The Wright Center’s Recognized for Patient-Centered Care Two of The Wright Center for Community Health’s primary and preventive care practices in Lackawanna County recently received commendations from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The Wright Center for Community Health Clarks Summit Practice, 1145 Northern Blvd., S. Abington Township, and The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley Practice, 5 S. Washington Ave., Jermyn, each has again maintained certification for NCQA’s Patient-Centered Medical Home recognition, acknowledging that they have the tools, systems, and resources to provide patients with the right care at the right time. Four Wright Center practices have retained the NCQA voluntary accreditation in recent months. Late last year, the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre practices were notified of their successful retainment of the recognition seal. Every year, the practice locations undergo a formal review to ensure they remain in 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 the input of the American College of Physicians, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Osteopathic Association, and others. It was developed to assess whether clinician practices are functioning as medical homes and recognize them for these efforts. The Patient-Centered Medical Home model is designed to allow patients and their care teams to build better relationships, help patients to more effectively control chronic conditions, and improve the overall patient experience. In addition, the model has been shown to increase staff satisfaction and reduce health care costs. For the public, the NCQA accreditation is a signal that The Wright Center for Community Health maintains a focus on quality improvement and has key processes in place so its clinics are prioritizing the needs of patients. “We are proud to retain this recognition seal at our four larger practices,” said Dr. Jignesh Sheth, chief medical and information officer of The Wright Center for Community Health. “The NCQA seal lets the public know we are doing all we can to put patients at the forefront of care, including by opening these clinics outside traditional business hours to meet people’s primary care needs.” In particular, Dr. Sheth credited the work being done by The Wright Center’s employees to use a team-based delivery system and information technology to coordinate care and get the best results possible for patients. The Mid Valley Practice’s certification carries an additional NCQA distinction in behavioral health integration. This recognition is for practices that have proven they have the appropriate care team in place to manage the broad needs of patients with conditions related to behavioral health. “Many times, behavioral health conditions are first identified by a primary care provider,” said Margaret E. O’Kane, NCQA president. “So, adding behavioral health care services in a primary care setting is a real opportunity for patients. It knocks down barriers to behavioral care and improves overall health.” The Wright Center operates 10 primary and preventive care practices in Northeast Pennsylvania, including a mobile medical and dental vehicle called Driving Better Health. Its practices offer integrated whole-person care, typically giving patients the convenience of going to a single location to access medical, dental, and behavioral health care, as well as community-based addiction treatment and recovery services. The Wright Center accepts most major health insurance plans, including Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Medicare, and CHIP. No patient is turned away due to an inability to pay. For more information about The Wright Center’s practice locations, hours, and many services, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
WVIA Adds News Editor and New Reporter to Flourishing News Team WVIA, Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania’s public media station, is excited to announce the addition of two new WVIA News Team members. These additions mark the latest of five new hires in roughly one month and significant expansion for the award-winning news team. WVIA welcomes Faith Golay as News Editor and Roger DuPuis as the newest WVIA News reporter. Faith Golay comes from the Times-Tribune, and brings over 27 years of experience to this new position. Faith will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the news department, as well as digital content production and news publication for WVIA News. She will play a key role in shaping the digital presence and overall voice of the WVIA News Team. “WVIA’s mission to report on issues that impact the community’s quality of life with passion, accuracy and fairness is at the heart of what all journalists must do,” said Golay. “Public trust is not a gift. It must be earned, so I am privileged to join the WVIA News Team of incredibly talented journalists to honor that profound responsibility.” Roger DuPuis comes from the Times Leader, bringing 24 years of experience in journalism. Roger has numerous community connections and has built a large network over the last two decades. He will play a crucial role in unearthing and reporting on the stories that matter most to the region. Roger has extensive reporting experience, particularly around the area of transportation. “I’m proud of where I’ve been, and the work I have done during more than 20 years in newspapers. I am excited to be joining WVIA as the organization expands its news team to bring thoughtful reporting that matters to 22 counties across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania,” said Roger. “Local news is more important to our communities and our country than ever before. WVIA truly understands that, and I look forward to working on stories that will make a difference to the audiences we serve.” With each new addition to the team, WVIA underscores its unwavering commitment to delivering high-impact, in-depth local journalism and continues to shape and preserve the local news landscape in our region. “WVIA News is committed to amplifying the voices of the communities we serve,” said WVIA’s Director of Journalism Julie Sidoni. “We know there are untold stories out there. This latest expansion helps us get a little closer to finding them.” “As WVIA’s News Team grows and we continue to expand our reach, we also expand our understanding of each of the rich and complex communities we serve and the stories that need to be told,” said WVIA President & CEO, Carla McCabe. “Each of these new additions brings with them a wealth of knowledge and an abundance of experience, both of which will translate to greater impact on the lives of people in our region.”
