Fidelity Bank: Merrifield Joins as Associate Relationship Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Cayden Merrifield has joined Fidelity Bank as Associate Relationship Manager. In his new role, Merrifield is responsible for analyzing financial statements, evaluating borrowers’ repayment capacity, and preparing credit memos to help with loan decisions. In making this announcement, Santaniello stated, “I am so excited to have Cayden join Fidelity Bank.” He continued, “I know he has the drive, passion, and determination to succeed and his leadership will help the Bank grow our business client portfolio.” Currently residing in Scranton, PA, Merrifield is a graduate of West Scranton High School, class of 2021, and earned his bachelor’s degree in business management, marketing, and sports management from Wilkes University in 2025. Reflecting on his new role, Merrifield shared, “This opportunity at Fidelity Bank has made me feel grateful for the chance to learn and be part of a supportive team.”
Fidelity Bank: Marzitelli Joins as Business Relationship Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Sergio Marzitelli has joined Fidelity Bank as Business Relationship Manager. Marzitelli will be responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities through strategic outreach and networking. He builds lasting client relationships by understanding each business’s unique goals and delivering tailored financial solutions that include lending, deposit, and treasury services. Their role is central to driving growth and ensuring client satisfaction through personalized support and expert guidance. In making this announcement, Santaniello stated, “Sergio’s proven ability to drive growth, build lasting partnerships, and navigate complex business challenges throughout his experience will be invaluable as we continue to deliver tailored financial solutions to our clients.” Currently residing in Clarks Green, PA, Marzitelli received his Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Florida International University in 2011. He is a SCORE Mentor and member of Union Lodge 291 Freemasons. Reflecting on his new role, Marzitelli shared, “Coming to Fidelity Bank after years of running my own successful small businesses has me feeling excited and determined to help business owners with their financial needs.” He continued, “I want to be a trusted advisor to my clients and help their businesses experience continued growth and success.” Outside of the bank, he enjoys staying active and regularly participates in both kickboxing and Muay Thai. He is newly married, and he and his wife enjoy exploring new restaurants, watching movies, and going to the gym together. Their shared interests reflect a dynamic and health-conscious lifestyle.
Wright Center: Prioritize Quality of Life Needs in 2026 It is officially 2026, marking the start of a new year and a fresh beginning. As the saying goes, a new year brings new opportunities—especially when it comes to placing a greater emphasis on health. Dr. Erin McFadden January is recognized as International Quality of Life Month, a time to prioritize overall well-being—physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially—by adopting healthier daily habits. Improving quality of life can take many forms. Simple steps include focusing on a healthier diet by prioritizing whole foods and reducing or eliminating stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. Regular exercise is also important, as physical activity can lower blood pressure, boost endorphins, and improve mood. Whether through joining a gym, walking, or running a few times a week, consistent movement makes a difference. Quality sleep is another essential factor. Chronic fatigue can negatively affect overall well-being and increase anxiety and depression, making it important to establish a calming bedtime routine and limit screen time before sleep. Finding time for rest and relaxation is equally valuable. In today’s fast-paced world, incorporating meditation, mindfulness, or simply moments of stillness into a daily routine can significantly reduce stress. Managing time effectively can also improve quality of life. Overloading a daily schedule can feel overwhelming, so prioritizing essential tasks before smaller items can help create balance. Making room for leisure activities—such as hobbies, movies, concerts, social gatherings, or sporting events—can provide joy and a healthy escape from everyday stress. Open communication plays a critical role in mental well-being. Talking through challenges with a trusted family member, friend, colleague, or licensed therapist can be one of the most effective ways to reduce stress. Seeking help when needed is an important step toward maintaining mental health. Even making one or two of these changes can lead to noticeable improvements in how a person feels. At The Wright Center, these principles are incorporated through Lifestyle Medicine. The Lifestyle Medicine care team works with patients and families to improve health and quality of life through strategies such as stress management, tobacco cessation, improved nutrition, increased physical activity, stronger social connections, and better sleep habits. Clinicians trained in both conventional and lifestyle medicine develop personalized, sustainable self-care plans designed for long-term success. For individuals facing weight-related challenges, The Wright Center also offers non-surgical obesity management. Obesity affects millions of Americans and can contribute to chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, and stroke. Board-certified obesity medicine physicians take a comprehensive approach, considering environmental, genetic, behavioral, and nutritional factors to provide evidence-based, safe, and effective weight management solutions. Achieving a healthy weight can reduce the risk of illness and significantly enhance overall quality of life. Ultimately, quality of life is a key driver of long-term health. Making it a priority in 2026 can set the foundation for a healthier future. Erin McFadden, M.D., is a senior vice president and chief medical officer at The Wright Center for Community Health. Board-certified in internal medicine, Dr. McFadden is the clinical leader for all outpatient, inpatient, and specialty services. She sees adult patients at our Scranton Counseling Center, North Scranton, and Scranton health centers. To make an appointment, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
