Geisinger to Host Appreciation Dinners Honoring Local Military Veterans To thank local military veterans for their service, Geisinger will host drive- through veteran appreciation dinners at 12 locations across the health system’s service area from 3 to 5: 30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6. The Geisinger Healthplex State College location will serve meals from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The dinners for U.S. military veterans and a guest are offered at no cost to participants. Geisinger will provide these dinners at a drive-through event. Last year’s event served about 2,500 meals. Servings are limited, and those interested are encouraged to sign up now. Veterans can make a reservation for themselves and one guest by visiting go.geisinger.org/vetsdinner2025 or calling 570-293-7200. The deadline to register is Thursday, Oct. 30. Locations are: Bloomsburg: Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, 549 Fair St. (main entrance) Danville: Geisinger Multi-Specialty Clinic Danville, 35 Justin Drive, Building 2 Jersey Shore: Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, 1020 Thompson St. Lewistown: Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, 400 Highland Ave. (third-floor entrance) Mifflintown: Geisinger Family Health Associates Mifflintown, 27 CJEMS Lane Mount Pocono: Geisinger Mount Pocono, 126 Market Way Muncy: Geisinger Medical Center Muncy, 255 Route 220 Highway Pittston: Geisinger Healthplex CenterPoint, 1201 Oak St. Scranton: Nay Aug Park, 500 Arthur Ave. Shamokin: Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, 4200 Hospital Road, Coal Township State College: Geisinger Healthplex State College, 132 Abigail Lane, Port Matilda Wilkes-Barre: Behind Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, at 50 Roosevelt Terrace
The Wright Center: Bridging Gaps, Restoring Smiles Mark National Dental Hygiene Month with better oral care When Maryann Havrilak first walked through the doors of The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley in Jermyn, the 74-year-old retiree wasn’t looking forward to being in a dental chair. Mary Ann Havrilak of Waymart checks in for a dental appointment at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley in Jermyn. The Wright Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike, accepts most dental insurance plans and offers a sliding-fee discount program to ensure oral care services are affordable for everyone. To make an appointment, call call 570-230-0019. “I’ve had bad teeth my whole life,” said the South Canaan Twp. native who lives in Waymart. “I’ve been going to the dentist since I was little, even when I lived in New York City, and you can imagine how expensive that was. But as soon as I walked into The Wright Center, I felt comfortable. The girls were great, the dentist (Dr. Ryan Rebar) explained everything to me, and it felt like home.” Havrilak, a retired secretary who spent 45 years working in New York City before returning to her roots in Wayne County, is on a fixed income since retiring. She had to carefully weigh her options when selecting new medical and dental providers. When her insurance company offered a list of choices, she picked The Wright Center for Community Health and never looked back. Her dental journey is one of many that reflect the importance of access to compassionate dental care, especially during October’s National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to spotlight the vital role oral health plays in overall well-being. Oral health is directly tied to heart health, diabetes control, and even early detection of serious illnesses like oral cancer. Yet, for many patients, fear, stigma, lack of insurance, or transportation barriers keep them from seeking the dental care they need. That is where The Wright Center’s integrated dental care model steps in. To ensure high-quality oral care is available to everyone, The Wright Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike and safety-net provider, accepts most dental insurance plans and offers a sliding-fee discount program to those who qualify based on federal poverty guidelines that take into account family size and income. No patient