The Wright Center, Training The Next Generation Of Physicians Remains The Heart Of Our Mission Fifty years ago, our visionary goal, championed by Dr. Robert E. Wright, established a medical residency program with a clear purpose: to train the next generation of doctors and encourage them to serve our communities in Northeast Pennsylvania. That mission took shape on Feb. 17, 1976, with the formation of the Scranton-Temple Residency Program, thanks to community support and a Primary Care Workforce Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Health Manpower, along with several smaller grants. On July 1, 1977, the journey officially began when six internal medicine resident physicians started training in Scranton under our banner. Over the decades, class after class followed, helping transform a small residency program into what is now The Wright Center for Community Health, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, and The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement – one of the nation’s largest U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration-funded Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Safety-Net Consortiums. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, it is rewarding to reflect on how far we have come. Yet our core purpose remains unchanged. At a time when physician shortages continue to challenge communities across Northeast Pennsylvania and the nation, preparing highly skilled, compassionate physicians has never been more important. Today, nearly 200 resident and fellow physicians train annually through our Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited programs, including residencies in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation; our Internal Medicine-Geriatrics Integrated Residency and Fellowship Pathway; and fellowships in Cardiovascular Disease, Gastroenterology, and Geriatrics. Our Internal Medicine Residency Program remains our largest and longest-running, training more than 100 physicians each year. Meanwhile, our Family Medicine – Scranton Residency Program provides a uniquely community-centered experience, with residents caring for patients at our Scranton community health center, the community-based Regional Hospital of Scranton, and other clinical training sites throughout the region. The future of these programs was on full display this spring during National Match Day on March 20, when medical students across the United States and around the world simultaneously learned where they would continue their medical training. This year, we welcomed 68 new resident physicians and nine fellow physicians into our graduate medical education programs. The incoming class includes 49 physicians in our Internal Medicine, seven into Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency, and six in our Family Medicine Residency programs. In addition, two physicians matched into our Internal Medicine-Geriatrics Integrated Residency and Fellowship Pathway, while four matched into the Family Medicine – HealthSource of Ohio Residency Program, a collaboration between The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education and HealthSource of Ohio in Hillsboro. One of the greatest strengths of our residency and fellowship programs is the diversity of the learners we attract. This year’s incoming residents in our residency programs, for example, represent 15 countries, bringing a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and talents that enrich both the educational environment and the communities they serve. On July 1, these physicians began the next chapter of their professional journeys. Watching them take this important step is always inspiring. They arrive eager to learn, grow, and serve. In return, they help us fulfill our mission by providing compassionate, high-quality whole-person primary and preventive health services to patients of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses throughout our region. For nearly five decades, our graduates have gone on to practice medicine in communities across the country and around the world. Many have chosen to remain in Northeast Pennsylvania, strengthening the local healthcare workforce and expanding access to care. As we look toward the future, preparing the next generation of physicians remains one of the most meaningful ways we can serve our communities.
SWB RailRiders, Cosmic Baseball Adds A Third PNC Field Game To September Tour Stop The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Cosmic Baseball are thrilled to announce a third night for the immersive, neon-lit baseball experience! Due to popular demand, the Cosmic Chili Peppers and Glow Mojis will now play at PNC Field from September 10 through 12. Tickets for the initial date, September 12, sold out in four hours, prompting additional nights. Fans can once again enter the Cosmic Ticket Lottery for a chance to purchase tickets. Fans can watch the Cosmic Baseball Tour at PNC Field by entering the ticket lottery and selecting “Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders” on the dropdown menu. Fans who entered the lottery will be selected at random to purchase their tickets. Those selected will receive a designated time slot to purchase tickets via an email from Cosmic Baseball. RailRiders season ticket members will be given priority seating opportunities. As seen on The Today Show, ABC News, Sports Illustrated, MLB Network, and many more, Cosmic Baseball is flipping America’s favorite pastime on its head with an electrifying, black light twist. Fans can watch two professional Cosmic teams: The Cosmic Chili Peppers and The Glow Mojis take the field under black light in a jaw-dropping spectacle. The show is part baseball, part neon-fueled party, and 100% unforgettable. Neon uniforms, UV-reactive baseballs, and electrifying entertainment make Cosmic Baseball a must-see event. Fans can stay up to date with news regarding the PNC Field tour stop by following @gochilipeppers and @goglowmojis on Instagram or by visiting https://chilipeppersbaseball.com. For more information on the RailRiders 2026 season and promotional nights, call (570) 969-BALL or visitswbrailriders.com.
NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania Hosting Carbondale Parties in the Parks NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania (NeighborWorks), in partnership with the City of Carbondale, will host afternoons at local parks throughout Carbondale this summer. These events provide new opportunities for community members to come together by building friendships, connecting with neighbors and celebrating what makes Carbondale a unique place to live. Parties in the Parks highlight the importance of connecting residents with local services, organizations and activities. Each event will feature different activities and organizations. The schedule for Parties in the Parks is as follows: Saturday, June 27 – Gravity Park Saturday, July 25 – Carbondale Block Party at Greater YMCA Park & Splashpad Friday, August 21 – Memorial Park (Pioneer Nights) Saturday, September 26 – Cerra Park (West Side Park) All activities will take place from noon to 2 p.m. The Carbondale Block Party, an annual NeighborWorks event, will take place from noon to 4 p.m.For more information, or organizations interested in participating, please contact Emily Arcaro, Community Development Specialist, at earcaro@nwnepa.org or (570) 558-2490.
Honesdale National Bank To Present Moscow Country Street Fair Presented by Honesdale National Bank, the Moscow Country Street Fair will celebrate its 10th Anniversary from Thursday, July 23, through Saturday, July 25, in Downtown Moscow. This year’s theme, “Hometown Roots and Cowboy Boots,” promises three days of family-friendly entertainment, community traditions, and activities for all ages. The celebration will take place Thursday and Friday from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food vendors, shopping, the Hometown Parade, Horse Show, Car Show, Tractor Parade, and a dedicated Children’s Area. Additional attractions include the Run for the Hoses with local firefighters, the Calamity Jane Theatre performance on Saturday, a Quilt Show, and an Art Show featuring works by local artists. Attendees can also participate in art workshops led by North Pocono artists. Families are encouraged to visit the Kids Zone on Van Brunt Street, where children can enjoy GellyBall throughout all three days of the fair. Friday’s festivities will also feature Glo Night and a Foam Party. With a variety of entertainment, delicious food, local vendors, and activities throughout the weekend, the Moscow Country Street Fair offers something for everyone while celebrating the community’s hometown spirit.
SWB RailRiders, Actor Steve Schirippa Coming To PNC Field On July 18 We’re not sure Quasimodo predicted all this, but we do know that acclaimed actor Steve Schirippa is making a guest appearance at PNC Field on Saturday, July 18. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are thrilled to announce that the legendary actor who portrayed Bobby Bacala on TheSopranos is destined for a VIP appearance when the RailRiders host the Worcester Red Sox. Gates open at 5:30 P.M. with a Steve Schirippa Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 1,500 fans, honoring his iconic character’s love of the trains. First pitch is slated for 6:35 P.M. In addition to 53 episodes on the HBO hit show, Schirippa appeared in 146 episodes of Blue Bloods and 110 episodes of The Secret Life of the American Teenager among his numerous credits. He is also a New York Times best-selling author with such titles as A Goomba’s Guide to Life and Nicky Duece to his credit, along with cowriting Woke Up This Morning: The Definitive Oral History of The Sopranos. The VIP Meet & Greet begins at 5 P.M. in the Geisinger Champions Club. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and some of his goomba life lessons! VIP Meet & Greet tickets include a Premium Infield Box ticket, an autographed photo with Schirippa, and guaranteed bobblehead Schirippa will sign autographs on the concourse after the game begins. After the final out, stick around for the best fireworks show in NEPA! For Steve Schirippa VIP Meet & Greet tickets or more information, please visit swbrailriders.com
The Wright Center For Community Health To Hold Monthly “Walk With A Doc” Events In Hawley The Wright Center for Community Health invites the community to take a step toward improved health by joining monthly Walk with a Doc events in Hawley. This physician-led initiative brings healthcare providers and community members together for an invigorating walk with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Participants will have the opportunity to exercise, engage with healthcare professionals, and connect with new people. The “Walk with a Doc” events in Hawley will be held the first Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. at Bingham Park. Walkers should gather at the Bingham Park sign near the playground. The July event is on July 11 due to the holiday. The walks are free and open to the community, accommodating people of all ages and fitness levels. No pre-registration is necessary. “Walk with a Doc” is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring communities through movement and conversation. According to the American Heart Association, walking for just 30 minutes a day can improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, help maintain a healthy body weight, reduce the risk of obesity, enhance mental well-being, and lower the risk of osteoporosis. For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health’s “Walk with a Doc” program, contact Allison Miller at millera@TheWrightCenter.org.