RailRiders Unveil New Collaboration with Wallenpaupack Brewing Company The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to announce a new collaboration with Wallenpaupack Brewing Company in 2024, the Home Half Hazy Pale Ale. The Hawley, PA-based brewery is introducing a new beer into its catalog and the offering will be available at PNC Field this season. Coming in with 5.5% Alcohol by Volume, 30 International Bitterness Units and a generous addition of Citra and Mosaic hops, fans can expect a juicy blast of citrus, tropical fruit and melon from this sessionable pale ale while taking in nine innings of action. “We are thrilled to welcome this custom brew from Wallenpaupack Brewing Company into our starting lineup,” said Katie Beekman, General Manager of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. “This tremendous partnership has provided our fanbase with their well-known local offerings and we know the Home Half Hazy Pale Ale will quickly become a fan favorite at PNC Field. We always look for ways to grow with our partners and this is a natural next step with Wallenpaupack Brewing Company.” “In baseball vernacular, the Home Half is the part of the inning where the home team is up to bat and we thought that it was a great message that no matter what a fan’s Major League team might be, people from the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area truly embrace the RailRiders as their home team and PNC Field as their home ballpark,” said Brad Beneski, Wallenpaupack Brewing Company’s Director of Business Development. “And, so we wanted to find a way to make every visit to the ballpark as immersive of a local experience as possible with an official beer for the home crowd.” Wallenpaupack Brewing Company and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are entering their second year of a four-year partnership that gives the award-winning, local brewery naming rights to a craft beer stand on the third base side of the team’s concourse where fans can find a variety of draft and canned options including their flagships, current seasonals, and now an exclusive collaboration with the team. The brewery also conducts social media contests to give away tickets for each home stand. “As community members, we know how fortunate we are to have a team like the RailRiders and a space like PNC Field right in our backyard, so to be a part of the experience is an honor in which we take a lot of pride,” Beneski added. “And with our brewpub being an easy trip from the ballpark, we’ve even had a fair amount of baseball fans make the trek to see our brewery and taproom for themselves.” Please drink responsibly! The RailRiders open their 2024 season on March 29 with a three-game weekend set at Buffalo. The home opener is set for April 2 at 6:35 P.M. as the Syracuse Mets come to PNC Field. Season tickets, mini plans and the flex plan are all available now. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.
Wayne Bank Announces Promotion in Loan Operations Department Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Corissa O’Malley to Assistant Vice President and Loan Documentation Manager. In her new role, O’Malley will lead the New York and Pennsylvania retail loan processing and documentation teams. O’Malley joined the Bank in 2011, and has held several positions during her tenure, most recently as Residential Mortgage Processor and Loan Documentation Officer. According to Mr. Donnelly, “I’m very pleased to announce Corissa’s promotion, as her dedication to Wayne Bank over these last 13 years make her the ideal individual for this role. I look forward to her continued leadership as she oversees the residential loan documentation and processing department, while ensuring efficient systems are in place and loans remain in good standing.” O’Malley resides in South Canaan, PA, with her husband, Eugene, and their two children.
