Peoples Security Bank and Trust Announces Lancaster County Branch Peoples Security Bank and Trust Company (“PSBT”) is pleased to announce plans to open its first location in Lancaster County. The new full-service branch will be located at 2343 Oregon Pike in Manheim Township, in the Shoppes at Landis Valley, occupying a former bank building. “We’re excited to bring PSBT to Lancaster County,” said Gerard Champi, CEO. “This expansion reflects our commitment to long-term growth and our belief in the strength and potential of this market. We look forward to building strong, lasting relationships with individuals, families, and businesses throughout the region.” This location marks PSBT’s 40th branch and its second in Central Pennsylvania, joining an existing location in Lebanon. The new branch will offer a full range of banking services and will be staffed by a team of six local professionals with more than 100 years of combined banking experience. “The team we’ve assembled brings deep roots and strong relationships in the Lancaster area,” said Jeffrey Drobins, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. “We’re proud to offer a seamless banking experience from professionals who live, work and care about the community.” Regulatory approvals for the new branch have been received from both the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. The branch is projected to open in the Fall of 2025.
UNC Holds Summer Spectacular at Mid Valley Senior Community Center United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) invites you to join us for our Summer Spectacular at the Mid Valley Senior Community Center at 301 Church Street in Jessup on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. This annual cookout will again include a very special celebration: Mrs. Julia Mellody’s 104th birthday! Julia, who turns 104 on July 3, is an active participant at the Senior Community Center and a resident of the Jessup Senior Housing Apartment Building that houses the center. UNC’s Summer Spectacular and centenarian birthday celebration will feature food, fun, live music—and of course, birthday cake! Please join us and Julia’s family in wishing her many more happy and healthy years. We warmly invite all media outlets, local officials, community representatives, and neighbors to attend and help us honor Julia on this remarkable milestone.
Tobyhanna Employees Strengthen Service Skills through Leadership Lackawanna Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is proudly recognizing five ascending leaders who have graduated from Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program. Since its founding in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna, which is an affiliate of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, has trained more than 2,400 leaders and completed over 150 community projects. Core Program participants step up to transform public spaces and serve local nonprofit needs. The 2024–2025 class is no exception as they have delivered innovative, hands-on solutions across Lackawanna County, learning lessons they’ll apply to their positions at Tobyhanna Army Depot This year’s esteemed TYAD graduates are Management Analyst Anne Cherundolo, Electronics Mechanic Leader John Kasaczun, General Equipment Mechanic Leader Matthew Lukeski, Management Assistant Tracey Scott, and Electronics Mechanic Supervisor Jesse Tutino. Over the course of ten months, participants met monthly to dive into hands-on leadership training, learning from an array of regional experts and professionals. Beyond the classroom, they rolled up their sleeves to plan and execute community service projects—directly supporting the missions of local nonprofit organizations. Tutino said he was grateful for the opportunity TYAD provided him to develop a deeper understanding of the community he calls home. “Being a part of Leadership Lackawanna gave me the amazing opportunity to build relationships within my local community. The experience gave me an understanding of the professional network within NEPA, the good nature of local businesses, and helped me to learn and grow as a leader,” said Tutino. “I am privileged that Tobyhanna afforded me the opportunity to participate in such a great program!” The 2024-2025 Core Program participants tackled five ambitious community service projects aimed at enhancing local nonprofit spaces across Lackawanna County. From renovating the lobby of Griffin Pond Animal Shelter to upgrading the outdoor play area at United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center, each effort addressed real needs with lasting impact. Other initiatives included converting an unused backstage area at IMAGINE NEPA into a functional space for performers, restoring the deteriorating train platform at Carbondale’s historic station, and designing peaceful meditation rooms at the Scranton Counseling Center (SCC). Together, these projects reflect the program’s mission to build leadership through service and strengthen the communities of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Scott served on the SCC Team that took two empty storage rooms and created two separate therapy/mediation rooms, one for adults and one for children and teens. She said she found the experience to be rewarding and helped her meet new, like-minded passionate individuals. “My Leadership Lackawanna experience was deeply gratifying. I not only connected with 42 amazing new friends but also found a community passionately working to uplift neighborhoods, improve lives, and ensure homeless cats find loving homes,” said Scott. “Hearing that the clients of the SCC thrive in the new spaces we created made all the effort truly worthwhile.” Cherundolo and Lukeski worked on the project team supporting United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center. They helped successfully raise approximately $15,000 through monetary and in-kind donations. Cherundolo shared how the project positively impacted local youth and said the experience was deeply rewarding, noting that the team’s efforts truly paid off. “The funding allowed us to renovate the outdoor play area for the children, add new musical toys, balance toys, chalkboards, and sandboxes, along with a privacy fence to enhance safety,” said Cherundolo. “Although the project required significant time and effort, seeing the children enjoy their improved