The Dime Bank Celebrates Employee Anniversaries Demonstrating its deep appreciation for employee loyalty, The Dime Bank hosts an annual dinner to honor those reaching five-year career milestones. The 2025 event shone a spotlight on 23 individuals, from thirty years of dedication to five years. These anniversary celebrations are a cornerstone of The Dime Bank’s progressive culture, a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the loyalty and effort shown by its employees. It’s an opportunity to commemorate their achievements and unwavering commitment to The Dime Bank. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich commented, “Our employees are the heart of what makes The Dime Bank unique and fosters its positive spirit. Their respect, dedication, and loyalty are the foundation for exceptional customer service, and each employee plays an indispensable role in The Dime Bank’s continued success. The bank proudly acknowledges and thanks them for their dedication and hard work.” Pictured left to right: Front row: 25 years of service- Deborah Unflat; 20 years of service- Bryan Rupp, Amy Burke, Tom Didato, Donna Vogel. Second row: 15 years of service- Chase Holl, Meghan Gibbons, Victoria DiGiuseppe, Jaimie Fiebiger; 10 years of service- Robert Karoscik, Tina Geer, Nancy Mead, Viktoria Beiter, Gary Schemel. Third row: 5 years of service- Kevin Urian, Randi Yonke, Nicholas Pomroy. Not Pictured: 30 years of service- Julene McGraw; 25 years- Suzanne Mansfield; 20 years- Mary Carol Hanis; 10 years- Cheryl Holmquist, Michael Borick, Diane Christopher-Riefler.
Greater Scranton YMCA Helps Combat Child Hunger with Summer Food Program As summer approaches, many families look forward to vacations and outdoor activities, but for others, putting food on the table is a daily struggle. The latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reveals that 47.4 million people, including 13.8 million children, faced food insecurity last year—a rise of 3.2 million from the year before. As the summer season arrives, it’s crucial to remember that access to nutritious meals is not guaranteed for all, highlighting the need for stronger support programs. According to the USDA, over 30 million kids receive free or reduced-cost meals thanks to the National School Lunch Program. However, once the school year ends, only 15 in 100 eligible kids have access to free, healthy meals and snacks over summer break, leaving many children to go without during the summer months. The Y is working to fill that gap and will help keep children healthy and well-nourished this summer, ensuring that kids reach their full potential. Children enrolled in Early Childhood Education Programs, including daycare, preschool and summer day camp, will receive both food and fun through nutritious meals and snacks, while also enjoying recreational and learning activities aimed at keeping bodies and minds active. Y sites across the country, including the Greater Scranton YMCA, will offer the Summer Food Program. While daycare and preschool operate year-round, the Summer Day Camp Program runs from June 9th through August 22nd. Thanks to the Summer Food Service Program and our sponsor, the Scranton School District, campers will receive a healthy lunch daily. This summer, the Greater Scranton YMCA is estimating to feed 225 children in Summer Day Camp and 250 in daycare and preschool here in our community. To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Summer Day Camp, Early Childhood Education and Food Program, contact Tressa Capoccia at tcapoccia@gsymca.org or visit www.greaterscrantonymca.org. “Hunger has a lasting impact on the development of children,” says Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Giving kids access to nutrition-filled meals allows kids to focus, learn and become empowered to reach their full potential. The Y’s Summer Food Program helps make sure kids can enjoy healthy and delicious meals and snacks all summer long.” During the Greater Scranton YMCA’s 2023-2024 fiscal year, 69,490 meals and snacks were served to children enrolled in summer camp, after school and early childhood education programs. This year marks the program’s thirteenth year and the Y’s ongoing commitment to helping kids achieve their full potential by nurturing their physical, mental and social- emotional development. During the school year, the Greater Scranton YMCA also serves healthy snacks in its afterschool program to provide kids with nourishment and academic enrichment.
Johnson College to Host Transfer Day Johnson College is holding a Transfer Day on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on its Scranton and Hazleton campuses. The College is encouraging current college students who are interested in changing the direction of their education and ultimately their career path to register for this event. To attend Transfer Day at one of Johnson College’s campuses, students must register online at Johnson.edu/transfer or contact the College’s enrollment team at enroll@johnson.edu or (570)-702-8856. Students will meet with Enrollment, Financial Aid, Career Services, and Counseling and Disability Services representatives. In addition, staff members from the Registrar’s Office will be on hand for transfer credit analyses and to review potential schedules for the upcoming semester. Students will learn why Johnson College is the leader in hands-on education, how it exposes students to industry from day one, and how its two-year degree programs, focusing on careers in in-demand industries, have the highest return on investment in the short term.