Johnson College Announces Winter 2026 Workshops Johnson College is now enrolling students for a series of hands-on workshops open to the public through its WAVE (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) department. Upcoming offerings include Test Strategies That Change the Game, Women at the Workbench: Electrical, Milk Jug Sowing, Hand Quilting – Mug Rug and Women at the Workbench: Carpentry. For more information or to register to attend a workshop, visit johnson.edu/workshops, call 570-702-8979, or email wave@johnson.edu. Designed for beginners and skill-builders alike, the workshops provide practical instruction in academic success, skilled trades and creative pursuits. Led by experienced instructors, each session emphasizes step-by-step learning in a supportive environment. Additional details for each workshop are listed below. Upcoming workshops include: Test Strategies That Change the Game This dynamic workshop helps students unlock peak test performance through effective study strategies and time management. Participants will learn a proven, step-by-step system to organize and retain information, understand exam structure, eliminate incorrect answers and improve accuracy.This workshop is open to those aged 15 and older and is free. PA EMS continuing education credit is included (3.5 hours other). Space is limited to 65 students.Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, with two sessions available: 12:30–4 p.m. or 5:30–9 p.m.Ideal Saldi Hall, Scranton Campus Women at the Workbench: Electrical Designed for beginners, this hands-on workshop introduces the fundamentals of electrical work in a supportive and encouraging environment. Guided by a skilled female electrician, participants will gain confidence as they learn practical skills, such as changing outlets and understanding switches. No prior experience is required.This workshop is open to ages 18 and older. Space is very limited. Cost per person is $65.Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.Scranton Campus Milk Jug Sowing This eco-friendly workshop teaches participants how to start seeds outdoors during winter using recycled plastic milk jugs as mini greenhouses. Attendees will learn how to prepare containers, select seeds, add soil and moisture, and use natural weather conditions to support spring garden germination.Space is limited. The Cost is $25 per person.Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.Moffat Student Center, Scranton Campus Hand Quilting – Mug Rug Participants will experience the relaxing rhythm of hand quilting while learning essential techniques, including preparing and layering a quilt and stitching clean, even lines. Open to all skill levels, this workshop offers a welcoming space to build confidence and create a lasting handmade piece.Space is limited. The cost is $40 per person.Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.Ideal Saldi Hall, Scranton Campus Women at the Workbench: Carpentry This hands-on carpentry workshop invites participants to learn woodworking fundamentals in a welcoming environment led by a skilled female carpenter. Participants will practice measuring, cutting and assembling while creating a finished project to take home.This workshop is open to those aged 18 and older.Space is very limited. The cost is $65 per person.Saturday, March 7, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.Scranton Campus
Equestrian House Offering Winter Midweek Deal The Equestrian House invites winter travelers seeking a peaceful escape to discover the charm of quieter destinations that make all the difference. Guests can settle in by the fireplace in a cozy log cabin, hit the slopes at nearby Elk Mountain, or simply unwind and enjoy true rest and relaxation. For a limited time, The Equestrian House is offering 35% off when guests book three or more midweek nights at one of its vacation rentals in the North Poconos.
Salt Barre To Host Lymphatic Flow & Reiki Renewal The Salt Barre invites participants to discover how the body’s lymphatic system supports detoxification and vitality. This workshop weaves together gentle lymphatic face therapy, education on circulation and immunity, and restorative Reiki. Participants will leave with practical techniques to reduce puffiness, support natural detoxification, and restore balance to both body and mind. Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 12pm Click here for more information.
Wayne Bank Promotes Polley to Assistant VP, Payroll Officer Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jamie Polley to Assistant Vice President, Payroll Officer. “Jamie is an invaluable member of our Human Resources team at Wayne Bank,” said Mr. Donnelly. “Her professionalism and dedication to accuracy play a critical role in supporting our employees and ensuring the integrity of our payroll operations. Jamie’s consistent commitment to excellence makes a meaningful impact on our organization every day.” In her role, Jamie oversees all aspects of employee payroll, maintains employee records, and administers benefits and compensation programs, helping to ensure compliance, efficiency, and consistency across the organization. Jamie joined Wayne Bank in 2014 and brings more than 15 years of human resources experience to our team. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Administration from the University of Scranton. Jamie resides in Lake Ariel with her two children, Mia and Frank.
