United Way Day of Caring Drives Community Change

At the heart of community change are the thousands of dedicated volunteers who bring the United Way mission to life across Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Counties. These individuals give selflessly of their time and talents to create lasting solutions and improve the quality of life for everyone who calls our region home.

The cornerstone of these efforts is the annual Day of Caring—a powerful demonstration of community spirit and collaboration. Each year, hundreds of volunteers are mobilized across the tri-county area to work directly with the United Way and its network of partner agencies. From painting classrooms to planting gardens and revitalizing community spaces, volunteers roll up their sleeves to make a visible and lasting impact.

In addition to the Day of Caring, the Youth Day of Caring engages students in grades 7–12 in service projects that foster leadership, teamwork, and civic engagement. After a successful run in past years, the Youth Day of Caring is set to return in Spring 2025, providing another meaningful opportunity for young people to give back to their community.

Those interested in volunteering with the United Way are encouraged to reach out and get involved. Opportunities are available year-round, and every helping hand contributes to a stronger, more connected Northeastern Pennsylvania.

For more information or to sign up as a volunteer visit https://uwlc.net/volunteer/

The Wright Center, National Immunization Awareness Month

Arrival of school year an opportune time for vaccines

While the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic may have passed, the public health lessons it taught remain critically relevant – particularly the essential role vaccines play in disease prevention and population health.

Each August, National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) highlights the importance of staying current with recommended vaccinations across the lifespan. At The Wright Center for Community Health, we advocate for proactive conversations between patients and health care providers about necessary immunizations to protect against preventable diseases.

Vaccination not only reduces individual risk of illness but also contributes to herd immunity, thereby safeguarding vulnerable populations such as infants, immunocompromised individuals, and older individuals. In addition to COVID-19 and annual influenza vaccines, other immunizations remain crucial for preventing serious conditions, including measles, hepatitis A and B, meningococcal disease, and shingles.

With the academic year approaching, now is the optimal time for parents and guardians to confirm that children are compliant with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention immunization schedule. Pediatric vaccines provide protection against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), pertussis (Tdap), hepatitis A and B, meningococcal infections, and human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers.

Vaccination is also important during pregnancy. Expectant mothers are advised to receive the influenza and Tdap vaccines, both of which confer passive immunity to the newborn, reducing the risk of influenza and pertussis in the first months of life.

Adult immunization recommendations vary by age, underlying health conditions, occupational exposure, and travel history. Common adult vaccines include those for influenza, pneumococcal disease, shingles, and pertussis. Primary care providers are best positioned to guide patients in making evidence-based immunization decisions.

To improve access to these essential services, The Wight Center deploys a 34-foot mobile medical and dental unit, Driving Better Health, which delivers vaccinations and other preventive care directly to schools, neighborhoods, and social service agencies throughout our region – particularly in medically underserved communities.

In addition to immunization services, The Wright Center offers a comprehensive range of pediatric and family medicine services, including:

  • Well-child visits and physicals for school, sports, and camp participation
  • Newborn care and same-day sick appointments for acute illness
  • Developmental and sensory screenings (hearing, vision, height, and weight)
  • Asthma diagnosis and management
  • Behavioral health screenings for conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression
  • Evidence-based counseling on growth, nutrition, injury prevention, and general wellness

Looking ahead, seasonal influenza vaccines will soon be available at our 13 community health centers across Northeast Pennsylvania. Visit TheWrightCenter.org to locate the most accessible site for you and your family.

Vaccines remain one of the most significant advancements in modern medicine. They are safe, extensively studied, and highly effective at preventing morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. During National Immunization Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to review their vaccination status and consult with their health care provider to ensure full immunization coverage for themselves and their loved ones.

Prachi Agarwal, M.D., is a board-certified pediatrician and physician faculty for the Family Medicine Residency Pediatrics Program at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education. To make an appointment with Dr. Agarwal at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, call 570.941.0630 or go to TheWrightCenter.org.

NEPIRC, Get Tickets: Annual Manufacturing Summit & Expo

Summertime has its perks, but it’s good to plan for autumn so you won’t miss out. Northeastern Pennsylvania’s picturesque foliage is one draw for visitors to the region in October, but a popular attraction for many is the state’s largest and most impactful summit and networking event: Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) Best Practices Summit & Expo hosted by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC).