Marywood University Faculty Member Publishes Two New Books Marywood faculty member Alexander Dawoody, Ph.D., Director of Marywood University’s Ph.D. Program in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies, recently published two new books, The Quantum Metaphors and History of Iraq: From Inventing Civilization to the Modern Failed State. The Quantum Metaphors This book discusses the use of quantum and chaos theories as metaphors in the social sciences. It emphasizes intentionality, flux, uncertainty, emergence, relations, non-linearism, irrationality, and process. History of Iraq: From Inventing Civilization to the Modern Failed State This book examines the history and political trajectories in Iraq, from early Mesopotamia and the invention of civilization in cities such as Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Nineveh, to the creation of writing, astronomy, laws, scribes, administration, city-states, and the early agrarian settled communities. The book also observes the impact of Islamic conquests, the golden era of the Abbasid Caliphate, the Mongol invasion, and the negative impact of the Ottoman-Persian rifts on the population. Additionally, History of Iraq observes the creation of the Iraqi modern state of Iraq by Great Britain in 2020, the subsequent political regimes that governed it, the country’s ethnic and religious make up, the Iran-Iraq War, the two Gul Wars, the U.S. invasion in 2003, and the current political dynamics of a dysfunctional and corrupt administrative state struggling to maintain the integrity of a failed state from disintegrating into separate fiefdoms divided on ethnic and sectarian lines. Finally, the book examines the effect of Iraq’s future disintegration on the Middle East and the competing regional and international forces. Both books can be found online and purchased on Amazon.
The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute’s Spirit of Hope Event Raises Over $48,000 The Spirit of Hope Celebration Board of Ambassadors presented the Cancer Institute with a $48,540 check from their 2024 Spirit of Hope event. “On behalf of the Ambassadors who truly exhibit the ‘Spirit of Hope’ we are thrilled to present you with these funds to help individuals receive early detection and free screenings,” said Leo Vergnetti, Chairman of the Board of Ambassadors. The Board of Ambassadors, a group of community volunteers, hosted the twelfth annual Spirit of Hope Celebration in November 2024 at Mohegan Pennsylvania. More than 300 people were in attendance. The event featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music and a silent auction. Peter A. Danchak was the Tribute to Courage Honoree. Proceeds from the event benefited the Cancer Institute’s Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program. This program helps low income and underinsured individuals in northeast Pennsylvania get their recommended colorectal, breast, cervical, and lung cancer screenings. The 2025 Spirit of Hope Celebration will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Mohegan Pennsylvania. More details can be found at www.spiritofhopecelebration.org. 2024 Spirit of Hope Celebration Front row, seated from left to right: Amanda E. Marchegiani, Community Relations Coordinator, Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, Maria Donahue, Karen M. Saunders, President, Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, Leo Vergnetti, Spirit of Hope Board of Ambassadors Chair, Laura Toole, Executive Vice President, Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, Vanessa Vergnetti Thomas, Robin Long and Hon. Tom Munley. Second row, standing from left to right: Casey Quinn, Angela Rempe Jones, Tammy Saunders, Marta Gomes, Dino Campitelli, AAC, Vito Pizzo, Vince Scarpetta, Nevin Gerber, Kristie Hynoski, Jim Gorman, Mark Mesko, Bill Davis, Matt Beynon, Joe Ferguson, Nick Colangelo. Ph.D., and Pat Sicilio. Ambassadors Absent from the Photo: Clarence Baltrusaitis, Tom Blaskiewicz, Jim & Susan Brady, Brigitte Baum, Richard P. Conaboy, Edward Cosgrove, Tom DePietro, PharmD, Traci Fosnot, Greg Gagorik, Meghan Gagorik, JoAnn Romano Hallesky, John Heil, Jennifer Heil, Charles C. Jefferson, John Mack, Linda Marino-Brooks, Joe Mattioli, IV, Brian McQuestion, Philip Medico, Dan Meuser, Dana D’Angelo Morris, David Nape, Christopher Peters, MD, William F. Rinaldi, John P. Rodgers, Esq., P. Richard Scheller, Frank Sepko, Dr. Steven J. Syzdlowski, Joe Van Wie, Tony Vergnetti, Sonya Eddings, Patty Vergnetti, Mary Erwine, and Atty. Charles J. Volpe.
PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Results of Unclaimed Property Auction More than $468,000 in proceeds will be held in perpetuity for rightful owners to claim Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced today that Treasury’s spring unclaimed property auction brought in more than $468,000. All proceeds are carefully logged by Treasury and will remain available for the rightful owners to claim no matter how much time passes. “Treasury’s first goal is always to return items in our vault to the rightful owners,” Treasurer Garrity said. “But eventually we do have to auction items to make room for incoming property. I’m incredibly pleased this was another successful auction, and I encourage everyone to check for unclaimed property at least once a year by visiting our website, patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property.” More than 5,500 items were sold during the online auction last spring. Items not sold at auction, or those not paid for by a winning bidder, are returned to Treasury to be listed in future auctions. Treasury partners with Pook & Pook, Inc., of Downingtown for auctioneer and appraisal services. “It was a pleasure to once again partner with the Pennsylvania Treasury on this important initiative,” said Cindy Hauer, Auctioneer at Pook & Pook, Inc. “The strong results achieved during our March 26th and 27th auctions underscore the continued public interest in these remarkable offerings of unclaimed coins and jewelry. We’re proud to support the Treasury’s mission – not only to reunite unclaimed property with its rightful owners but also to ensure enduring financial benefit when that’s not possible. We look forward to our next collaborative effort, another Coins & Jewelry auction scheduled for October 29th.” Some of the high-price items sold in the auction include: 14K yellow gold chain, 115.90 dwt sold for $7,400; 14K gold Knights Templar presentation medal with engraving, 90.6 dwt sold for $5,800; 22K yellow gold bangle bracelets, 44.8 dwt sold for $4,600; Switzerland Helvetia fine gold proof set including 1 ozt, ½ ozt, ¼ ozt, and 1/10 ozt sold for $4,300; and 18K yellow gold jewelry to include two bangle bracelets, 64.7 dwt sold for $4,060. Treasury expects to receive $402,772.40 after Pook & Pook receives its 14 percent commission. The profits from the auction were more than $32,000 over the high estimate. Treasury’s fall 2024 auction generated more than $605,000, breaking a record for the most ever generated by an unclaimed property auction in Pennsylvania. Prior to any item being auctioned, Treasury searches for the rightful owner for at least three years. Military decorations and memorabilia received as tangible unclaimed property are never auctioned, and Treasury will continue to search for the Veteran who earned them or their family. More than $5 billion in unclaimed property is available to be claimed. More than one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed unclaimed property, and the average claim is worth more than $1,000. To learn more about unclaimed property or to search Treasury’s database, visit patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property.
The Swiftwater to Host Job Fair at Desaki Join a Premier Hospitality Team Redefining Service in the Poconos The Swiftwater, a premier concierge hotel redefining the essence of hospitality in the Pocono Mountains, is thrilled to announce its upcoming Job Fair on June 9th from 9 AM to 6 PM at the vibrant Desaki Restaurant. This is an exciting opportunity for passionate, service-driven individuals to join a luxury hospitality team committed to excellence, elegance, and unforgettable guest experiences. Now Hiring for the Following Positions:✔ Front Desk – Greet guests with warmth and professionalism, ensuring smooth arrivals and departures.✔ Night Audit (Part-Time) – Maintain overnight operations and guest account accuracy with precision and care.✔ Housekeeping (Day, Swing, and Overnight Shifts) – Keep guest rooms immaculate, comfortable, and inviting.✔ Server – Provide a high-end dining experience through exceptional service and attention to detail.✔ Overnight Houseman – Maintain public areas and assist with guest needs during overnight hours, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. ✔ Barista: Prepares and serves coffee and beverages while providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced café environment. ✔ Prep Cook: Assists in kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and maintaining a clean, organized workspace. Candidates should bring updated resumes and be ready for on-the-spot interviews. Whether you’re exploring a new career path or looking to grow within the hospitality industry, this is your chance to join one of the region’s most distinctive teams. Event Details:Desaki RestaurantMonday, June 9th9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Take the first step toward a rewarding career with The Swiftwater—where service meets sophistication. For more information, contact: info@TheSwiftwater.com
The Wright Center Teams with Community Partners for Skin Cancer Screening Clinic The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, in partnership with Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates and the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI), hosted its inaugural skin cancer screening clinic on May 17, providing screenings to more than 60 individuals at its community health center in Scranton. Clinicians from Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates teamed up with 10 Internal Medicine resident physicians from The Wright Center to screen 64 people for skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed annually. The clinic identified positive findings in 21 patients, with 15 requiring biopsies and six needing cryotherapy. Following the clinic, a nurse from The Wright Center contacted each patient’s primary care physician to ensure appropriate follow-up care. “We’re thrilled the clinic was so well-attended and that we were able to help so many participants who have suspected skin cancer,” said Dr. Michael J. O’Donnell of Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates. “Clinics like these are so important to community health, because we know that early detection can