is turned away because of an inability to pay. “We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable, and trauma-informed dental care,” said Dr. Rebar, a general practice dentist and clinical site director at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley. “Our approach is centered around meeting patients where they are physically, emotionally, and financially.” Mary Ann Havrilak of Waymart, seated, talks to her dentist, Dr. Ryan Rebar, during a recent appointment at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley in Jermyn. The Mid Valley dental team is part of The Wright Center’s growing network of community health centers, which includes medical, behavioral health, and dental care under one roof. This model enhances access and outcomes while also building trust, particularly among patients with long-standing fears or previous negative experiences. “A lot of patients come to us in pain, discouraged, and understandably nervous, but with every visit, we build trust,” said Dr. Rebar, who received his doctoral degree in dental medicine from the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry after graduating from The University of Scranton. “We talk through everything, make sure patients feel in control, and we don’t rush anything. It’s never just about teeth. It’s about dignity, quality of life, and restoring confidence. That’s what makes this work so meaningful.” Havrilak has been receiving ongoing care for the past seven years at The Wright Center’s Mid Valley location at 5 S. Washington Ave. Jermyn, including extractions, partials, and most recently, a bridge. She credits Dr. Rebar and The Wright Center’s dental care team for their skill, compassion, and gentle approach, especially when it comes to something most patients dread. “I’ve had butchers just shove the needle in,” she said. “Here, they’re so gentle you don’t even know it’s happening. They don’t want to hurt you, and that makes all the difference.” Her most recent procedure has been life-changing in a simple but profound way. “I just got a new bridge, and today I’m going to sit down and have a salad for the first time since April,” she said. “I couldn’t chew before. Now I can eat, I smile more, and feel more like myself.” For Havrilak, The Wright Center’s dental care team is like family. “They talk to you about anything to make you comfortable,” she said. “Even people who aren’t working on you get involved in the conversation. The dental team is wonderful, the whole staff is so smart, and they all really care. The girls at the front desk always call if they have an earlier opening and ask if I can make it. I never say no to a dentist appointment.” Her advice to anyone who may be fearful about seeing a dentist, especially those who have had bad experiences, is simple: “Go to The Wright Center for Community Health. They’ll put you at ease. They’ll treat you with respect. And they’ll make sure you can smile again.” Dr. Ryan Rebar, right, meets with his patient, Mary Ann Havrilak of Waymart. Dr. Rebar believes ‘everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable, and trauma-informed dental care.’ Good oral hygiene tips National Dental Hygiene Month is observed each October to celebrate dental hygienists and raise awareness of the importance of good oral health to prevent oral diseases such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Here are some tips from The Wright Center for Community Health’s dental team to practice good oral hygiene: Brushing Use fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. Fluoride strengthens the tooth’s enamel. Angle your toothbrush bristles toward your gumline so the bristles clean between your gums and teeth. Brush all the sides of each tooth gently with small, circular motions. Avoid back-and-forth scrubbing. Brush your tongue. Flossing Use a string of floss about two feet long. Wrap it around your middle finger on each hand and grip it between your thumb and index fingers. Gently ease the floss between your teeth until it reaches your gumline. Do not force the floss into place, as this could harm your gums. Curve the floss around the side of each tooth, like the letter “C.” Slide the floss up and down under your gum.
