Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Team Essential Behind the Scenes When a new military system reaches the hands of the nation’s warfighters, one essential component often goes unnoticed: the manual that teaches them how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot it. At Tobyhanna Army Depot, a small but highly specialized team ensures those instructions are accurate, reliable, and ready for the battlefield. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch has been developing the technical manuals that accompany military systems, ranging from large tactical shelters and radar platforms to handheld radios and communications headsets, for multiple decades. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch has been developing the technical manuals that accompany military systems, ranging from large tactical shelters and radar platforms to handheld radios and communications headsets, for multiple decades. These manuals are not what the average consumer would expect to find in a new television set or cell phone, for example. These “tech manuals” are large, complex documents, often hundreds or even thousands of pages long that must follow strict standards set by the Department of War. “We’re taking complex engineering data and turning it into something a soldier can use in an austere environment,” said Technical Publications Branch Supervisor Peter Moore. Soldiers are often depending on these manuals in extreme weather, life-or-death situations where they may have limited background on the systems. Technical Writer-Editor Kevin Slater said everything is written with that context in mind. “Never assume the reader has time to guess. Assume they’re cold and holding a 20-pound wrench,” said Slater. The branch’s workforce is as diverse as its mission. Engineers, technicians, illustrators, drafters, and journalists all contribute to producing a complete manual. The work they perform goes far beyond sitting at a desk and typing away. It truly is part technical, part mechanical, and a part design role. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications team estimated that approximately 95 percent of the branch’s workload comes from outside the depot. The team supports Army program offices nationwide, the Marine Corps, and occasionally the Navy and Air Force. When a contractor doesn’t have its own writers or when a program office needs an authoritative military manual, they often turn to Tobyhanna. Creating a manual is a deeply hands-on process. Writers and engineers frequently travel to units or manufacturers to examine equipment firsthand, take reference photos, perform operational steps, and work side-by-side with soldiers and subject-matter experts. Provisioners research every part used in a system, ensuring it’s available for the entire 20 to 30-year life cycle of a system, documented, and supported and then compile that data into detailed parts lists soldiers use to order replacements. “Our job is to make sure every piece of equipment can be operated and maintained safely for its entire life cycle,” said Technical Writer-Editor Jacob Crawford. Each manual concludes with a verification event in which a user follows the instructions step-by-step to ensure accuracy before the system can be fielded. The work of Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch is complex, meticulous, and sometimes invisible to the public, but its impact is felt on the battlefield when soldiers desperately need it. “Every system needs a book,” said Configuration Management Specialist Carleton Henning. “And we make sure that book works for the soldier who needs it most.” This illustration depicts a power supply and labels each item a user will need to be able to identify when removing or installing it.
Wright Center Planning North Scranton Expansion The Wright Center for Community Health has begun a $5 million project to build a community health center in North Scranton, expanding access to primary care, behavioral health, and dental services across Lackawanna County. The new, two-story community health center will be located at 1727-1729 N. Main St., next door to The Wright Center for Community Health North Scranton’s current location at 1721 N. Main Ave. The building was the longtime office of Dr. Paul Remick. The Wright Center began offering primary care services there when Dr. Remick retired in 2023 to minimize disruption for his longtime patients and to expand access to affordable, high-quality, whole-person primary health services for patients of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses. The Wright Center purchased the property at 1727-1729 N. Main St. in February 2025 because the demand for health care services outpaced the available space in the existing building. The existing location also needs additional parking spots and infrastructure improvements. “We’ve seen a growing demand for health care services since we opened our community health center in North Scranton more than two years ago,” said Dr. Jignesh Y. Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. “We did not have the capacity to continue our growth in our existing primary care office building. We’re privileged to be able to invest in the long-term health and welfare of the North Scranton community to ensure residents’ current and future health care needs are satisfied.” The construction project will create a nearly 8,000-square-foot, two-story community health center offering primary care, behavioral health care, and dental services. In addition to 10 exam rooms on the first floor and four dental operatories and four behavioral health treatment rooms on the second floor, the building will also have a space for lab services. The Wright Center plans to break ground on the project in the spring with a tentative completion date of fall/winter 2026. A Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant of $984,585 will fund part of this project. While construction is underway, Wright Center staff will continue to treat patients at the existing community health center. Once construction of the new building is complete, the clinic will move into the new, expanded space, and the clinic at 1721 N. Main Ave. will be razed. The Wright Center recently completed a similar expansion project in Wilkes-Barre, albeit on a much larger scale. The Luzerne County project won a Pride of Place Award from the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce last month. The award recognizes The Wright Center’s