The Wright Center hosts ribbon-cutting for Carbondale location The Wright Center for Community Health celebrated the opening of its newest community health center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 12, in Carbondale. The Wright Center for Community Health Friendship House – Carbondale, located inside Friendship House’s new Whole-Person Care Center at 30 N. Main St., Suite 100, began seeing patients Thursday, Aug. 13. Led by Medical Director Bryan Boyle, a longtime board-certified physician assistant, the community health center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The new location provides whole-person primary and preventive health services, including checkups, health screenings, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries. Care is available for everyone, regardless of insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. Patients do not need to be a Friendship House client to receive care at the community health center. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-591-5298. “For generations, Friendship House has helped children, adults, and families build resilience through an extraordinary continuum of care that includes mental and behavioral health services, autism and developmental disability programs, social services, school-based behavioral health support, and integrated primary care,” Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Center, said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “The Wright Center complements that work by providing comprehensive whole-person primary and preventive health services while educating and training the next generation of physicians and interprofessional healthcare teams. Together, we are making it easier for individuals and families to access compassionate, coordinated care in one trusted setting – care that recognizes each person’s inherent dignity, supports recovery and resilience, promotes lifelong wellness, and helps people achieve their fullest potential.” The community health center in Carbondale marks The Wright Center’s second partnership with Friendship House. Since November 2024, The Wright Center’s clinical team has provided primary care at more than 3,500 patient visits at Friendship House’s Whole Person Care Center in Scranton, located at 200 Wyoming Ave. The Wright Center is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 1976, The Wright Centers for Community Health, Graduate Medical Education, and Patient & Community Engagement is a physician-led, community-owned nonprofit and a cornerstone of health care in the region. The organization employs nearly 680 professionals – including nearly 200 resident and fellow physicians – and trains more than 200 interprofessional health care learners each year. In fiscal year 2025-26, The Wright Center served more than 39,000 unique patients across all care settings in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. As a Federally Qualified Health Center and safety-net provider, The Wright Center serves all patients, regardless of insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. No patient is turned away due to an inability to pay. Learn more at TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
Life Purposely Coaching hosting two events for women Life Purposely Coaching in Clarks Summit is hosting two events designed specifically for women in August and September 2026. The first is a free Masterclass titled “How Did I Get Here?” It will be held via Zoom on August 25th from 7:00-8:00 p.m. According to Life Purporsely owner Elizabeth Keiper, the session is for smart, capable women who feel disconnected from the lives they worked so hard to build and the steps they can take to change that course. You can register for that event by clicking here. The second event is called Life Purposely LIVE: Flourish and will take place on September 19th from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at a cafe in Factoryville. This in-person immersive experience will allow attendees to change how they experience the final months of 2026. The event is limited to 20 women. You can register for it by clicking here.
Commonwealth Health’s Moses Taylor Hospital Reopens Pharmacy, Launches Meds-to-Beds Program Moses Taylor Hospital is taking another step in its campus revitalization with the reopening of its hospital pharmacy, The Apothecary, and launch of a new Meds-to-Beds program. The program allows eligible patients to have their prescriptions filled before leaving the hospital, providing greater convenience and helping ensure they have the medications they need when they return home. “Reopening our pharmacy and launching Meds-to-Beds is another meaningful investment in our patients and our campus,” said Patrick D. Conaboy MD, CEO, Regional Hospital of Scranton. “It’s about making healthcare more convenient while continuing to build momentum for the future of Commonwealth Health’s Scranton hospitals.” The pharmacy and Meds-to-Beds program are part of a broader effort to revitalize the Moses Taylor campus, enhance the patient experience, and strengthen healthcare services for the Scranton community. The Meds-to-Beds program is available at Regional Hospital of Scranton and Moses Taylor Hospital.
Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple Announces Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE on October 13 The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple and Magic City Productions will present Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE on October 13 at 6:00 PM. The production is based on Emmy-winning Apple TV series. Grab your favorite Silly Creatures and get ready to “dance your cares away” when The Jim Henson Company’s musical, magic-filled touring live show makes its way across the United States for its second national tour. Following a successful run at the New Victory Theater in New York City this summer, this joyful, nostalgic show for fun-loving families and fans of all ages launches its 40-stop tour in September. In the first-ever stage production, Gobo, Red, Mokey, Wembley and Boober Fraggle embark on a quest to find the lost Celebration Stone – an ancient treasure with the power to unite everyone for the ultimate party. Along the way, they discover magic, adventure, and something more memorable and heartfelt than they ever imagined! Packed with comedy, dancing, and music that are hallmarks of the iconic Jim Henson Company, this family friendly live stage adventure features colorful new walkaround versions of the Fraggles, new puppet versions of their industrious friends the Doozers, a visit from a giant Gorg, and exciting original puppet creature friends – all built by the renowned Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. With plenty of fan-favorite songs and exciting visual effects, this musical stage adventure welcomes audiences on a joyful, nostalgia-filled trip to Fraggle Rock. With lots of music, laughter and imagination, it’s an unforgettable live experience that will have Silly Creatures of all ages dancing in the aisles! Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE will take place in the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Theatre, located on the building’s first floor, with doors opening for bar and concessions at 5:00 PM. Tickets start at $44.35 (includes fees), and will be available for purchase beginning Friday, August 14 at 10 AM at the Fidelity Bank Box Office at the SCC in person or by calling (570) 344-1111, or via Ticketmaster. A Pre-Show VIP Meet & Greet Experience is available for an additional fee. For more information or to view a full schedule of events, visit SCCMT.org.
Luzerne County Community College to Host First Annual Skilled Trades Fair Luzerne County Community College is hosting its first Annual Skilled Trades Fair on Friday, September 18 from 8 AM to 2 PM in celebration of National Tradesman Day. It’s designed for local high school freshmen enrolled in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, with students on campus from 9 AM to 1 PM. Students will get guided campus tours, check out exhibitor displays, meet industry professionals, and hear a keynote from Marissa Bankert, President & CEO of Associated Builders & Contractors Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter.
A’tera 519 Appoints Executive Chef Alexander Diaz, Introducing a New Era of Contemporary Coastal American Cuisine A’Tera 519, the AAA Four Diamond flagship restaurant of Basalyga Hospitality Group, proudly announces the appointment of Executive Chef Alexander “Alex” Diaz, a classically trained culinary professional whose career spans more than three decades in fine dining, luxury hospitality, and culinary leadership. A graduate of the prestigious French Culinary Institute in New York City, Chef Diaz received classical French training under internationally acclaimed chefs including Jacques Pépin, André Soltner, Alain Sailhac, and the late Gray Kunz. Their influence helped shape the technical precision, discipline, and ingredient-driven philosophy that define his cuisine today. Following graduation, Chef Diaz continued his professional development under the mentorship of Chef Luc Dendiviel, former Executive Chef of the celebrated Bayard’s in New York City. He later expanded his culinary repertoire through advanced training in Barcelona, Spain, with Lizarran Tapas, where he immersed himself in traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Throughout his career, Chef Diaz has worked in some of the Northeast’s most respected kitchens, including the legendary Jean-Georges during its acclaimed four-star era, Brasserie, Palma Restaurant, and Il Mulino New York. These experiences refined his ability to combine classical European technique with contemporary American cuisine while building high-performing culinary teams dedicated to exceptional hospitality. Before beginning his culinary career, Chef Diaz proudly served in the United States Army, where he received formal food service training through the Quartermaster School and the Academy of Health Sciences at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. The discipline, organization, and leadership developed during his military service continue to shape his management philosophy and standards of excellence. Chef Diaz has also shared his culinary expertise through collaborations with Food Network and Telemundo, further demonstrating his passion for education and the craft of cooking. At A’Tera 519, Chef Diaz is leading a renewed culinary vision centered on Contemporary Coastal American cuisine elevated by refined French and Mediterranean influences. His seasonal menus emphasize pristine seafood, premium meats, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, and modern techniques grounded in classical foundations. “Great restaurants are built by great people,” said Chef Diaz. “My goal is to create a culture where discipline, creativity, and teamwork inspire excellence every day. Every dish that leaves our kitchen should reflect craftsmanship, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to our guests.” Under Chef Diaz’s leadership, A’Tera 519 enters an exciting new chapter while continuing its tradition as one of Pennsylvania’s premier fine dining destinations and reinforcing the standards that have earned its AAA Four Diamond distinction.
