Community Involvement

Scranton School for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children

The Firm of Colbert & Grebas, P.C., as part of our ongoing commitment each month, contributes a donation to a local worthy cause. Margaret O’Toole, Receptionist and Administrative Assistant at Colbert & Grebas chose the Scranton School for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children as the recipient of our donation since she has a son with hearing impairment. We are supportive of the challenges that are ahead for the children who attend the school and realize the importance of a good education.

Representing the Firm are Louise C. Ligi, Community Outreach and Education Director and Margaret O’Toole presenting the donation to Dean Pettinato, Principal at the Scranton School for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children and Kevin McDonough, Director.

“Pack the Bags”

Colbert & Grebas P.C. is a member of the NEPA Aging Network Alliance (NANA), an organization that promotes awareness and services affecting older adults in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The Firm was very happy to volunteer to support NANA’s Spring/Summer Campaign “1,000 Ways to Show We Care” by donating 1,000 individually wrapped packs of crackers to be included in “goody bags” along with a variety of other items donated from other NANA members. Other items included books, pens, pill boxes, magnifiers, hand sanitizers and masks. The “stuffed” bags will be distributed to 1,000 Seniors throughout Lackawanna County senior living establishments and nursing homes, now and through the next few months.
The “Pack the Bags” event was broadcast on the May 25th, 11:00 PM evening news on WNEP TV 16. The Link to watch our segment can be found on:
https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lackawanna-county/nepa-aging-networking-alliance-pack-goodie-bags-for-area-seniors/523-10a42314-3956-49b6-b402-453f54f1bb93

“Operation Reach Out”

Each month the firm of Colbert & Grebas, P.C. supports a volunteer opportunity associated with a local organization. Recently the staff of Colbert & Grebas assisted Serving Seniors, Inc. in their project, “Operation Reach Out”. The main goal of this project is to stay connected with Nursing Home and Personal Care Residents in Lackawanna County. Personalized Spring greeting cards were prepared by volunteers and will be distributed to the residents. These cards are a heartwarming reminder that the many Nursing Home and Personal Care residents living in Lackawanna County are forever on our minds and always in our hearts. The staff of Colbert & Grebas, P.C. were happy to provide over 200 cards to be combined with cards from Members of NEPA Aging Network Alliance.

Griffin Pond Animal Shelter Donation

As part of our commitment to support and serve our local, NEPA communities, each month, staff from Colbert & Grebas donate items that are then delivered to a local organization. Our most recent recipient, Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, Clarks Summit was suggested by Robin Bulzoni one of our Paralegals with the firm. She has been a supporter of this organization for many years with her love of animals, some she has adopted.

A few core goals with the mission of Griffin Pond Shelter are preventing cruelty to animals, promoting adoption awareness and responsible pet ownership while caring for stray or surrendered animals until they find them new, loving homes. We were very happy to provide so many needed items to the shelter.

Pictured receiving the donated items are: From Griffin Pond Shelter, Jackie Galvin, Development and Communications Director; Nick Moczulski, Kennel Attendant with Sephora, a shelter pup available for adoption; and Ashley Wolo, Executive Director and representing Colbert & Grebas: Ken Motichka-Case Manager Supervisor; Robin Bulzoni-Paralegal Estate Administration; Louise C. Ligi-Community Outreach and Education Director and Thomas Collins-Executive Director.

Scranton Small Business Relief Fund Donation

Each month the Elder Law Firm of Colbert & Grebas, P.C. provides a monetary donation to a local, community-minded organization. A recent recipient of our check donation was for the benefit of the Scranton Small Business Relief Fund. They were chosen for our support since they help ensure that both employees and owners of small businesses get through tough economic times brought on by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The donation was accepted by Maggie Martinelli, Director of Administration & Projects at the Scranton Area Community Foundation from Thomas Collins, Executive Director and Louise C. Ligi, Community Outreach and Education Director at Colbert & Grebas.

Valentine’s Day Cards of Kindness

Members of NANA (Northeast Pennsylvania Networking Agency) wanted to provide a Happy Valentine’s Day greeting for participants in Meals on Wheels program, Scranton. Members of NANA and even some of their children, volunteered to write and personalize well over 200 Valentines that were delivered to the office of Meals on Wheels. Several of the Board Members delivered the cards to Lindsey Skripka, Director of Programing at Meals on Wheels office so they can be given to participants in time for Valentine’s Day with their meals as they are delivered.

Pictured L to R: NANA Board members, Dr. Alice McDonnell, Ellen Holden, Lindsey Skripka, Meals on Wheels, NANA Board Members, Louise C. Ligi, Maria Hastie and Hope Wormuth. NANA Board Members not available for the photo include Kristen Scott, Beth Rossi, Carol Desmarteau, Rhondi Nachlis and Brenda Conlon.