play area made it all worthwhile.” Reflecting on the experience, Lukeski emphasized the personal and professional growth he gained throughout the program. “My time in Leadership Lackawanna forced us to rely on each other and build teamwork abilities. It became critical to treat it just as my position here at work, giving it the same time and care to get the most out of it while delivering the best possible outcome,” said Lukeski. “The project was challenging but very rewarding and it connected us to the local community. The 10 months of classes gave me new skills and ideas to utilize, as well as sharpen the ones I already had which I hope improves the performance of my teams and I here at Tobyhanna.” Kasaczun echoed similar sentiments, highlighting both the professional development and sense of purpose he found through the program. “The opportunity taught me valuable leadership skills and gave me a meaningful way to give back to my community,” said Kasaczun. “Overall, it was a rewarding and memorable experience.” Kasaczun added that plans to bring the skills he honed through Leadership Lackawanna—such as empathy, compassion, mindfulness, and active listening—back to his role at TYAD. He aims to strengthen teamwork and foster a deeper sense of community within his team. Kasaczun also recognizes the value in knowing when to lead with words and when to lead by example, an approach he believes will help drive mission success. With new skills, stronger networks, and a shared sense of purpose, these five professionals are well on their way to shaping a brighter future for both TYAD and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Image Descriptions: Leadership Graduates: Tobyhanna Army Depot is proudly recognizing five ascending leaders who have graduated from Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program. Since its founding in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has trained more than 2,400 leaders and completed over 150 community projects. Leadership Photo #1: Anne Cherundolo and Matthew Lukeski worked on the project team supporting United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center. They helped successfully raise approximately $15,000 through monetary and in-kind donations. Leadership Photo #2: Tracey Scott served on the Scranton Counseling Center Team that took two empty storage rooms and created two separate therapy/mediation rooms, one for adults and one for children and teens. Leadership Photo #3: John Kasaczun added that plans to bring the skills he honed through Leadership Lackawanna—such as empathy, compassion, mindfulness, and active listening—back to his role at Tobyhanna Army Depot. Leadership Photo #4: Jesse Tutino said he was grateful for the opportunity TYAD provided him to develop a deeper understanding of the community he calls home.
Scranton Tomorrow, Summer of Scranton is Here! Shopping, dining and outdoor fun: The Summer of Scranton is here! Rain or shine, every day is a good day to support local! With that in mind, the Business Development Committee at Scranton Tomorrow has been working diligently to plan a full lineup of special events and promotions in July as part of our Summer of Scranton campaign. From Independence Day festivities to downtown Block Parties, Restaurant Week and Christmas in July, it’s a heat wave of shopping, dining and outdoor fun for the whole family! 👉 We share a preview of what’s coming your way in our latest guest blog in DiscoverNEPA! Read the Full Story Here
Misericordia University to Host Summer Open House Thinking about the next step for your student? Misericordia University’s upcoming Open House is a great opportunity for families to explore campus together and get a true feel for the supportive and welcoming community we offer. Join us on Saturday, August 16, 2025, with check-in from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the Anderson Health & Wellness Center. The day includes a Meet the Community Fair, guided campus tours, academic sessions with faculty, a student panel, and lunch on campus. It’s the perfect chance to learn more about academic programs, student life, and the resources that help our students thrive—both in and out of the classroom. Don’t miss this first step toward your student’s future. Learn more and register: https://www.misericordia.edu/admissions/admissions/open-house
Geisinger Medical School Bestowed AAMC’s ‘Star Award’ The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) announced that Lisa Holtz, MD, the Geisinger School of Medicine’s regional associate dean for the Northeast, was honored as the recipient of its GRMC Shining Star Award for Educational Innovation. GRMC is AAMC’s Group on Regional Medical Campuses. Its purpose is to foster professional growth and development, information sharing, communication, and discussion of key issues among administrators, staff, and faculty of regional medical campuses. GRMC recognizes the increasingly important role regional medical campuses serve in preparing tomorrow’s doctors. Dr. Holtz receive the award on June 2 at the GRMC Regional Conference in Kansas City. GRMC “Star” awards recognize the significant efforts of regional medical campuses to develop programs that help students and strengthen ties with the communities they serve. Dr. Holtz received the Star of Educational Innovation, awarded to a Regional Medical Campus (RMC) which has achieved a sustainable and measurable educational impact. Of particular interest to the GRMC are innovative education models which: provide value-added experiences to complement the medical curriculum and utilize a research methodology to derive evidence-based standards for documenting benefits and impact. The award goes to the recipient who has demonstrated consistent positive impact for their program over time and where there may be reproducibility by other campuses. “I’m proud that Geisinger’s regional campuses have become a model for schools nationwide,” Dr. Holtz said. “The Star award not only recognizes how our regional campuses enhance our Geisinger focus on population health, but it also acknowledges the ways regional campuses add value to the medical student experience. Our medical school has been an innovator in medical education since its founding. It was a true honor to accept this award on behalf of everyone at Geisinger who makes our college such an incredible place to learn.”
