Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins Announce 2026-27 Regular Season Schedule The Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins have announced their 2026-27 regular season schedule along with home opener game. The home opener game will take place on Saturday, October 3rd at 6:05 pm at Mohegan Arena.
Scranton Jazz Festival, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band Set To Headline The 21st annual Scranton Jazz Festival celebrates the city’s rich musical legacy with three days of jazz, blues and world beat music showcasing internationally acclaimed artists, Aug. 7 to 9. A summer tradition for jazz enthusiasts near and far, the event features two ticketed concerts, a free jazz walk and jazz brunches in the heart of the Electric City. This year’s headliners include performances by The Dirty Dozen Brass Band on Sat., Aug. 8 followed by NEA Jazz Master Ron Carter on Sun., Aug. 9. Hailing from New Orleans, the Grammy Award-winning Dirty Dozen Brass Band blends traditional brass band music with bebop jazz, funk, R&B and soul. Describing their unique sound as “musical gumbo,” The Dirty Dozen has toured across five continents and more than 30 countries, recorded 12 studio albums and collaborated with a range of artists including Modest Mouse, Widespread Panic and Norah Jones. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band performs at The Theater at North, 1539 N. Main Ave., on Sat., Aug. 8. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $44.80 and are available at scrantonjazzfestival.org. Sunday night’s concert pairs legendary bassist Ron Carter with the Emmy-nominated Scranton Jazz Festival Big Band under the direction of Marko Marcinko. Holding a Guinness World Record for recording more than 2,200 albums, Carter is among the most original, prolific and influential bassists in jazz. He was a member of the world-renowned Miles Davis Quintet from 1963 to 1968. Throughout his career, he recorded with music icons such as Lena Horne, Bill Evans, B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon and Billy Joel. Carter performs with the SJF Big Band at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple, 420 N. Washington Ave., on Sun., Aug. 9. Doors open at 5 p.m. The PA Jazz Institute at Misericordia University Student Ensemble will perform at 6 p.m. followed by Carter and the SJF Big Band at 6:45 p.m. Tickets will be announced soon. Follow Scranton Jazz Festival on social media for updates. In addition to these incredible headliners, jazz lovers will enjoy performances by more than 80 national, regional and local jazz, blues and world beat musicians throughout the weekend. Reminiscent of a New Orleans style festival, the event takes place in more than 20 venues throughout downtown Scranton, featuring a free jazz walk on Friday and Saturday nights and jazz brunches on Sunday. The Scranton Jazz Festival is made possible through partnerships with Blu Elefante Events, PA Jazz Alliance Inc., Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, Lackawanna County, and with the generous support of NROC, Fidelity Bank, community sponsors and media partners. For tickets and a full schedule of performances, visit www.scrantonjazzfestival.org and follow Scranton Jazz Festival on Facebook and Instagram
Fidelity Bank Announces Officer Status Appointments To Bankers Dunmore, PA – June 12, 2026 – Fidelity Bank is proud to announce the appointment of several bankers to Officer status, recognizing their leadership, performance, and commitment to delivering exceptional client service. “These promotions reflect the strength of our bankers and the dedication they bring to their roles every day,” said Daniel Santaniello, Chief Executive Officer. “Each of these bankers consistently demonstrates our commitment to partner with our clients and our communities to achieve success, and they play an important role in our organization.” Grace Wingler, Deposit Operations Team Lead, has been appointed to Officer status. Wingler is recognized for building strong relationships throughout the Bank and consistently delivering operational and client-facing success. A recipient of the 2025 Service Quality Partner of the Year award, she demonstrates a commitment to strong controls, risk management, and exceptional client service. Katherine Rooney, Consumer Banking Project Manager, has been appointed to Officer status. Rooney quickly established trust-based relationships across the organization and is known for her transparency, professionalism, and ability to drive alignment across complex, cross-functional initiatives that strengthen project outcomes. Casey Rauch, Trust Operations Manager, has been appointed to Officer status. Rauch is a leader in operational excellence, playing a key role in system conversion and ongoing process improvements. She continues to drive efficiency, automation, and innovation within Wealth Management operations. Jesse Lick, Business Relationship Manager, has been appointed to Officer status. Lick has demonstrated strong professional growth and production performance while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurship. His analytical expertise and relationship-building skills make him a valued partner to both clients and colleagues. William Davis, Security Manager, has been appointed to Officer status. Davis is a highly trusted leader in security and fraud investigations, strengthening the Bank’s security practices and proactively protecting both clients and the organization through disciplined risk management and collaboration. Timothy Anderson, Business Analyst and Applications Manager, has been appointed to Officer status. Anderson is a trusted partner across the organization, delivering practical technology solutions that enhance operations while supporting key initiatives including automation, analytics, and system integrations. Maura Nealon, Assistant Controller, has been appointed to Officer status. Nealon is a collaborative and solutions-oriented banker who contributes to operational efficiency, automation, and regulatory adherence while driving continuous process improvement within her department.