Toys for Tots Donation

Toys for Tots helps deliver toys to children in need at Christmas. They are thankful for the many generous corporate sponsors and donors which contribute and help raise monetary contributions, toys and program awareness. Their support helps millions of less fortunate children share in the magic of the holidays.

This year, the firm of Colbert & Grebas, P.C. and all staff participated by purchasing toys to fill the box in our office, which was then picked up by representatives from the Marine Corps. The toys will then be distributed to children in our local NEPA community in time for Christmas.

Family to Family Food Basket Program Donation

Colbert & Grebas and staff members are proud to have volunteered and contributed monetary donations for many years in support the Family to Family Food Basket Program that continually assists those in need of basic necessities and food during difficult times. We were pleased to be able to present a check donation in support of this 2020 Community Event. This year was planned as a drive thru distribution of a complete Thanksgiving meal, serving over 3,200 dinners.

Presenting the check are: Ken Motichka, Supervising Case Manager, Colbert & Grebas; Megan Loftus, President & CEO of Friends of the Poor; Linda Robeson, Director of Family to Family Food Basket program and Attorney Kevin R. Grebas, Colbert & Grebas

Harry & Jeanette Weinberg, CEO Weinberg Regional Foodbank Donation

For many years, the firm of Colbert & Grebas have contributed monetary donations in support of the efforts of The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg, CEO Weinberg Regional Foodbank. In addition, we have also volunteered, along with staff members, to pack food donation boxes which were then distributed to those in need in our local NEPA communities.

This year we contributed a monetary donation to the Foodbank to help the organization continue providing nutritious food to those in need. Presenting our check to Gretchen Hunt-Greaves, Director of Development at the CEO Weinberg Regional Foodbank is Molly Symons, Administrative Assistant at Colbert & Grebas.

Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center Donation

The firm of Colbert & Grebas and all staff participate monthly to donate items to benefit local charities. For the month of November, to recognize and honor our Veterans residing in the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center, Scranton we donated thermal slipper socks to be distributed to all 160 residents in the Nursing Center of the facility. Pictured accepting the donation are: Janice McAllister, Volunteer Resource Coordinator; Ken Motichka, Supervising Case Manager, Colbert & Grebas and James Nursing Miller, Commandant of the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center.

St. Vincent DePaul Kitchen in Wilkes Barre Donation

As part of our ongoing monthly support of local charities, Colbert & Grebas, P.C. made a monetary contribution in October to St. Vincent DePaul Kitchen in Wilkes Barre. The donation is our way of helping the Kitchen, even in these difficult times, to continue to provide a hot nutritious meal to their guests seven days per week between 11 a.m. and 12 noon. At this time due to Covid19 restrictions, meals are distributed in grab and go containers inside of the building at the required social distance.

The donation was presented to Mike Cianciotta, Director of the St. Vincent DePaul Kitchen by Louise C. Ligi, Community Outreach and Education Director at Colbert & Grebas.

Meals on Wheels of NEPA Donation

As part of our ongoing monthly support of local charities, we made a monetary contribution to Meals on Wheels of NEPA in Scranton. We know of the services provided by Meals on Wheels, available in Lackawanna County five days a week, Monday through Friday. This organization has been a part of our community since 1969 serving the nutritional needs of elder, homebound individuals who may be in need of nourishment, along with a visit from a friendly volunteer.

The donation was presented to Kristen Kosin, Executive Director Meals on Wheels of NEPA by Louise C. Ligi, Community Outreach and Education Director at Colbert & Grebas.

Serving Seniors’ Annual Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail Party

For many years Colbert & Grebas has been one of the sponsors of the Serving Seniors’ Annual Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail Party, proceeds of the fundraiser benefits programs at Serving Seniors, Inc.

At our office, Kevin and Brenda invited all our staff and spouses to attend this year’s event held at Glenmaura National Country Club, Moosic. We wanted to share some of the pictures taken of our Colbert & Grebas work family and friends taken during the evening.

Dressing Down for a Cause

Every month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day. Brandi MacLunny, from our Kingston Office, brought to our attention the efforts administered by the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) at Chester Elementary School in Kingston for the benefit of a second-grade student, Asher Dicton, in his battle against T-Cell Lymphoma and Leukemia.

Our check, representing donations collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a matching donation from our firm, was donated to this cause for Asher, who is currently undergoing treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and is facing extended treatment for his health issues. He and his family have a long road ahead of them with expenses that will be incurred during his treatment period. The school and PTO have organized fundraisers and appreciate our donation to this worthwhile effort.

Presenting the check to Dave Tosh, Director of the Wyoming Valley West Elementary and Secondary School and to Anthony Dicton, Teacher at Wyoming Valley West School and Dad to Asher are Brandi Ide-MacLunny, Case Manager at Colbert & Grebas, Kingston Office and Louise C. Ligi, Community Outreach & Education Director at Colbert & Grebas, Moosic Office.