The Wright Center For Community Health To Host July “Walk With A Doc” Events In Scranton And Jermyn The Wright Center for Community Health invites residents of all ages to lace up their sneakers and join a growing movement toward better health and stronger community connections with its monthly “Walk with a Doc” events in Lackawanna County. Led by local physicians and healthcare professionals, these community walks offer an easy, fun, and social way to get moving while engaging in health-focused conversations. Participants enjoy light exercise, have the opportunity to ask health-related questions, and connect with others in a relaxed, informal setting. The July “Walk with a Doc” in Jermyn will be held on Saturday, July 18, at 9 a.m. at the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. Walkers should gather at the Delaware Street Trailhead entrance. The Scranton walk is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, at 9 a.m., also along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, with walkers meeting at the Olive Street entrance. These events are free and open to the public, welcoming individuals of all fitness levels. No pre-registration is required. “Walk with a Doc” is a global nonprofit organization that promotes physical activity and meaningful conversations between physicians and community members. According to the American Heart Association, just 30 minutes of walking per day can improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, support weight management, boost mental health, and reduce the risk of conditions such as obesity and osteoporosis. For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health’s “Walk with a Doc” program, please contact Melissa Germano-Ryczak at germanom@TheWrightCenter.org.
Misericordia University, Customized Workforce Development Misericordia University’s Center for Workforce Development & Talent Solutions partners with employers to create customized training and professional development programs tailored to their unique workforce needs, organizational culture, and business goals. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, the Center collaborates directly with organizations to design learning opportunities that strengthen leadership, enhance communication, develop durable human skills, support new supervisors, and prepare teams for future success. By focusing on the specific needs of each employer and their workforce, the Center helps organizations build practical, effective solutions that support long-term growth and employee development. To learn more, visit misericordia.edu/workforcedevelopment or contact Paul Nardone, Director, at pnardone@misericordia.edu.
My Benefit Advisor, Building A One-Page Benefit Piece Employees Will Read Employee benefits are only valuable if employees understand them. Yet many organizations rely on long, tedious guides, dense PDFs, or put the information on portals employees rarely open. A well-designed benefits one pager solves this problem by reducing what matters most into a clear, visual, and actionable summary. The goal of a one-pager is not to explain everything…it’s to spark understanding and engagement. Business leaders can start by answering three questions employees care about most: What do I get? Why does it matter to me? How do I use it? If the one pager doesn’t clearly answer those questions, it’s not doing the job. Effective one-pagers focus on prioritization, not completeness. Highlight 5-7 core benefits that drive the most value, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and key voluntary benefits. Use plain language, not insurance jargon. For example, “help paying medical bills” is more effective than “high-deductible health plan.” Design matters just as much as content. Using icons, short headings, and white space helps to guide the eye. Break information into sections like Health, Well-Being, Financial, and Extras. Keep sentences short and scannable. If it takes more than 60 seconds to read, it’s too long. Finally, include a clear call to action. Tell employees exactly where to go next…a benefits portal, HR contact, or enrollment deadline. A QR code or short link works well. A strong benefits one-pager becomes a versatile tool: it can support onboarding, open enrollment, recruiting, and leadership communication. Most importantly, it respects employees’ time, and that alone increases the likelihood they’ll actually use the benefits being offered. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at gscc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
Tobyhanna Army Depot, Army Materiel Command To Hold Media Day THEME: Organic Industrial Base transformation WHAT: Members of the media are invited to attend a Media Day at Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) to learn more about the Army’s Organic Industrial Base (OIB) transformation efforts, tour modernized facilities and observe TYAD’s expanded advanced manufacturing capabilities. WHEN: Monday, Jun. 29 at 12:30 p.m. (Specific agenda with more details to follow) WHERE: 11 Hap Arnold Blvd, Tobyhanna, PA 18466 MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: Leadership from TYAD and the newly established Army OIB Integration Office will discuss ongoing efforts to modernize and transform the Army’s depots, arsenals and ammunition plants. Participants will tour Tobyhanna’s latest facility additions, including the state-of-the-art microelectronics facility and newly integrated brushless motors production line – both critical to the Army’s ability to advance manufacture components for weapons systems, including small-UAS,ensuring supply chain resilience and reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing. In addition to the facility tours, attendees will participate in a media roundtable with a representative from the Army’s OIB Integration Office about the overarching OIB Transformation Strategy and initiatives across the Army’s industrial base. BACKGROUND: The Army’s OIB – 23 depots, arsenals and ammunition plants – manufactures and resets equipment, generating readiness and operational capability throughout Army formations. The OIB Transformation Strategy is the Army’s plan to modernize the enterprise into a strategically aligned industrial engine that maintains pace with Army transformation, equipped with the necessary capacity to support the Army’s enduring and future systems, and sustained by an agile, expeditionary artisan workforce. The OIB Integration Office serves the critical bridge across the Army coordinating policy, resources, and governance. While individual facilities manage day-to-day operations, the OIB IO provides the macro-level oversight required to synchronize transformation across the sites, eliminatingduplication and maximizing strategic impact. Media must RSVP by Jun. 25 to Danielle E. Weinschenk, TYAD Public Affairs Officer, at (570) 615-7308. To access the installation, all attendees must undergo a background check and present a REAL ID or valid passport.