 NEPIRC is excited to announce the theme of this year’s Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo, Smart Manufacturing Starts Here: Your Path to AI, Robotics & Automation. Tickets, which start at $75, are available to attend this annual event that raises awareness of the region’s robust manufacturing, available career opportunities and the advanced technologies that drive industry on Friday, Oct. 3, at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 NEPIRC President/CEO Drew Mackie said, “At a time when innovation drives competitiveness, this conference is a must attend for manufacturers looking to take the first step into Industry 5.0. It’s not just about what’s next—it’s about what’s possible right now. Join us and discover how your business can be a part of the future of American manufacturing.”

 This year’s MFG Day keynote speaker Jake Hall, known as the “Manufacturing Millennial,” is on a mission to educate younger people by meeting them where they are—on social media.  Hall will address the future of manufacturing, effective social media use for manufacturers and much more. Hall will also lead a breakout session entitled, “The Power of Social Media: What You Should Do.”

Hall’s desire to influence the future workforce aligns closely with the goals of NEPIRC’s innovative Manufacturing Ambassador Dream Team initiative that increases high school and college student awareness of outstanding careers available within Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing field.

 Who should attend MFG Day?

Mackie says that this event is ideal for manufacturing executives and decision makers; non-manufacturers who provide a service or product that benefits the manufacturing industry; economic development organizations; high school and college students; colleges/universities; manufacturing advocates and enthusiasts; government officials; technology, robotics and AI companies; northeastern Pennsylvania champions; and anyone who would like to learn more about the manufacturing industry or is considering a manufacturing career.

 If you want to learn from industry experts and connect with people who are making a difference in the manufacturing industry, then this is a must-attend event! This year’s MFG DAY will focus heavily on manufacturing technology, AI and automation. Visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to purchase tickets.

 MFG DAY sponsorship opportunities are available but going quickly! If interested, visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to learn more and complete and submit the confirmation form required to lock in sponsorship. Additionally, NEPIRC is proud to announce that InnoTek Computer Consulting of Bloomsburg is this year’s Presenting Sponsor.

 For more information or to purchase tickets, email Randy Yash at Randy@NEPIRC.com or visit NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Day webpage at www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com.

Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, Community Rescue for Elderly Dog

A 14-year-old dog named Gino is recovering at the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic after being rescued from heartbreaking neglect, thanks to the swift response of multiple local organizations and the donors who made their work possible.

On Tuesday afternoon, Meals on Wheels of NEPA received a call about a dog in crisis. Gino, under the care of an elderly person in serious decline, was unable to stand. His fur was so severely matted that his ears were sealed shut and his skin raw. His nails had curled painfully, and his body was caked in urine and feces. With his muscles wasting from immobility, Gino had been silently suffering for far too long. 

Recognizing the urgency, Meals on Wheels contacted Blue Chip Animal Refuge, another trusted partner of the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic, operated in partnership with Indraloka Animal Sanctuary.

Because of recent donor-supported expansions, the clinic had late hours—and could respond immediately.

“It took hours of gentle, careful work to free Gino from nearly a pound of painful matting,” said Dr. Indra Lahiri, PhD, Founder and Executive Director at Indraloka. “But despite his suffering, he trusted us—quiet, still, allowing us to help.”

Gino was hospitalized and is now receiving fluids, medications, and nutrient-dense food. His condition remains fragile, but he is surrounded by love and expert care. And while his original guardian will no longer be able to care for him, they too are receiving support.

“This is what collaboration looks like,” said Dr. Leslie Interlandi, DVM. “A concerned neighbor. Humane Police. Meals on Wheels. Blue Chip. Our veterinary team. And the generous donors who made it possible. Together, we helped not just Gino—but the person who loved him.”

The NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic exemplifies what’s possible when human and animal welfare organizations come together with urgency and compassion. The clinic was created in response to a growing need across the region’s animal welfare community for accessible, affordable veterinary care—but it’s also a reflection of something deeper.

It was human service organizations, like Meals on Wheels of NEPA, that first recognized the inextricable link between the needs of animals and the people who love them.

“Gino’s heartbreaking story underscores the need for collaborative partnerships across sectors,” said Lindsay Skripka, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of NEPA. “The unmet needs of animals and humans is growing, and we need to work together in innovative ways to ensure everyone has access to the help they need.”