St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen Volunteering

As part of our ongoing commitment to serve our local communities, we at Colbert & Grebas volunteered and sponsored the day’s meal at the St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen. Shown, from left: Brenda Colbert, Kevin Grebas, Rob Williams, executive director, St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen; Louise Ligi, Margaret O’Toole, Thomas (Chick) DePietro, St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen; Steve Dobbs, St. Francis of Assisi. It was our pleasure to help prepare the lunch time meal and serve guests at the kitchen. As you can tell from the pictures, we did have a good time

February Free Community Seminar

Brenda D. Colbert and Kevin R. Grebas are local Certified Elder Law Attorneys who live and practice in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Our most recent Free Community Seminar was held at Café 315, Wilkes Barre. Their well-received presentation, “3 Easy Steps to Achieve Peace of Mind in Your Estate Plan” provided attendees with estate planning and techniques to protect their family, home and life savings from current or future nursing home costs while they enjoyed a complimentary hot breakfast.

Following the presentation, guests had a chance to have a one-on-one conversation with the attorneys, as well as having the opportunity to schedule their “Free Initial Consultation” at either of our offices in Moosic or Kingston.

Timber Ridge Annual Winter Mixer

Kevin, Louise, Ken and Margaret recently attended the Annual Winter Mixer held at Timber Ridge Healthcare Center, Wilkes Barre and also celebrating their 10th year in their present location. We always have a good time meeting so many of our friends from the center, as well as from other businesses and agencies. We thank Virginia Hunich, Business Development Specialist at Timber Ridge for always planning the well-attended, fun event and also thank
Marion Smith, Administrator for inviting us each year! You can see from our pictures we had a fun time sampling delicious hors d’oeuvres, desserts and wine tasting! Did I mention that Margaret was the lucky winner of the top prize, a Vizio Flat Screen TV that would not even fit in the trunk of our car, had to have Ken & Margaret hold
it in the back seat on the ride home!

Hospice of the Sacred Heart Remembrance Walk Donation Presentation

Colbert & Grebas is proud to support the Hospice of the Sacred Heart Remembrance Walk. Hospice of the Sacred Heart received a check for $2,942 from our firm for sponsorship and donations related to the 2019 Hospice of the Sacred Heart Remembrance Walk.

“We are grateful to the Colbert & Grebas team for their support of the 2019 Remembrance Walk. In addition to their generous gold sponsorship, they assembled the largest team of walkers. The ‘Forget Me Knots’ team had more than 50 members,” said Diane Baldi, CEO, Hospice of the Sacred Heart.

The 2020 Hospice of the Sacred Heart Remembrance Walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, at McDade Park in Scranton.

November Dressing Down for a Cause

Every month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day. A check, representing donations collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a matching donation from our firm, was donated to Keystone Mission, Scranton.

Sharon Alexander, our part-time receptionist and assistant in our Moosic Office chose this month’s recipient since she has been a long- time supporter of those that are served by the Mission. For quite some time Sharon has been donating non-perishable food, cooked food and clothing to the organization. Louise C. Ligi and Sharon Alexander of Colbert & Grebas presented the check donation to Ryan Buchanan, Director of Development and Brenda Reibson, Distribution support staff, both of Keystone Mission.

October Dressing Down for a Cause

Every month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day. A check, representing donations collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a matching donation from our firm was donated to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, Clarks Summit.

Presenting the donation to Jacob Torba, Fundraising Coordinator at Griffin Pond Shelter, are Louise C. Ligi and Robin Bulzoni of Colbert & Grebas. Robin chose this this month’s recipient because she is a true animal lover and would adopt all those needing a home, if she could. She hopes that the donation can assist the dedicated staff at Griffin Pond to care for those animals who have found themselves at the Shelter, through no fault of their own.

The Mission of Griffin Pond Shelter is to investigate, help prosecute and prevent cruelty to animals while also promoting adoption awareness and humane education plus responsible pet ownership. They promote all this while caring for the animals surrendered to the shelter to the best of their ability every day until they find them new, loving homes.

Family to Family Food Basket Program

For 33 years, the Family to Family Food Basket Program, sponsored by Friends of the Poor has provided families in need with a food basket to prepare a complete Thanksgiving dinner for their loved ones. This year, as well as in the past 6 years, Colbert & Grebas donated a check in support of the event and our staff and some of our family members volunteered to help distribute the food baskets at the Scranton Cultural Center, 420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton.

Colbert & Grebas volunteers and others were assigned to various areas as the needs arose. Many hands and tremendous hours of preparation helped make this event the success it has become. Enjoy the pictures of those who helped in any way and for their support!

