Scranton Area Community Foundation To Host Community Celebration The Scranton Area Community Foundation will host its 2025 Annual Community Celebration, “Celebrating Community: A Year of Impact, Partnership, and Possibility,” on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Foundation’s new home in the historic Century Club of Scranton, located at 612 Jefferson Avenue. The Foundation’s signature year-end event brings together donors, fundholders, partners, nonprofit leaders, and community members to celebrate the generosity that strengthens Northeastern Pennsylvania. The evening will highlight key milestones from the past year, recognize meaningful partnerships, and share stories of impact made possible through charitable giving. “This celebration is an opportunity to honor the people and organizations who make our region stronger every day,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “The progress we’ve made in 2025—from transformative grants to strategic community initiatives—is a direct reflection of our partners’ generosity and commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.” Guests will enjoy live music, hors d’oeuvres, and meaningful conversation during an opening networking hour beginning at 5:00 p.m. Dinner stations and refreshments will be available. A brief program will follow at 6:00 p.m., featuring stories of collaboration, progress, and the possibilities ahead for 2026. The event also offers attendees the opportunity to: Hear inspiring stories of impact made possible by donor generosity Connect with fellow supporters, partners, and community leaders Celebrate shared accomplishments from 2025 Look ahead to new opportunities for partnership in the coming year The Annual Community Celebration is free to attend, though registration is required. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Guests are kindly asked to RSVP by Sunday, November 30, at www.safdn.org. Event Details Scranton Area Community Foundation 2025 Annual Community Celebration “Celebrating Community: A Year of Impact, Partnership, and Possibility” Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. – Networking, dinner stations, and refreshments 6:00 p.m. – Program Location: Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club (612 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton)
My Benefit Advisor: State Mandated Benefits As the American workplace continues to evolve, so too does the legal and cultural expectation that employers support their employees during times of illness, injury, or family needs. One of the most significant shifts in employee benefits policy in recent years is the emergence and expansion of state-mandated-disability insurance and paid leave programs. These mandates require businesses to offer income replacement benefits for employees who are unable to work due to non-work-related medical conditions, family caregiving responsibilities, or childbirth. The challenge for benefit consultants is to work with employers not only in maintaining compliance but also in managing the financial and administrative complexities that arise from these evolving laws. As the legislative environment continues to shift, particularly with the possibility of future federal mandates, organizations must remain agile and informed. By working closely with their benefit consultants in order to coordinate efforts with insurance carriers and legal advisors, business owners can better navigate the complexity of disability and state-mandated benefits while delivering valuable support to their workforce. My Benefit Advisor is accessible to The Chamber’s members as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit gscc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.
Geisinger Serves 3,300 Meals at Veteran Appreciation Dinners To thank local veterans for their service,Geisinger served 3,300 meals during drive-through veteran appreciation dinners at 12 locations across its service area on Thursday, Nov. 6. The dinners were provided at no cost to U.S. military veterans and their guests. Meals were provided in Bloomsburg, Danville, Jersey Shore, Lewistown, Mifflintown, Mount Pocono, Muncy, Pittston, Scranton, Shamokin, State College and Wilkes-Barre. Members of Geisinger’s executive leadership team, regional leaders and volunteers attended the event to hand out meals to veterans. Members of the leadership team, along with staff, distributed the meals with gratitude for the veterans’ selflessness and sacrifice. Geisinger Volunteer Services also partnered with local elementary schools to provide veterans with homemade cards and notes from students. GSWB Volunteers HCP Volunteers GCMC Volunteers Geisinger Mount Pocono Volunteers
Circle Drive-In Releases Weekend Schedule THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20TH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22ND, & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23RD Screen One: “Wicked: For Good” (2025 – PG) at 6:30 PMScreen Two: “The Running Man” (2025 – R) at 6:45 PM Gates & Box Office open at 5:30 PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23RD CIRCLE GIANT FLEA FAIR from 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Vendor Gates at 5:00 AM) New vendors are always welcome, no pre-registration required! Vendors are invited to come out and sell their crafts, artisan items, homemade products, gently used treasures & more – every Sunday! Learn more at circledrive-in/fleafair24. HOLIDAY GIFT CARD SALE UNTIL SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7TH!! AVAILABLE ONLINE ONLY! Purchase 1 $25 Gift Card & get 1 Free Small Popcorn Voucher Purchase 1 $50 Gift Card & get 2 Free Small Popcorn Vouchers Purchase 2 $25 Gift Cards for $45 Purchase 2 $50 Gift Cards for $90 Tickets for upcoming movies, as well as additional information, available at circledrive-in.com.
