Medical Professionals and Music Bring Colon Cancer Awareness A group of physicians who share a passion for both medical education and rock music will take the stage for a one-of-a-kind community concert, “Louder Than Cancer!,” Friday, March 27, at the Theater at North in Scranton. Doors open at 5 p.m. and is part of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preventive screenings. The educational event will feature Rockdoc and the Healers, a rock band made up of medical professionals and musicians who use music as a platform to spark conversations about health. In addition to live music, the evening will include educational information tables highlighting the importance of colorectal cancer screenings and connecting attendees with regional providers of whole-person primary health services. The idea for “Louder Than Cancer!” was conceptualized by Dr. Vikas Khurana, program director of The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Gastroenterology Fellowship Program. More than 20 years ago, Dr. Khurana along with Dr. Steve Eskin, now the lead singer of the rock band and a fellow gastroenterologist, dreamed of combining their passions for medicine with music. That vision is finally coming to fruition, grounded in a simple but powerful belief: music can make a deeper, more lasting impact than wordy teaching alone. The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education are the platinum sponsor of the event, reinforcing their shared commitment to prevention, education, and community well-being. Dr. Eskin talked about how music can help people take control of their wellbeing. “Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when it’s caught early, yet too many people delay or avoid screening… Music has a way of breaking down barriers. If we can get people in the door for a great rock show and leave them feeling empowered to take charge of their colon health, then we’ve done something truly meaningful,” Dr. Eskin said. Dr. Eskin will be joined on stage by Dr. Reese Hofstrand, a fellow physician in The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Gastroenterology Fellowship Program, along with the Giron brothers, rounding out the band’s high-energy lineup. The educational program and concert are being organized by Dr. Peter Iskander, also a fellow physician in The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s Gastroenterology Fellowship Program, who is leading efforts to blend entertainment with evidence-based health education. Tickets for “Louder Than Cancer!” are free and available through Eventbrite. While there is no cost to attend, audience members are asked to complete a brief educational survey about colon health as part of the program’s awareness initiative. Concertgoers will also have the opportunity to make a voluntary financial donation, with all proceeds from sponsorships and donations benefitting the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute. “We want the message to be clear: screening saves lives, and taking that first step doesn’t have to be intimidating,” Dr. Eskin said. For more information and to reserve your free tickets, visit Eventbrite and search for “Louder Than Cancer!” To donate, visit bit.ly/4cbJMQ2.
Johnson College Awarded Grant to Support RISE Students Johnson College has been awarded a $199,675 Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to support students enrolled in manufacturing programs through the College’s Readiness in Skilled Employment (RISE) initiative. The grant program’s mission is to work collaboratively with local manufacturers to identify and teach essential skills missing from entry-level applicants for existing or near-future open positions, engage youth or those with barriers in awareness-building activities related to career opportunities in manufacturing, and advance capacity for local or regional manufacturers. The funding will provide tuition assistance and critical wraparound support services for up to 15 RISE students pursuing manufacturing-focused education at Johnson College. Supported programs include Mechatronics Technology, Electronic Engineering Technology, Welding Technology, and Welding Fabrication and Manufacturing Technology. RISE, launched in 2021, is a workforce development program designed to help individuals gain technical training while receiving additional supports that remove barriers to education. The program primarily serves low-income students seeking sustainable career pathways and upward economic mobility. By addressing challenges such as transportation, childcare, and access to essential resources, RISE empowers students to focus on their education and long-term success. Grant-supported students will engage directly with regional manufacturing employers through industry-focused activities, including Lunch and Learn events held on the Johnson College campuses in Scranton and Hazle Township. These experiences build on the College’s strong industry partnerships, many led by alumni, and ensure that students explore career pathways, strengthen professional and soft skills, and receive an education aligned with current workforce needs. Community partners play an essential role in supporting RISE students throughout their educational journey. United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) provides coaching, ESL services, and assistance with barrier removal, while PA CareerLink supports workforce training through WIOA funding. The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) helps coordinate manufacturer visits and industry presentations. Manufacturing partners committed to the project include McGregor Industries, Power Rail, and Pride Mobility. Since its inception, RISE has supported 75 students across four cohorts, helping participants overcome obstacles and gain the skills needed for family-sustaining careers. With support from the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant, Johnson College will continue to expand access to education while strengthening the regional manufacturing workforce and economic vitality of Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about RISE, visit neparise.org. This program is funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Manufacturing Training to Career Grant program.
