up cozy atmosphere
For a new café in Tunkhannock, its mission lies in its name. Unwind Café & Market, 143 Wayne Lane, was started by owner Melissa Riscavage, who was inspired to open the cozy space while she was traveling with her daughter to gymnastic meets. The café serves up hand-crafted drinks, grab-and-go items and products from local vendors, all while functioning as a relaxing place where travelers and neighbors can decompress.
Johnson College Open marks its 30th anniversary this year
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Karen Baker about the upcoming Johnson College Open, which raises money for the Johnson College Presidential Scholarship Fund. Although the tournament is sold out, contributions are still being accepted. Residence: Jefferson Twp. Title: Senior director of college advancement for Johnson College. Q: What is the history of this event?
New 5K to help Giants
Times Shamrock writer Laura Rysz talks with Justin Higgins about the Inaugural Giants Hilltop 5K/10K, which will raise money for Keystone College’s football program and football booster club. Residence: Factoryville Professional background: Current head football coach at Keystone College Q: Tell us a little about how this race came to be. A: We try to be very active in the community throughout the year.
Take it easy: Tunkhannock's Unwind Cafe serves up cozy atmosphere for handcrafted drinks and more
For a new cafe in Tunkhannock, its mission lies in its name. Unwind Cafe & Market, 143 Wayne Lane, was started by owner Melissa Riscavage, who was inspired to open the cozy space while she was traveling with her daughter to gymnastic meets. The cafe serves up hand-crafted drinks, grab-and-go items and products from local vendors, all while functioning as a relaxing place where travelers and neighbors can decompress.
Names & Faces: Inaugural Giants Hilltop 5K/10K to raise money for Keystone College's football program
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Justin Higgins about the Inaugural Giants Hilltop 5K/10K, which will raise money for Keystone College’s football program and football booster club. Residence: Factoryville Professional background: Current head football coach at Keystone College Q: Tell us a little about how this race came to be. A: We try to be very active in the community throughout the year.
Names&Faces: Roast of Jerry Champi to raise money for Kiwanis Club charities
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Kate Holod about “A Community Roast of Jerry Champi,” which is presented by Kiwanis Club of Scranton and will raise money for the organization’s local charities. kAmkDEC@?8m#6D:56?46ik^DEC@?8m r=2C<D $F>>:Ek^Am kAmkDEC@?8mt5F42E:@?2= 2?5 AC@76DD:@?2= 324<8C@F?5ik^DEC@?8m t2C?65 2 32496=@C’D 568C66 2E |2CJH@@5 &?:G6CD:EJ 2?5 >2DE6C’D 568C66 :? D@4:2= H@C< 7C@> E96 &?:G6CD:EJ @7 !:EED3FC89 2?5 H2D 3FC62F 5:C64E@C 7@C E96 !6??DJ=G2?:2 s6A2CE>6?E @7 wF>2?
Names&Faces: Roast of Jerry Champi to raise money for Kiwanis Club charities; Scranton Cultural Center fundraiser focuses on new ballroom curtain
This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Kate Holod about “A Community Roast of Jerry Champi,” which is presented by Kiwanis Club of Scranton and will raise money for the organization’s local charities. kAmkDEC@?8m#6D:56?46ik^DEC@?8m r=2C<D $F>>:Ek^Am kAmkDEC@?8mt5F42E:@?2= 2?5 AC@76DD:@?2= 324<8C@F?5ik^DEC@?8m t2C?65 2 32496=@C’D 568C66 2E |2CJH@@5 &?:G6CD:EJ 2?5 >2DE6C’D 568C66 :? D@4:2= H@C< 7C@> E96 &?:G6CD:EJ @7 !:EED3FC89 2?5 H2D 3FC62F 5:C64E@C 7@C E96 !6??DJ=G2?:2 s6A2CE>6?E @7 wF>2?
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