Wright Center Doctors Earn Board Certification The Wright Center for Community Health continues to strengthen its commitment to preventive care as two more doctors earn board certification in lifestyle medicine, equipping them to help patients prevent, manage, and even reverse chronic disease through sustainable lifestyle change. Dr. Ivan Cvorovic, FACP, CPE, and Dr. Kristina Tanovic, FACP, joined The Wright Center in 2020. The Wright Center’s Lifestyle Medicine program focuses on the six pillars of health: nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, relationships, and the avoidance of risky substances. “This training enhances the care we provide today, giving our patients more evidence‑based tools and support,” Dr. Cvorovic said. “It also allows us to offer patients a more holistic, empowering approach to their health.” There’s a clear need for lifestyle medicine services locally and nationwide. In 2023, for example, 76.4% of American adults – about 194 million – reported having at least one chronic condition, and 51.4% of U.S. adults, or about 130 million, reported having more than one chronic condition, according to a report that was published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in April 2025. Chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, can lead to more serious conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, some cancers, and arthritis. The CDC report shows that many chronic conditions are influenced by lifestyle risk factors, including excessive alcohol use, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and poor nutrition. As part of its commitment to provide whole-person primary and preventive health services to people of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses, The Wright Center offers lifestyle medicine at its 13 community health centers across Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. The Wright Center’s physicians and clinicians conduct a thorough patient assessment of current health habits and then introduce and empower individualized treatment plans based on specific risk factors. Treatment plans can include improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, managing stress, eliminating tobacco use, and moderating alcohol consumption. “Earning this certification strengthens what we can offer patients, aligns with our values, and supports The Wright Center’s mission to build healthier communities,” Dr. Cvorovic said. Dr. Cvorovic is also a board-certified internal medicine hospitalist and certified physician executive at The Wright Center for Community Health. He serves as director of hospital services and the internal medicine residency hospitalist faculty for The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education. Dr. Tanovic is also board-certified in internal medicine and obesity medicine and serves as associate program director, a teaching hospitalist, and core faculty of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Internal Medicine Residency Program. Both doctors graduated from the University of Belgrade School of Medicine and completed their internal medicine residencies at Icahn School of Medicine at James J. Peters VA Medical Center, a Mount Sinai School of Medicine-affiliated facility in the Bronx, New York. Drs. Cvorovic and Tanovic are each accepting new patients at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, 501 S. Washington Ave. In fiscal year 2024-25, The Wright Center served about 38,300 unique patients at its growing network of community health centers. As a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike and safety-net provider, it serves everyone, from pediatrics to geriatrics. No patient is turned away due to an inability to pay. The Wright Center accepts all insurance plans and offers a sliding-fee discount program to ensure whole-person primary and preventive health services are affordable for everyone. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
Wright Center Health Centers Receive National Certification The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recently awarded The Wright Center for Community Health’s Clarks Summit and Jermyn locations with Patient-Centered Medical Home certificates for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The Wright Center for Community Health Clarks Summit, 1145 Northern Blvd., South Abington Township, and The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley, 5 S. Washington Ave., Jermyn, each again achieved this special recognition, acknowledging that they have the tools, systems, and resources to provide patients with the right care at the right time. Four of The Wright Center’s community health centers have retained the NCQA voluntary accreditation in recent months. In October, The Wright Center’s community health centers in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre were notified that they had successfully retained the recognition seal. Every year, The Wright Center’s community health centers undergo a formal review to ensure compliance with the Washington, D.C.