Circle Drive-in Creates New Newsletter The Circle Drive-in Movie Theater is launching a new, Circle Flea Fair Vendor newsletter in March. Stay up to date on: Vendor opportunities Special events Pop-ups & seasonal updates Important flea fair information Vendors, sign up & stay connected all season long by sending an email address & vendor name on Facebook at @CircleFleaFair
Crystal Windows Brings OPUS Masterpieces to the Market Award winning national manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems continued its product line expansion with the recent launch of the high-end aluminum OPUS lines. Introduction of the elite OPUS windows and doors catapults the firm into the upper echelons of window manufacturers. Three major model lines, each with several styles of windows and doors, are initially offered with the OPUS products, with more to be introduced in the coming months. “Born in Belgium, Built in America,” the Crystal OPUS products are the result of a strategic partnership with Reynaers, a leading European fenestration system designer and extruder. An “Official US Certified Fabricator for Reynaers”, the Crystal OPUS aluminum window and door fabrication as well as insulated glass assembly is all performed at Crystal’s American factories by its skilled American workforce. All three of the new OPUS window and door model lines, SL38, ML8 and MP, are noted for their narrow sightlines, slim but strong frames, robust high-performance thermal breaks and several designer options for frame profiles. With clean lines, crisp details, and precise finishes, each Crystal OPUS product is a work of art. The OPUS windows and doors are perfectly tailored for high-rise luxury properties, elite institutions, superior commercial buildings, as well as unique premium homes. From grand historic restorations and lofty towers to cutting-edge modern projects, the Crystal OPUS windows and doors are perfectly suited for all applications. “The introduction of the OPUS window and door product lines opens the door for Crystal to serve the highest tiers of the fenestration market,” said Steve Chen, CEO for Crystal. “This expansion of the product line means Crystal will truly be able to supply all types of projects with products that range from modest residential window replacement jobs to ultra sophisticated luxury high-rises and elite residences.” First among the three new Crystal OPUS lines are the 3-⅞” jamb depth Crystal SL38 aluminum models. With a slim design and narrow sightlines, its minimalist aesthetic can replicate the iconic industrial look of steel frame windows. Available styles include fixed, casement, hopper, awning, and a terrace door, with a choice of four frame profiles: functional, classic, cubic, and ferro. The SL38 window products are top performers across the board. The casement window is rated AW-PG100. Polyamide insulating thermal struts provide outstanding performance with U-values as low as 0.23 with double glass IGUs and 0.16 for triple glass IGUs. Sound attenuation ratings are 44 STC and 35 OITC. The Crystal SL38 aluminum terrace door has a 4-5∕16” frame depth and is CW-PG40 rated. Thermal performance achieves U-values of 0.30 with double glass and 0.25 with triple glazed IGUs. Acoustic ratings are STC of 38 and OITC of 34. Available with several frame profiles, the SL38 terrace door also offers a “zero threshold” option. The new Crystal OPUS ML8 aluminum windows and doors have a 3-7∕16” jamb. This flagship quality model line offers great thermal and acoustic performance, as well as countless design options. The Crystal ML8 line strikes the right balance between sleek aesthetics and strong function. All the Crystal ML8 windows and doors use polyamide insulating strut thermal break technology. The ML8 windows are available in several styles – fixed, in-swing casement, project-out hopper, project-in awning, and even a center-pivot – with four frame profile options. Key aesthetic features of the ML8 window line include hidden operating sash sightlines, concealed hinges and drainage, and glass corner options. Outstanding structural, thermal, and acoustic characteristics are demonstrated with an AW-PG70 rating for the casement style, U-values of 0.23 with double glass and 0.16 with triple glass, and STC of 50 and OITC of 44. The aluminum ML8 swing terrace door offers numerous great performance, function, and aesthetic features. Available in sizes up to 5’-7” wide and 10’ tall, the ML8 terrace door utilizes a “soft operation” integrated closer in the head, concealed hinges, and low and zero ADA thresholds. Optionally, the door’s pivot point can be adjusted out from the jamb for unique functionality and style. The AW-PG70 rated terrace door’s thermal performance can reach U-values of 0.26 with double glass and 0.20 with triple glass IGUs. Sound attenuation performance ratings are similarly excellent with STC of 43 and OITC of 35. The new Crystal OPUS MP Lift-Slide door is rated AW-PG60, has a 7-⅛” jamb, offers outstanding strength and performance, and is readily compatible with the ML8 products. The door features a zero threshold, multiple nesting panels and tracks, and can be fabricated in sizes up to 9’-10” wide and 12’ tall. Insulated or monolithic glass sizes range from ⅝” to 2-⅜” thick. The polyamide thermal strut design can deliver U-values of 0.30 for double glass and 0.21 for triple glass IGUs. With top strength, durability, thermal performance, and using premium recycled aluminum extrusion materials, the MP door is an exemplary sustainability performer. The Crystal OPUS model line frames are currently available in a variety of colors in a standard AAMA 2604 powder coat finish, with an optional upgrade to AAMA 2605. Future plans call for the color choice, for large quantity orders, to be expanded to hundreds of colors. All finish coatings meet strict European standards and receive the “Qualicoat Class 2 Coating Certified” official quality label. The Crystal OPUS products receive a full US warranty from Reynaers, which is only available through US-based certified fabricators like Crystal Windows. As such, the installed OPUS windows and doors receive on-site and virtual technical support from Crystal and the US-based Reynaers technical assistance teams. Additionally, Crystal supports design and construction professionals through all stages of their OPUS projects, from initial consultation for concept, design, and product selection, all the way to job delivery, installation training, and inspection.