Steamtown NHS Returns And Releases Holiday Schedule Winter Hours Begin November 17 Starting Monday, November 17, Steamtown National Historic Site shifts to winter hours: Closed Monday and Tuesday Open Wednesday–Sunday, 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Holiday Season Schedule & Events Steamtown is heading into a busy stretch of programs and community events. Here’s what’s ahead: Nov 21 – Stuff the Caboose with United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA Nov 22 – Scranton Santa Parade Nov 27 – Thanksgiving (Park CLOSED) Nov 28–30 – Holiday Express excursions to Moscow Dec 6 – Lackawanna Heritage Valley Santa Train (non-passenger) Dec 7 – Iron Horse Society’s North Pole Limited Dec 13–14 – Iron Horse Society’s North Pole Limited Dec 19–21 – Iron Horse Society’s North Pole Limited Dec 25 – Christmas (Park CLOSED) Jan 1 – New Year’s Day (Park CLOSED)
Damage Control, Inc. Acquires Clean Force 1 Damage Control, Inc., the leading provider of damage restoration services and comprehensive repair solutions to the Northeastern Pennsylvania region for 30 years, is proud to join forces with Clean Force 1, an independently owned, woman-owned restoration firm recognized for its professionalism, compassion, and excellence in property damage recovery. The acquisition strengthens a shared commitment to quality and service and formalizes a partnership built on years of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared values. As part of the acquisition, Danielle Sciandra, Owner of Clean Force 1, has joined Damage Control, Inc. as Director of Restoration Services. “We’re excited to welcome Danielle Sciandra as our Director of Restoration Services. Over the years, Danielle has been more than a colleague; she’s been a trusted partner, a leader in her field, and someone whose dedication to quality and compassion for clients truly aligns with our core values.This next step marks the continuation of a shared vision, one rooted in integrity, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to service.” – Sarah Cain, CEO of Damage Control, Inc. Together, Damage Control, Inc. and Clean Force 1 are committed to raising the bar for restoration and remediation services, combining their strengths to deliver highly skilled, effective, and compassionate solutions when clients need them most. Simply put, better together.
UNC Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for Matzo Development United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) and the United Neighborhood Community Development Corporation (UNCDC) are proud to announce the completion of the Matzo Development, a key project in the ongoing revitalization of Scranton’s Pine Brook neighborhood. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., at 1001 Capouse Avenue in Scranton. The ceremony will feature remarks from UNC leadership and project partners, including Lisa Durkin, UNC President and CEO; Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti, Paul Macknosky, Director for Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development; and James Caffrey, UNCDC Board Chair. UNC will also recognize key members of the Matzo Development Team, including representatives from Mar-Paul Construction Co., Inc., Studio m Architecture + Design, and Kreder Brooks Hailstone LLP. The Matzo Development represents a significant step forward in UNC’s long-term commitment to strengthening Pine Brook through high-quality, affordable housing and deliberate neighborhood investment. The project supports UNC’s vision of creating a vibrant, inclusive community where residents have access to safe housing, essential services, and economic opportunity. The development was made possible through funding from the Community Revitalization Fund Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, along with support from the City of Scranton Home Program and PNC Bank. Their partnership reflects a shared dedication to improving neighborhood stability and expanding housing opportunities across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Marywood University Announces “Merry & Bright” Christmas Celebration The sights, sounds, and spirit of the season will come alive as Marywood University invites the community to campus for its annual “Merry & Bright” Christmas celebration—a joyful tradition filled with lights, laughter, music, and the true meaning of Christmas. This year’s festivities promise even more magic, with new family-friendly activities that include live reindeer, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and the cherished Christmas Tree Lighting that has become one of the region’s most beloved holiday events. The highlight of the season is the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3, in the Rotunda of the Liberal Arts Center, where Marywood’s Chamber Singers will fill the air with festive carols. The celebration continues from 4 to 7 p.m. along Marywood Main Street and in the Memorial Garden, with lights, music, and family fun for all ages. Marywood’s Christmas spirit, however, shines far beyond this single evening— On December 2 the student-run radio station VMFM 91.7, becomes “Christmas 91.7,” sharing the sounds of the season 24/7 through New Year’s Day as a joyful, commercial-free gift to the community from the Marywood family. Families can stroll through a beautifully illuminated Memorial Garden, warm up around crackling firepits, and enjoy hot cocoa and s’mores while costumed carolers perform classic holiday favorites. Children will delight in meeting Mr. and Mrs. Claus and visiting with live reindeer, perfect for memorable holiday photos. This year’s celebration introduces several new activities along Marywood Main Street, including festively adorned Christmas trees, and a “Grinch” sighting, The festivities will also include a Christmas Craft Fair from 12 to 7 p.m., offering unique, handmade gifts and treats for holiday shoppers. Visitors are encouraged to stop by Marywood’s life-size Nativity under the Memorial Arch, a cherished tradition symbolizing the true meaning of Christmas. As the lights twinkle and voices rise in song, Marywood University invites neighbors, alumni, families, and friends to share in the warmth and wonder of the season. Come together with the community to celebrate the holiest and most joyous time of the year. For a full schedule of events and more information, visit www.marywood.edu/merryandbright.