-based organization’s high standards. NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. Its Patient-Centered Medical Home program reflects input from the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Osteopathic Association, and others. It was developed to assess whether health centers are functioning as medical homes and to recognize their efforts. The Patient-Centered Medical Home model is designed to enable patients and their care teams to foster stronger relationships, help patients manage chronic conditions more effectively, and enhance the overall patient experience. The model has been shown to increase staff satisfaction and reduce health care costs. It also increases patient satisfaction by offering open access to health care services and extended hours. For the public, NCQA accreditation signals that The Wright Center for Community Health maintains a focus on quality improvement and has key processes in place to help patients prioritize their health. “We are proud to retain this recognition seal at our community health centers,” said Dr. Jignesh Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. “The NCQA seal communicates to the public that we are fully committed to prioritizing patient-centered care, including offering morning, evening, and weekend hours to allow patients to access care when it is convenient for them and expanding behavioral health and dental services to truly offer a team-based approach to care.” Mid Valley’s certification carries an additional NCQA distinction in behavioral health integration. This recognition demonstrates that recipients have the resources, evidence-based protocols, standardized tools, and quality measures to meet patients’ needs, according to NCQA. “Many times, primary care physicians will be the first to identify a health issue that requires behavioral health services,” Dr. Sheth said. “Offering affordable, high-quality behavioral health services where patients are already receiving whole-person primary health services eliminates barriers and helps improve patient health overall.” For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
PennDOT: Shapiro Administration Invests $30M in Traffic Safety The Shapiro Administration announced that 57 municipalities across the Commonwealth will receive nearly $30 million through the Green Light-Go Program to improve traffic safety and mobility by reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. Since Governor Shapiro took office, $96 million has been distributed to municipalities through the program. Many of the funded projects will upgrade traffic signal detection and control technology, allowing signals to respond to real-time traffic conditions, reduce congestion, and improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Last week, the Shapiro Administration announced that 54 highway, bridge, bike, and pedestrian projects in 34 counties across Pennsylvania have been selected for more than $47 million in funding through the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF). “Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, our top priority is serving the people of our Commonwealth by improving the services that make a real difference in Pennsylvanians’ lives,” said Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll. “The safety improvements supported by the Green Light-Go program will help municipalities reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and keep Pennsylvanians moving safely and efficiently. I’m proud that PennDOT continues to partner with communities to deliver real results.” Below is a list of awarded projects by county. Green Light-Go grants are provided as reimbursements to municipalities for projects that improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. These projects are funded through the FY 2025–26 budget. Eligible improvements include, but are not limited to, installation of light-emitting diode (LED) technology, traffic signal retiming, special-event traffic planning, traffic signal monitoring, and upgrades to modern signal technologies. Allegheny County City of Pittsburgh: $1,394,029 to replace traffic signals at North Avenue/James Street, Lorenz Avenue/Steuben Street, and Mifflin Road/Interboro Avenue. Green Tree Borough: $42,400 to update signal detectors at Carnahan Road and Greentree Road. Green Tree Borough: $293,392 to modernize signal equipment at Noblestown Road and Mansfield Avenue. McCandless Township: $443,409.12 to upgrade adaptive signal systems along Perry Highway (Route 19). Monroeville Borough: $498,114.75 to modernize the intersection of Monroeville Boulevard, Jamison Lane, and Oxford Drive. Moon Township: $193,792 to upgrade signal equipment at Beaver Grade Road and Thorn Run Road. Mount Lebanon Township: $322,115 to modernize signal equipment at Bower Hill and Parkview Drive. Neville Township: $335,120 to upgrade signal equipment at Neville Road and Grand Avenue. Oakmont Borough: $195,516 to upgrade signal equipment at Allegheny River Boulevard and Hulton Road. O’Hara Township: $238,712 to modernize signal equipment at Alpha Drive and Gamma Drive. Ohio Township: $155,832 to upgrade signal equipment at Mount Nebo Road and Camp Horne Road. Scott Township: $145,192 to modernize the intersection of Hope Hollow Road and Greentree Road. Sewickley Borough: $229,168 to replace outdated signal equipment at Beaver Street/Broad Street and Thorn Street/Broad Street. Wilkinsburg Borough: $266,000 to replace the signal at East Swissvale Avenue and Wallace Avenue. Beaver County Center Township: $132,024 to upgrade signal equipment at Pleasant Drive (Route 3017) and Autumn