Hosted by Dr. Irene Van Riper of Nature and Needs, this workshop will focus on the characteristics, signs and symptoms of dyslexia, the dyslexia advantage, and the benefits of early intervention. We will discuss recommendations for supporting the individual with dyslexia, and accommodations for success.
October is Dyslexia Awareness month!
Are you a parent of a child who has reading difficulties? Do you think your child might have dyslexia, and wonder why they cannot read or spell as well as their peers? Is there a student in your classroom who is very bright is all areas, but shows signs of reading problems? Join us to discuss your concerns and questions.
Did you know that our brains were not created for reading? There are specialized areas in our brains that help with language. However, learning to read and spell means our brains must translate the spoken word into a code (reading) and then back again (spelling). It isn’t “natural” to read! One in five children have dyslexia in some form. Knowing how we learn to read, and spell is important for every parent, teacher, or community member as we help children and adults succeed in this critical area.
About Dr. Riper
Irene Van Riper, Ed.D., A/OGA will discuss characteristics, signs and symptoms of dyslexia, benefits of early intervention and how the brain reads.
Dr. Riper has a doctorate in Reading and Cognitive Studies from Widener University and is certified by the Academy of Orton Gillingham to implement the Orton Gillingham approach for intervention. She is a Dyslexia Therapist and a Diagnostic Advisor for individuals with learning disabilities.
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to resuming this class schedule. In an effort to keep everyone safe, The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.
#100 Introduction to Tai Chi
Students will explore this centuries-old mind/body practice utilizing slow, gentle rhythmic movements matched with the breath. Improve balance & manage stress with Sean Kapp’s guidance.
Meets at Dragon’s Heart Studio, Davis Street
Date: 6 Tuesdays,October 5, 12, 19, 26, November 2, 9
Time: 6:30 PMCost: $30
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to resuming this class schedule. In an effort to keep everyone safe, The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.
#101 Italian For Everyone
Join Marzia Caporale, Ph.D. for a fun, interactive class exploring the basics of Italian language & culture. Gain new vocabulary, adding to your skills.
Date: 8 Tuesdays,September 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, 26, November 2, 9
Time: 7:00 PM Cost: $60
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#102 Write Now
This four week course with Ann Vitale leads to rapid progress as both instructor & classmates give feedback on writing in a relaxed friendly setting. Students will learn to ask the right questions while writing their choice of fiction, non-fiction, memoir or mystery. Novice & more experienced writers welcome. Explore all genres. Information on writing conferences, critique groups, retreats to keep your interest in writing going provided by instructor.
Date: 4 Thursdays,October 14, 21, 28, November 4
Time: 6:00-7:30 PMCost: $40
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
A special thanks to these sponsors who made
our 2020 Zoom classes possible:
Attorney Maura Armezzani Tunis,
Saporito, Falcone & Watt Attorneys at Law Francine Gallagher Barbara P. Monick Trudy & Michael Montella National Running Center Oliver, Price & Rhodes Attorneys at Law Eugene & Jean C. Stark
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to
resuming this class schedule.
In an effort to keep everyone safe,
The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated
and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.Register for these Lectures and pay at the door.
This class will be rescheduled in the new year.
#130 Did someone say “Common Good”?
This is the age of autonomy. In a time of pandemic, people scorn science and its careful, objective methodology in favor of personal medicine and rumors of ad hoc cures. Everyone is an island and a rock, even in the face of significant numbers of contagious illness and death. Anti-vaxxers, gun rights, bodily integrity, white education, and oddly the rejection of democratic discourse and compromise, are the hallmarks of today’s politics. What happened to the common good, to the meaning of e pluribus unum?
#103 Traveling Joe
Join Joe Michalczyk & his wife Dolly as they share videos & talks of their travels to 6 continents & 50 countries, each trip adding to their stories & tips for traveling. They have a treasure trove of travel tales to tell about the whole world!
Date: Tuesday, November 9
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
Find out why you need to plant your garlic this fall to have a bite of “nuthin’ better” next summer. Penn State Master Gardener Gary White shares information about when & how to plant garlic, keep it growing into firm bulbs & how to manage its harvest.