The Dime Bank, Dimeco Inc. Declares Cash Dividend The Board of Directors of Dimeco, Inc. (OTCQX: DIMC) declared a dividend of $0.42 per share, payable on July 24, 2025, to shareholders of record July 11, 2025. This dividend is 5.0% increase, or $0.02, over the dividend declared in June 2024. Based on the closing stock price of $36.56, this represents a dividend yield of 4.60%. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich commented, “This dividend acknowledges our shareholders’ unwavering support and investment in Dimeco, Inc., underscoring our commitment to them. We are dedicated to sustaining our growth and profitability, and to consistently providing our valued customers with exceptional financial products and services.” Source: Dimeco, Inc. / Contact: Deborah Unflat / June 27, 2025
The Wright Center, Chelsea Chopko Recognized as ‘Rising Star’ In Pennsylvania Chelsea Chopko, chief of administrative support to the president and CEO at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, was one of 40 individuals under the age of 40 in Pennsylvania to be honored as a “Rising Star” by City & State Pennsylvania during a reception in Harrisburg. Each year, the multimedia news organization honors these individuals who work in Pennsylvania government, politics, and advocacy. “Rising Star” members have already distinguished themselves in the eyes of their colleagues and are on their way to amassing many more noteworthy accomplishments. At The Wright Center, Chopko is the operational engine behind the enterprise’s most critical leadership workflows and mission-driven projects. Whether aligning schedules across numerous departments, coordinating sensitive communications, supervising eight administrative assistants, or supporting community outreach, she performs with poise, precision, and a rare blend of warmth and drive. Since joining The Wright Center six years ago, Chopko’s influence has grown in tandem with her title. What began as a role rooted in executive assistance has blossomed into one of trusted partnership and strategic insight. Her work spans the entire enterprise’s more than 677 employees, and she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every team member – from physicians, clinicians, physician residents and fellows to administrators and front-desk staff – is supported. “Chelsea Chopko is the exemplary of leader every organization hopes to have – thoughtful, brilliant, kind, inspiring, driven, unflinchingly dependable, and deeply mission-aligned,” said Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. “Her well-deserved recognition is a reflection not only of her personal excellence, but also of the high standard she sets for all of us at The Wright Center. We are immensely proud of her and most grateful to have Chelsea on our team.” She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in industrial/organizational psychology from Marywood University. Most recently, she completed the University Scranton Kania School of Management’s Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program. Chopko and her husband, Craig, live in Greenfield Township with their children, Roman, 9, and Isabel, 2.