The Wright Center for Community Health Earns National Recognition The Wright Center for Community Health has been recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) for its commitment to improving patients’ blood pressure control rates, earning Gold Plus-level recognition as part of Target: BP. Target: BP is a national initiative created by the AHA and AMA in response to the high prevalence of uncontrolled blood pressure. The highest award, Gold Plus, recognizes health care enterprises that have demonstrated evidence-based practices for blood pressure measurement and treatment, and in which high blood pressure is controlled in 70% or more of the affected adult patients. The Wright Center also received two other Gold Awards from the AHA: one for improving the quality of care for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors through the Target: Type 2 Diabetes program; and the other for improving the quality of care through awareness, detection, and management of high cholesterol with evidence-based strategies and tools through the program, Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol. Target: Type 2 Diabetes addresses heart disease and stroke risk factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes and puts the unparalleled expertise of the AHA to work for health care organizations nationwide, helping ensure the care provided to patients is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines. Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol supports physicians and care teams by offering access to the latest research, tools, and resources to reach and sustain cholesterol control rates among the adult patient population they serve. “Receiving these three Gold Awards from the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association underscores our commitment to advancing the health and well-being of patients living with these chronic conditions,” said Dr. Erin McFadden, chief medical officer at The Wright Center for Community Health. “Through timely diagnosis and evidence-based treatment, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes can be effectively managed, empowering patients to achieve healthier, longer lives.” Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. – about 122.4 million – are living with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, according to the AHA. About 29.3 million U.S. adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and another estimated 9.7 million are living with undiagnosed diabetes, the AHA said. Approximately 104 million adults in the United States (about 40%) have high cholesterol, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All three chronic illnesses increase a person’s risk for serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease and stroke, which are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the U.S., respectively. Stroke is a leading cause of disability, according to a 2025 report from the AHA. “Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for people living with Type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Howard Haft, a member of the American Heart Association’s National Quality Oversight Committee. “Organizations that participate in programs like this help raise awareness of the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and can improve patient outcomes. We are pleased to recognize The Wright Center for its commitment to quality care.” In fiscal year 2024-25, The Wright Center served about 38,300 unique patients at its growing network of community health centers in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. As a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike and safety-net provider, it serves vulnerable and medically underserved populations, regardless of age, ethnic background, ZIP code, insurance status, or ability to pay. It accepts all insurance plans and offers a sliding-fee discount program based on federal poverty guidelines that considers family size and income. No patient is ever turned away due to an inability to pay. For more information, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-209-0019.
Geisinger, Softball Prospect Excels After Knee Surgeries A blur of motion. The arm whipping in a full circle, hips snapping forward, legs punching off the mound and a firm wrist snap at the release. The result is a ball hurling at more than 60 miles per hour toward the plate less than 40 feet away. Throwing a fast-pitch softball takes a sequence of mechanics, fast, explosive movements — and a lot of practice, according to Taylor Cawley of Archbald, Pa. Cawley has been pitching since she was seven years old. She had an illustrious career playing for Valley View High School, which culminated with her on the mound for the state championship game in June at Penn State University. “It was crazy. We had so many fans at the state championship game and they cheered for every pitch,” she said. “It felt really good to play in that game.” She didn’t just play, she shined. Cawley recorded 13 strikeouts and was named the state championship player of the game. The effort combined with her amazing senior season helped her secure a scholarship to continue her softball career at Binghamton University in New York. What makes these achievements even more amazing is Cawley’s hard work and determination to reach this point in her career, overcoming two significant knee injuries that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation during her high school career. My freshman year, in one of my first games, I threw a pitch and felt something pop in my left leg,” Cawley said. One of the team’s athletic trainers, employed by Geisinger, helped Taylor on the field and referred her to a Geisinger orthopaedic urgent care facility for an evaluation. An MRI during an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon the next day determined the worst: She had torn her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and had medial and lateral meniscus tears. “Given Taylor’s young age and high-level sports participation, I recommended ACL reconstruction as well as meniscal repair. I believed this would give her