The Wright Center for Community Health to open primary health care clinic at Friendship House’s new Carbondale location Building on their longstanding partnership, The Wright Center for Community Health and Friendship House are working together once again to increase access to affordable, high-quality, whole-person primary and preventive health services, particularly for individuals with complex mental health and substance use disorder needs. On Thursday, Aug. 13, The Wright Center will begin offering whole-person primary and preventive health services at Friendship House’s new Whole Person Care Center at 30 N. Main Street, Suite 100, Carbondale. The new 15,000-square-foot health center will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing a range of services, including checkups, physicals, screenings, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries. The Wright Center for Community Health Friendship House – Carbondale’s services will be available to individuals of all ages, regardless of their insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. Patients do not need to be clients of Friendship House to receive care at The Wright Center’s newest location. The Wright Center will celebrate its continued partnership with Friendship House by hosting a grand opening on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 4-5 p.m. at the Whole Person Care Center. The public event will feature remarks from leaders of The Wright Center and Friendship House, as well as community leaders. This marks The Wright Center’s second partnership with Friendship House, an organization that serves children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities, emotional or behavioral challenges, and the effects of trauma related to loss, abuse, or neglect. Since November 2024, The Wright Center has provided primary care services at Friendship House’s Whole Person Care Center, located at 200 Wyoming Ave., Suite 250, in Scranton. Since opening, the clinical team has provided care during more than 3,500 patient visits. “Building on the success of our partnership at Friendship House – Scranton, we are excited to expand our collaboration and bring whole-person primary health services to Carbondale,” said Dr. Jignesh Y. Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer at The Wright Center for Community Health. “By co-locating primary care with Friendship House’s behavioral health services, we can help ensure individuals and families have greater access to the comprehensive care they need, when and where they need it. This partnership is another important step in our mission to improve the health and welfare of our communities through responsive, whole-person health services for all and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce that is privileged to serve.” Friendship House’s services in Carbondale will include outpatient mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults; psychiatric evaluations and medication management; on-site psychiatric rehabilitation programs; and additional behavioral health services. “Our partnership with The Wright Center reflects our shared commitment to improving access to comprehensive, whole-person care, which includes behavioral and primary care,” said Alex J. Hazzouri, president and CEO of Friendship House. “As we expand services in Carbondale and the surrounding areas, we’re creating greater opportunities for individuals and families to receive the behavioral and primary care services they need, close to home. “Together, we’re breaking down barriers to care and strengthening the health of the communities we serve.”
Misericordia University To Host Summer Open House Prospective students and their families are encouraged to register soon for Misericordia University’s Summer Open House on August 22, as time is running out to reserve a spot. The event offers an opportunity to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff, connect with current students, and learn more about Misericordia University’s academic programs, hands-on learning experiences, and vibrant campus life. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, envision their future, and discover what makes the university a welcoming place for students and families alike. Those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their spot by visiting: https://apply.misericordia.edu/register/
Marywood University Receives $500,000 Grant to Support Science Center Upgrades Through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program Marywood University has been awarded a $500,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to support a transformative modernization of its Center for Natural and Health Sciences, strengthening STEM education and expanding opportunities for future scientists, healthcare professionals, and technology leaders. The grant, announced by Governor Josh Shapiro as part of more than $52.5 million in investments across 42 Northeast Pennsylvania projects, will help fund the construction of a new physics laboratory, flexible collaborative learning spaces, and significant upgrades to biology, biotechnology, chemistry, and computer science laboratories. The Commonwealth’s investment will be combined with private philanthropic support to create modern, technology-enhanced environments that prepare students for today’s rapidly evolving workforce. “I am grateful to Governor Josh Shapiro, State Senator Marty Flynn, and State Representatives Kyle Mullins, Bridget Kosierowski, and Kyle Donahue, as well as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for their investment in Marywood University and in the future of STEM education,” said Lisa A. Lori, J.D., president of Marywood University. “This transformative grant directly supports our strategic priority of academic innovation by creating state-of-the-art learning environments where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to lead in high-demand STEM fields. It is an investment not only in Marywood, but in the future workforce and economic vitality of Northeastern Pennsylvania.” The renovation project reflects Marywood University’s continued commitment to providing exceptional academic experiences through innovative facilities, cutting-edge technology, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and advanced study. Marywood’s project was selected through the Commonwealth’s highly competitive Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program based on its potential to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy, enhance workforce development, and improve quality of life throughout the region. Renovations to Marywood’s Center for Natural and Health Sciences are expected to be completed in September 2026.