Street. Berks County Boyertown Borough: $687,949.20 to upgrade intersections at East Philadelphia Avenue (Route 73) with Reading Avenue (Route 562) and Madison Street. Leesport Borough: $155,160 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at Wall Street, Peach Street, and Cherry Street. West Reading Borough: $228,404 for signal retiming and equipment upgrades at multiple intersections. Bucks County Lower Southampton Township: $662,355 to upgrade signal equipment at multiple intersections along Bustleton Pike and Bristol Road. Perkasie Borough: $425,240 to replace outdated signal equipment at Ridge Road and Park Avenue. Butler County Cranberry Township: $94,800 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at multiple intersections. Cranberry Township: $83,350 to expand fiber-optic traffic signal communications. Seven Fields Borough: $117,520 to replace outdated sensors with radar detection. Centre County College Township: $503,700 to upgrade signal equipment at Curtin Road and University Drive. Chester County East Whiteland Township: $191,870 to modernize Lancaster Avenue and Conestoga Road. Upper Uwchlan Township: $920,306 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at Route 100 and Graphite Mine Road. West Whiteland Township: $389,640 to upgrade multiple intersections along Route 100 and Commerce Drive. Cumberland County East Pennsboro Township: $1,156,340 to modernize 16 intersections. Hampden Township: $774,900 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at multiple intersections. Dauphin County City of Harrisburg: $387,380 to modernize intersections in the Allison Hill neighborhood. Derry Township: $764,320 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at multiple intersections. Delaware County Darby Township: $448,908 to modernize West Oak Lane, Rively Avenue, and Pine Street. Lansdowne Borough: $120,000 to upgrade signal equipment at Baltimore Avenue and Union Avenue. Erie County City of Erie: $746,320.44 to reconstruct the signal at West 12th Street and Pittsburgh Avenue. Mill Creek Township: $1,799,885.76 to upgrade signal equipment along Route 5. Wesleyville Borough: $449,079.84 to reconstruct the intersection of Buffalo Road and Station Road. Fayette County North Union Township: $353,640 to modernize intersections along U.S. 119. South Union Township: $122,800.80 to modernize New Salem Road and Matthew Drive. Lancaster County City of Lancaster: $91,476.80 to study and remove unwarranted traffic-control signals. City of Lancaster: $732,095.20 to modernize multiple intersections. Earl Township: $103,215.60 to modernize U.S. 322 and Railroad Avenue. East Lampeter Township: $258,040 to modernize Route 340 intersections. Lititz Borough: $53,600 to upgrade detection equipment. Manheim Township: $50,000 to install LED traffic signal modules at multiple locations. Lebanon County City of Lebanon: $368,000 to modernize traffic equipment at Maple Street/Jonestown Road/North 12th Street. Lehigh County City of Allentown: $798,480 to upgrade signal equipment at 19th Street/Roth Avenue/Walbert Avenue. Luzerne County City of Pittston: $38,640 to modernize Broad Street, Water Street, and Main Street. Mercer County City of Sharon: $762,534 to modernize multiple intersections. Montgomery County Limerick Township: $246,559 to upgrade the Traffic Management Center on Ridge Pike. Lower Merion Township: $385,596.17 to modernize Lancaster Avenue and Elliott Avenue. Norristown Borough: $419,713.11 to modernize East Fornance Street and New Hope Street. Northampton County City of Bethlehem: $298,480 to modernize approximately 100 signals citywide. City of Bethlehem: $370,608 to replace LED signal bulbs at approximately 90 intersections. City of Easton: $339,416 to modernize Seitz Street and West Berwick Street. Moore Township: $158,800 to modernize Route 512 and Route 946. Palmer Township: $748,044 to modernize Milford Street, Greenwood Avenue, and Kingwood Avenue. Northumberland County Milton Borough: $433,267.58 to modernize Routes 254 and 405. Philadelphia County City of Philadelphia: $3,421,440 to upgrade approximately 750 traffic controllers. City of Philadelphia: $2,287,880 to modernize multiple intersections in Northwest Philadelphia. Venango County City of Oil City: $22,000 to modernize traffic control infrastructure. Washington County Peters Township: $897,480 to modernize intersections along Route 19. York County City of York: $164,550 to modernize intersections along U.S. 30. Additionally, the 2025-26 budget signed by Governor Shapiro allocates over $1.8 billion in funding to repair roads and bridges and continues to sustainably fund the Pennsylvania State Police by reducing their reliance on the Motor License Fund. Since taking office, the Governor has secured $391.7 million in additional funding for roads and bridges. Under the Shapiro Administration, 17,722 miles of roadway have been improved and work has advanced on 1,540 state and local bridges. According to the Federal Highway Administration, in 2023 — Governor Shapiro’s first year in office — Pennsylvania repaired or replaced more than 200 bridges, resulting in 90 fewer bridges rated in poor condition, the largest improvement of any state in the nation. For more information from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), subscribe to local PennDOT news or statewide PennDOT news.