Misericordia University Offers New Major Misericordia University is excited to offer a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, designed to prepare students for careers in one of today’s fastest-growing and most innovative fields. This interdisciplinary program combines technology, data, and problem-solving to help students develop the skills needed to analyze complex systems, create intelligent solutions, and adapt to an ever-evolving digital landscape. Students will gain hands-on experience while exploring the ethical, practical, and real-world applications of artificial intelligence across industries. To learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, visit:https://www.misericordia.edu/artificial-intelligence
RailRiders’ Tickets are on Sale Now Single-game tickets are on sale now, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders have set their 2026 daily promotions and fireworks nights for the upcoming season, headlined by new additions, old favorites and Saturday night fireworks for a total of 20 pyrotechnic extravaganzas to light the sky this year. The RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, start their home schedule on April 7 against the Durham Bulls, the first of 75 home games at PNC Field this year. As always, each day of the week will feature a promotion or an offer that appeals to fans of all ages. RailRiders’ President and General Manager, Shawn Reilly, is excited for the 2026 season and the new additions being added.“This season is going to be an actual blast… By adding Saturday fireworks to honor our nation’s 250th and adjusting our game times to be more convenient than ever, we’re making it easier for fans to join the celebration. We’ve listened to our fans. You want more fireworks, great offers and easier ways to get to PNC Field, and we’re delivering it all,” Reilly said.Beginning on May 15, every Friday home game will be followed by the pyrotechnic showcase. Saturday fireworks shows have been added to the slate in 2026, starting on May 30. As part of America’s semiquincentennial celebration, post-game fireworks follow RailRiders’ games on July 2 and 3. An extended fireworks extravaganza follows the Independence Day game against the Norfolk Tides, courtesy of the PA Lottery. New for 2026, kids can run the bases after every home game (excluding the May 13 & 27 STEM School Days and weather permitting, of course). Dogs are welcome in the lawn and bleachers at PNC Field on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays (excluding the STEM School Days and July 2). See below for the 2026 daily promotions. TwosDay – Get $2 hot dogs courtesy of Sahlen’s all game long. Fans 21 and older can enjoy $2 16 oz. Coors Light cans for two hours after gates open, presented by LT Verrastro. Winning Wednesday – Enjoy great prize giveaways throughout the course of each Wednesday home game all season long. When the RailRiders WIN, fans will receive an outfield box seat ticket voucher good for any remaining Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday 2026 home game. Thrilling Thursday – From May 28 to the end of August, Thursdays will feature giveaways for the first 1,000 fans. PLUS OF COURSE – Thirsty Thursdays – The most refreshing night of the week offers $2 16 oz. Michelob Ultra bottles for fans 21 and older, courtesy of Northeast Eagle, available for two hours after gates open, and $2 Pepsi pours all night long. First Responder Friday – Thanks to Kost Tire & Auto, first responders have the opportunity to receive free tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. One hundred complimentary tickets are given out for each Friday home game. Visit the First Responder Friday page on the Community tab at swbrailriders.com and fill out the form to request up to four free tickets.First responders, including police, fire and EMTs, can also show an ID at the PNC Field box office on Friday nights to save $5 per ticket (limited to four tickets per game). Sensational Saturday – Starting on May 2, Saturday RailRiders games will once again feature a great giveaway, appearance or theme. Giveaways, themes, appearances and additional details will be announced soon. Saturday night skyblasts start on May 30 and run the remainder of the season! Geisinger Sunday Family FunDay – We wrap up homestands on Sundays with a Geisinger Family FunDay! Gates open at 12:15 P.M. and kids can play catch in the outfield from 12:30 to 12:50 P.M. Try the new Sunday value meal – CHAMP’S Family Feast! Feed the crew with this shareable meal that features chicken tenders and over a pound of fries in a souvenir batting helmet, plus four 16 oz. fountain drinks, all for only $40 and only available on Sundays! After the final out, children 12 and younger can, of course, run the bases, capping the best weeks with the whole family at PNC Field. Fireworks begin on May 15 and run after every Friday home game for the rest of the year! All daily promotions are subject to change and restrictions may apply. For more information, please visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-2255.
