Greater Scranton YMCA Hosting Inaugural Trunk or Treat The Greater Scranton YMCA is excited to announce its Inaugural Trunk or Treat, offering families a safe, fun, and festive way to celebrate Halloween. The event will take place on Wednesday, October 22nd from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Greater Scranton YMCA, 706 North Blakely Street, Dunmore. The event is free and open to the community. Community members and local businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate by decorating a trunk and handing out candy. Interested partners can contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org. Trunks can begin being set-up at 3:00 p.m. on the day of the event. “The Greater Scranton YMCA is so proud to offer our community a safe way to celebrate the season,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “We can’t wait to see the creative ways families and community partners decorate their trunks and look forward to the memories this new tradition will create.” For more information about the Trunk or Treat, contact Tressa or visit the Greater Scranton YMCA online at https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/.
Tobyhanna Delivers Critical Communication Support for Army Aviators When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401 and Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is now ensuring this critical system remains ready for the fight. When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401. The IDM-401 connects mission computers, radios, and the tactical internet, allowing helicopters to send voice and data at the same time. It also passes along targeting information and situational awareness to commanders and other aircraft, helping warfighters in the air and on the ground stay connected, informed, and safe. Today, more than 3,200 IDM-401s are in service across every modern Army helicopter. Tobyhanna’s involvement with the IDM-401 began with test-and-inspect work, but the mission quickly expanded. In less than a year, the depot has built up the ability to perform full overhauls on the device. Today, technicians can complete every step of the sustainment process including loading and verifying software, performing vibration and thermal testing, and conducting hardware qualification tests. Four advanced test stations and environmental stress screening chambers ensure each unit can handle tough conditions before being returned to the field. This growth didn’t happen overnight. It has taken teamwork, innovation, and close partnership across the Army enterprise. Experts from Tobyhanna’s Mission Execution Directorate, Strategic Initiatives Directorate, and Software, Simulation, and Systems Engineering and Integration (S3I) worked side by side with the Project Management Office for Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) to validate test equipment and processes. The result is a streamlined production line capable of handling the Army’s needs for years to come. In August 2025, leaders from PM AMSA visited Tobyhanna to walk through the new repair process. They praised the depot’s setup and progress, even presenting coins to three technicians for their outstanding work. Lt. Col. James D. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation praised Tobyhanna’s rapid integration of the workload “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks. When the IDM-401 program arrived at TYAD in March 2024, PM AMSA’s Brett Beatty lauded the depot’s support of the important program. “Tobyhanna is providing outstanding support for the IDM-401. It is a pleasure to work with the professional team here,” said Beatty. The IDM-401 serves as the crucial interface between aircraft mission computers, radios, and ground networks. As the predecessor to the Aviation Mission Computer Server, the IDM has laid the foundation for the Army’s next generation of aviation mission systems. With sustainment expected through at least 2040, the IDM-401 mission will remain an important part of Tobyhanna’s portfolio for years. More importantly, it represents the depot’s ongoing commitment to the warfighter. Through teamwork, innovation, and dedication, TYAD is keeping America’s warfighters connected today, tomorrow, and into the future. Katlin Edmunds of TYAD’s Strategic Initiatives Directorate highlighted the depot’s role in supporting evolving Army Aviation needs, emphasizing the commitment to readiness depot artisans exhibit on a daily basis. “TYAD is proud to enhance sustainment operations for Project Manager Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) and PEO Aviation as Army Aviation platforms and systems continue to evolve,” said Edmunds. “We are committed to rapidly establishing the necessary capabilities for our soldiers to remain operationally ready.” “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation.