the best chance of returning to softball,” said Mark Pallis, D.O., a Geisinger orthopaedic surgeon. “After a thorough discussion with her and her father, she elected to proceed with surgery.” Cawley was put in a knee brace, provided crutches and started physical therapy to regain range of motion and decrease swelling prior to her surgery in May 2022. Dr. Pallis reconstructed Cawley’s ACL using a quadriceps tendon autograft, which involves taking a thin strip of the middle of the quadriceps tendon just above the knee. The tendon was then used to reconstruct the knee ligament. Dr. Pallis also repaired her meniscus tears during the surgery. “Taylor worked very hard, and she was cleared to return to softball without limitation in January 2023, eight months after surgery,” Dr. Pallis said. Cawley returned for her sophomore season and had success. However, in January 2024, during her junior year, she began to have some pain and issues with her knee. “Taylor came to see me with complaints of increasing lateral knee pain and clicking over the previous few days while pitching,” said Dr. Pallis. “An MRI confirmed that she had a new lateral meniscal tear. After a discussion, she decided to proceed with knee surgery, in an effort to maximize her potential for recovery and minimize time away from the sport.” She was on crutches for 6 weeks and her recovery lasted six months, but she was able to return to the field for her senior season. And what an amazing senior season it was. She garnered numerous accolades on her way to the state championship game, including Scranton Times Athlete of the Week and Softball Performer of the Year, National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All Region Second Team Pitcher, PA Softball Coaches Association First Team All-State Pitcher and Lackawanna League D1 Player of the Year. “I am so thankful for everyone at Geisinger that helped me through these injuries. Dr. Pallis was amazing. He explained everything to me and my parents,” she said. “My Geisinger physical therapist Lynn Winter helped me through a lot as well. PT is not fun, but she made it the best it could be. She challenged me to get me where I am.” Dr. Pallis couldn’t be prouder of the work Cawley did to overcome her injuries. “It is extremely gratifying for me to see athletes overcome injuries and excel. This is exactly why I became an orthopaedic surgeon,” he said. “I am so proud of Taylor and what she has accomplished. She remained resilient through it all and fought hard to get back after her injuries. She deserves every bit of the recognition she has received, and I look forward to seeing what she does at Binghamton.”
NEPA Learning Conference 2025 Empowers Nonprofits Through the Foundation’s Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce the success of the 2025 NEPA Learning Conference, a signature program of its Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence. The biennial gathering welcomed nearly 200 nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers to Fiorelli’s in Peckville from September 17th to 19th for three days of inspiration, collaboration, and professional development. Carrying the theme Community • Connections • Purpose, the 2025 NEPA Learning Conference offered transformative keynote presentations and interactive sessions designed to strengthen nonprofit organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania. Keynote speakers challenged, inspired, and equipped attendees to strengthen their leadership and organizational impact. Katie P. Desiderio and Michael G. Frino, New York Times bestselling authors of The Beekeeper and The Stargazer, energized the audience with insights from their books, highlighting how intentional collaboration can unleash team brilliance and drive transformative growth. Dr. Tiffany Manuel, founder and CEO of TheCaseMade, followed with Breaking New Ground, a compelling call to collaborative change built on urgency and shared aspirations. Closing the event, Michael Swenson, a FranklinCovey consultant, engaged participants in hands-on exercises to practice the 13 Behaviors of High Trust to strengthen credibility, build transparency, and lead with integrity. Conference sessions also explored trust-building, communication, collaborative leadership, and cultivating a healthy organizational culture. Attendees were challenged to lead with integrity, act with urgency, and apply actionable and practical strategies to strengthen teams and expand their community impact. A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards, which recognized outstanding leadership, innovation, collaboration, and impact: Nonprofit of the Year – The Cooperage Project The Cooperage Project was honored for its leadership, management, and innovation excellence. From its PopUp Club after-school STEAM program for at-risk middle schoolers to the creative “NEAR cash” initiative that helps families facing food insecurity access local farmers markets, The Cooperage Project continues to expand programming while ensuring long-term sustainability. Collaborative Project of the Year – Student-Led Food Hub The Student-Led Food Hub, a partnership between The Food Dignity Movement, Wilkes- Barre Area Career & Technical Center, Luzerne/Schuylkill Workforce Development Board, and local family farmers, was recognized for reimagining food access in NEPA. This curriculum-based, student-run hub connects fresh, locally grown produce to nonprofits while providing workforce training to high school students. Since its launch, it has generated more than $900,000 in economic activity, strengthened small farms, and increased access to fresh food for families. Rising Star Award – Amanda Gordineer Amanda Gordineer, Director of Operations at The Food Dignity Movement, was recognized as an emerging leader transforming food systems. She pioneered the “Take What You Need; Pay What You Can” model and led the development of innovative distribution strategies that deliver produce within 48 hours of harvest, strengthening farms, reducing waste, and ensuring community access to fresh food. NEPA Gives Superstar Award – Outreach Center for Community Resources The Outreach Center for Community