Pennsylvania American Water Awards $36K+ in Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Funding In conjunction with Black History Month, celebrating the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and struggles of one the United States’ diverse populations, Pennsylvania American Water today announced the recipients of its annual corporate funding aimed at supporting inclusion, diversity and equity efforts. Charitable donations awarded to 13 organizations across the company’s service territory totaled $36,500. “Investing in organizations that promote inclusion, diversity and equity-related initiatives is a key component of Pennsylvania American Water’s community engagement strategy,” said company president Justin Ladner. “Through this funding, we demonstrate our continued commitment to helping create inclusive and welcoming communities across the Commonwealth.” Pennsylvania American Water selected the following organizations across its service territory that support and reflect the company’s inclusion, diversity and equity values and efforts: NEPA Youth Shelter Scranton Fringe Festival ACLAMO African American Chamber of Western PA Berks Latino Workforce Development Corporation CEO Commission on Economic Opportunity City of Coatesville Keystone Business Alliance Layers of Black History LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County Norristown Chamber of Commerce Rainbow Rose Center 2nd Century Alliance “We are extremely thankful for the generous donation that Pennsylvania American Water contributed to the Layers of Black History book drive,” said Corey Dupree, one of the organization’s co-founders. “With their donation we were able to provide over 150 books highlighting diversity and representation in literature. We are beyond excited to continue spreading the mission of sustainability and environmental justice alongside partners like Pennsylvania American Water!”
United Neighborhood Center Announces 2nd Annual Designer Purse BINGO United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) is pleased to announce our second annual Designer Purse Bingo on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Holy Cross High School at 501 East Drinker Street in Dunmore. The doors open at 5:30pm and bingo starts at 6:30pm. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. A very special thank you to our $10,000 presenting sponsor Grimm Construction. Admission covers 20 games of exciting Bingo with “celebrity” callers for a chance to win amazing designer purses from Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Coach, and many more. Additional purchases can be made the day of the event for three special games, basket raffles, 50/50, and $20 gift card pull. Light refreshments will also be available to purchase. Guests are allowed to bring their own food and beverages including alcoholic drinks, making this event for the 21+ crowd only. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities please visit: uncnepa.org/bingo
Scranton Cultural Center Announces Free Jazz Ensemble Concert Enjoy a concert given by the United States Air Force Heritage of America Rhythm in Blue at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple on March 18 at 7:00 PM. This performance is part of a concert series the band is presenting across Pennsylvania and New York from March 15-19. The concert is free and open to the public. Rhythm in Blue features the diverse talents of 14 professional musicians whose commitment to excellence has earned worldwide acclaim and military distinction. The band incorporates a wide repertoire of jazz and fusion, from big band swing to cutting-edge contemporary music. Their fabulous vocalist captures the sound of the great jazz standards and inspires with patriotic classics. The United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band concert is sponsored by LT Verrastro and supported by Lackawanna County and the PA Council on the Arts. The concert will take place in the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Theatre at 7:00 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Concessions will be available for purchase. Tickets are free to the public and are required for admission. They can be acquired at the Fidelity Bank Box Office at the SCC in person or by calling (570) 344-1111, or via Ticketmaster. Convenience charges may apply online or by phone. For additional information and a full schedule of events, visit SCCMT.org. The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple’s 2023-2024 Season is sponsored by Fidelity Bank and LT Verrastro and supported by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, and the Lackawanna County Office of Arts and Culture, and Commissioners Matt McGloin, Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak. A special thank you to its media partners: Allied Services, Audacy, Lamar Advertising, MAC Signs, The Times-Tribune and Times Shamrock Communications. WHO: The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple WHAT: United States Air Force Heritage of America Rhythm In Blue Jazz Ensemble WHEN: Monday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m.; Doors at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple 420 North Washington Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 TICKET PRICE: FREE! Tickets are required. Convenience charges may apply online or by phone