Marywood University Announces New Endowed/Annual Scholarships Marywood University recently announced five endowed scholarships and two annual scholarships at the 2026 Scholarship Luncheon. The annual luncheon brought together students, donors, and esteemed guests to celebrate the impact of scholarships and express heartfelt appreciation for the donors who make scholarships possible. Emma Budnovitch ’26, Roaring Brook Township, BS Biochemistry, was the student scholar who spoke on behalf of the student scholarship recipients. She noted, “Scholarships do not just ease financial burdens, but they allow students like me to discover their passions and the confidence to pursue them. Because of your support, I did not just attend Marywood, I fully experienced it.” Institutional aid through scholarships allows Marywood University to assist students and make their education affordable and attainable. In 2025-2026, Marywood provided more than $3.5 million in institutional aid through 642 named scholarships awarded to 556 individual students. New endowed named scholarships can be established with a gift of $50,000 or more. New annual named scholarships can be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. For information on establishing a named scholarship, please contact the Office of University Advancement at 570-348-6238 or development@marywood.edu. The newly endowed scholarships include: The Rocco and Catherine Ciliberti Endowed Scholarship, established by Henry and Margaret Jordan Sallusti ’83, supports academically accomplished local students with financial need, who wish to pursue studies in Nutrition and Dietetics or the Health Sciences. The Kelleher Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Frank Kelleher ’03, Trustee of Marywood University, and his wife, Lauren, supports business students with financial need. The Dr. Lotte Behrendt von Kerczek Endowed Scholarship, established by Elisabeth Gilligan ’59, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need with preference to students enrolled in a major in Science, Math, or Computer Science Department or in the Health Sciences. The Class of 1972 Endowed Scholarship, established by the Marywood Class of 1972 in honor of their 50th Reunion, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need. The Joey Monaghan ’21 Endowed Scholarship, established by Richard Gorelick, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and a desire to help others excel. The newly established annual scholarships include: The Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell Annual Scholarship, established by Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell, M.P.A. ’77, supports full-time graduate students in the Master of Healthcare Administration program with financial need and academic achievement. The Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68 Annual Scholarship, established by Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68, Marywood Alumni Association Board Member Emerita, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need.
NEPIRC Announces Leadership Appointments And Promotions NEPIRC, a not-for-profit technical assistance firm serving manufacturers across an 11-county region, has named Marla Hager Evans as its new President and CEO. Hager Evans formally assumed her responsibilities in December 2025 after spending the past decade with the organization. She joined NEPIRC in 2016 as the Business Advisor for northern Luzerne County and has since taken on expanded leadership responsibilities in business development, strategic sales and marketing initiatives, and organizational growth. As President and CEO, she will continue overseeing and coaching NEPIRC’s Business Advisor team while guiding the organization through its next phase of transformation and long-term sustainability. NEPIRC also announced the promotion of Leo Gilroy to Senior Director of Training and Consulting Services. Gilroy brings more than 40 years of experience in the manufacturing and Department of Defense sectors, with expertise spanning engineering, product and business development, marketing, and sales. Throughout his career, he has helped more than 3,500 professionals strengthen leadership and project management skills through relationship building, emotional intelligence, and performance coaching. Additionally, Charles Wallinger joined NEPIRC as Controller in December 2025. Wallinger brings more than 35 years of experience in finance and accounting within governmental, grant-funded, and nonprofit organizations. His background includes working closely with boards of directors and executive leadership teams to strengthen financial management and organizational accountability. “Leo and Charles are both seasoned, experienced leaders who have already brought so much value to our organization,” said Hager Evans. “They are aligned with NEPIRC’s mission and are in tune with the evolving needs of our clients, funders, and partners. We are thrilled to recognize Leo with this well-deserved promotion and look forward to the positive impact Charles will make on NEPIRC in the months and years ahead.”