SACF Honors Michele Bannon and Dr. Tania Stoker The Scranton Area Community Foundation honored two outstanding community leaders, Michele Bannon and Dr. Tania Stoker, at the 2025 Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration, held on Wednesday, November 5, at the Foundation’s new home in the historic Century Club of Scranton. Bannon received the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, and Stoker received the Roseann Smith Alperin Award, two prestigious honors in the region recognizing women whose leadership, service, and vision have made a lasting impact throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “Dr. Stoker and Ms. Bannon are shining examples of what it means to lead with purpose,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through their compassion, generosity, and tireless service, they continue to strengthen our community and inspire others to do the same.” Both awards were established at the Scranton Area Community Foundation by generous donors to memorialize and honor women whose values and impact continue to inspire generations. The Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, established in 1992 by the family of Margaretta Belin Chamberlin, honors a woman whose vision, dedication, and courage have enhanced the quality of life and expanded opportunities for others within her community. The Roseann Smith Alperin Award, established by the Junior League of Scranton, recognizes an outstanding female volunteer who exemplifies the heart and spirit of Roseann Smith Alperin—someone who leads, motivates, and inspires others through her volunteer service and commitment to community. Michele Bannon, recipient of the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, was celebrated for her joyful and devoted civic engagement in Carbondale and beyond. Her decades of service include leadership roles with NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, and the Carbondale Historical Society, where she has been active since 1994. She also volunteers with St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, the Greater Carbondale YMCA, and the Maplewood Cemetery Trust. Her civic leadership extends to the Lackawanna County Land Bank Advisory Board, the Wayne Memorial Community Board, and the U-Comp Board of Directors through the Pennsylvania Municipal League. Within her parish at St. Rose of Lima Church, she serves on the Finance Committee, Pastoral Council, and as a lector and fundraising chair—roles she approaches with faith and enthusiasm. Bannon’s contributions have previously earned her the 2013 Roseann Smith Alperin Award and the 2019 Pioneer Hero Award. Dr. Tania Stoker, recipient of the Roseann Smith Alperin Award, has dedicated over 27 years to advancing equity, access, and opportunity through public education. Currently Assistant Superintendent for the Northern Lehigh School District, she has served as a teacher, coach, principal, and district leader dedicated to uplifting students and families. A dedicated volunteer, Dr. Stoker has been an active member of the Junior League of Scranton since 2017, serving as board member, treasurer, and committee chair. She also lends her leadership to St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, Ronald McDonald House of Scranton, Family to Family, Friends of the Poor, and the Adopt a Single Mom Project. Her service extends to advisory boards for the Workforce Board Lehigh Valley – Business Education Partnership and Lehigh University’s Zoellner Arts Center. Her leadership has been recognized with the Mary Harriman Award (2020), Margaret L. Richards Award (2024), and the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators’ Wanda McDaniel Award (2025). Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi congratulates Michele Bannon, recipient of the 2025 Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award, during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi congratulates Dr. Tania Stoker, recipient of the 2025 Roseann Smith Alperin Award, during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Each year, Women in Philanthropy (WIP), an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, celebrates the power of collective giving and honors women whose leadership and service strengthen communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania. The 2025 celebration marked a milestone year, taking place for the first time at the Foundation’s new home in the Century Club of Scranton, where supporters, partners, and community members gathered to celebrate over a decade of impact and growing regional momentum. The evening featured stories of empowerment, progress, and generosity that showcased how women’s collective philanthropy continues to change lives across the region. Guests enjoyed an inspiring program highlighting the initiative’s achievements, including its ongoing support of financial education programs, microgrants for women-owned businesses, and collaborative efforts to address barriers such as childcare and transportation—all aimed at improving economic mobility and quality of life for women, girls, and families in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Through events like this annual celebration, Women in Philanthropy continues to bring together a diverse network of leaders, donors, and changemakers united by a shared vision: to invest in lasting, equitable progress across the region.