thoughtful, intentional design for the present and future health care needs in Luzerne County. Read more about that project at TheWrightCenter.org/news. “We’re really excited for this opportunity to invest in the community of North Scranton and the greater Scranton area. Northeast Pennsylvania continues to have an unmet need for our integrated model of providing whole-person primary health care, behavioral health care, and dental services at one location,” Dr. Sheth said. “Our projects in Wilkes-Barre and North Scranton are being built from the ground up as part of our mission to improve the health and welfare of our communities through responsive, whole-person health services for all and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce that is privileged to serve.” As a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike, commonly known as an FQLA, The Wright Center operates a network of 13 community health centers in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. For more information, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-209-0019
RailRiders Unveil 2026 CHAMP’S Home Run Readers Program The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Red Robin are thrilled to announce a new reading program. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers is a premier reading program developed exclusively for elementary and middle schools in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and surrounding communities. This challenge will run from March 2 through March 22, 2026. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers are tasked with tracking their reading minutes outside of the classroom. While only at-home, out-of-school reading counts, this can include school curriculum books, self-chosen books, and both digital and print materials. A reader’s time can also include minutes a parent or guardian reads aloud to the student, encouraging family literacy. They believe in celebrating every milestone in reading. Prizes are awarded based on the student’s highest achievement tier. Each student who participates will receive a coupon courtesy of Red Robin. Single – Read under 400 minutes and receive a participation certificate. Double – Read at least 400 minutes and receive a participation certificate plus two tickets for a specified RailRiders game. Triple – Read at least 800 minutes and receive a participation certificate plus four tickets for a specified RailRiders game. Home Run – Read 1,300 or more minutes and receive a participation certificate plus four tickets for a specified RailRiders game, a first pitch at a specified RailRiders home game and a RailRiders t-shirt. Top Overall Reader: On-Field recognition at a RailRiders game, an autographed baseball PLUS a photo with CHAMP. Student tickets are redeemable on June 9 or June 10, 2026. All prizes are subject to change. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers efforts will be tracked by program coordinators at the student’s school. Each school will designate a program coordinator to assist in the process. Any teacher that has their classroom participate in this challenge, the Program Coordinator and Principal will be awarded a ticket voucher redeemable for four tickets to a 2026 RailRiders game. Some restrictions may apply, and seats are based on availability. The top five schools with the most student participation will receive a suite for a RailRiders game for 12 staff members (food and beverage not included) for a mutually agreed upon date. The top school will receive $250 towards a school Amazon Wish List. The deadline for registering is February 13, 2026. The RailRiders’ 2026 campaign begins on the road March 27 with the home opener at PNC Field scheduled for April 7. Season ticket memberships, including premium seating, full season, half season and partial plans, are on sale now. Learn more about CHAMP’S Home Run Readers, presented by Red Robin, online at swbrailriders.com or by calling (570) 969-2255.
Allied Services VP Retires, Receives Flag From SourceAmerica SourceAmerica representative Marshelle Gaspar presented a ceremonial flag to Bob Ames at a reception today in recognition of and celebration of his upcoming retirement from Allied Services after 35+ years of empowering and enriching the lives of adults with disabilities. Bill Conaboy, President & CEO of Allied Services, first introduced Bob Ames at the reception to many colleagues and thanked Bob for his leadership and loyalty to our organization and for the accomplishments Bob achieved on behalf of adults with disabilities, who live and work with us, across four decades. In her presentation, Marshelle thanked Bob for his advocacy for and commitment to employment opportunities for adults with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as explaining the flag was made by adults with disabilities through one of the SourceAmerica partners in California. Left to right: Marshelle Gaspar, Nonprofit Liaison, East Region, SourceAmerica, Bob Ames, Vice President, Community Services and Real Estate, Allied Services, Bill Conaboy, Esq., President & CEO, Allied Services Integrated Health System.
Equestrian House: Close to the Slopes, Far From the Crowds There’s a secret tucked away in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Elk Mountain—a ski resort that draws skiers and snowboarders who prefer solid terrain, night skiing (a welcome little adventure under the stars), and more time on the slopes than waiting in lift lines. It’s unpretentious in the best way and truly one of the best-kept winter secrets. And Equestrian House’s vacation rentals—a log cabin and several cottages and suites—are just 16 miles away, roughly a half-hour drive through pretty countryside. After a day of hurling oneself down snowy slopes, guests have the luxury of returning to their own quiet place instead of a packed hotel lobby full of clattering boots and noisy retellings of wipeouts. Here, guests can kick off their boots, sink into a couch, and feel that particular satisfaction that comes from a good day on the mountain. And it seems the sporting thing to do to mention that this ski season, from mid-December through mid-March, Equestrian House is offering 35% off any midweek stay of three nights or longer (Sunday through Thursday). Winter fills up faster than most would think, so check availability before all the sensible winter lovers claim the dates. Click here for more information. Check the Elk Mountain webcams for real-time slope conditions.