The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education Holds Graduation The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education celebrated 68 resident and fellow physician graduates during its 46th annual commencement on Saturday, June 21, at Hilton Scranton and Conference Center. The commencement ceremony honored 36 graduates in The Wright Center’s Internal Medicine Residency Program, 15 in the National Family Medicine Residency Program, seven in the Regional Family Medicine Residency Program, five in the Geriatrics Fellowship, three in the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship, and two in the Gastroenterology Fellowship. The graduates join more than 1,000 resident and fellow physicians who have completed their residency and fellowship programs since The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education began educating physicians nearly 50 years ago. Dr. Sharon Obadia, a member of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education Board of Directors and the dean of A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA), was among the speakers who addressed graduates and guests during the ceremony. She works closely with officials at The Wright Center, which has been a training and educational site for ATSU-SOMA students since 2020. As she spoke about ATSU-SOMA’s and The Wright Center’s shared mission to train the next generation of health care professionals, Dr. Obadia highlighted the Hometown Scholars Program, which targets and recruits future physicians, dentists, and other medical professionals from Northeast Pennsylvania who want to serve the region where they grew up. The training Hometown Scholars receive is unique compared to other medical schools, with students spending their first year on campus at ATSU-SOMA in Mesa, Arizona, followed by three years in Northeast Pennsylvania. Since 2019, four Northeast Pennsylvania students have been selected to participate in the program. Two have graduated with degrees from ATSU-SOMA; the other two are still completing the program. “I have been incredibly proud to work alongside The Wright Center in partnering to educate this next generation of osteopathic physicians who will go into the world providing patient and community-centered primary care to those most in need,” Dr. Obadia said during commencement. “I look forward to growing our Hometown Scholar Program in Northeast Pennsylvania to continue to enable students from this region to return and serve their community.” Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Center, addressed the graduates. She praised their dedication to providing high-quality, whole-person primary health services and urged them to remember what they learned during their time in Northeast Pennsylvania. “You have practiced medicine in our communities that needed you most. You brought compassion to places where bureaucracy too often gets in the way. You brought light to the shadows. You brought love to our noble work and profession,” she said. “And as you did, you helped reshape those communities you proudly served. You did not wait for systems to change; you became the change.” Dr. Hal Baillie, chair of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education Board of Directors, also addressed graduates on Saturday. “Celebrating you as learners, The Wright Center thanks you for embracing our experiential primary care model, joining with us in your continuing education, and your developing efforts to provide care for our local patients,” Dr. Baillie said. “In so doing, you have fulfilled the definition of a profession, combining the development of expertise with service to the community. Every day, you compassionately provided that service to patients, many of whom have struggled to obtain adequate medical care, and you have done so with ever-increasing insight and ability.” Dr. Jumee Barooah, designated institutional official and senior vice president of education at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, reminded the Class of 2025 about the long tradition they joined. “You are now part of a powerful legacy, one that began in 1977 when six internal medicine residents started training to address a critical primary care physician shortage in Northeast Pennsylvania. Nearly half a century later, you join over 1,000 alumni who have carried that mission forward with grace, grit, and heart,” she said. “Our reach has grown far beyond Scranton, shaping training programs across the country – from Arizona to Washington, D.C. – all driven by one singular vision: to improve the health and welfare of our communities through responsive, whole-person health services for all, and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce privileged to serve.” Today, The Wright Center is one of the largest U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration-funded Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Safety-Net Consortiums in the nation. Graduates are: Internal Medicine Ahmed Abdellatif Ibrahim Mohamed Algohiny, M.D.; Sanya Badar, M.D.; Salman Abdul Basit, M.D.; Taibah Chaudhary, M.D.; Lokendra Chhantyal, M.D.; Yash Deshpande, M.D.; Sonam Gautam, M.D.; Faryal Haider, M.D.; Sajid Hussain, M.D.; Mohammad Ibrar, M.D.; Mohammad Faisal Iftikhar, M.D.; Aimen Iqbal, M.D.; Nadia Jamil, M.D.; Kanishq Rajan Jethani, M.D.; Jesvin Jeyapaulraj, M.D.; Lavleen Kaur, M.D.; Ravleen Kaur, M.D.; Mohamed Hesham Esmat Ahmed Khorshid, M.D.; Arathi Prabha Kumar, M.D.; Anand Reddy Maligireddy, M.D.; Elmkdad Mohammed, M.D.; Atif Nasrullah, M.D.; Maria Nawaz, M.D.; Ronakkumar Rameshbhai Patel, M.D.; Usman Iqbal Rana, M.D.; Samurna Sabir, M.D.; Sonali Sachdeva, M.D.; Muhammad Hassan Shakir, M.D.; Amninder Singh, M.D.; Gurminder Singh, M.D.; Harmandeep Singh, M.D.; Sapinder Pal Singh, M.D.; Archana Sridhar, M.D.; Ei Ei Tun, M.D.; Muhammad Waqas, M.D.; and Yuexiu Wu, M.D. National Family Medicine Stacey Elizabeth Benben, D.O.; Jacob Matthew Brumfield, D.O.; Sachit J. Desai, D.O.; Vaishnavi Gadicharla, D.O.; Jingyi Gao, D.O.; Daniel Gatazka, D.O.; Hope E. Hardy, D.O.; Justin Kim, D.O.; Sarah Jane Lawson, D.O.; Leah Joy Moorefield, D.O.; Urvashi Pandit, D.O.; Evan James Smith, D.O.; Kent Stanton, D.O.; Andrew Roy Tsai, D.O.; and Kayla Simone Williams, D.O. Regional Family Medicine Cassandra Rose D’Andrea, M.D.; Navaneeth Nambiar Othayoth Ganapathiyadan, M.D.; Renee Frieda Gladilen, M.D.; Justine Carlo G. Guevarra, M.D.; Imran Hamid, D.O.; Deepinder S. Samra, M.D.; and Andrew Sukhu, M.D. Geriatrics Fellowship Richard Michael Bronnenkant, M.D.; Ogochukwu Augustina Ekete, M.D.; Stephanie Farah, M.D.; Ahmad R. Khan, M.D.; and Arun Kumar, M.D. Cardiovascular Fellowship Pranav V. Karambelkar, M.D.; Purveshkumar Patel, M.D.; and Nischay Nikhil Shah, D.O. Gastroenterology William Buniak, D.O., and Vabhave Pal, M.D.