significantly increase survival rates.” Dr. O’Donnell added that he was happy to provide The Wright Center’s medical residents a hands-on learning opportunity about how to screen patients for skin cancer so they can better serve their patients now and in the future. Dr. Kirelos Younan, a second-year internal medicine resident physician at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, organized the program after hearing about two local cases: a young patient who died after being diagnosed with melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and another patient who survived after doctors detected the melanoma early. He called the clinic an incredible success. “While we anticipated strong interest, the turnout exceeded expectations,” Dr. Younan said. “We saw patients across various age groups with identifiable skin cancers, reinforcing the urgent need for accessible dermatologic services in our community.” Medical residents also appreciated the chance to work with staff at Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates. “The dermatology team, led by Dr. O’Donnell, provided exceptional education in distinguishing between benign and cancerous lesions. We also learned how to use a dermatoscope, which will undoubtedly be a valuable tool in our daily clinical practice,” Dr. Younan said. “Beyond clinical skills, we had the opportunity to navigate discussions regarding risk factor modification to prevent skin cancer.” In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May, the event focused on promoting early detection and prevention, encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to protect their skin health. NRCI hosted an informational table during the clinic, offering multilingual materials on skin cancer types, risk reduction strategies, and self-examination techniques, among other key topics. “Patients expressed their appreciation for the event and information provided,” said Karen Ryczak, RN, NRCI’s vice president of programs and surveillance. “We also had the opportunity to discuss our Cancer Screening Navigation Program with staff.” The program works to remove barriers to screenings for breast, cervical, colon, and lung cancer, she explained. The Wright Center has participated in the program for more than a decade, helping thousands of patients access critical health care services. For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-209-0019. Skin cancer screening 1: Dr. Michael J. O’Donnell, left, with Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates, examines Lisa Yerka at a skin cancer screening clinic held at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton. Drs. Kirelos Younan and Sandra Rabat, Internal Medicine resident physicians from The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, observe the examination. Skin cancer screening 2: Dr. Mark Marsili, seated, retired from Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates, examines Joan Welby for signs of skin cancer, as, from left, Drs. Taimoor Nasir and Tushar Abhinav, Internal Medicine resident physicians with The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, use the clinic as a learning experience. The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton hosted the inaugural skin cancer clinic on May 17 and provided screenings to more than 60 people. Skin cancer screening 3: Dr. Michael J. O’Donnell of Lackawanna Valley Dermatology Associates examines Vanessa Bonevich at a skin cancer screening clinic on May 17 at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, as from left, Drs. Srikar Bathi and Kavitha Singaraval, Internal Medicine resident physicians with The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, and Michael Bonevich watch the exam and learn from it. The clinic identified positive findings in 21 patients, with 15 requiring biopsies and six needing cryotherapy.
G.R. Noto President AJ Palazzari Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Company G.R. Noto Electrical Construction proudly recognizes the 30-year anniversary of its President, AJ Palazzari. Since joining the company in 1995 as an apprentice, Palazzari has been instrumental in transforming G.R. Noto into a forward-thinking leader in the electrical construction industry. Palazzari’s journey from hands-on fieldwork to executive leadership reflects a deep understanding of both the technical and operational sides of the business. Working early on alongside his father, he developed not only trade expertise but also a lasting commitment to quality, discipline, and leadership by example. Over the past three decades, Palazzari has led strategic initiatives to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Under his leadership, G.R. Noto has adopted cutting-edge tools for design, estimation, and jobsite management—reducing downtime, increasing precision, and maximizing client value. Reflecting on this milestone, Palazzari shared: “I acknowledge all of my predecessors, colleagues and mentors. I owe my craft to you! As we charter this new age of construction, I want to express my gratitude to the entire team we have currently, from the office staff to the field operation. I could not be more impressed with each of you for your hard work and dedication. I’m proud to join the 30-year CLUB!” Technology has become a cornerstone of Palazzari’s vision for the company. G.R. Noto continues to invest in the latest electrical construction innovations, including energy-efficient solutions and smart building systems. These advancements reflect the company’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends while remaining environmentally responsible. In addition to his focus on innovation, Palazzari places strong emphasis on employee development, safety, and retention. He has cultivated a workplace culture centered on respect, accountability, and long-term growth. Staff training programs, safety protocols, and performance support systems have all been expanded under his leadership, helping G.R. Noto maintain its reputation for excellence in both service and workplace environment. Outside of his professional role, AJ Palazzari is a devoted husband and father of four. His leadership is shaped not only by industry experience but also by his dedication to family, community involvement, and service to others.