Date:Wednesday,September 22
Deadline for Registration: September 14
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
Penn State Master Gardener Judy Coleman will guide you in turning your throw-aways into beneficial, natural materials to help the environment & your garden. Learn to avoid food waste & reduce the negative impact on the earth. She will give easy, practical tips on what to compost & what not to compost, how to compost & how to use your compost to improve all that you grow.
Date:Tuesday, October 5 Deadline for Registration: September 29
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
Ann Vitale will share research on life in the US as war raged around the world. What’s the real story on rationing? German submarines off the east coast? What was it like when most people pulled together? See reproductions of posters, sing “Don’t Sit under the Apple Tree.”
Date: Tuesday, October 12 Deadline for Registration: October 5
Time: NoonCost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Declaration of Independence says we are all created equal and have an equal say in our leadership and policies. On that principle our democracy is based. But is it really a principle or is it a goal? The American Dream promises that any child can grow up to be president. But from politics to sports we value and reward performance and accomplishment. Did reality teach you that you could be president, or even go to the Olympics? We judge ourselves and our neighbors on how much money we make and where our children go to college. We want our politicians to be smart and rich, and our judges at least be even smarter. So, what matters: equality or merit? Should we aspire to a democracy or a meritocracy?
There has been much discussion of this conundrum lately, notably a book by Michel Sandel, The Tyranny of Merit, and this conflict has possibly grounded our recent nasty political discourse. Will there always be resentment festering within those who have faired less well in pursuit of the American Dream (the “deplorables”), and contempt for those less fortunate by the elite (the “swamp”)? Or is there a common good that ties together our claims of equality and our rewards for merit? Can we avoid a new and more profound cultural civil war?
Harold W. Baillie will examine these pressing issues.
Date:Wednesday, November 10
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join 4 others!
#108 Abington Shopping Through the Ages
We all are aware of how much local shopping has changed with the Internet. A look at shopping locally through the years shows that such change is more the norm that an exception. Guided by Dennis Martin who will start with William Clark’s arrival, we will look at snapshots of how people shopped locally over the two centuries since then.
Date: Wednesday,October 20
Time: NoonCost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
Ann Vitale continues her discussion on World War II. How did the US build 300,000 planes, 48 aircraft carriers, & hundreds of other war machinery in five years? How did planes get from Michigan to the two coasts? What were farmers’ assignments during this time?
Date:Tuesday, October 26
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join 5 others!
#110 Machiavelli On War
Machiavelli judged himself to be the first modern (realist) political advisor. Generally, history has agreed with him. As the United States struggles to end an endless war, hard on the heels of losing the war in Vietnam, and facing extreme challenges in the Middle East, the China Sea, and the aftermath of the Afghanistan war, does Machiavelli’s counsel describe our difficulties and assist us in making more prudent decisions and plans as we unavoidably encounter world politics? Join Harold Baillie, Ph.D. as he examines these issues.
Date: Wednesday, October 27
Time: Noon Cost: $5
Please register and pay at the door.
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join one other person
Many Thanks to Our Patrons Hal & Paula Baillie Dorrance R. & Susan S. Belin Joe Dippre & Graeme Baillie The First Lieutenant Michael J. Cleary Memorial Fund of The Luzerne Foundation Bill & Grace Farrell Forensic Associates of NEPA,LLC Francine Gallagher
Patrick J. & Kristie McMahon Jean & Gene Stark Emily & Lee Rancier The Waters Family
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to resuming this class schedule. In an effort to keep everyone safe, The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.
#126 Lyme Disease Prevention
MichelleCassetori from the PA Lyme Resource Network returns to present a fact-filled class on tick’s habitat, life cycle, behaviors, and steps to take if bitten along with info on the Tick Identification Center at East Stroudsburg. This will be a ZOOM Class.
This class has been canceled.
#127 Estate Planning & Administration Basics
Charles Curtin, an attorney & banker, will give you an overview of the Basic Estate Planning Documents, plus helpful tips to avoid potential pitfalls when creating a plan or administrating an estate.
Date: Thursday, September 30
Deadline for Registration: September 23
Time: 6:30 PM Cost: $10
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#128 Posture
This class is cancelled!