Scranton/Wilkes Barre RailRiders to begin exciting new chapter with 2027 rebrand The next chapter of pro baseball is on the horizon in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, are excited to announce they will unveil a new identity ahead of the 2027 season, marking a new era in the franchise’s nearly four-decade history in the region. While the club’s name and look will evolve, its commitment to delivering memorable experiences at PNC Fieldand serving as the final stop on the path to the Bronx will remain unchanged. The new identity will celebratethe region’s beauty, heritage, and outdoor legacy while strengthening the connection between the club, itscommunity, and one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports. “This rebrand is about building an identity that our community can rally around for generations to come,” saidShawn Reilly, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s Team President & General Manager. “As we looked toward the future baseball in NEPA, we saw an opportunity to create something that is deeply rooted in this region while honoringthe incredible tradition of baseball that has defined this franchise for decades. We’re excited to share what’s nextwith our fans.” The RailRiders’ identity has represented the franchise since 2013, a period that has included the 2016International League title and Triple-A National Championship, a future three-time American League MVP,countless future Major League All-Stars, and unforgettable moments at PNC Field. As the organization preparesfor its next chapter, the club remains committed to preserving that history while introducing a brand that reflectsboth the enduring legacy of Yankees baseball and the spirit of Northeastern Pennsylvania. More information will be announced soon with plans for the full brand unveiling in November. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre opens the 2027 season on the road on March 26 with the home opener scheduled for April 6. The 150-game slate once again features 75 home games at PNC Field and 75 road contests. The top affiliates of the Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, Detroit Tigers, Miami Marlins, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Toronto Blue Jays will come to NEPA next season. Game times for the 2027 season will be announced at a later date. The RailRiders have three six-game homestands remaining this season as they push for a second-straight.
Archbald Summer Beach Party happening in late August The Archbald Summer Beach Party will be on Sunday, August 23, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Aylesworth Park. The party will celebrate Archbald Borough’s 150th anniversary. The event will have swimming, live music, face painting, kids’ games and activities, and a sandcastle-building contest with a top cash prize of $100. Attendees don’t have to live in Archbald Borough to attend. Anyone with questions can contact Kayleigh Cornell at 570-351-1086 or email the Archbald Neighborhood Association at archbaldneighbors@gmail.com.
Pennsylvania CareerLink Lackawanna County hosting AI in the workplace webinars Pennsylvania CareerLink Lackawanna County is hosting two virtual webinars that are free for employers. The webinars will be about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Attendees will learn how to balance the innovation and risks of AI. There are two identical sessions to choose from: September 9, 2026 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. and September 11, 2026 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Employers can register for the September 9th session by clicking here, for the September 11th session by clicking here, or for either session by emailing their requested session date, name, company and email address to RA-LI-BWPO-ESVCS@pa.gov.
Coffee Inclusive to open new location at UNC’s CEDAR Center in Scranton United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) has announced that Coffee Inclusive will open a new location at UNC’s CEDAR Center, located at 526 Cedar Avenue in Scranton, in early September. Coffee Inclusive, a program of PA Inclusive, employs individuals with diverse abilities and autism who work side by side with experienced baristas and servers in a supportive, inclusive environment. The new CEDAR Center location will offer a full line of high-quality hot and cold coffees, lattes and espresso drinks, along with baked goods including pastries, muffins, scones, sandwiches and more. “We are thrilled to welcome Coffee Inclusive to the CEDAR Center and to support the expansion of their important work,” said Lisa Durkin, President and CEO of UNC. “This partnership reflects the kind of community-centered collaboration that strengthens our neighborhood, creates opportunities, and brings people together.” PA Inclusive is a Pittston-based nonprofit organization that provides support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through Coffee Inclusive, the organization creates meaningful employment opportunities while offering the community a warm and welcoming coffee shop experience. UNC’s CEDAR Center is a newly rehabilitated former bank building located at 526 Cedar Avenue in South Scranton. It serves as a community anchor for programs and neighborhood activity, including adult education, English language learning, career readiness, multicultural wellness programming and the year-round South Side Farmers Market on Saturdays. The addition of Coffee Inclusive will further activate the building as a welcoming place where neighbors, program participants and visitors can connect. “Expanding Coffee Inclusive to the UNC CEDAR Center in Scranton is an exciting step forward in creating more meaningful employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities while bringing our message of inclusion, ability, and community to more people throughout Lackawanna County. Every cup served will help demonstrate that people of all abilities can contribute, succeed, and thrive in the workplace,” said Frank Bartoli, President and CEO of PA Inclusive and Coffee Inclusive.