WVIA Honored with Five Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) Awards Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) recognized WVIA with five Excellence in Broadcasting Awards. The honors underscore WVIA’s ongoing commitment to producing high-quality local programming that informs, educates and reflects the communities it serves. WVIA received awards spanning documentary, public affairs, feature storytelling, marketing, and public service campaigns, highlighting the breadth of the station’s work and its investment in meaningful local content. The winning programs explored themes ranging from refugee and immigrant experiences and belonging, to access to resources for older adults and aging in place, aviation history, and the importance of judicial independence, and all topics with deep relevance to local audiences. President and CEO of WVIA, Carla McCabe said these projects highlight real people and experiences in the area. “We’re honored that the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters recognizes the value of this work. These awards belong to our viewers, listeners, members, and community partners who make this storytelling possible,” McCabe said. 2026 PAB Award Wins Outstanding Documentary ProgramMaking NEPA Home Contributors: Kara Washington, Al Monelli, Ron Andruscavage, Ben Payavis Outstanding Television Station Marketing & PromosMaking NEPA Home — Official Trailer Contributors: Kara Washington, Holly Biondo, Chris Zellers, Caitlin Mackiewicz, Jim Jennings, Ben Payavis II, Carla McCabe Outstanding Television Public Service Announcement/CampaignAging Together in PA Contributors: Kara Washington, Holly Biondo, Chris Zellers, Caitlin Mackiewicz, Jim Jennings, Ben Payavis II, Carla McCabe Outstanding Television Feature Story/Report/SeriesWings of the Past: Discovering the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum Contributors: John Alaimo, Kris Hendrickson Outstanding Television Public Affairs Program/Program SeriesWVIA Conversations for the Common Good: Safeguarding Justice Through Judicial Independence Contributors: Tracy Matisak, Ben Payavis II Chief Content Officer at WVIA, Ben Payavis II, talked about how the awards reflect on WVIA. “These awards reflect the care our team puts into telling stories that matter locally… From in-depth documentaries to public affairs discussions and community-centered campaigns, our focus is always on creating content that informs and connects people across our region,” Payavis II said. Kara Washington, producer, director and editor of Making NEPA Home, expressed gratitude because of the award. “This acknowledgment means so much to our team and affirms the power of telling meaningful, local stories,” Washington said. Winners will be recognized at the 2026 PAB Excellence in Broadcasting Awards Luncheon at the Sheraton Harrisburg/Hershey Hotel in Harrisburg on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:30 AM. A full list of winners will be available on the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters website.