Scranton Jazz Festival Big Band Artist Bios Scranton Jazz Festival Big Band 17-piece all-star jazz ensemble under the direction of bandleader Marko Marcinko The Emmy-nominated, award-winning Scranton Jazz Festival (SJF) Big Band is a 17-piece band composed of world-class jazz musicians who live in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe counties and surrounding areas. Under the direction of drummer and arranger Marko Marcinko, this large jazz ensemble performs classic big band arrangements and modern selections that play a monumental role in jazz history. The band features Chris Rogers, Eddie Severn, Nate Birkey and Ken Luckey on trumpet; Bill Smith, Mike Fahn, Brody Segan and Mark Lusk on trombone; saxophonists Nelson Hill, David Mirarchi, Tom Hamilton, Sal Giorgianni and Jim Buckley; Steve Rudolph on piano; Paul Rostock on bass; Marko Marcinko on drums and percussionist Bob Velez. In 2022, the SJF Big Band received a Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters Award for its television production of the “Swinging Jazz Nutcracker Suite” and an Emmy Award nomination. Over the years, the band has performed with jazz greats including Phil Woods, Jon Faddis, Jimmy Heath, John Pizzarelli, Ilona Knopfler, Randy Brecker and Dave Liebman. This all-star jazz ensemble will conclude the 20th annual Scranton Jazz Festival with a brassy, swinging sound that will bring music lovers back to the days when big bands were king. Ilona Knopfler Jazz Vocalist/International Performer/Hospitality Entrepreneur Jazz vocalist Ilona Knopfler was born into a musical family in Paris, France. Her mother was a singer, and her father was a pianist. By the time she was in preschool, Knopfler had traveled the world.This early exposure to world cultures is evident in her 2005 recording for Mack Avenue, “Live the Life.” Recorded in Paris and New York, Knopfler sings in English and French on this album. Her parents’ musical careers took the family all over the world, eventually bringing them to Hong Kong, where Knopfler took to the stage for the first time at age 6. She began singing professionally at 15, performing with small groups and big bands at the famous Jazz Club in Hong Kong, where she quickly became a house favorite. When she turned 18, she moved to New York City and studied at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute. Knopfler signed with Mack Avenue in 2003 and released her debut, “Some Kind of Wonderful” that same year. The album featured her interpretation of pop tunes from the 1960s and 1970s with a jazz flavor. It was lauded as “a courageous journey through the heart of pop music,” and “a promising debut.” Critics noted that she had “the instincts of a fine jazz vocalist” and was “someone to watch in the years to come.” An all-star jazz group joined Knopfler to perform jazz standards on “Live the Life” (2005). A cast of international musicians added to the CD’s global spirit. Among the more than 30 musical artists who contributed their talents to “Live the Life” are Alain Mallet on piano, James Genus and Rufus Reid on bass, Marty Ashby on guitar, Paquito D’Rivera on clarinet, Antonio Hart on saxophone, Sean Jones on trumpet and the New York Voices. In addition to her musical career, Knopfler began working in the hospitality industry in 1989 in Hong Kong before moving to New York, and then Atlanta. She worked her way up through almost every role within a restaurant. Most recently, she was the managing partner of Le Bilboquet Atlanta and Denver. In 2021, she founded IAM Hospitality Group. Carl Fischer Multi-instrumentalist/Longtime band member of Billy Joel Carl Fischer represents the epitome of musical dedication and versatility to which musicians aspire. His approach combines a deep passion with humble expertise, making his craft a showcase and a masterclass featured on a global stage. As a multi-instrumentalist on trumpet, flugelhorn, trombone and saxophones, Fischer’s ability and talent established him as a dynamic and sought-after musician throughout the industry. “The crowd goes nuts … He’s just such a good musician. He just blows people away.”