SWB RailRiders Announce YES Network To Broadcast Nine Games This Season The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are excited to announce their continued partnership with the YES Network for the 2026 season. The exclusive regional media home of the New York Yankees will broadcast nine RailRiders games this year with coverage on the YES Network and streamed on The Gotham Sports App. “The relationship between the RailRiders, Yankees and the YES Network is an incredible one,’ stated Shawn Reilly, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s Team President & General Manager. “What started with ‘Homegrown: The Path to Pinstripes’ has expanded over the years to provide to tremendous coverage of the Yankees’ top affiliate. No other farm system has this support, and it gives us the opportunity to showcase PNC Field, all the fun and excitement of Minor League Baseball, and of course, the future stars of the best franchise in baseball.” 2026 YES Network RailRiders Broadcast Schedule Thursday, May 14 vs. Syracuse – 6:35 P.M. first pitch Saturday, May 16 vs. Syracuse – 6:05 P.M. first pitch Wednesday, July 1 vs. Norfolk – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Wednesday, July 22 vs. Syracuse – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Thursday, July 23 vs. Syracuse – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Thursday, August 6 vs. Rochester – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Saturday, August 22 vs. Charlotte – 6:05 P.M. first pitch Thursday, September 3 vs. Lehigh Valley – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Thursday, September 17 vs. Jacksonville – 7:05 P.M. first pitch Pregame coverage will begin five minutes before first pitch.The games will be broadcast on YES throughout the network’s regional coverage territory (New York State, Connecticut, northeastern Pennsylvania and north and central New Jersey) via video providers, as well as direct subscription on The Gotham Sports App, which is available for download on iOS, Android, Google TV, Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Roku, Vizio, Samsung Smart TV and LG Smart TV. For more information, call (570) 969-BALL or visit www.swbrailriders.com.
Pennsylvania PBS Honors Seven Champions Of Lifelong Learning Pennsylvania PBS and its seven member stations, including WVIA, celebrated public media and seven Champions of Lifelong Learning award winners during “A Beautiful Day in the Capitol” in Harrisburg on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. “This recognition is a reminder that lifelong learning doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s strengthened by a shared commitment to the public good,” said WQED President and CEO Jason Jedlinski. “We’re grateful for leaders who understand the long-term value of investing in education. Their support helps us equip teachers, librarians, parents, and community partners across Pennsylvania, bringing trusted PBS resources and local storytelling to learners of all ages.” Each member station honored an elected official or Commonwealth employee with a Good Neighbor Award at a presentation at the East Wing Rotunda of the Capitol. 2026 honorees include: · WLVT – Sen. Nick Miller · WVIA – Drew Popish, Northeast Regional Director, Office of Governor Josh Shapiro · WPSU – Rep. Paul Takac · WQLN – Rep. Patrick Harkins · WQED – Sen. Lindsey Williams · WITF – Bob Measel, ESL/Bilingual Education Advisor, Pennsylvania Department of Education · WHYY – Rep. Mary Isaacson Champions of Lifelong Learning honorees regard public media as a community asset. They support Pennsylvania PBS and its member stations’ mission to inspire lifelong learning, engage audiences in civic leadership and be a valued partner in public safety across the Commonwealth. “Each of this year’s honorees reflects the enduring power of lifelong learning,” said Bill Marrazzo, President & CEO of WHYY, “recognizing it not only as a personal strength, but as a force that helps build more informed, connected communities across Pennsylvania. Their leadership underscores the vital role public media plays in serving all residents of the Commonwealth, providing trusted information, educational resources, and opportunities for civic engagement that strengthen our shared future.” Visitors to the East Wing Rotunda were greeted by WHYY character Albie and had an opportunity to meet with representatives from all seven Pennsylvania PBS member stations to learn more about their educational and civic engagement initiatives.