SBA Business Smart Entrepreneurship Series Starts in March The United States Small Business Association can help entrepreneurs start and grow. From makers and creators, involved in tech, or pursuing a passion SBA can help business ventures. Join the no-cost Spring SBA Business Smart Entrepreneurship Series either in-person or virtually. The sessions will start by discussing home-based businesses and then expand to generating a business plan and becoming credit ready. All workshops are on Wednesdays from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET. Pre-registration is required for each workshop – follow the links to register. Receive a Certificate of Completion for taking a workshop. In-person location is at the Stourbridge Tech Hub, Room 2040, 646 W. Park St., Honesdale, PA 18431 The webinar sessions are not recorded; participants can ask questions through chat with a real time response. Only attendees (in-person and virtual) will receive a copy of the slide deck. Email sonia.smith@sba.gov with any questions. Starting a Home-Based Business in Pennsylvania – Wednesday, March 11, 2026 Most entrepreneurs start with a home-based business that creates, delivers, or improves on a product or service. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s PA Business One-Stop Shop will take the guesswork out of business filings, applications, and registrations, so you can focus on running a successful business. In-person: https://www.sba.gov/event/80395 Virtual: https://www.sba.gov/event/80392 Business Smart Toolkit: Ready, Set & Go! Module 1 – Wednesday, March 18, 2026 Business Smart Toolkit Module 1 helps new and aspiring entrepreneurs launch a business idea by understanding the 10 steps to start a business. In-person: https://www.sba.gov/event/80413 Virtual: https://www.sba.gov/event/80409 Business Smart Toolkit: Ready, Set & Go! Module 2 – Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Business Smart Toolkit Module 2 helps entrepreneurs understand credit-ready essentials, financing options, and loan requirements. In-person: https://www.sba.gov/event/80416 Virtual: https://www.sba.gov/event/80415
Central Penn College Expands Program with New Scranton Site Central Penn College has partnered with Century Dental Associates in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to offer an additional instructional site for its Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certificate Program. The EFDA program is a six-month, blended program designed for working dental professionals. Coursework is completed fully online, with once-a-week, in-person Saturday labs focused on hands-on clinical skills. With the addition of the Scranton instructional site, students in Northeastern Pennsylvania can now complete required lab work closer to home, eliminating the need to travel to Central Pennsylvania. This expansion reflects Central Penn College’s continued commitment to increasing access, flexibility, and convenience for students pursuing advanced credentials in high-demand healthcare fields. Century Dental Associates brings decades of clinical experience and a strong reputation for patient-centered care to this partnership, providing an ideal real-world learning environment for EFDA students. Known for its commitment to advanced dental techniques, modern technology, and professional excellence, Century Dental Associates offers a hands-on setting that reinforces practical skill development and industry standards. This collaboration ensures students gain meaningful clinical experience while benefiting from a trusted dental practice deeply rooted in the Northeastern Pennsylvania community. For more information about the Expanded Function Dental Assistant program, visit centralpenn.edu/EFDA.
Geisinger expansion strengthens commitment to Schuylkill County Geisinger is strengthening its commitment to offering access to high-quality health care options to the residents of Schuylkill County with a $2.5 million expansion of Geisinger Cancer Center Pottsville. The expanded facility will add new services, support staff and treatment space, resulting in more access to care for the community and surrounding region. Chief administrative officer of Geisinger’s central region, Alex Zimmerman, talked about how this expansion made him feel as a lifelong Schuylkill County resident. “Geisinger is committed to enhancing care for our neighbors across the region… I’m proud to see this expansion as it will allow more of our friends and family to receive these critical services locally, without having to travel,” Zimmerman said. The cancer center, at 1 E. Norwegian St. in Pottsville, will gain nearly 2,000 square feet of space on top of the existing 3,760-square-foot footprint. To make room for the expansion, a tenant will be relocated to the second floor of the building. The cancer center will occupy the entire first floor. Work on the expansion will be completed in phases to minimize interruptions. Services will remain open for the duration of the project. The facility provides hematology and radiation oncology services, infusion and medicine infusion. With an aging population and earlier cancer diagnoses on the rise, the need for comprehensive cancer care is increasing, underscoring the importance of investing in modern, expanded treatment facilities. The added space will expand upon the services offered and doubles the cancer center’s patient care areas, including new exam rooms and infusion spaces, along with a new dedicated blood draw area. It also adds staff and office spaces. The Pottsville cancer center opened in 2018 and complements the services Geisinger offers throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania, including at Geisinger Medical Center and the Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. The project also demonstrates Geisinger’s continued commitment to local outpatient cancer services, in conjunction with Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City, which opened in 2025, and current construction of a new cancer center in Lewisburg, expected to open later this year. Rajiv Panikkar, M.D., chair of the Geisinger Cancer Institute, said the expansion will allow more patients to stay closer to home while they are going through treatment. “Our cancer program features top-tier physicians and advanced practice providers who work with comprehensive multidisciplinary care teams to establish treatment plans, while also providing the latest technologies and clinical trials for our patients,” Panikkar said. Geisinger offers a comprehensive portfolio of outpatient services to serve the health needs of residents of Schuylkill County, including family medicine, women’s health, pediatric subspecialties, laboratory and imaging. The cancer center expansion project is in design and work should begin later this year. Completion is expected in 2027. To learn more about cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute.