―Billy Joel/SiriusXM Radio Interview Inspired by his father, Carl Fischer’s musical journey began with the trumpet at age 5 and evolved through diverse experiences, from the bar band to the circus. His professional path saw significant milestones, including performances with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra under Wynton Marsalis. During his transformative tenure with jazz trumpet legend Maynard Ferguson, Fischer became a featured soloist, musical director, and the first trumpet player to open for Ferguson in his more than 40 years of touring. Ferguson’s praise of Fischer as “one of the best jazz trumpeters of today” marked a high point in Fischer’s early career. Since joining Billy Joel’s band in 2005, Fischer has been part of an extraordinary journey marked by unmatched milestones in Joel’s career. This includes a decade-long, record-breaking residency at Madison Square Garden, standout performances at the 2024 Grammy Awards, platinum records and DVDs (Joel’s “Last Play at Shea”), and a consistent worldwide touring schedule. Fischer’s role in all of these has also been accentuated through celebrated collaborations with music icons such as Chick Corea, Paul Simon, and most recently Sting, showcasing his versatility and the high regard he garners in the music industry. In addition to his work with Joel, Fischer has distinguished himself as a featured soloist alongside the legendary Diana Ross, served as music director and lead trumpet player for the iconic jazz-rock horn band Blood Sweat & Tears, and spent more than 12 years alongside jazz trumpet legend Maynard Ferguson. He shared the stage with a remarkable array of talent within the music industry, including Wynton Marsalis, Aretha Franklin, Steven Tyler, Elvis Costello, and Gavin Degraw, among others. He performed for President Obama, the Kings of Thailand and Bahrain, and the Prince of Morocco, and he has been a recurring feature performer of the National Anthem for the New York Yankees. In April 2020, Carl Fischer’s Sunshine City Brass made waves with “Down by the Riverside,” featuring a blend of Fischer’s instrumental talent and vocals from his bandmate Michael DelGuidice from the Billy Joel band, earning acclaim and a featured spot on Fox Television. Born during the pandemic, the group offers a jazz journey blending northern and southern grooves, embodying the spirit of the Big Easy with a Big Apple energy. The band also has a regular residency in St. Petersburg, Florida, featuring Yankee star, legend, and guitar great Bernie Williams. This project stands as a testament to Fischer’s ongoing commitment to exploring new musical landscapes and his ability to captivate audiences with his innovative sound. In recent years, Fischer launched “The Tuesday Night Hang with Carl Fischer,” an interactive livestream featuring discussions and music insights that has become a regular feature on the Billy Joel Channel on SiriusXM. Another highlighted project of Fischer’s is TËTI (Tribute to Evolutionary Trumpet Icons), which celebrates the luminaries of trumpet playing, honoring artists such as Louis, Dizzy, Miles, and Maynard—musicians who were not just virtuosos but pioneers who defined and transcended musical genres. Fischer brings their legacy to life, with arrangements like “What a Wonderful World” and the “MF Spirit Medley” offering a modern homage that captures their groundbreaking spirit. Fischer’s passion for music extends well beyond his performances. He is deeply involved in music education and has developed a significant presence in the world of musical instrument design. He conducts workshops for students at universities and secondary schools, covering a wide range of topics from trumpet, trombone, and saxophone techniques to rhythm section dynamics. His commitment to education is matched by his innovative contributions to instrument design. In collaboration with Warburton Music Products, Fischer has been instrumental in the creation of the “CF Horn,” a testament to Fischer’s influence and reputation in the music community. Furthermore, his long-standing partnership with mouthpiece expert Gary Radtke of GR Mouthpieces has led to the development of the “Carl Fischer Signature Series” line of mouthpieces. This line has been groundbreaking, offering solutions that have revitalized the careers of professional musicians while also providing valuable tools for beginners and students. Fischer’s dedication to music, education, and design is profound, embodying a lifestyle rather than merely a career. His efforts enrich the music industry and empower musicians across all levels of expertise, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the art of music. Marko Marcinko Drummer/Pianist/Musical Director Founder & Artistic Director, Scranton Jazz Festival Bandleader, Scranton Jazz Festival Big Band “Marko Marcinko’s drumming poses an unorthodox opening to ensemble and improvisation inside of 90 seconds, and we know we are in for a swinging ride.” ―Jazz Improv Magazine, Vol. 5, Number 1 Beginning his musical career at 14, a musical family inspired Marko Marcinko. He performed at weddings, country clubs, and resorts in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania throughout his teens. Marcinko studied jazz and classical piano and music