Tommy’s Express Unveils Halloween Tunnel of Terror Tommy’s Express invites the community to experience the Tunnel of Terror—a haunted car wash filled with thrills, chills, and a shine that scares the dirt away. Designed to be frighteningly fun for all ages, the event combines Halloween excitement with a top-quality wash. Every guest receives The Works, Tommy’s best wash package, while enjoying a one-of-a-kind spooky car wash adventure. October 23, 24, 25, 26 from 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM Cost – $20 for Non-Members. Free for Unlimited Club Members
The University of Scranton Shines in U.S. News Rankings The University of Scranton is a top 10 college in its region with nationally ranked academic programs and distinction for innovation and support for veterans, according to U.S. News and World Report. The publication’s 2026 Best Colleges report, published Tuesday, ranked The University of Scranton No. 8 in the Regional Universities (North) category. U.S. News has ranked Scranton in the top 10 in its category for an astounding 32 consecutive years. Two of Scranton’s academic programs ranked among the top 40 in the nation. Scranton placed No. 38 in “Best Undergraduate Programs in Analytics” and No. 40 in “Best Undergraduate Programs in Accounting.” The University also tied for 135th in “Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs,” tied for 162nd in “Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” and tied for 254th in “Best Undergraduate Business Programs.” Scranton also tied for 410th in “Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs.” National rankings reflect the results of peer surveys used to identify programs of high academic quality. The University achieved high marks in several regional categories, including No. 3 in “Best Colleges for Veterans,” a selection of schools recognized for making higher education more accessible and affordable for veterans and active-duty service members. Scranton ranks No. 9 in “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” which recognizes schools’ strong commitment to teaching undergraduates rather than conducting graduate-level research. Scranton tied for 13th in “Most Innovative Schools,” which identifies institutions making innovative improvements in curriculum, personnel, campus life, technology or facilities. The University placed 55th on U.S. News’ “Best Value Regional Universities (North).” Scranton also tied for 106th in “Top Performers on Social Mobility,” which examines the success of schools that enroll and graduate students who were awarded Pell Grants. U.S. News uses numerous data points to rank bachelor’s degree colleges in America, including graduation rate and graduation rate performance; retention rates; borrower debt; peer assessments; faculty salaries; student-faculty ratio; financial resources; standardized test performance; and Pell Grant student graduation rates and performance. U.S. News categorizes colleges for their rankings based on the official Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classification of universities. Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings placed five University programs in the top 50 in the nation, and several programs ranked in the top 150 in the country, including business analytics, tied for 28th; finance, tied for 31st; accounting, tied for 39th; healthcare management, tied for 46th; rehabilitation counseling, tied for 49th; occupational therapy, tied for 79th; part-time MBA, tied for 80th; physical therapy tied for 105th; nursing-anesthesia, tied for 111th; doctor of nursing practice, tied for 127th. Scranton has recently appeared in other national rankings, as well, including being designated as one of the nation’s best colleges by Forbes and the Princeton Review. Click here to find U.S. News and World Report – 2026 Best Colleges Click here to find U.S. News and World Report’s Best Graduate Schools Click here to find Forbes Click here to find the Princeton Review
Urban Co-Works Announces “Networking 5 to 7” Urban Co-Works in Scranton will host “Networking 5 to 7”—an exclusive event created to foster connections and collaborations within the local community. From 5 to 7 PM, professionals from a wide range of industries will come together to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and explore new opportunities in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Whether entrepreneurs, freelancers, or corporate professionals, attendees will find a unique platform to expand their networks and cultivate meaningful relationships. Date and time Tuesday, October 14 · 5 – 7pm EDT Location 116 North Washington Avenue Scranton, PA 18503
Urban Co-Works Announces Exciting New Event Welcome to First Friday Free Co-Working! Join URBAN CO-WORKS for a day of productivity in a vibrant co-working space. This event offers the perfect opportunity for professionals to accomplish their work while connecting with fellow freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. Open to all, it provides a chance to experience the benefits of co-working completely free of charge. The event takes place on the first Friday of the month—don’t miss it! Date and time Friday, October 3 · 9am – 5pm EDT Location URBAN CO-WORKS 116 North Washington Avenue #3rd Floor Scranton, PA 18503