Resources was celebrated as the 2025 NEPA Gives Superstar for its outstanding fundraising success and community engagement during this year’s 24-hour giving day, demonstrating the power of collective philanthropy in action. “The NEPA Learning Conference is part of our commitment to equip nonprofit leaders with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through our Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence, we are proud to invest in the strength of the organizations that serve our region—because when our nonprofits are strong, our communities are strong.” First launched in 2017, the NEPA Learning Conference has grown into one of the premier nonprofit events in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Alongside keynote sessions and workshops, the conference continues to catalyze collaboration, recognition, and collective impact. “We are energized by seeing leaders come together to share ideas and leave with practical strategies they can immediately put into practice,” Ducceschi added. The success of this year’s conference was made possible by the generous support of community partners, presenting sponsors, and local funders, including the Moses Taylor Foundation, the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, and the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, who believe in advancing nonprofit leadership and capacity in the region. Posture Interactive also played a key role in bringing the conference to life. The success of this year’s conference was made possible by the generous support of community partners, presenting sponsors, and local funders, including the Moses Taylor Foundation, the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, and the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, who believe in advancing nonprofit leadership and capacity in the region. Posture Interactive also played a key role in bringing the conference to life. Click here to find more information about the NEPA Learning Conference Nonprofit of the YearThe Cooperage Project was recognized as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year at the NEPA Learning Conference for its innovative programs that strengthen youth engagement, food access, arts, and culture in Wayne County and beyond. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi presented the award to The Cooperage Project during the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards ceremony at Fiorelli’s in Peckville on September 19. Collaborative Project of the YearThe Student-Led Food Hub, a partnership between The Food Dignity Movement, the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center, the Luzerne/Schuylkill Workforce Development Board, and local family farmers, was recognized as the 2025 Collaborative Project of the Year at the NEPA Learning Conference. The project was honored for its innovative approach to connecting fresh, locally grown food to families while providing workforce training to high school students. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi presented the award during the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards ceremony at Fiorelli’s in Peckville on September 19. Amanda Gordineer, Director of Operations at The Food Dignity Movement, accepted the award on behalf of the project partners. Rising Star AwardAmanda Gordineer, Director of Operations at The Food Dignity Movement, received the 2025 Rising Star Award at the NEPA Learning Conference. She was recognized for her leadership in developing equitable food access models that reduce waste, support farmers, and deliver fresh produce to families within 48 hours of harvest. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi presented the award during the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards ceremony at Fiorelli’s in Peckville on September 19. NEPA Gives Superstar AwardOutreach – Center for Community Resources was named the 2025 NEPA Gives Superstar at the NEPA Learning Conference for its outstanding fundraising success and community engagement during this year’s 24- hour giving day, NEPA Gives. Scranton Area Community Foundation Operations Manager Dana Hunter and Philanthropy Associate Jacob Torba presented the award during the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards ceremony at Fiorelli’s in Peckville on September 19. Lori Chaffers, President and CEO of Outreach, and Angela Seibert, Program Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Wayne Bank Donates to Pocono Mountains United Way Supporting Local STEAM*R Program Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce that Wayne Bank has recently contributed to the East Stroudsburg Area School District’s STEAM*R Summer Enrichment Program through the Pocono Mountains United Way and the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). With its invaluable STEAM*R Program, the East Stroudsburg Area School District provides students at Resica Elementary with the opportunity to foster their interest and proficiency in science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, and reading. The program is free for current East Stroudsburg Area School District students in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade. Stacie Ammerman, Resica Elementary School’s STEAM*R Coordinator, and Dr. Tabitha Bradley, Resica’s Director of Elementary Education, accepted a check in the amount of $5,000 from Mr. Donnelly. With this donation, Wayne Bank helps to make the STEAM*R program possible, contributing to an investment in education to shape the future of the community by empowering young minds to innovate, create, and excel. “Wayne Bank is honored to contribute to the United Way of the Pocono Mountains and the incredible work they do,” said Mr. Donnelly. “It’s rewarding to know that this donation will help provide essential support to Monroe County families, allowing students to develop early on skills and interest in education.” The gift was made possible because of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program offered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, acting through the Department of Community and Economic Development.