Wilkes-Barre Law & Library Association Bench Bar Conference

Attorneys Brenda D. Colbert and Kevin R. Grebas once again served as faculty members at the Wilkes-Barre Law & Library Association Bench Bar Conference and Seminar held at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. The Bench Bar/Conference is a day-long continuing legal education program for lawyers and members of the Luzerne County judiciary. This year, Brenda and Kevin taught a two-hour course called “Estate and Long Term Care Planning for the Elder Law Attorney”.

October Dressing Down for a Cause

Every month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day for a worthy cause, each staff member has a chance to choose the recipient of their choice.

Donations collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston Offices, in addition to a donation from our firm were presented by Louise to Dan Yaglowski, Warehouse Manager at CEO Weinberg Food Bank, Wilkes Barre. The Regional Food bank distributes food to charitable organizations feeding the needy throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, particularly among children and the elderly.

Dunmore Senior Center Bags and Bling Bingo Fundraiser

Brenda, as a member of The Board of Directors of the Dunmore Senior Center along with all other Directors, wanted to thank everyone involved in the successful “Bags and Bling Bingo” held as a fundraiser. The event, which drew almost 250 attendees, helps to provide older area residents with services and programs designed to encourage healthy aging and to maintain independence, while promoting an increased awareness of the dignity of older individuals throughout the community.

This year’s bingo featured Designer bags by Coach, Dooney & Bourke, Kate Spade, Michael Kors and Vera Bradley. In addition to the bingo prizes of beautiful designer bags, we appreciated the gift baskets donated as raffle prizes. Also, there was a Gently Used Designer Market held prior to the bingo giving attendees the opportunity to shop for great deals on donated purses, clothes and jewelry.

Hospice of the Sacred Heart's 4th Annual Remembrance Walk

On one of the most beautiful days of the year, Colbert & Grebas Walk Team, "The Forget Me Knots" participated in the Hospice of the Sacred Heart's 4th Annual Remembrance Walk in McDade Park. We are proud Gold Sponsors of the event and had the largest walk team that participated.

This year's walk had over 1,000 people that gathered together to honor family members and other loved ones that have passed from Alzheimer's.

August Dressing Down for a Cause

Every month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day. A check, representing donations collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a donation from our firm was donated to The Children’s Advocacy Center, Scranton.

Presenting the donation to Mary Ann LaPorta, Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center are Louise C. Ligi and Riley Jackson, of Colbert & Grebas. Riley chose the Center as a recipient since she dealt with students from her previous position as a Pre-School teacher recognizing and dealing with situations that are referred to the Center. The Center provides Protection and Child Care and considers it a community responsibility to make a difference in improving children’s lives. Child care and protection is a community responsibility.

Allied Services Family Residents Meeting

Brenda Colbert was invited by Cathy Osborne, Social Services Director at Allied Skilled Nursing Facility to speak with attendees at the Family Residents Meeting held in August. This monthly meeting provides family of loved ones in the facility with various supportive information. Brenda addressed the topic “Essential Estate and Long-Term Care Planning, Your Questions – Answered!” along with handouts on the subject. Those in attendance had an opportunity to ask questions and really appreciated the information that was provided.

Pictured are Louise, Cathy Osborne and Brenda.

July Free Community Seminar

Our July free Community Seminar, presented by Attorney Kevin R. Grebas, provided information on the “Top 10 Tips to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs”. The event was held at Fiorelli’s, Peckville.

Almost 60 attendees had an opportunity to learn how to protect their assets along with vital information about getting their Estate Plan in order with guidance from their LOCAL Certified Elder Law Attorneys.
Following the Power Point presentation, our guests had an opportunity to ask questions and speak with Kevin.

We also reviewed their responses on an evaluation sheet that include comments on the presentation. Some of the comments from the event include:
Great informative information, Nice breakfast, Excellent presentation, Good place to have the Seminar and Expectations of the presentation were met.

Mountain View Community Health Care

Mountain View Care and Rehabilitation Center in Scranton hosted a Community Health Fair organized by Stacey Blackledge, Marketing Director from the facility. Fourteen local Senior related businesses were invited to provide information regarding services they offer.

Four of the invited companies were selected to give a 15-minute presentation. Louise Ligi represented Colbert & Grebas; Linda Korgeski, Serving Seniors; Kathy Coyne Senior Day Services, a Telespond Company and Maria Hastie of LIFE Geisinger. A delicious luncheon was provided by Mountain View and raffle prizes were given to attendees.

June Monthly Seminar

Brenda and Kevin conducted a Free Community Seminar at The Hilton Garden Inn, Wilkes Barre on the “Top 10 Tips to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs”. A hot breakfast was enjoyed by attendees while they learned, in an easy to understand format, strategies to protect their home and life savings from current or future nursing home and other long-term care expenses.