To support rescues like Gino’s or learn more about the clinic, visit https://indraloka.org/.  To learn more about Meels on Wheels, visit https://mealsonwheelsnepa.com/

The Waverly Community House Appoints New Executive Director

The Board of Trustees of the Waverly Community House is pleased to announce the appointment of Gia Tugend as Executive Director, effective July 22, 2025.

Ms. Tugend has served as Interim Executive Director since May 18th, providing thoughtful, steady leadership through a time of significant transition. Her appointment follows an extensive search conducted by a committee of former trustees and community leaders and reflects deep confidence in her experience, vision, and long-standing commitment to The Comm.

A Clarks Summit native, Gia has been a dedicated member of The Comm staff since 2012, most recently serving as Director of Institutional Advancement and Digital Media. In this role, she oversaw successful grant initiatives, community outreach, and program development. She holds a dual degree in English and History from Marywood University, graduating in 2014.

Gia’s goals as Executive Director include advancing long-range strategic planning, supporting capital building projects, and strengthening The Comm’s financial sustainability for generations to come. With a strong belief in The Comm’s mission, she is committed to expanding educational, recreational, and cultural programming while fostering inclusive community engagement.

“Gia brings a rare blend of institutional knowledge, creativity, and forward-thinking leadership,” said Betsy Curtin, President of the Board of Trustees. “Her passion for this organization and her vision for the future make her an ideal leader to carry The Comm forward.”

Gia lives in Clarks Summit with her husband Brian and enjoys the outdoors, fitness, and traveling.

Programs and operations at The Comm will continue uninterrupted under Gia’s leadership and with the support of the dedicated staff and board of trustees.

Circle Drive-In Upcoming Movie Showings


Wednesday, July 23rd: FREE Community Movie, Celebrating Dickson City’s 150th Anniversary

Screen One: “American Graffiti” (PG – 1973) at 9:00 pm

Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm

Thursday, July 24th: The Lackawanna Historical Society Movie Night

Screen One: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (PG-13 – 1989) at 9:00 pm

As always, we encourage you to get in the Christmas spirit & come dressed as your favorite character or in your favorite Christmas attire!

Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm

Friday, July 25th & Saturday, July 26th

DOUBLE FEATURES ON BOTH SCREENS!

Gates & Box Office 8:00 pmScreen One:
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:00 pm
“Thunderbolts*” (PG-13 – 2025) at 11:30 pm

Screen Two:
“Superman” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:15 pm
“Jurassic World: Rebirth” (PG-13 – 2025) at 11:45 pm

Sunday, July 27th

Circle Giant Flea Fair from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm (Vendor Gates at 5:00 am)

New vendors are always welcome, no pre-registration required! Come out & sell your crafts, artisan items, homemade products, spring cleaning treasures & more – every Sunday! Learn more at circledrive-in/fleafair24.

Sunday Night Movies

Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm

Screen One: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:00 pm 

Screen Two: “Superman” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:15 pm

Upcoming Films & Events:

Thursday, July 31st – The Lackawanna Historical Society presents “Dirty Dancing” at 9:00 pm

Saturday, August 2nd – Girl Gang Film Fest Returns – 2:00 pm

Saturday, August 9th – NEPA Mimosa Festival – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Our Concession Stand is open during every event! Stop in for your favorite cold drinks, candy, popcorn, freshly made pizza, burgers & more!   

Movie tickets, upcoming events, & additional information at circledrive-in.com.

Stevens & Lee: PA Supreme Court Backs Nonprofit Tax Exemption

On May 30, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued its long-awaited opinion in Pottstown School District v. Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals. In a 5-2 decision, the court held that Pottstown Hospital in Montgomery County (Hospital) qualified for real estate tax exemption as an “institution of purely public charity.”

This major decision backing tax exemption in an era of consolidation in the health care industry will allow hospitals to survive, thrive and provide essential medical care to the communities they serve. The Pottstown decision will be a valuable resource that hospitals and other nonprofits can rely on as they structure their employee compensation plans as part of their overall strategies to provide essential charitable services to their communities. Representing the Hospital, the Stevens & Lee team presented key arguments that helped secure this important victory for the client and the wider community of nonprofits across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

In Pennsylvania, entities are exempt from real estate taxes if they qualify as “purely public charities” under Article VIII, Section 2(a)(v) of the Commonwealth’s Constitution. To be exempt under this constitutional provision, an entity must satisfy the elements of a multi-factor test developed by the Supreme Court in its decision in Hospital Utilization Project v. Commonwealth, 487 A.2d 1306 (Pa. 1985) (HUP). An entity also must prove entitlement to tax exemption under two separate statutory tests.

