Wayne Bank Promotes Justin Roach to Creative Officer Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Justin Roach to Creative Officer. “Justin’s creativity, passion, and dedication to Wayne Bank make him exceptionally deserving of this promotion,” said Mr. Donnelly. “Since joining our team in 2014, he has played a pivotal role in shaping and elevating our brand. Through his artistic vision and storytelling expertise, Justin has helped define the Bank’s visual identity and strengthen the overall customer experience in ways that continue to set us apart.” In this role, Justin oversees the Bank’s visual marketing strategy, brand performance, and digital presence, including social media and online representation. A valued member of the Wayne Bank team for more than eleven years, he has led numerous digital campaigns and creative initiatives that have enhanced brand awareness and engagement. Known for his positive energy, collaborative spirit, and adaptability, Justin brings both creativity and strategic insight into the Bank’s marketing efforts. Justin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of Scranton. In addition to his work at Wayne Bank, he has built an impressive freelance career and extensive creative portfolio, with more than 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. His work includes serving as a lead illustrator and designer for a variety of high-profile clients, including Snoop Dogg. Prior to joining Wayne Bank, Justin held a visual and social media role at the University of Pittsburgh. He currently resides in Scranton with his girlfriend, Rebekah.
Downtown on Ice: January 16-18 Weekend Click here to find more information. Click here to find Posture Interactive’s Downtown on Ice 2026 Promo.
Geisinger To Host Nutrition and Weight Management Presentation Click here for additional information.
Allied Services Hosted Adaptive Dance Event Produced by The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education residents Jackson Carney, D.O., and Rayan Islam, D.O., the American DanceWheels “Rumba & Roll” adaptive dance event, held at the Allied Services Corporate Center on December 6, was a spectacular example of community collaboration and collective celebration in support of a meaningful cause. The all-inclusive, free dance event was open to all ability levels. Left to right: Dr. Rayan Islam & Dr. Jackson Carney Led by American DanceWheels Creative Director Aubree Marchione, the event began with the first of four adaptive dance lessons designed for both wheelchair-bound participants and their fully able-bodied dance partners. A professional-style wooden dance floor—graciously donated and installed by Scranton Rent-ALL—set the stage for the evening. Participants were introduced to rumba choreography, which was quickly brought to life as pairs danced together to a variety of melodic, rhythmic music. After the basic steps were mastered, more intricate movements were gradually introduced until all four dance steps were learned and practiced together in sequence, with modified versions demonstrated to accommodate varying mobility levels; the final routine combined all steps, after which pairs were free to continue practicing and dancing. Dinner followed, featuring charcuterie, salads, soups, chicken parmesan with pasta, buttered rolls, and holiday cookies for dessert. Then Dr. Carney and Dr. Islam presented gifts to each attendee as a token of appreciation. The evening concluded with brief remarks from the residents, who thanked attendees, Allied Services staff for hosting the event, the sponsors for their support, and offered special recognition to Aubree Marchione for her dance instruction and dedication to adaptive physical activity. Dr. Carney and Dr. Islam shared that plans are currently being discussed for potential recurring events focused on adaptive recreation of all kinds. They emphasized their hope to see expanded recreational opportunities for wheelchair-bound individuals throughout the surrounding communities. Creative Director Aubree Marchione (in green)
Geisinger Completes First Phase of Postpartum Expansion Geisinger Community Medical Center completed the first phase of its postpartum care expansion, opening 12 beds on Dec. 1 on the hospital’s third floor. The service addition comes six years after the hospital opened its Childbirth Center, which brought labor and delivery back to the Scranton facility after previous ownership discontinued services in 2007. “Growing our postpartum care capability is a critical upgrade for Geisinger Community Medical Center and the Scranton community,” said Nick Coleman, associate vice president of clinical operations for Geisinger’s northeast region. “We opened our Childbirth Center in 2019 because we saw the need for more quality labor and delivery services in Lackawanna County. This expansion is another step toward addressing that need. In a community where health care services are challenged and face changes, we remain focused on delivering the best maternity care for mothers and babies.” The new postpartum beds are supported by parallel growth of pre- and postoperative care and enhancements to the hospital’s nursery. The newly established continuing care nursery is capable of caring for children who need more support than is available in a well-baby nursery, but who don’t need the high-acuity care of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A second phase of the project will open seven more postpartum beds in the summer of 2026. Upon completion, the unit will more than double Geisinger Community Medical Center’s capacity for postpartum care. This latest renovation at the Scranton hospital is part of Geisinger’s recent and ongoing $50 million investment in Lackawanna County health care, which also includes plans to build a NICU and expand emergency medicine in 2026.