WVIA Wins Five Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Awards, Including Overall Excellence WVIA won five Emmy Awards – including the prestigious Overall Station Excellence – at the 43rd annual Mid-Atlantic Awards in Philadelphia Saturday night. The historic Station Excellence win – a first for WVIA in its more than 50 years of service – capped off a successful night of five total awards that highlight the station’s continued pursuit to honor the creative journey, its commitment to the craft, and employees’ passion to tell the stories of the region. “Despite the many challenges we’ve faced this year, our staff has continued to deliver meaningful, impactful content that truly serves the people of Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania,” said Carla McCabe, President & CEO of WVIA. “We are incredibly honored to receive five Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards, including the Overall Station Excellence. This recognition is a powerful testament to the dedication, creativity, and resilience of our entire team. Being recognized for that commitment is an extraordinary moment of pride for all of us.” The Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Awards celebrate excellence in television production across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and parts of Ohio and West Virginia. This year saw 749 entries in 80 Emmy categories – 305 of those received nominations. The Overall Excellence category recognizes a television station for the high standard of its overall programming and community service across all its endeavors. WVIA was nominated among three outstanding stations from larger metropolitan markets, including KDKA in Pittsburgh, WGAL in Lancaster, and CBS Philadelphia. This station-wide recognition underscores WVIA’s mission to create programming that not only informs and inspires but also reflects the rich heritage and stories of the region. “To be recognized for Overall Excellence is both humbling and inspiring,” said Ben Payavis II, WVIA’s Chief Content Officer. “It’s a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and a reflection of the responsibility we carry in telling the stories of this region. Stories don’t just entertain us; they connect us. They build bridges between different perspectives and remind us of our shared humanity.” 2025 Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Award Wins for WVIA: Overall Excellence WVIA – Carla McCabe, President & CEO, WVIA Health/Medical News Keystone Edition Health: She Beat Cancer – Tim Novotney, Director/Camera/Editor Historical/Cultural- Short Film VIA Short Takes: The Secret Beneath Hazleton – Tim Novotney, Director/Camera/Editor Human Interest – Long Form Content 2024 Little League Challenger Exhibition – Ben Payavis, Producer; Ken Sawyer, Play-By-Play Announcer; Tom Speicher, Color Commentator News/Program Promotion/PSA – Single Spot NEPA @ Work Trailer – Alexander Monelli, Director/Camera/Editor In total, WVIA received nine nominations for its outstanding work across a variety of genres. Additional nominated projects include: Sports – One Time Special The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles – Ben Payavis, Producer/Director; John Mikulak, Director of Photography; Ron Andruscavage, Audio/Drone/Camera Entertainment-Long Form Content The Story of Palma: A Musical Fable – Ben Payavis, Director/Editor; Larry Vojtko, Associate Producer/Score Reader; Erika Funke, Associate Producer; George Graham, Audio Producer/Mix; Lisa Mazzarella, Narrator/Associate Producer; Ron Andruscavage, Production Manager Magazine ProgramNEPA @ Work -Alexander Monelli, Director/Camera/Editor VIA Short Takes #503 – Ben Payavis, Executive Producer; Alexander Monelli, Cinematographer/Editor/Director; Tim Novotney, Cinematographer/Editor/Director; John Alaimo, Producer/Director/Editor Among the evening’s honorees was WVIA’s Chief Technology Officer Joe Glynn, who was officially inducted into the 2025 Silver Circle Society, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the broadcasting industry over more than 25 years. Click here to find the full list of Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Award recipients
Waverly Community House Presents Autumn at the Comm Autumn at the Comm Events: Peek-A-Boo Pals Playgroup October 6 – 9:00 am-10:00 am With Hanora Jones What to Expect: Gentle sensory play & music, baby sign language & bonding activities, social & movement exploration Come join a joyful and engaging playgroup where babies and their caregivers can explore, learn, and connect in a warm, supportive environment. Whether it’s your little one’s first giggle or first wave, we’ll celebrate every milestone together! Click here to find more information and registration details. Little Locals Playgroup October 6 – 10:30 am-11:30 am With Hanora Jones What to Expect:· Gentle Transitions into group play & social comfort· Play-Based Learning with parent involvement· Skill-Building for independence & confidence· Emotional & Social Development through guided activitiesWhether your little one is just starting to explore group settings or already loves to playwith peers, Little Locals offers a nurturing space to grow, giggle, and gain newskills—together with you! Click here to find more information and registration details. Waverly Wigglers Playgroup October 7 – 10:00 am-11:00 am With Hanora Jones What to Expect: Active Play & Creative Arts Storytelling & Pretend Play Adventures & Social Fun Let your little one explore, create, and connect in a lively, welcoming environment designed just for toddlers. Parents and caregivers are part of the fun too! Click here to find more information and registration details.
