Maryann Bullen: Volunteering Provides Purpose

By Loretta Rodgers

For Aston resident Maryann Bullen, volunteering has become a way of life. And for a time, after the death of her husband, Bob, it was her lifeline.

“I was extremely depressed after the death of my husband and didn’t want to go out or even move from my sofa,” Bullen said. “We had such a wonderful marriage that I didn’t know what to do without him. We started dating when I was 14-years-old, so when Bob died, I lost not only my husband, but also my best friend.”Read More

Fall Dine & Buy In Aston Well Received

Aston Business Association’s fall Dine & Buy in Aston event was held on Thursday, November 12th, 2015. Proceeds from November 12th event will support NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS.  NHN helps Aston residents experiencing hard financial times with meals at Thanksgiving and Christmas, some Christmas gifts for homes with small children who would otherwise have none, and assistance with emergency heating oil for residents in need.

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Aston Rebels Canned Food Night – benefits Aston Neighbors Helping Neighbors

November 21st is Canned Food Night as the Aston Rebels take on the Wilks-Barre/Scranton Knights. Bring a canned good and get a tick for just $6. Proceeds to benefit Aston Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

 

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Thousands Enjoy Aston Community Day

 

by Loretta Rodgers

Sponsored by the Aston Business Association, the day’s events included a parade and business expo as well as various demonstrations and activities for children.

The fact that Aston Community Day was held a week later than originally planned certainly did not affect the numbers of attendees.

An estimated 4,000- plus people attended the event, which took place October 10 on the grounds of the Aston Community Center.

The parade featured schools, organizations, local and state officials, decorated bicycles, fire and police apparatus, cartoon characters and the Sun Valley High School Band. Aston Citizen of the year, Fran Miles, rode with his family in a specially designated car and was honored with a plaque during the ceremony that followed the parade.

In addition, the opening ceremony included the singing of the national anthem, raising of the American Flag, and recognition of  township resident Cameron McCarthy, a young girl who has been very ill, and was unable to attend

As residents feasted on hot dogs, hamburgers, water ice, soft pretzels, pizza, ice cream and specialty foods provided by local businesses, residents ventured into the community center  gymnasium where countless businesses and local organizations distributed information and free give-aways.

“I like the food, but I really enjoy coming to the expo each year,” said Natalie DiPrince. “It is wonderful to learn about the businesses in our community.”

Local children seemed to enjoy themselves on a variety of inflatables, train rides, jumping trampoline, large slide and rides.

Community Day organizer Maryann Bullen expressed appreciation to the board of commissioners, committee, businesses and volunteers who made the day a success.

“Seeing our residents enjoy themselves makes the hard work so worthwhile,” said Bullen. “It is great seeing everyone have such a good time.”

From Community Day

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DEP Small Business Advantage Grant – Now Accepting Applications

The Small Business Advantage Grant (SBAG) is a grant program providing 50 percent matching grants, up to a maximum of $9,500.00, to enable a Pennsylvania small business to adopt or acquire energy efficient or pollution prevention equipment or processes.

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NHN Receives Generous Donation from Citizens Bank

On May 15th Citizens Bank held a grand opening at it’s newest branch in Aston, located inside the Giant Foods Store on Concord Road. The co-branded branch is new to our area but the concept was initiated by Citizens back in 2012 in an effort to increase the available banking hours by giving customers access to the branch 7 days a week.

The Grand Opening was a festive event. Aston Township Commissioner and ABA Board Member Carol Graham, Aston Commissioner Firlein and ABA Board Member and Director of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Maggie Berry attended the event along with many bank executives.  The event included a buffet lunch, face painting, balloons and a party atmosphere.

During the event Citizens Market Administration Manager, Barbara Mealmaker, joined Regional Manager, Jake Iampietro and Branch Manager, Chavez Breakley to present Maggie Berry, Director of Neighbors Helping Neighbors with a check for $2,000 to support the NHN community outreach program.