Friendship House Board Of Directors Executive Committee Announced Friendship House recently announced its Board of Directors Executive Committee leadership team. The Executive Committee includes Laurie Cadden as Board Chair; Daniel Santaniello as Chair-Elect; Jeff Kelly as Treasurer; Gretchen J. Van Dyke as Secretary; and Judge Thomas M. Blewitt as Immediate Past Chair. Also serving on the Executive Committee are Attorney Frank J. Bolock Jr. and Alex J. Hazzouri, President and Chief Executive Officer of Friendship House.
PennDOT Announces Electric Vehicle Funding Today, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll, U.S. Senator Bob Casey, Federal Highway Administration Deputy Administrator Andrew Rogers, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) announced the first round of conditional awards for federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funding. These awards further the Shapiro Administration’s work to address climate change, grow the Commonwealth’s economy, and ensure that the future of Pennsylvania transportation is on track to be cleaner, safer, more affordable, and more reliable than ever before. Fifty-four projects in 35 counties were selected to expand access to and the reliability of electric vehicle charging within Pennsylvania. The $33.8 million federal investment is part of the $171.5 million PennDOT will receive and distribute for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure over five years through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). “Our team worked diligently to meet federal NEVI requirements while spreading opportunities among various companies and communities,” Carroll said. “Because of Governor Shapiro’s leadership and record of delivering for Pennsylvanians, we are among the first states distributing these funds to provide travelers with options and confidence while also benefitting our environment. These new investments will create good paying jobs and allow Pennsylvanian residents, businesses, and visitors to travel across the Commonwealth faster, cleaner, and more reliably.” The conditional awards include various recipients – including seven Pennsylvania headquarters – and site locations across the state. Four federally compliant charging ports will be funded at each charging location with 216 total funded charging ports. Twenty-two of the projects are in or within half a mile of state or federally-designated disadvantaged communities. View the conditional award list by county, on the department’s NEVI web page. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we can strengthen and expand our electric vehicle charging infrastructure,” Senator Casey said. “This funding will allow us to deploy electric vehicle charging stations across our Commonwealth, from cities to suburbs to rural areas, promoting energy security, creating jobs, and reducing our carbon footprint.” Moving forward, a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) public involvement process will begin for each project. Projects can begin after those processes are successfully completed and agreements with each recipient are executed. Some projects may begin as early as late 2023. “In Pennsylvania and across the country, President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is building the backbone of our national network of EV charging stations that will ensure a seamless experience for drivers when they’re charging up – similar payment systems, clear pricing information, interoperable connector types, and reliable charging speeds as we make the historic transition to electric vehicles,” Rogers said. “With federal investments made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Pennsylvania is taking a critical step forward as States across our nation begin deploying EV chargers for the communities they serve, and we are proud partner with them in this shared project.” The NEVI funding supports the Commonwealth and federal goal of expanding EV charging along the previously designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) and Interstate lookalikes. Pennsylvania has over 1,800 miles of AFCs. Per the guidance from U.S. DOT, NEVI formula funds must first be used to “build out” designated AFCs (meaning there must be no more than 50 miles between stations and less than 1 mile from an AFC exit) and meet U.S. DOT minimum standards and requirements. The PA NEVI program includes multiple rounds of funding. During Round 1 selection, the focus was on building out the AFC network along the interstates to meet the NEVI requirements. Once AFCs are fully built out, PennDOT will shift to expanding the NEVI Formula Program funding to fund right-sized EV chargers for Pennsylvania’s community charging. “Northeast Pennsylvania is leading the way by taking full advantage of the bipartisan infrastructure law and the resources it affords,” said Congressman Matt Cartwright. “With today’s announcement, we’re taking another big step forward in building out our electric vehicle charging network, modernizing our infrastructure, and creating good-paying jobs.” Projects were evaluated on a competitive basis following federal requirements and other factors: Choosing a variety of recipients not only