RALPH WILSON\/Sun-GazetteHundreds of luminarias, above, lit the front lawn of UPMC Williamsport as part of the Lights of Hope celebration on Friday. The event was a collaboration of UPMC Williamsport, Lycoming County United Way and Sojourner Truth Ministries to celebrate the hope of the new year.<\/p>\n
Luminarias glowing at dusk across the snow-swept front lawn of UPMC Williamsport sent a message of hope as the COVID-19 pandemic enters a new year.<\/p>\n
The 1000 lights are also a means of giving thanks to the many health-care workers who have responded in time of need across the community.<\/p>\n
I witness hope coming to fruition, Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter told the few who braved unforgiving cold and brisk winds to gather for the Lights of Hope Celebration late Friday afternoon.<\/p>\n
The mayor extended condolences to those who have lost family members and friends to COVID-19, while thanking the health-care providers who have put in long hours to care for patients in the midst of the pandemic.<\/p>\n
Again, I want to say thank you, he said.<\/p>\n
Ron Reynolds, president, UPMC Muncy and Lock Haven Hospitals, said the resolve, resiliency and sacrifices of health-care staff are indeed signs of hope.<\/p>\n
UPMC personnel, he noted, are prepared and adaptable while working in state-of-the-art facilities.<\/p>\n
He vowed a commitment to discipline and vigilance by UPMC will continue.<\/p>\n
Ron Frick, president of the Lycoming County United Way, borrowing a quote from George Washington Carver, said, Where there is no vision, there is no hope.<\/p>\n
The United Way has been recognizing health-care workers at UPMC with various events.<\/p>\n
In late December, UPMC employees were able to pick up free coffee at several local restaurants.<\/p>\n
Frick noted the support UPMC has given to United Way over the years.<\/p>\n
The health of the community is essential, he said. Think of the value of our community.<\/p>\n
Fighting for the health of everyone who lives here is a core mission of the United Way, according to Frick.<\/p>\n
Angelique Labadie-Cihanowyz, executive director of Sojourner Truth Ministries, gave a prayer of thanks to all UPMC staff. <\/p>\n
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United Way, UPMC, community partners thank health-care workers - Williamsport Sun-Gazette<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" RALPH WILSON\/Sun-GazetteHundreds of luminarias, above, lit the front lawn of UPMC Williamsport as part of the Lights of Hope celebration on Friday. The event was a collaboration of UPMC Williamsport, Lycoming County United Way and Sojourner Truth Ministries to celebrate the hope of the new year. Continue reading