LINK Conference

A big thank you to Lillian Colbert ant Bill Stavisky for manning the vendor table representing Colbert & Grebas at a recent LINK Conference held at Genetti’s, Wilkes Barre. The all-day Conference, was organized by Julie Rovinski-Mann, Lead Link Coordinator / Aging and Disability Resources for Carbon/Luzerne/Wyoming/Lackawanna Counties. The well attended conference covering “Protective Services Training/Over 60 and under 60 Consumers” provided information from various organizations including: Wyoming AAA, Wyoming Mental Health Developmental Services, Adult Protective Services and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Louise and Riley along with her family and friends made up our Volley Ball Team and attended the Annual Summer Picnic at Waldorf Park, Scranton which was a fundraiser, proceeds benefiting programs at Serving Seniors, Inc. The annual event included entertainment by Kevin from EJ the DJ and, as always, everyone that attended enjoyed the delicious food prepared by the Waldorf, desserts and “beverages”. There were so many raffle prizes donated towards the fundraiser!

The friendly Volleyball Tournament this year included a strong participation representing Colbert & Grebas, organized by Riley Jackson from our office. The rest of the team were anxious to join the team to as soon as they heard of the competition. Pictured front row are: Tate Jackson, Patrick Callahan and Riley Jackson. Back row: Alex Diakatos, Bryan Filarsku and Jason Layou. Second picture with the team includes “Team Coach Louise”.

St. Mary’s Villa Presentation

Colbert & Grebas was invited by David Leonori, Marketing Director at St. Mary’s Villa, Elmhurst to present a community service event that was open to the public in their area.

The presentation by Brenda Colbert, “Essential Estate and Long-Term Care Planning, Your Questions – Answered” provided valuable information while the attendees enjoyed a delicious meal provided by the facility. Those in attendance expressed their thanks to Brenda for the opportunity to ask questions during the event and chat with her following the presentation.

Timber Ridge Health Care Center's Health & Wellness Fair

Louise participated in the annual Timber Ridge Health Care Center's Health & Wellness Fair in Wilkes Barre. Over 35 vendors provided information about the services available to our NEPA residents and donated beautiful baskets as prizes for a "free raffle" given just for attending!

April Dressing Down for a Cause

One day each month, the entire staff at Colbert & Grebas family have a “Dressing Down Day for a Cause” as a fundraiser for a worthy recipient. Donations for the month of April were collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a donation from the firm. On behalf of the firm and staff, Louise was proud to present the check to Mary Anne Maloney-Evans, Executive Director of Serving Seniors, Inc.

Serving Seniors provides services which include: Guardianship Services, Nursing Home Volunteer Visitation, Community Services Transportation, Ombudsman Advocacy, Volunteer Ombudsman and P.E.E.R. – Pennsylvania Empowered Expert Residents Programs.

Ronald McDonald House Donation Presentation

One day each month, the entire staff at Colbert & Grebas family have a “Dressing Down Day for a Cause” as a fundraiser for a worthy recipient. Donations for the month of March were collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a donation from the firm. On behalf of the firm and staff, Louise was very proud to present the check to Richard T. Bradshaw, Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton after a tour of the beautiful “Home Away from Home”.

With over 30 years of service to the Northeastern Pennsylvania area, the Ronald McDonald Home offers family members of children admitted to local hospitals for treatment, a restful, comfortable place for families of seriously ill children, to sleep. The home provides family members with private bedrooms, home-cooked meals provided by generous community groups or they may prepare their own food in the kitchen and have a transportation van to take them to and from area medical facilities.

March Dressing Down for a Cause

One day each month, the entire staff at Colbert & Grebas family have a “Dressing Down Day for a Cause” as a fundraiser for a worthy recipient. Donations for the month of March were collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices, in addition to a donation from the firm. We are very proud to donate the check to the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton.

With over 30 years of service to the Northeastern Pennsylvania area, the Ronald McDonald Home offers family members of children admitted to local hospitals for treatment, a restful, comfortable place for families to sleep, creating a “Home Away from Home” for families of seriously ill children. The home provides family members with private bedrooms, home-cooked meals provided by generous community groups or they may prepare their own food in the kitchen and have a transportation van to take them to and from area medical facilities.

Free Community Service Event at Lehman Idetown United Methodist Church

Kevin was invited to conduct a free community service event at the Lehman Idetown United Methodist Church. The well attended presentation, “Essential Estate and Long-Term Care Planning for Seniors: Your Questions – Answered” was for members of the congregation as well as residents of their local community.

Attendees appreciated the valuable information they received and expressed their thanks to Kevin for the opportunity to ask questions during the event and chat with him following the presentation.

Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s Estate and Elder Law Symposium

Attorneys Brenda Colbert and Kevin Grebas recently participated in the Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s Estate and Elder Law Symposium in Mechanicsburg, which was also simultaneously broadcast to various locations throughout Pennsylvania.

This year, Attorney Colbert and Attorney Grebas served on the faculty and presented a session entitled “10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting or Revising Essential Elder Law Documents”.

February Free Community Seminar

Our February free Community Seminar, presented by Brenda and Kevin, provided information on the “Top 10 Tips to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs”. The event was held at The Cafe - An American Bistro, Plains Township. Over 60 attendees had an opportunity to learn how to protect their assets along with vital information about getting their Estate Plan in order with guidance from their LOCAL Certified Elder Law Attorneys.

Following the Power Point presentation, Brenda and Kevin always give our guests an opportunity to ask questions and speak with them one on one. We also review their responses on an evaluation sheet that include comments on the presentation.

Some of the comments from today’s event include:
Great Presentation, very informative; Excellent Presentation, would like to meet for a Free Consultation; the Presenters explained the topics well and Expectations of the presentation were met.

Estate and Elder Law Symposium

Attorneys Brenda Colbert and Kevin Grebas were honored to serve as faculty members for the Estate and Elder Law Symposium in Philadelphia. They taught one of several courses being offered at this continuing legal education event sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Institute.

January Dressing Down for a Cause

Each month Colbert & Grebas have a “Dressing Down for a Cause” day as a fundraiser for worthy causes. Donations for the month of January were collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston offices in addition to a donation from the firm. A check will be donated to St. Peter and Paul Food Pantry located in Plains, PA. This donation is made in honor of Edward J. Suchoski, Sr.

Timber Ridge Health Care Center’s Annual Winter Mixer

Kevin, Louise, Ken and Riley attended Timber Ridge Health Care Center’s annual Winter Mixer. A “little snow and frigid weather” did not prevent attendees from enjoying Wine featured by Bartolai Winery and hos D’oeuvres prepared by the chefs at Timber Ridge.

Colbert & Grebas Sponsored Lunch

Colbert & Grebas sponsored Lunch every Wednesday for the month of January to be delivered by Frankie Warren from Magic 93 to various area businesses. Here are Louise and Frankie delivering lunch to Hampton House Manor Care, and Frankie delivering lunch to The Hair Loft.

Annual Christmas Party

Colbert & Grebas staff, spouses, family and friends celebrated at our 6th annual Christmas party at Cusumano's Restaurant in Old Forge. We thank Brenda & Kevin for their generosity for this gathering that allows us to reminisce about this year, enjoy each other's stories with lots of laughs, and look forward to the coming New Year.

Cocktail hour included so many delicious appetizers, including pizza cuts, (white, red, double crust) and calamari rings with spicy sauce, to name a few. Dinner began with a large array of Italian meats & cheeses antipasto and steamed clams with sausage and special seasoning. Our entree choices of filet mignon, grilled shrimp with risotto, wild boar with homemade pasta or chicken parmigiana followed by dessert of tiramisu, absolutely delicious!

One of our key Colbert & Grebas family members, Gloria and her husband Danny, were not able to joins us this year at the party. Kevin and all offered a toast to let them know we were thinking of them and send our love.

From Colbert & Grebas, we wish all our clients, families and friends a very Merry Christmas and are looking forward to a Happy, Healthy New Year.

Annual Ethnic Lunch

The Colbert & Grebas work family gather each year to enjoy an ethnic lunch. Each member brings their favorite food, snack or dessert to the meal that we all share.

This year our menu included Kielbasa, Spinach Lemon Risotto, Potato Kugel, Sheppard’s Pie, Sweet & Spicy Meatballs, Perogies, Tabbouleh, Guacamole & Chips.

All the food was followed by delicious desserts, Pumpkin
Roll and a Chocolate-Carmel Heath Cake. Needless to say, we all enjoyed the meal, and are already making suggestions for the next one!

December Free Seminar

Brenda D. Colbert provided information on the “TOP 10 TIPS to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs” at our Free Community Seminar at Fox Hill Country Club in Exeter. Guests were served a delicious complimentary Hot Breakfast while they learned strategies to protect home and life savings from current or future nursing home and other long-term care expenses. Following the presentation, many of the attendees commented the information provided was very helpful and stated their questions and concerns were addressed in an easy to understand format.

November Free Seminar

Brenda Colbert and Kevin Grebas provide vital information in Free Educational Seminars to our local NEPA Seniors on a regular basis. Our most recent event was held at The High Bridge House, Spring Brook Township. Guests enjoyed a delicious complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet while being provided with information on the “TOP 10 TIPS to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs”. Long Term Care Planning can be complicated and stressful but the presentation provided easy to understand strategies to protect their home and life savings from current or future nursing home and other long-term care expenses.