With Megan McClary PT, DPT, OCS guidance learn how posture can affect your joint and spine health. Shoulder, neck and back pain are linked to poor posture; learn correct posture for sitting and standing and review correct squatting and lifting mechanics to reduce strain and pain.
Date: Monday, November 1
Time: 6:00 PMCost: $10
If you register online and do not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
Many Thanks to Our Patrons Hal & Paula Baillie Dorrance R. & Susan S. Belin Joe Dippre & Graeme Baillie The First Lieutenant Michael J. Cleary Memorial Fund of The Luzerne Foundation Bill & Grace Farrell Forensic Associates of NEPA,LLC Francine Gallagher
Patrick J. & Kristie McMahon Jean & Gene Stark Emily & Lee Rancier The Waters Family
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to resuming this class schedule. In an effort to keep everyone safe, The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.
#118 Introduction to Zentangle
Blanche Baransky Bear
Mary Murphy Fox will bring out the artist in you with the Zentangle method. This art form is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images.
Date: Tuesday, October 5 Deadline for registration: October 1
Time: 1:00 PMCost: Free
You Must Register If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#119 Crochet A Reusable Market Bag
Please note that ALL supply costs are to be paid to the instructor
on the night of the class.
Kristina Laurito will teach you how to crochet a charming market bag for visits to the local farm stand. Cotton yarn and crochet hook included in supplies.
Date: 3 Wednesdays, October 6, 13, 20
Deadline for registration: October 1
Time: 6:00 PMCost: $25 + $10 Supply Fee
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#120 First Steps In Watercolor
Please note that ALL supply costs are to be paid to the instructor
on the day of the class.
Watercolor Beginners will learn the most basic factors in watercolor painting with Phyllis Rennie. Materials, brush handling, values, paint characteristics, special effects, making corrections will be covered. Phyllis’ intent is for students to reduce fears and produce a few small paintings. Materials list will be sent to registrants.
Date: 4 Fridays, October 8, 15, 22, 29 Deadline for Registration: October 3
Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM Cost: $40
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#121 Beginning Calligraphy – Uncial Script
Please note that ALL supply costs are to be paid to the instructor
on the day of the class.
Learn basic strokes guided by Mary Sadauckas, building to complete uncial script. Work on pen angle, spacing and layout to complete a calligraphic project.
Dates: Tuesday, October 19, Thursday, October 21
Deadline for Registration: October 19
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join 6 others!
You can also register by mailing your check to
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#122 Calligraphy II Italic Script
Please note that ALL supply costs are to be paid to the instructor
on the night of the class.
For students with prior calligraphic experience. Mary Sadauckas will introduce you to Italic Script, both lower and upper case and give you time to practice the lettering technique between sessions.
Date : Thursday, October 28 & Thursday, November 4
Time: 9:00 am to NoonCost:$25 + $10 Supply Fee
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join 3 others!
You can also register by mailing your check to
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#123 Choose Your Own Adventure Scarf
This class has been cancelled
In this beginner to intermediate class, Kristina Laurito will cover casting on, binding off, knit & purl, basic pattern stitches, textured stitches & finishing. Students will be furnished with a project kit containing yarn, straight knitting needles, stitch markers, & scarf pattern.
Dates: 3 Wednesdays, October 27, November 3, 10
Time: 6:00 PM Cost: $20 + $10 Supply Cost
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#124 Weaving II
Please note that ALL supply costs are to be paid to the instructor
on the day of the class.
Weave a hounds tooth scarf on a rigid heddle loom with Linda Mesavage. Learn to warp & weave this lovely pattern in one day! Bring your own loom & warping equipment. (Some are available to rent)
Date: Saturday, November 6 Deadline for Registration: November 1
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
Many Thanks to Our Patrons Hal & Paula Baillie Dorrance R. & Susan S. Belin Joe Dippre & Graeme Baillie The First Lieutenant Michael J. Cleary Memorial Fund of The Luzerne Foundation Bill & Grace Farrell Forensic Associates of NEPA,LLC Francine Gallagher
Patrick J. & Kristie McMahon Jean & Gene Stark Emily & Lee Rancier The Waters Family
Sponsored by Attorney Maura Armezzani Tunis Saporito, Falcone & Watt Attorneys at Law
The evolving Covid variants present challenges to
resuming this class schedule.