PennDOT Opens Newly Constructed Green Ridge Street Bridge PennDOT has officially opened the newly constructed Green Ridge Street Bridge on Route 6011 in Scranton, Lackawanna County. The project began in early 2024 with the installation of a temporary bridge, which allowed traffic to continue crossing over the Lackawanna River while the new bridge was built. Work will continue through 2026 as the temporary bridge is removed and new curbs, sidewalks, drainage systems, and traffic signals are installed on the north side of the road. The estimated completion date of the project is the fall of 2026. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects. Subscribe to PennDOT news and find transportation results in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.pa.gov/DOTdistrict4
PennDOT Announces Completion of I-84 Twin Bridges PennDOT has announced the completion of the Twin Bridges on Interstate 84, which carry traffic over the Lackawanna County Trail Corridor and an abandoned railroad bridge between Dunmore and Roaring Brook in Lackawanna County. The westbound bridge reopened this afternoon, ahead of schedule, following five years of construction. Since the project began in 2020, traffic in both directions on I-84 had been maintained on the existing Twin Bridges while half of the new eastbound bridge was built in the median between the two original structures. In 2022, two eastbound lanes were shifted onto this newly constructed portion, where they remained through 2023. Once the full eastbound bridge was finished, those eastbound lanes were moved to the west side of the new structure, and westbound traffic was temporarily shifted onto its east side. This traffic configuration allowed crews to demolish the original westbound bridge and construct the new westbound span. The project also includes rehabilitation of the abandoned Erie & Wyoming Railroad bridge for future integration into the Lackawanna County Trail Corridor. Completion of the project is anticipated in summer 2026. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects. Subscribe to PennDOT news and find transportation results in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.pa.gov/DOTdistrict4.
Fidelity Bank: Bartoli Promoted to Retail Branch Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Alyssa Bartoli, has been promoted to Retail Branch Manager of the Fidelity Bank Financial Center branch in Scranton. In her new role, Bartoli is responsible for building relationships with clients, delivering personalized service that fosters trust and long-term loyalty. As Branch Manager, she will also align bankers with strategic initiatives, recognition programs, and development opportunities that empower them to thrive and in turn generate an elevated client experience. In making this announcement, Santaniello stated, “Alyssa consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership and commitment at Fidelity Bank.” He continued, “Her positive attitude, drive to succeed, and dedication to client growth continue to inspire those around her each and every day.” Currently residing in Dickson City, PA, Bartoli is a graduate of Penn State University class of 2019 and received her bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing. She is involved with the Junior League of Scranton, is a Scranton Chamber of Commerce Influencer, and is active in the Mid Valley Soccer League. Reflecting on her new role, Bartoli shared, “I love being a Fidelity Banker, building relationships with our clients, and giving back to our community.”
Fidelity Bank: DeCesaris Promoted to EVP, Northeast Market Executive Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Angelo J. DeCesaris, has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Northeast Market Executive at Fidelity Bank. DeCesaris will continue to oversee the Northeast Commercial Divisions, ensuring strategic growth and operational efficiencies across the region’s commercial banking teams. On an interim basis, he will also lead the Business Services Department, focusing on service delivery and internal coordination, while guiding the Lehigh Valley Commercial Team to maintain momentum and client engagement during the leadership transition. This expanded role reflects a commitment to Fidelity Bank’s alignment across key business opportunities. Announcing the promotion, Santaniello stated, “Angelo’s leadership has been a driving force behind our continued growth and client success.” He continued, “His strategic insight and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service have strengthened our business relationships and elevated the standards of excellence across Fidelity Bank.” Currently residing in Shavertown, PA, DeCesaris is a class of 1996 graduate of Lake Lehman High School and a class of 2000 graduate of King’s College. He is involved in volunteering with the Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce and Northeast Site Services. Reflecting on his new role, DeCesaris shared, “Working for Fidelity Bank has opened up tremendous opportunity to grow personally and professionally.” He continued, “It has also rewarded me with raising my family in the community I grew up in.” Outside of the bank, he loves to spend time with his wife Riann and daughters Isabella, Gianna, and Lucia.
Fidelity Bank: Sadaka Promoted to Senior Mortgage Underwriter Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Melissa Sadaka has been promoted to Senior Mortgage Underwriter at Fidelity Bank. In her new role, Sadaka leads and mentors a team of skilled mortgage underwriters. She ensures that loan decisions align with investor and regulatory guidelines, reviews complex financial elements and property appraisals, drives quality control process improvements, and collaborates cross-functionally to enhance operational efficiency. In making this announcement, Santaniello stated, “In her 27 years at Fidelity Bank, Melissa continues to bring a combination of strategic insight and operational excellence to our mortgage underwriting team.” He continued, “Her leadership not only ensures compliance and precision in every decision but also inspires a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration across the organization.” Currently residing in Olyphant, PA, Sadaka is a graduate of Valley View High School and received her associate’s degree from Keystone College in 1994. She has been the Treasurer for the Mid Valley Boys Basketball team for the past 4 years. Sadaka is also part of Amplify Leadership Northeast class of 2025. Reflecting on her new role, Sadaka shared, “This opportunity has made me feel deeply fulfilled and energized at this stage in my career. Being recognized and trusted with new responsibilities is incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact.” She continued, “I’m passionate about underwriting excellence and truly committed to developing and supporting my team.” Outside of the bank, she and her husband Ron are proud supporters of their son Nathan throughout his Pharmacy studies at Wilkes University. To unwind, you can find her relaxing by the pool, bird watching, or sipping coffee.