Alzheimer's Association's Caregiver Navigation: A Caregiver Conference

Colbert & Grebas was one of the sponsors of the Alzheimer's Association's Caregiver Navigation: A Caregiver Conference at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center. Louise attended the conference that featured Rundy Purdy as the Keynote Speaker. He shared his three years of his experience in personal care for his Grandfather who had Alzheimer's.

Senior Fair at Dunmore YMCA

Lillian Colbert and Bill Stavisky representing Colbert & Grebas recently attended the annual Senior Fair held at the YMCA, in Dunmore. The free Community Event draws hundreds of attendees while they have an opportunity to learn about services that are available to our neighbors and friends in NEPA

Keystone Chapter of UNICO September Meeting

Kevin was invited by the Keystone Chapter of UNICO to present information at their September Meeting at Mendicino's Pizza & Family Restaurant.

The presentation “10 Top Tips to Protect Your Assets” was well received, and they appreciated the opportunity for follow up questions and answers.

Many in the room were surprised to learn some of the pitfalls seniors and retirees have made with their hard earned savings, as well as receiving some good advice on their future financial planning.

The Children’s Advocacy Center Donation Presentation | September 2018

Pictured giving the check donation are Louise C. Ligi and Riley Jackson of Colbert & Grebas; receiving the donation on behalf of The Children’s Advocacy Center are Mary Ann LaPorta, Executive Director; Jennifer Agliatori, Associate Director and Forensic Interviewer and Cheryl Friedman, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner.

Lackawanna County Senior Health Fair | September 2018

Representing Colbert & Grebas, Lillian Colbert and Bill Stavisky participated in the well-attended Annual Lackawanna County Senior Health Fair for 2018 held at PNC Field. Proceeds from the event benefits Meals on Wheels of NEPA.

Brenda at King's College | September 2018

Brenda recently was invited to address participants in a special training session at Kings College, Wilkes Barre sponsored by Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services in conjunction with the Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Training Council on Quality. Brenda’s presentation, “Understanding Special Needs” was part of a two-part session presentation which covered “Future Planning - How to be Prepared When Parents Can No Longer Care for Their Individual with Special Needs.”

Informational Seminar | August 2018

Brian Dougher, Chris Foder, Ian Hastings and the team at Meridian Financial Associates of Wilkes-Barre recently hosted an informational seminar at Isabella’s Restaurant.
Kevin and Brenda were invited as presenters to provide attendees with information on Essential Estate and Long-Term Care Planning.

Free Community Seminar at Edgewood by Sand Springs | August 2018

Brenda and Kevin recently presented a Free Community Seminar, at Edgewood by Sand Springs, Edgewood Lane, Drums, PA.
Guests enjoyed a delicious complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet while they were provided information on the “TOP 10 TIPS to Protect Your Assets from Nursing Home Costs”.
Long Term Care Planning can be complicated and stressful but with the presentation it was easy to understand strategies to protect their home and life savings from current or future nursing home and other long term care expenses.

8th Annual Senior Health Fair | August 2018

Louise representing us this year in the Annual Senior Health Fair at St. Mary's Center hosted by Representative Sid Michaels.
This is the 8th annual event he has sponsored that provides hundreds of Seniors with important information on a variety of services offered from local NEPA businesses, agencies and organizations.
In addition, attendees were treated to a complimentary lunch and were thrilled by the number of raffle prizes donated to the event that they had a chance to win!

Our 6th year anniversary of providing services to our NEPA community | August 2018

We wanted to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Brenda and Kevin as our Colbert & Grebas family gathered to celebrate our 6th year anniversary of providing services to our NEPA community! As always, we had a great time and enjoyed each other's company as we relaxed, toasted another successful year and look forward to next year. Some candid pictures follow. The food and cake were outstanding!

Fundraiser at Marzoni's Brick Oven & Brewing Co. Scranton | August 2018

Friday evening we held our second annual fundraiser at Marzonis Brick Oven and Brewing Co. Scranton to support the " Walk to End Alzheimer's". The impending rain had us move the event inside but did not lessen our spirit nor attendance.
We are so grateful to all the people who supported us, whether through donating so many beautiful raffle baskets or actually coming to enjoy the evening! The outpouring of support was overwhelming, everyone had a great time.
Also, a special thanks to Marzoni's for their generosity and to Billie Jo, manager, for all her help in setting up the room display and for all the servers, who did a wonderful job on a very busy evening. Some of the many people in attendance are shown in our candid pictures.
Thank you to all who helped in any way to make this such a great success!

Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s 21st Annual Elder Law Institute | July 2018

Brenda, Kevin, and our Supervising Case Manager Kenneth D. Motichka, attended the Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s 21st Annual Elder Law Institute in Harrisburg. The two-day continuing legal education program is attended by hundreds of attorneys from all over Pennsylvania.
Brenda and Kevin presented the topic “10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting or Revising Essential Law Documents”. The presentation included information regarding how every estate plan must be carefully crafted to meet each client’s goals and needs.
The Last Will and Testament, Financial and Health Care Powers of Attorney and Trusts are the key fundamental documents, which when not drafted properly, can wreck a client’s goals.
They discussed the top 10 common drafting errors and provided specific directions to avoid these mistakes. They also gave tips on fixing mistakes in documents.

The annual Aging and Intellectual Disability Workshop | May 2018

The annual Aging/Intellectual Disability Workshop was recently held at Genetti’s Best Western in Wilkes-Bare. Attorney Brenda D. Colbert was a guest presenter covering various legal topics including Special Needs Trust, Powers of Attorney, and The Able Act.
In addition, Linda Shumaker, RN-BC, MA a gerontological certified registered nurse and private consultant spoke on the topic of Understanding Aging and Cognitive Changes for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities.
Jeff Dauber of the Alzheimer’s Association also addressed the statistics and resources available to this population. The program concluded with a presentation by David Hag, Geriatric Care Manager/Consultant of Pathway Senior Care Associates.

Riverside Rehab and Nursing Center | June 2018

Jeanne Phillips and Tony Howey planned a great Kick-off to Summer Party at Riverside Rehab & Nursing Center.
Pictured are good friends that really enjoyed each other’s company during the evening, along with having good food, dessert and beverages. Thanks for always making it a fun occasion.

St. Francis Commons | May 2018

Each month we have a "Dressing Down for a Cause" day. Donations are collected from staff in our Moosic and Kingston Offices in addition to a contribution from the firm.
A check was presented to Ryan Pollock, Director of St. Francis Commons by Louise C. Ligi and Kristen Solomon from Colbert & Grebas. The picture below shows them standing in front of the Giving Tree that lists names of all donors who help provide services such as shelter, food, and supportive services for homeless Veterans, "Our American Heroes" living in the apartments at St. Francis Commons.

Scranton Federation of Retired Teachers | May 2018

Brenda was invited to speak to over 25 attendees at a luncheon for the Scranton Federation of Retired Teachers. The presentation "Essential Estate and Long Term Care Planning for Seniors: Your Questions - Answered!" was held at the Fraternal Order of Police Hall.

The group thanked Brenda for all the valuable information provided and appreciated the time she took to answer all their questions during and after the presentation.

Timber Ridge Health Fair | May 2018

Louise participated in the Annual Health Fair hosted by Timber Ridge, Wilkes Barre. Health and services related companies along with other vendors provided information, brochures and samples. Attendees were eligible, at no cost, to win beautiful raffle prizes donated from the participants in the event.

Lutherwood Housing Donation | May 2018

Lutherwood Housing Community, Scranton recently had to evacuate about 120 elderly and disabled residents due to damage at their apartment building from a severe storm in our area. Luckily there were no injuries to residents or rescue personnel. Many of the residents are still displaced, but are expecting to return to their home very soon.
Members of NEPA Aging Network Alliance (NANA) joined together to purchase $500.00 worth of gift cards and donated them to 5th and 6th floor residents to help replace perishable food that was ruined due to electricity being turned off from the storm. The gift cards are for Gerrity’s, one of their favorite shopping spots that Lutherwood provides transportation to for their shopping needs.
Pictured: Representing Lutherwood: Wendy Carlin, Service Coordinator; Sandy Rostkowski, Director of Housing and Lynne Markowski, HUD Property Manager. Also pictured representing NANA are Board Members: Melissa Craig, Brenda Conlon, Jeanne Phillips, Jessica Blomain, Louise C. Ligi and Theresa Gilhooley.

Seniors Got Talent | May 2018

This is the 5th year Colbert & Grebas was one of the sponsors and attended the United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s sixth annual Seniors Got Talent fundraiser at the Theater at North (former North Scranton Jr. High School. The special event, which has grown to include an audience of hundreds, raises funds for the agency’s four Active Adult Centers in Lackawanna County. This is also the 5th year that Louise served on the Planning Committee for the event.

During the show, acts performed by individuals 55 and older were scored by a panel of celebrity guest judges and awarded cash prizes. Evie Rafalko McNulty, Lackawanna County Recorder of Deeds, entertained the attendees as Emcee of the event while Guest judges Brenda Conlon from Saber Healthcare Group; Sid Prejean, former Lackawanna County Public Defender; and Justin Sochovka, an electronics expert for QVC reviewed and scored the entertainers. The winners were as follows: Charles Weber of Scranton, third place; Jean Spindler, Carolyn Tavella, and Sarah Derhammer, all of Kingston, formed the Western trio, second place; and Joseph Serafin of Wilkes-Barre, first place and Audience Choice award winner.