In the Pottstown case, the tax assessment board and trial court found the Hospital exempt. But then the Commonwealth Court held the opposite, concluding that the Hospital did not qualify as a “purely public charity.” The court decided the Hospital did not operate “entirely free from private profit motive” under the fifth prong of the HUP test. According to the court, compensation and financial performance incentives paid to executives of the Hospital and its parent entity, Tower Health, showed a disqualifying “private profit motive.” The Commonwealth Court also found that the Hospital failed to show the reasonableness of the fees it paid to the parent for management and administrative services.

The Commonwealth Court’s surprising decision posed a significant threat to many kinds of nonprofits — not just those in the health care space. It created worry about compensation plans and management structures for nonprofits writ large, putting them at risk of losing their exempt status and having to devote funds to tax payments that otherwise could be put toward their nonprofit purposes.  

Thankfully, the Supreme Court reversed and reinstated Pottstown Hospital’s tax exemption. It explained that “only the salaries of the executives of a corporation seeking the tax exemption, and the net impact the payments of fees by that organization to a parent or affiliate corporation has on its own ability to fulfill its charitable mission, are relevant under the HUP test.” The Supreme Court announced that the “size of compensation” paid to executives and “the amount of the management fees” the Hospital paid to the parent “are insufficient by themselves to render the Hospital ineligible for a tax exemption.”

The Supreme Court reiterated that the fifth prong of the HUP test, relating to “private profit motive,” requires a fact-specific examination of the “reasonableness” of executive compensation. The court offered helpful guidance for future cases by listing some factors that may be considered when reviewing an executive’s compensation as part of the “private profit motive” analysis:

  • Compensation paid by similar organizations for comparable positions
  • The organization’s need for the individual’s services
  • The individual’s background, education, responsibilities, experience and training
  • Whether the compensation resulted from arm’s-length bargaining
  • The size and complexity of the organization
  • The individual’s prior compensation arrangement
  • The individual’s performance
  • The relationship of the individual’s compensation to the compensation of other employees at the organization
  • The amount of time the individual devotes to the position

The Supreme Court also clarified that “there is no fixed percentage of total executive compensation based on financial performance” that will automatically “render a particular compensation structure unreasonable.”

The Supreme Court’s Pottstown decision is a pivotal milestone for nonprofits in Pennsylvania. It confirms the ability of all nonprofits to pay reasonable, fair market compensation — including economic incentives — to attract and retain top executive talent without running the risk of losing tax-exempt status. The court’s decision guides nonprofits and taxing bodies alike by explaining that only the executive compensation of the entity seeking tax exemption is relevant to whether that entity qualifies as a “purely public charity.” And the court’s opinion reaffirms that nonprofits will not lose tax exemption by contracting with parent or affiliated companies for administrative services — a key, economically-efficient ruling for entities in consolidated industries like health care.

Pottstown Hospital was represented by Stevens & Lee attorneys Thomas I. Vanaskie, Thomas A. Bowen, Karl S. Myers and Peter J. Adonizio, Jr., as well as Myers, Brier & Kelly, LLP attorneys Daniel T. Brier and Donna A. Walsh.

SLIBCO Construction Project Notice

NOTICE TO BID

Sealed proposals for the TekRidge Expansion project located at 50 Alberigi Drive, Jessup, PA., will be received by Aaron Whitney, Director of Facilities and Asset Management for the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, until August 7, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. prevailing local time.  Bids will be open publicly at 2:05 P.M.  in The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s executive conference room, 222 Mulberry Street, Scranton Pa 18503.

The work includes a renovation of approximately 10,200 square feet of area within the building as well as the installation of (2) EV charging stations.  

The Work under the above Contract(s) shall be completed within 122 consecutive calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.  Work shall commence on September 1, 2025, and be substantially complete by December 31, 2025. 

It is the responsibility of the Contractor(s) to supply the necessary manpower, materials, and equipment to complete all Work in accordance with the above time schedule and the Lump Sum Price shall be based on the Contractor manning the Work to meet this schedule.

Contract Documents issued by hc architects are available via email by efischetti@hc-architects.com:

All bidders are to be registered with hc architects.  