Tobyhanna Army Depot welcomes new enlisted leader With the traditional passing of the unit colors, Sgt. Maj. Cory P. Alkire took the helm as Tobyhanna Army Depot’s (TYAD’s) senior enlisted advisor, pledging to champion workforce quality of life and sustain world-class readiness for the joint warfighter. Alkire assumed responsibility during a ceremony on July 28. The event was presided over by Depot Commander Col. Benjamin L. Kilgore and was also attended by CECOM Command Sergeant Major Jay A. High, depot leadership as well as family and friends of Sgt. Maj. Alkire. As sergeant major, Alkire serves as the voice of the warfighters who depend on Tobyhanna Army Depot for full lifecycle support of their C5ISR equipment. He also counsels the commander on matters relating to soldiers, military families, and the depot workforce.
SWB RailRiders hosting 90s Night with Chris Kirkpatrick Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC will headline the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ 90s Night at PNC Field on August 22. The team will play the Charlotte Knights at 6:05 pm that night. Gates open at 5:00 pm with a classic 90s gear giveaway (a throwback Red Barons replica jersey) for the first 1,500 fans. Kirkpatrick will be there for a VIP Meet & Greet and autograph session. The VIP experience includes a meet & greet with Kirkpatrick and a signed photograph. VIPs will also get a premium infield box seat when they buy the $75 meet & greet ticket. Kirkpatrick will also sign autographs and take pictures with fans on the concourse during the game. There will be a post-game fireworks show, and DJ Hersh will play all your favorite 90s hits on the Geisinger Plaza. You can find more information about Chris Kirkpatrick Meet & Greet tickets here.
Johnson College receives scholarship award Johnson College received a $1,500 scholarship to support its automotive technology students with demonstrated financial need. This is the 16th year that this particular scholarship has been awarded to Johnson College students. Scholarship funds are raised through donations, volunteer work, sponsorships and annual Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club calendar sales. Johnson College’s two-year associate degree program in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the automotive career fields of automotive service centers, engine repair/machine shops, automotive equipment distributors, independent service garages, automotive parts manufacturers, sales representation and auto insurance companies. Graduates may work with brake systems, transmissions, alignments and repairs; be representatives in claims, sales and service; or become truck/fleet maintenance technicians.
Swan Lake returning to the Scranton Cultural Center Swan Lake will return to the Scranton Cultural Center on February 23, 2027. Doors will open at 6:00 pm and the show will begin at 7:00 pm at the Weinberg Theatre on North Washington Avenue in Scranton. Swan Lake will be performed by International Ballet Stars as part of their 83-performance North American tour. The performance will feature over 150 handcrafted costumes, detailed sets and a spectacular live experience. The cast is made up of performers from 16 countries, including Spain, Brazil and Poland. Ticket prices start at $53.25, including fees. Prices are subject to change. Discounts are available for children ages 3-12, senior citizens, students, veterans and groups of 10 people or more. Tickets will be available starting on July 31 at 10:00 am at the Fidelity Bank Box Office at the SCC. You can also purchase tickets by calling (570) 344-1111 or via Ticketmaster. Swan Lake last came to the Scranton Cultural Center in February 2026. You can see a full schedule of Scranton Cultural Center events by clicking here.
The Wright Center for Community Health to host August ‘Walk with a Doc’ events in Scranton and Jermyn The Wright Center for Community Health is encouraging people of all ages to attend its August “‘Walk with a Doc” wellness events. These community walks are led by local physicians and healthcare professionals. They 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, Aug. 22, 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, Aug. 8, at 9 a.m., also along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, with walkers meeting at the Olive Street entrance. The events are free and open to the public. People of all fitness levels are welcome, and no registration is required. 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.
Tinnitus Support Group meeting at Mid Valley Wright Center location on August 7 The Wright Center for Community Health’s Mid Valley location on South Washington Avenue in Jermyn will host the Tinnitus Support Group of Northeast Pennsylvania on Friday, August 7 for a meeting. There is also a virtual option for those unable to attend in person. The support group welcomes people living with tinnitus, as well as their family members and friends. Anyone interested in learning more about the complex audiological and neurological condition is also invited to attend. Participants can connect with others who share similar experiences, exchange practical coping strategies, and find encouragement in a compassionate, confidential setting. At the August meeting, featured presenter Erin Walborn Sterantino, Au.D., CH-TM, will discuss how to move beyond just “managing symptoms” through the principles of Polyvagal Theory and Mind-Body Medicine, to retrain your system to move from “survival mode” back into “rest and digest.” As the director and certified MBSR teacher at the Mindfulness Center of the Capital Region and an audiologist at Audiologic Solutions Hearing Center, she provides treatment for hearing loss, tinnitus, sound sensitivity, and mindfulness-based stress reduction to her patients. For more information or to request the virtual meeting link, contact Joe Kelly, community health worker at The Wright Center for Community Health, at kellyj@TheWrightCenter.org or 570-903-0492.
JHA Companies opens new regional office Civil engineering firm JHA Companies has opened its new regional office in Reynoldsville. The office will serve as the company’s established presence in North Central Pennsylvania. JHA Companies is a multi-state professional engineering, land surveying and environmental firm that serves people, families and businesses. It was founded in 2008 and operates eight offices in Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio. You can learn more about JHA Companies by clicking here.