Geisinger Health Plan Recognized by U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in health care rankings and consumer advice, has named Geisinger Health Plan (GHP) a 2026 Best Insurance Company for Medicare Advantage in Pennsylvania. The ratings of the Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage evaluate private insurance companies on the basis of U.S. News’ proprietary analysis of 30+ quality measures published by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Less than one-third of Medicare Advantage providers nationwide were named Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage. “This is once again a testament to Geisinger Health Plan’s continued commitment to providing high-quality medical coverage and excellent member services to Medicare beneficiaries across Pennsylvania,” said Karen Murphy, PhD, RN, president of Geisinger Health Plan. “U.S. News’ comprehensive, data-driven methodology recognizes the insurance companies that deliver the best Medicare Advantage plans,” said Sumita Singh, executive vice president and general manager of Health at U.S. News. “By evaluating every company’s Medicare Advantage plans based on dozens of quality measures and recognizing top performers in key areas – including Screening & Prevention and Care Continuity – we’re highlighting those that deliver superior plans and hopefully better outcomes for beneficiaries,” Singh added. “U.S. News’ Medicare Advantage ratings are a powerful tool for beneficiaries as they make one of their most important health decisions.” For the 2026 edition of Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage, U.S. News considered CMS data and quality measure results for every evaluated insurance company’s Medicare Advantage health plans for the 2026 calendar year. U.S. News, in consultation with industry experts, selected 30+ CMS quality measures and assigned each measure a weight reflecting its relevance to consumers. The results for a provider’s plans were averaged together, with greater weight assigned to plans having the most seniors enrolled. Additionally, U.S. News calculated insurers’ ratings for three specific Medicare Advantage award categories: Screening & Prevention, Care Continuity and Highest Satisfaction. For more information, visit Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period ends Sunday, Dec. 7. Click here or call 800-482-8163 to learn more about GHP Medicare Advantage options.
Geisinger’s Peer Support Program Reaches Milestone Geisinger’s employee-led peer support initiative, M-PATH (Meeting Peers at the Heart), has reached a significant milestone, with more than 1,000 employees now trained as peer supporters across the health system. Developed and offered through Geisinger’s Center for Well-being, M-PATH is designed to cultivate a culture of empathy, connection and emotional support among staff. The program equips employees with the skills to provide meaningful peer-to-peer support — whether proactively checking in with colleagues or offering a compassionate ear during challenging times. As part of the training, peer supporters learn how to be an empathetic and active listener, assess situations thoughtfully and connect employees with appropriate resources when additional support is needed. Peer supporters represent a wide range of departments, roles and regions, underscoring Geisinger’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace environment. “We’re incredibly grateful to the more than 1,000 employees who have stepped up to be a source of support for their peers,” said Susan Parisi, M.D., Geisinger’s chief wellness officer. “Their compassion and dedication reflect the value Geisinger places on well-being and the powerful role each person plays in building a connected, caring community. We’re proud of how far the M-PATH program has come and look forward to its continued growth and the positive impact it will have on our colleagues.”
Scranton Cultural Center and Broadway Theatre League Unite Two of the region’s most iconic entertainment organizations have become one. On Wednesday afternoon, Broadway Theatre League of NEPA announced that it has merged with the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. (From L to R) John Murray – SCC Board Co-President; Deborah Moran Peterson – SCC Co-Executive Director; Frank T. Blasi, Esq. – SCC Co- Executive Director; and Brian Cali, Esq. – SCC Board Co-President “This merger represents more than just strategic alignment, it’s a community commitment,” according to Brian Cali, Esq., and John Murray, joint chairmen of the Scranton Cultural Center board. “The Broadway Theatre League has brought the highest caliber productions to Scranton for over six decades, offering world-class performances at a fraction of the cost of New York City, and will now become part of the region’s entertainment Mecca, the Scranton Cultural Center.” “Through this partnership, we ensure that generations of Pennsylvanians – especially those who may never otherwise experience the magic of Broadway – continue to have access to the arts and other future programs planned with our new venture,” they added. The Scranton Cultural Center, a stunning 1930s architectural landmark designed by Raymond Hood and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has long been BTL’s home stage. The special facility is currently undergoing a $10 million restoration helping to preserve the 1930s landmark for generations to come. This merger deepens that impact. “By joining forces, we’re not only preserving a historic structure – we’re amplifying its reach. We’re building an arts and culture hub that will serve students, seniors, families and visitors from across Pennsylvania and beyond,” according to board members, Dr. Kimberly D’Andrea and William Schoen, who are spearheading transition communication efforts. Employees of both organizations have been retained, and Deborah Moran Peterson and Frank T. Blasi, Esq. will serve as co-directors of the SCC. The merger announcement was made in conjunction with the unveiling of the Center’s historic Weinberg Theatre, which has been closed to the public for restoration since June. As part of the large-scale restoration project, funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services, theatre restorations include the removal and replacement of over 2,600 Celotex ceiling tiles, and 1,700 decorative plaster ornaments. Additionally, the decorative proscenium arch that was missing since the 1980s was recreated.