A Proposal Guarantee in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the Bid must accompany each bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.  The above general outline of the principal features does not in any way limit the responsibility of the Contractor to perform all Work and furnish all labor, materials and equipment required by the Contract Documents.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Bidders must be prepared to submit a sworn performance record and a sworn financial statement, upon written request of the Owner, after the bids have been opened.

Bidders are hereby notified that the proposed Work will be subject to the provisions, duties, obligations, and penalties of the Davis-Bacon Wage Rate Act.

The successful bidder will be required to file a Stipulation Against Mechanic’s Lien prior to commencing work.

Questions can be submitted via email to efischetti@hc-architects.com

Wayne Bank Hires Fred Malloy as Senior Vice President and Controller

Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the hiring of Fred Malloy as a Senior Vice President and Controller.

“I am very excited to welcome Fred to Wayne Bank. With over three decades of community banking experience and a strong background in accounting operations, he brings a wealth of knowledge that will greatly benefit our organization,” said Donnelly. “Fred’s leadership and expertise make him a valuable addition to our team.”

In his new role, Fred will be working out of Wayne Bank’s corporate office in Honesdale, PA. Fred is responsible for overseeing the Bank’s Accounting Department operations, such as accounts payable, general ledger, accounting systems integration, and taxes. He brings with him over 33 years of community banking experience, positioning him as a valuable leader and source of industry knowledge for the Bank’s Accounting team.

Fred attended State University of New York, where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. He resides in Clarks Summit, PA, with his wife Malisa and their two daughters, Ally and Nellie.  

Wright Center Meds-Peds Doctor Named 2025 Top Physician Under 40

Dr. Stephen S. Long Jr., a dual board-certified internal medicine and pediatrics (Med-Peds) physician and associate program director of faculty development for the Internal Medicine Residency Program at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, has been selected as one of Pennsylvania’s Top Physicians Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED).

The statewide award honors physicians under the age of 40 who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients and communities while shaping the future of health care through clinical excellence, education, and advocacy. Dr. Long’s remarkable achievements across multiple domains of medicine in such a short time — particularly in underserved communities across Northeast Pennsylvania — earned him this prestigious recognition.

He joins 22 physicians across Pennsylvania who will receive their 2025 Pennsylvania Top Physicians Under 40 awards in September at one of PAMED’s two award ceremonies to be held in Hershey and Latrobe.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive this humbling recognition from the Pennsylvania Medical Society,” Dr. Long said. “It’s a reflection of the patients, mentors, and communities that have shaped me. The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education have provided me with the opportunity to practice medicine in a manner that aligns with my values, serving the whole person, investing in future physicians, and advancing access to primary and preventive care for all. I’m proud to be part of this mission-driven organization that believes so deeply in meeting people where they are and walking with them on their journeys to better health.”

A 2016 graduate of the University of Scranton with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and philosophy, Dr. Long, a Bethlehem, Pennsylvania native, earned his medical degree from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton in 2020. After completing his Med-Peds residency at MaineHealth’s Maine Medical Center in Portland, he returned to Northeast Pennsylvania in 2024 to serve the very communities that shaped his professional journey.

In just nine months, Dr. Long has become a vital member of The Wright Center’s interprofessional health care teams at two of its busiest teaching community health centers, Mid Valley and Clarks Summit, in Jermyn and South Abington Township, respectively. Dr. Long provides compassionate, comprehensive, whole-person primary health services to patients of all ages, from children to senior citizens.

In January, Dr. Long was selected as a 2025 Well-being Champion by the Eastern Region of the American College of Physicians, further cementing his status as a statewide leader in physician wellness, burnout prevention, and resilience-building.

His influence extends into community service and advocacy. Dr. Long has mentored aspiring first-generation college students through Geisinger Health System’s REACH-HEI Program, helping underserved eighth-graders explore pathways to careers in health care. He also served as a volunteer camp counselor and primary caregiver at Camp Bruce McCoy, a program of the Brain Injury Association of Virginia, where he provided compassionate care and support to adult male survivors of traumatic brain injuries.

Dr. Long is married to Archbald native Juliette Meyers, an art therapist at The Wright Center.

Dr. Long is available for appointments with patients of all ages at The Wright Center for Community Health Clarks Summit, 1145 Northern Blvd., South Abington Township, on Mondays and Tuesdays, and The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley, 5 S. Washington Ave., Jermyn, from Wednesdays through Fridays. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Long, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call the Clarks Summit location at 570-585-1300 or the Mid Valley location at 570-230-0019.

For more information about The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.