In observance of the Labor Day holiday, this editorial awards only “diamonds” to hardworking types whose nose-to-the-grindstone ethics and/or good deeds are worthy of admiration. That means no “coal” will be given to people whose actions we consider stinky. Everyone deserves a break now and then, right?
Diamonds to fellow physicians Robert Paulino and Mladen Jecmenica. The duo, in addition to pursuing their health care careers, decided to open a coffee shop and lounge in Scranton. Called Adezzo, it’s that crucial “third place” – aside from work and home – where people can go for camaraderie and cheer, as well as a steaming cup o’ Joe. Adezzo began operation in June inside the Casey Laundry Building on Center Street. “Everything involved with the decor,” Jecmenica said in a Times Leader report, “is about bringing people together.”
Diamonds to the area’s teachers and other school staffers. After Monday’s holiday, you will be back in the full swing of supporting, coaxing, coaching and inspiring children and teens. Not an easy task, nor one to be taken lightly. Too often, your profession gets blamed when things go wrong. We appreciate how often you and your peers, unheralded, get it right.
Diamonds to Dallas resident and carpet-cleaning business owner John Daily. He recently read about a World War II veteran, a former client, who was on the verge of losing his Wilkes-Barre Township home because of delinquent property taxes. Daily took action. He started a GoFundMe account to receive donations, collected the necessary sum and paid the man’s tax bills at the courthouse, the Times Leader reported. Daily then delivered the receipts to the veteran’s home, culminating in a hug between two men – a carpet cleaner and a retired electrician – who know the meaning of a hard day’s work.
Diamonds to 14-year-old Alec Ryncavage. Although not yet a full-fledged member of the workforce, the Wyoming Valley West High School student is honing his business savvy. He devised a USB stick drive pre-loaded with anti-virus software – a product soon to hit the marketplace, according to a recent Times Leader article. Equally important, Alec seemingly realizes that dollars – aside from being counted and coveted – can be used to do good. He’s been busy drumming up local support for his school district’s education foundation.
Diamonds to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge’s devoted volunteers. Without pay, they supply the manual labor at this Dallas Township safe haven for castoff dogs, cats and other creatures. Owner Marge Bart, 60, who was compelled to retire prematurely from a manufacturing job, sets the tone for the place. “I decided to keep my mind on helping animals,” she told Times Leader columnist Bill O’Boyle. “And that kept my mind off of my (multiple sclerosis).”
Diamonds to all of the region’s doers. And, thank you.