Johnson College Receives Scholarship Award from Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club The Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support the organization’s annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students with demonstrated financial need. This marks the 15th year the scholarship has been awarded to Johnson College students. Funds are raised through donations, volunteer work, sponsorships and annual calendar sales. Johnson College’s two-year associate degree program in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the automobile and diesel industries. Graduates may work in automotive, truck, farm and earthmoving equipment dealerships; truck, power generation and construction companies; automotive service centers; engine repair and machine shops; automotive equipment distributors; independent service garages; automotive parts manufacturers; sales roles; and auto insurance companies. During Johnson College’s Truck and Cruiser Palooza event in mid-September, the Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support its annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students. Pictured from left: Dave Thomas, Villa Capri secretary; Kathy Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Luke Casterline, Villa Capri treasurer; Sal Pizzo, Villa Capri vice president; John Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Doug Cook, senior director of college advancement, Johnson College; Joe Caputo, Villa Capri board member; Dr. Kellyn Williams, associate vice president of special programs, Johnson College; and Joe Carra, Villa Capri president.
The Wright Center: Depression Screenings Proactive Form of Health Care Preventative screenings represent health care at its most proactive. They are convenient, and they can quickly address and improve an issue well before it escalates. Depression and other mental health disorders fall into this category. October marks National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, and Mental Health Awareness Week (Oct. 5–11), which Congress established in 1990 through the advocacy of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This year’s Mental Illness Awareness Week carried the theme “Building Community: Supporting Mental Well-Being Together.” According to NAMI, the focus was on “the power of meaningful connections, grassroots advocacy, and local action to strengthen mental health support nationwide.” The theme served as an inspiring reminder of how collective efforts can make a real difference. Greater emphasis on depression screenings is urgently needed, as the disease does not discriminate and affects individuals of all ages, races, and socioeconomic groups. With the everyday stresses of modern life, it is unsurprising that rates of anxiety and depression continue to increase each year. According to a November 2024 brief issued by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Bureau of Health Workforce, about 59 million U.S. adults – 23% of the population – experienced a mental illness in 2023, with nearly half of them not receiving treatment. Access to behavioral health services remains limited due to provider shortages, high out-of-pocket costs, coverage gaps, and other barriers. The national average wait time for behavioral health services is currently 48 days, according to HRSA. Screenings are recommended for anyone experiencing several of these common symptoms of depression: Persistent sadness or anxiousness Too little or too much sleep Reduced or increased appetite and weight loss or gain Loss of interest in favorite activities Restlessness or irritability Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions Fatigue or loss of energy Thoughts of death or suicide The Wright Center for Community Health provides a wide range of behavioral health services, including therapy, psychological assessments, and psychiatric care, for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance-related and addictive disorders, bullying, relationship stressors, LGBTQI+ issues, trauma, and grief. Earlier this year, The Wright Center began participating in a multi-year grant awarded to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) to improve access to whole-person primary health services for people with co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders. The Wright Center is one of several primary care sites in Pennsylvania engaged in the five-year project to promote collaborative care, an evidence-based model that strengthens coordination of behavioral health services in primary care settings. The organization is also addressing the regional shortage of mental health specialists through the hiring of new staff psychiatrists. These professionals are providing office-based remote and in-person psychiatry appointments for patients of all ages, while also collaborating with colleagues across The Wright Center to integrate behavioral health and primary care services to improve overall outcomes. Staff members continue to improve accessibility for individuals in underserved and under-resourced areas, working to reduce barriers to behavioral health care. The Wright Center remains committed to ensuring that people receive the support they need to lead happy, productive lives.