The Wright Center: Turning Pain into Progress How one man’s story fuels hope for others. Five days a week, Rick Frey talks to people experiencing substance use disorder, helping them set goals, cheering on their successes, and sometimes pointing out inconsistencies in the stories they tell themselves. Certified recovery specialist Rick Frey in his office at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre. After struggling with substance use disorder for 20 years, Frey has been sober for five years, and now helps guide patients in their own recovery journeys. He knows firsthand about the battles his patients fight every day. For 20 years, the certified recovery specialist at The Wright Center for Community Health lived with substance use disorder. A state prison sentence in 2020, coupled with the realization that he was failing his two young children, sparked Frey’s desire for a new kind of life. He began working for The Wright Center in July 2024 after participating in a grant-funded program called Project PROGRESS, which stands for Providing Recovery Opportunities for Growth, Education, and Sustainable Success. With funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission, The Wright Center and several regional community partners provided access to career training while challenging the stigma associated with employing people with substance use disorder. “I shouldn’t be here. I was hit by a car. I was thrown from a truck. I survived several overdoses,” Frey said. “But God had a different plan.” ‘Numb the pain’ Frey and his colleagues at The Wright Center celebrate National Recovery Month each September to raise awareness about mental health and substance use disorders and to celebrate the achievements of individuals in recovery. Substance use disorder has deep roots in Frey’s family. His own began at just 12 years old, when friends of his sister introduced him to LSD, a powerful hallucinogen. Throughout his teenage years, he continued experimenting with drugs and alcohol. When he was 18, the sudden death of his father sent him into a downward spiral. “Grief was the starting point for my descent into addiction,” he said. “Losing my father unexpectedly left me feeling empty, and I sought ways to numb the pain. That’s when I turned to heroin and methamphetamine.” What began as an escape quickly turned into a trap. With the support of his family, the Wilkes-Barre Township native made multiple attempts at rehabilitation. At 25, he remained sober for nearly a year and began rebuilding his life in Philadelphia with help from his aunt. But when he returned to Scranton for a court hearing, a broken-down car extended his stay. Reunited with old friends, he soon fell back into familiar patterns. Rick Frey, a certified recovery specialist, meets with someone in a behavioral health meeting room at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre. Frey said he uses what he learned from counselors who helped him on his recovery journey to help others who have substance use disorder. Now, he realizes he was missing a key step in his recovery journey. “I would do what they told me, and I’d work the steps,” Frey said, referring to the main tenets of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. “But I wasn’t facing my grief over losing my father. I wasn’t facing my depression and my anxiety, so I never really made any meaningful progress.” ‘I can’t keep doing this’ A series of difficult blows starting in 2018 – including back-to-back DUI charges and the end of his relationship with the mother of his two children – left Frey struggling to regain stability. “I realized I can’t keep doing this,” Frey said. “My daughter wouldn’t even look at me. So, I just surrendered.” He cut ties with old friends and went into a rehabilitation program for 45 days. From there, he lived for seven months in a halfway house, followed by a year in a sober living house. It was the longest he’d ever maintained sobriety. Inspired by the counselors and staff who helped him with his recovery journey, he enrolled at Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) to earn his associate degree in human services. He began his current career path at Clearbrook Treatment Centers, where he started as an intake coordinator and then served in various roles, including case manager. While earning his associate degree and working at Clearbrook, Frey began pursuing certification as a recovery specialist through Project PROGRESS. It was during this time that he was first introduced to The Wright Center and its unique services for people with substance use disorders, including its Pennsylvania-designated Opioid Use Disorder Center of Excellence. The Wright Center uses a team-based approach to tailor treatment plans to each patient, integrating