Greenlight Expands Across NEPA; Partners with Blakely Borough Greenlight Networks (“Greenlight”), a leading fiber-to-the-home internet service provider, and latest emerging player in Pennsylvania, is accelerating its investment and network buildout across Northeastern Pennsylvania. On the heels of the acquisition of Loop Internet last month, Greenlight today announced several new expansions within the Northeast Pennsylvania region including the Boroughs of Blakely and Throop – bringing residents, businesses, and municipalities the fast, reliable internet they need. The company is pleased to share that Blakely Borough has signed a municipal agreement with Greenlight, securing high-speed fiber connectivity for eight community buildings, including the Borough Office, DPW Garage, Electrical Switchgear Station, Blakely Hose Co. No. 2, Wilson Fire. Co. No. 1, Blakely Borough Community Ambulance, and both the Blakely Borough Community Center and the Blakely Borough Recreation Complex. “Reliable, affordable, high-speed internet is essential infrastructure for our community,” said Christopher Paone, Borough Manager of Blakely. “By partnering with Greenlight, we are ensuring not only our residents but also our municipal operations and emergency services are equipped with the best connectivity available for the needs of today, tomorrow, and beyond.” “The continued expansion of Greenlight Networks’ fiber is a big plus for our regional community,” said Bob Durkin, President of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “With increased remote work and schooling, and the advances in AI., high-speed, reliable internet is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity for families, businesses, and economic competitiveness. We are excited to see this type of investment by Greenlight Networks, here in northeastern Pennsylvania.” Greenlight’s regional expansion is progressing rapidly, with thousands of homes and businesses already connected or under construction throughout Lackawanna County. In Blakely, residents can expect construction to begin in early 2026, with more areas to be announced in the coming months. The company is also accelerating its investment and network buildout across the Scranton market following the acquisition of Loop Internet. Over the past several months, service has become available in multiple new neighborhoods across West and South Scranton, the company has also continued its momentum across Kingston, Wilkes-Barre, and Mountain Top, further strengthening Greenlight’s regional footprint across Luzerne County. “Northeastern Pennsylvania is an exciting place for us to grow, as we continue to partner with communities that welcome competition and are eager for better internet options,” said Mark Murphy, CEO of Greenlight Networks. “Residents and businesses alike want more choice and Greenlight is ready to deliver with the speed and reliability of our fiber network. We are proud of our national recognition as a top Internet service provider for value, reliability, speed and service and excited to further expand access to enhanced connectivity across this region.” Click here for more information.
Johnson College Launches Prison Training Program Johnson College has launched a prison training program designed to provide incarcerated individuals in Northeastern Pennsylvania with industry-recognized credentials that support successful re-entry into the workforce. Initially funded by the Sordoni Family Foundation and now supported with additional funding from the Mellon Foundation through a subaward agreement with Villanova University as part of the Expanding Access to Higher Education in Pennsylvania State Prisons project, this program represents a significant step in expanding access to career education behind prison walls and reducing recidivism. Currently, the College delivers training remotely to the Wayne County Prison, Pike County Prison, and the United States Penitentiary (USP) Canaan. Originally piloted in 2020 through a $10,000 grant from the Sordoni Family Foundation, the program was developed to train incarcerated individuals in workforce-relevant skills. Since then, Johnson College has strengthened its efforts with support from the Pennsylvania Consortium for Higher Education in Prisons (PA-CHEP) to pilot additional courses and expand to more facilities. The College has offered courses in OSHA 10 and Customer Service Basics, providing participants with nationally recognized industry credentials and certificates of completion. This winter, Johnson College plans to expand offerings to include Basic Electrical and Pre-CDL training courses. The College’s efforts are further supported through a partnership with Goodwill Industries to expand workforce development and re-entry programming across correctional facilities. Goodwill identifies individuals interested in Johnson College’s career fields, coordinates participation, and provides post-training career preparation and job placement support for program completers. Funding support for the current phase of the program continues through December 31, 2025, with goals to sustain and expand the initiative going forward. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.