RailRiders Set 2024 Ballpark Policies and Safety Enhancements The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, have set their ballpark policies and safety guidelines for the 2024 season. The RailRiders will host 75 games at PNC Field this season, beginning on April 2 against the Syracuse Mets. “Fan safety is thoroughly important to providing a great experience at PNC Field,” stated Katie Beekman, the RailRiders General Manager. “We want everyone who comes to the ballpark to enjoy their time here and our policies are in place to help do our best to fulfill that goal. Fans in the stands must still be attentive at all times and these measures will provide security while also not distracting or detracting from the enjoyment of the game.” Key policies and updates are listed below. Additional policies and regulations are in place for the 2024 season. Please visit the Ballpark Rules section at swbrailriders.com for a complete list and more information. BAG POLICY Bags measuring 16 inches by nine inches by seven inches are permitted at PNC Field but are subject to a security check. Clear bags will be permitted at PNC Field in 2024, including clear backpacks. Fans may bring also medical bags and diaper bags of any size into the ballpark this season. CASHLESS POINTS OF SALE PNC Field will once again be a fully cashless facility in 2024. This includes all aspects of operation at the ballpark, including parking, ticketing, the SWB Team Store and the concession stands and bars. PNC Field will accept credit and debit cards. Concessions and merchandise stands also accept Apple Pay and Google Pay. Gift Cards can be purchased with cash or credit at the SWB Team Store and can be used within the store or at concession stands and portables around the ballpark. ENTRY & EXIT/ TICKETING RailRiders tickets are digital. Digital tickets must be shown to ballpark personnel upon request. Anyone who does not have a valid ticket will be removed from PNC Field immediately. A ticket grants access to public areas of PNC Field.Children aged two and under do not need a ticket Ballpark re-entry is permitted. PNC Field closes to the public 30 minutes after the final out, pending fireworks or special events after the game concludes. FAN CONDUCT Anyone using obscene language or engaging in conduct offensive to those around them will be asked by SWB RailRiders personnel to cease the conduct. If the problem persists, appropriate action will be taken, including but not limited to removal from the ballpark and fines. Anyone drinking alcohol under the legal age, using illegal drugs, or breaking any other laws will be subject to immediate removal from PNC Field and will be reported to proper authorities. Any guest perceived to be in an intoxicated or impaired state may be denied admission. Season Ticket Members will be held responsible for inappropriate conduct by individuals using their tickets. NETTING ENHANCEMENTS The RailRiders are installing expanded netting for the 2024 season. This expansion will replace the current protective netting and will enhance safety from foul pole to foul pole. All Minor League Baseball teams must be in compliance with this initiative set by Major League Baseball by the start of the 2025 season and the RailRiders have worked to have this infrastructure upgrade in place for the start of the new season. PARKING & TAILGATING PNC Field parking lots open two hours prior to first pitch and General Parking is $7 per vehicle in 2024. No vehicles are allowed to remain in PNC Field parking lot grounds overnight. Those vehicles will be subject to towing at the vehicle owner’s expense. Tailgating is allowed only in designated areas of the PNC Field parking lot. Only one parking space per vehicle is allowed. PET POLICY No pets will be allowed entry into PNC Field, except service animals and during specific events that have been designated as pet-friendly by SWB RailRiders management. On designated pet-friendly nights, pet owners must sign a waiver and are subject to seating restrictions. SMOKING POLICY PNC Field is a smoke-free facility. Designated smoking areas are available in three spots around PNC Field by exit points. Vaping is not permitted at PNC Field, except in designated smoking areas. Opening Day is March 29 in Buffalo and the home schedule starts Tuesday, April 2, at 6:35 P.M. Season tickets, mini plans and the flex plan are all available now. For more information on any of these policies or to purchase tickets for the 2024 season, contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.
Dale Carnegie Course to Offer Discount for Chamber Members to Attend Immersion Seminar The Dale Carnegie Course to Offer 10% Discount for all Chamber members to attend Immersion Seminar!Hello fellow chamber member: Professional development is exciting and essential for companies to thrive! With the challenges of 2024 still not entirely known, now is the time to prepare us and our teams!Who might you consider sending? The Dale Carnegie Course is a comprehensive learning journey that is suitable for those who yearn for professional growth. Based on his famous book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, this course provides the tools and strategies to better deal with challenging people and situations, and as a result, become more confident and effective in all aspects of life. Course Specifics:1. Strictly Business: The Dale Carnegie Immersion Seminar2. 3 Full Days – March 12-14 from 8:30 am – 5:003. Learning Objectives:4. Build Greater Self-Confidence5. Strengthen People Skills6. Enhance Communication Skills7. Develop Leadership Skills8. Reduce Stress and Improve Our Attitude Location – Hilton Garden Inn, 242 Highland Park Blvd. Wilkes-BarreVirtual Kickoff will be Mar. 5, 12-1:30, 90 minutesOriginal registration fee $2195 per person. Use 10% discount code enter DALE10 fee will be $1995 per person with discount applied. REGISTER If you have any questions or need assistance – please contact Rick Franks). 724-480-2221 or richard.franks@dalecarnegie.com