treatment for substance use disorder with behavioral and primary health services. Impressed by the passion and expertise of The Wright Center’s staff, Frey was eager to join the team. He is now based at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Rick Frey, one of The Wright Center’s certified recovery specialists, talks with colleague Jill Kalson at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Frey is part of a team-based approach that integrates substance use disorder treatment with behavioral and primary health services. He remembers the techniques his counselors used throughout his recovery, especially the frustrating moments when they helped him see how his excuses were holding him back. Today, he uses those same methods with his patients. “Recovery isn’t easy and everyone’s journey is different,” Frey said. “But I learned that you can be the victim of your trauma, or you could use it to help you transform into something better and stronger.” ‘Make a difference’ Frey is just one of 101 people who participated in certified recovery specialist training programs through Project PROGRESS, which concluded in September. A total of 76 people completed the training; dozens of them went on to work with people recovering from substance use disorders at companies across the region. “When I hear Rick’s story, and the stories of so many others who successfully went through the program, I feel like The Wright Center has made a difference,” said Shannon Osborne, a project manager who oversaw Project PROGRESS at The Wright Center. “I am grateful to work on projects that provide such positive outcomes for people in our communities.” As he celebrates five years of sobriety, Frey is attending Misericordia University part-time, working on his bachelor’s degree in social work, with plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work and public administration. When he isn’t studying or working with his clients, you can find the former high school athlete coaching his 11-year-old son’s football and basketball teams. Recently, he volunteered as an assistant coach for his 8-year-old daughter’s soccer team, helping lead them to an undefeated season. In addition to guiding his kids’ sports teams to victory, Frey dreams of becoming more deeply involved in the conversation about how to best address the still-growing addiction crisis locally and nationwide. “We need advocates to show up at rallies, meet with our elected representatives, and talk about what we can do to help people,” Frey said. “Everybody knows someone who has been impacted by addiction.” Rick Frey, far right, with his 8-year-old daughter, Isabella, far left, and 11-year-old son, Ricky. For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health and The Wright Center for Community Health’s Opioid Use Disorder Center of Excellence, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019. Get to know Project PROGRESS Funded in part through an Appalachian Regional Commission INSPIRE grant. Led by The Wright Center for Community Health with regional partners including Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance, The Institute, Luzerne County Community College, and Northeast Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center. Hosted six Certified Recovery Specialist training sessions attended by 101 individuals. Of the 76 people who completed the training, 48 earned certifications as either certified recovery specialists, certified family recovery specialists, certified recovery specialist supervisors, or a combination of the certifications. Learn more at projectprogressnepa.org
Clubhouse315 Hosts The Extraordinary Card Magic of Jason Ladanye Artic Entertainment This show is the one audiences have been waiting for. Jason Ladanye is recognized as one of the finest entertainers in the world. A professional, award-winning sleight-of-hand artist, Jason has spent the past twenty years astonishing audiences across the globe with his masterful card magic. This is a performance not to be missed—it promises to be unlike anything ever experienced before. VIP Meet and Greet Add-OnThe VIP Meet and Greet ticket includes an on-stage photo with Jason Ladanye, an autographed deck of cards, and an exclusive 20-minute close-up show. This intimate experience allows guests to get even closer to Jason’s extraordinary magic—and have their minds blown a second time. Limited to the first 25 VIP add-on tickets sold. Use code DEUCES to get two tickets for the price of one – limited availability! 📅 Sunday, October 5, 2025🕔 Doors open at 5:00 PM🎭 Show begins at 6:00 PM Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre537 N Main StWilkes-Barre, PA 18705 Click here for more information. The special code ACES15, which will provide $15 off each ticket purchased.