In an effort to keep everyone safe,
The Gathering Place asks that you be fully vaccinated
and wear a mask to attend our classes and events.
We are making these changes in the interest of safety for you and the people around you.
As we work to stay open, we ask for your patience and understanding. As the situation changes, so will our policies. We will keep you updated.
These classes are limited to 10 people.
#140 Holiday Cookies
This class is for people with and without special needs and is taught by
Marzia Corporale.
Register
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Be the first!
You can also register by mailing your check to
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#111 Stuffed Paratha
Chef Lakshmi Mizen will prepare the Indian flatbreads stuffed with potatoes, cauliflower, & onions.
Date: Sunday,September 19 Deadline for Registration: September 14
Time: 3:00 PM Cost: $35 Maximum of 10 Students
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#112 Biscotti
Join Marzia Coporale as she teaches you to make the traditional Tuscan biscotti by working with the original recipe, as well as with festive variations by adding chocolate, dried fruits or nuts.
Date: Sunday, October 3 Deadline for Registration : September 29
Time: 4:00 PM Cost: $25 Maximum of 10 Students
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#114 Ricotta Gnocchi
Chef Paula Lamberton will demonstrate three types of ricotta gnocchi – plain, spinach, & tomato – served with three quick sauces ideal for spring or summer entertaining.
Date: Thursday,October 14 Registration Deadline: October 9
Time: 6:00 PM Cost: $35 Maximum of 10 Students
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#115 Pierogis
Learn to make pierogis with Leanne Mazurick! She’ll be making an egg free dough from scratch & will prepare two types of filling: potato/cheese & sauerkraut. This hands-on workshop will culminate in a feast of pierogis dressed in butter & onions!
Date: Sunday,October 17 Registration Deadline: October 12
Time: 6:00 PM Cost: $35 Maximum of 10 Students
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
There were errors with your submission. Please try again.
Join 9 others!
You can also register by mailing your check to
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
#117 Italian Cookies
One taste of Mary Elaine Gregori’s cookies & you will want more. She will be sharing her recipe for Italian cookies just in time for the holidays. This class is guaranteed to increase your reputation as a baker but not your weight (everyone knows that cookie calories don’t count!).
Date: Sunday,November 21
Time: 4:00 PM Cost: $25 Maximum of 10 Students
If you registered online and have not receive a confirmation for registration, please check your spam folder.
The Gathering Place c/o Emily Rancier 300 Kennedy Creek Rd. N. Abington Twp, PA 18414
Many Thanks to Our Patrons Hal & Paula Baillie Dorrance R. & Susan S. Belin Joe Dippre & Graeme Baillie The First Lieutenant Michael J. Cleary Memorial Fund of The Luzerne Foundation Bill & Grace Farrell Forensic Associates of NEPA,LLC Francine Gallagher
Patrick J. & Kristie McMahon Jean & Gene Stark Emily & Lee Rancier The Waters Family
By checking the box on our registration form, you voluntarily assume all risks of personal injury associated with participation and waive any and all claims or actions against the Community Classroom, The Gathering Place, its board members, instructors, and employees for any personal loss/injury sustained while participating in designated classes and/or trips.
You agree to allow the Community Classroom to take pictures of the classes you have registered for and allow them to use those photos.
This project is underwritten by a grant from the
Overlook Estate Foundation.
Help create hand-crafted tiles for a beautiful backsplash in our serving area. Kelley Stewart will present an information session on indigenous trees & their importance to NEPA’s eco system in the first class, then Diana Lombardi will teach how to imprint native leaves onto the tiles in the second class.
Session 1 – Saturday, May 11 2:00 – 3:30PM
Identifying native trees taught by Kelley Stewart, Forest Specialist at Wayne Conservation District
Would you like to know more about the trees? Increase your knowledge and appreciation for trees. Learn how to identify species throughout the seasons using characteristics such as bark, buds, leaves, flowers and seeds. We will discuss the habitats that host different species and the importance of planting natives.
Session 2 – New Date: June 1 2:00 PM
Leaf-imprinted tile making taught by Diana Lombardi.
Free to public. Please register by emailing us at gatheringplacecs@gmail.com, so we can prepare materials. We will reserve your seat.