statewide but also along individual AFCs; Projects that provided a variety of amenities and services to improve customer experience (such as varied payment options); Positive local economic development and workforce opportunities; and Locations that are welcoming, safe, and accessible for all. The NEVI funds support the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of charging sites. The PA NEVI program is a reimbursement program and applicants are required to provide a minimum 20% match. PennDOT received 271 unique funding submissions requesting $165.4 million for this round of investments. Today’s event was held at the Scranton Electricians JATC Training Center. All electricians installing, operating, or maintaining EV supply equipment must have a certification from the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) or graduation or a continuing education certificate from a registered apprenticeship program. Where more than one electrician is required, at least one electrician must meet the requirements above, and at least one electrician must be enrolled in an electrical registered apprenticeship program. While Round 1 NEVI projects progress, PennDOT continues meeting federal deadlines for additional funding rounds and working toward closing all AFC gaps while expanding community charging access. Round 1 and 1a will focus exclusively on the AFC network. The department anticipates opening Round 1a later this fall with approximately $20 million available. Additionally, on August 1, PennDOT submitted its Federal Fiscal Year 2024 NEVI Plan Update for federal review. The public may share input on the plan through an online survey or emailing ra-pdevcorridors@pa.gov. PennDOT will make all reasonable modifications to policies, programs, and documents to ensure that people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency have an equal opportunity to provide feedback on Pennsylvania’s transportation network. If you have other questions or challenges, contact PennDOT’s Bureau of Equal Opportunity to request help by emailing beodot@pa.gov or calling 717-787-5891; TTY (711). For more information on NEVI funds in Pennsylvania visit the PennDOT website. Pennsylvania can compete for billions of dollars in federal funds across a wide range of federal grant programs through the BIL, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). To help communities and organizations learn about these opportunities, PennDOT created a web page, www.penndot.pa.gov/IIJA, with details on federal grant opportunities to help municipalities, townships, and other community agencies with understanding the multiple transportation program grants that are available. The page includes Grant Alerts, guides, and links to important resources for local municipalities and organizations interested in pursuing federal funding opportunities Information about state infrastructure in Pennsylvania, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.
Wayne Bank Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend James O. Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwood Financial Corp (NASDAQ Global Market – NWFL) and its subsidiary Wayne Bank, announced that the Board of Directors has declared a $0.29 per share quarterly cash dividend payable May 1, 2023, to shareholders of record as of April 14, 2023. The $0.29 per share represents an increase of 3.6% over the cash dividend declared in the first quarter of 2022. Mr. Donnelly commented, “The Board is extremely pleased to provide our shareholders with this quarterly cash dividend. It reflects the Company’s financial strength and strong capital position which has contributed to our solid performance.” Norwood Financial Corp, through its subsidiary, Wayne Bank operates fourteen offices in Northeastern Pennsylvania and fifteen offices in Delaware, Sullivan, Ontario, Otsego and Yates Counties, New York. As of December 31, 2022, the Company had total assets of $2.047 billion, loans outstanding of $1.474 billion, total deposits of $1.728 billion and total stockholders’ equity of $167.1 million. The Company’s stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “NWFL”. Forward-Looking Statements. The foregoing material may contain forward-looking statements. We caution that such statements may be subject to a number of risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated, and therefore readers should not place undue reliance on any forward looking statements. Those risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, our ability to pay or increase cash dividends in the future, the continued financial strength, solid performance and strong capital position of the Company, changes in federal and state laws, changes in the absolute and relative levels of interest rates, the risks and uncertainty posed by, and the effect and impact of, the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy and the Company’s results of operation and financial condition, the ability to control costs and expenses, demand for real estate, costs associated with cybercrime, general economic conditions and the effectiveness of governmental responses thereto. Norwood Financial Corp does not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.