Johnson College Introduces Workforce Training Program to Support Regional Development Johnson College has launched its Customized Training Solutions program, offering flexible, targeted workforce development to meet the evolving needs of employers across northeastern Pennsylvania. Delivered through the college’s WAVE team (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education), the initiative is designed to help businesses train smarter and grow stronger. “Customized Training Solutions isn’t just about delivering education. It’s about building partnerships that solve real business challenges,” said Ashley Bechaver, director of WAVE. “From navigating compliance updates to reducing turnover or onboarding faster, we work with employers to create programs that lead to real results.” Grounded in Johnson College’s industry-aligned technical programs, the training is led by instructors with hands-on experience in fields such as HVAC, electrical construction technology, welding, advanced manufacturing, automotive and diesel truck technology, biomedical equipment technology, computer information technology, construction technology, and robotics and industrial automation. Programs are fully adaptable to meet each organization’s specific goals. Training is designed to align closely with each company’s tools, systems, and workflows, using equipment and scenarios that reflect real-world conditions to ensure practical, relevant learning with minimal disruption. Delivered on-site, online, or at Johnson College’s Scranton or Hazleton campuses, the training helps businesses boost productivity, improve quality, and retain employees. By focusing on job-specific expertise, companies can reduce downtime, minimize errors, and stay ahead of industry trends, while addressing challenges such as rapid growth, evolving job demands, and the need to build new workforce capabilities with measurable, long-term results. Businesses interested in creating a tailored training plan can contact the WAVE team at 570-702-8979 or email wave@johnson.edu. Inquiries should include the contact’s name, business name, title and preferred method of contact. To learn more about the program, visit johnson.edu/wave/trainingsolutions.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Showcases Bell and Inspiration Garden The Scranton Area Community Foundation proudly hosted the Bells Across Pennsylvania Unveiling & Celebration on Thursday, September 4, 2025, drawing a full house of community members, elected officials, and supporters to its home at the historic Century Club in Scranton. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of “A City of Hope, A State of Giving,” a one-of-a-kind fiberglass bell created by local artist Cherie Fruehan. The bell, sponsored by the Scranton Area Community Foundation with generous support from Susan and Dorrance Belin, is one of just 108 to be placed across Pennsylvania as part of America250PA’s statewide public art initiative leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Members of the Scranton Area Community Foundation Board of Governors gather in front of the newly unveiled “A City of Hope, A State of Giving” bell at The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club. Pictured (left to right): Ellen Burkey, David Price, Laura Ducceschi, Dr. Joseph Bannon, Ken Okrepkie, Katie Gilmartin, Patti Thomas, and Dr. Patricia Fox. The Foundation also unveiled its new Inspiration Garden at The Century Club—a welcoming outdoor space designed to honor the community’s spirit of generosity and provide a place for reflection and celebration. Program highlights included the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Chair Ellen Burkey, followed by remarks from Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Foundation; Leo Malsky, Director of Operations at America250PA; Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan; Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti; and artist Cherie Fruehan. The evening also featured the dedication of a National Votes for Women Trail marker honoring Kate Chapman and recognizing The Century Club’s historic role in the women’s suffrage movement. Following the program, guests enjoyed a reception and a special pop-up art exhibit showcasing Fruehan’s work, with the opportunity to meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments. Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti, artist Cherie Fruehan, America250PA Director of Operations Leo Malsky, and Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan gather in front of the newly unveiled “A City of Hope, A State of Giving” bell at The Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club on September 4, 2025. “The Inspiration Garden and the America250PA bell embody the very heart of our mission— connecting people, places, and resources so our region can thrive,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Together, they honor our history, celebrate the generosity of our community, and inspire us to imagine the future we can build when civic pride and philanthropy come together.” Leo Malsky, Director of Operations at America250PA, addresses a packed house during the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Bells Across Pennsylvania Unveiling & Celebration at The Century Club on September 4, 2025.