theory at a local college prior to earning a bachelor of music degree in music performance at the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida. While there, he toured and performed with the university’s top concert jazz ensemble while refining his training in classical/ethnic percussion, drums, piano and arranging/composing. Marcinko was recently awarded the prestigious Centennial Medalist Award from The University of Miami, Frost School of Music. The Centennial Medal honors alumni who have distinguished themselves across various disciplines, genres and career paths. In celebration of this honor, he performed with fellow university alumni Bruce Hornsby, Ben Folds, Will Lee, Pat Metheny, Jon Secada, Joshua Henry, Andrew Synowiec, Ashley Pezzotti, Shelly Berg and more earlier this year. Throughout his career, Marcinko has accompanied notable musicians on drums and piano including Jon Secada, Juan Gabriel, Melba Moore, John Legend, Clay Aiken, Connie Francis, Constantine Maroulis and Little Anthony & The Imperials, among various others in the jazz world. He shared the stage and accompanied legendary comedians Joe Piscopo, Joan Rivers, Jay Leno, Bob Newhart and Don Rickles. He has performed with jazz legends such as Clark Terry, Phil Woods, Al Grey, Rob McConnell Johnny Coles, Bob Dorough, Lew Tabackin, Mark Murphy, Bucky Pizzarelli, Urbie Green, Joe Temperly, Bill Crow, Michael Brecker, Ross Tompkins, Mulgrew Miller, John Hicks, Hod O’Brien, Randy Breaker, Arturo Sandoval, Dave Samuels, Mike Stern and Will Lee. He spent three years touring and recording as a drummer with jazz legend Maynard Ferguson and the 10-piece Big Bop Nouveau Band. He also composed and arranged for the group. For more than a decade, he toured and recorded with the great jazz saxophonist Dave Liebman. Marcinko has played with hundreds of musicians, adapting to their style while holding true to his unique and precise delivery in every beat. He is recognized by drum endorsing companies (Zildjian Cymbals, Yamaha Drums and Hardware, Vic Firth Drum Sticks and Brushes, Aquarian Heads, Dynamic Percussion, Longo Snare Drums) and has been featured in magazines, newspapers and trade publications including Modern Drummer, Talking Drums, Jazz Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Village Voice, The L.A. Times, All About Jazz and LA Scene magazine. His exceptional career has offered deep insight into the music industry. Through his recordings, compositions and compilations, bands, teaching experiences, and collaborations with fellow musicians, he has forged a unique path that helped shape the Scranton Jazz Festival. As a founder of the festival, Marcinko has brought the best jazz musicians to the City of Scranton annually for a music-filled weekend since the festival’s inception in 2005. Integrating the PA Jazz Institute and students of its camp into the festival ensures the Marcinko Jazz Legacy will shine on and continue for future generations for many years to come. His dedication to his art, his passion for music, and his love of people have propelled him to an amazing height in today’s jazz world. Jeff Barone Guitarist/Producer New York City-based guitarist Jeff Barone has developed a strong reputation through his recordings, “Crazy Talk” and “Open Up,” as well as his live performances and work as a record producer. He has worked with trumpeter Tom Harrell’s Quintet along with groups led by Bobby Caldwell, Mike Clark and Blue Note artist Reuben Wilson. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, Merkin Hall, and at jazz festivals including the JVC Jazz Festival. Barone is an active studio session guitarist, and he has worked on Broadway shows such as “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Cats,” and “Wicked” to name a few. He has worked or recorded with actors and singers such as Melissa Manchester, Linda Lavin, Kathleen Turner, Al Martino and Billy Stritch. He has produced recordings such as “Until It’s Time to Go” by guitarist Jack Wilkins (Max Jazz 2009); “Express Lane” by Jim Silberstein; (Consolidated Artists 2009 co-produced with Harvie S.); and “Drive Time,” by Mike Dubaniewicz (Jazzed Media 2010). Barone was also featured in Scott Yanow’s book titled, “The Great Jazz Guitarists: the Ultimate Guide” (Hal Leonard Publishing). Mary Ann McSweeney Bassist/Pianist/Violinist Born in Aptos, California, Mary Ann McSweeney began playing piano at age 5 and violin at age 8. In high school, she fell in love with the acoustic bass while watching Ray Brown perform at the Concord Jazz Festival. At 16, she was chosen to play at the Monterey Jazz Festival with the All-Star band fronted by Thad Jones and Mel Lewis. McSweeney has played with jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie, Joanne Brackeen, Lee Konitz, Gil Goldstein and Bucky Pizzarelli. She has also played for renowned conductors Leonard Bernstein, Lalo Schifrin and John Williams. McSweeney has performed with Renee Rosnes, Vic Juris, Ken Peplowski, Dennis Mackrel, Lewis Nash, and Larry Goldings. Her Big Band experience includes Maiden Voyage and Diva. She has led her own quintet at the Seixal Jazz Festival in Portugal and performed with the Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival at The Kennedy Center. McSweeney has arranged for and recorded with Warner Brothers artist Lea Delaria. Recent engagements include the Berkshire Jazz Festival with Veronica Swift, and the Roswell Jazz Festival in New Mexico, where she performed with Ken Peplowski, Randy Sandke, Holly Hofmann, Chuck Redd and Mike Wofford. She has toured Europe and has performed with David Krakauer’s Klezmer Madness and five-time Tony award winning vocalist Audra McDonald. Her orchestrations can be heard on Chita Rivera’s CD titled, “Now I Swing” and her version of “Avenue Q Swings” is available on iTunes. McSweeney performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival with Claire Daly and the Baritone Monk Band, which was rated in the top 10 on jazz radio in the USA. In addition to working as a full-time professional bassist in New York City, McSweeney was on the faculty for the Middle School Jazz Academy at Lincoln Center for 12 years. She performed at the White House with the Eli Yamin Quintet and at The Kennedy Center Gala with the Clayton/Hamilton Orchestra. McSweeney was musical director/arranger for three shows at NYC’s Birdland Jazz Club featuring Jane Monheit in a program that included selections from Irving Berlin and the Cole Porter musical, “Anything Goes.” She has played more than 45 Broadway shows, including Tony award-winning “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.” Her original music can be heard in the documentary “From Allegiance to Broadway.” She can be seen on Broadway playing bass for the “Girl From the North Country,” which re-opened in October 2021. She performed in Greece and Berlin with her Urban Fado Project and performed a live recording at the Shapeshifter Lab in Brooklyn New York, featuring new compositions played by Grammy Nominated Violinist Sara Caswell. Sal Giorgianni Saxophonist At an early age, Sal Giorgianni was playing saxophone professionally. At 18, he was a featured soloist with the Ellenville Jazz Ensemble and performed opposite Dizzy Gillespie at the 1982 Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. After receiving a scholarship to The University of Miami School Of Music, Giorgianni was granted the rare opportunity to perform with Stan Getz on Miami Beach at The Fontainebleau. At 20, he performed at the famed Village Vanguard jazz club in New York with Larry Coryell, Albert Dailey, Buster Williams, and Billy Hart. He later went on to perform and record with other great jazz artists such as Miles Davis, George Gruntz, Arturo Sandoval, Elvin Jones, Joe Henderson, the Gil Evans Orchestra, Jimmy McGriff, Lou Rawls, Rachelle Ferrell, Bob James, John Scofield, Bob Mintzer, Eddie Daniels, the Bobby Watson Big Band, Dave Liebman, and many others. His festival appearances in the U.S. and abroad have included Newport, JVC, Ravinia, Montreal, Vancouver, Lugano, Berlin, Hong Kong, Paris, Milan, Glasgow, Corsica, Ljubljana, and numerous others. One famed performance, along with a record and a film, was that of the 1991 Montreux Jazz Festival featuring Miles Davis with Quincy Jones conducting. This concert went on to be the historical and Grammy award winning record “Miles Davis and Quincy Jones: Live at Montreux.” While finishing a two-and-a-half-year run with Maynard Ferguson, Giorgianni had the distinct pleasure and honor of playing a command performance for the King of Thailand in Bangkok. His career has included performances with famous jazz artists, and his diversified sax style has led him to perform with many pop artists as well, such as Peabo Bryson, Regina Belle, Ashford & Simpson, Cyndi Lauper, Glenn Jones, Daryl Hall, Sister Sledge, and a five-year stint with The Rascals. He has also performed and recorded with famous Latin and World music artists such as Glenn Monroig in Puerto Rico and The Gipsy Kings. Through all of these musical experiences, Giorgianni has crafted his own style of saxophone playing that stands on its own. His playing, production and composition as a solo artist can be heard on his CD releases for Windhouse Records titled, “Sal Giorgianni – Sango,” “Sal Giorgianni – Blue ’N’ Boogie,” and his latest recording “Sal Giorgianni – Angel Eyes.”
