Treasurer Garrity Announces Relief Funding for Children and Most Vulnerable Pennsylvanians Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced today that the Pennsylvania Treasury Department will make $500 million available for Pennsylvania’s Head Start providers and county governments through a short-term, investment loan effort designed to ease the financial burden being faced by these entities, which serve Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable populations, due to the lack of an enacted state budget. “Our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians, especially our children, should not suffer because of ongoing state budget negotiations in Harrisburg,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Pennsylvania’s taxpayers expect their hard-earned tax dollars to be put to work, not be put on hold. We should not stand by and watch Head Start providers and county-level agencies like those that provide mental and behavioral health support struggle to provide necessary services to families relying on them while they wait for a state budget that is nearly three months late. Treasury is here to do its part to bridge the gap until an agreement is reached.” “We support the Treasurer’s bold leadership for this program that provides an important safety net to ensure counties can continue serving our communities without interruption, even during times of delayed state funding,” said Julie Wheeler, York County President Commissioner & Treasurer, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. “This initiative directly aligns with a resolution CCAP passed at our conference this past summer to support direct deposits from the State Treasury into county accounts.” “In a time of financial distress for many counties, the Treasury’s offering of short-term, investment loans is a welcomed option,” said Kyle Kopko, Executive Director, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. “The uncertainty surrounding the state budget is putting immense pressure on Pennsylvania counties, and while this new opportunity may provide some relief, our prime emphasis continues to be urging the Governor and General Assembly to work together to finalize a budget without delay.” Treasury will make outreach directly to Head Start programs and county governments. Funds will be received within two business days of approval. Those who enter into a loan agreement will be required to pay back the initial Treasury investment plus a 4.5 percent annual interest rate within 15 days of state funds being released following the enactment of a state budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26. To be eligible for this program, Head Start providers and county governments must indicate the investment will be used for immediate operating expenses and agree to the loan’s standard terms and conditions. “We have no greater responsibility than to take care of our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians, and that’s exactly what’s being achieved by making these funds available,” Treasurer Garrity said. Click here to find the press conference
Treasurer Garrity Announces Fee Reduction for PA ABLE Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced that a new fee reduction for PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account owners went into effect on Sept. 1, 2025 — the sixth PA ABLE fee reduction since she took office in 2021. “Every dollar counts for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, and this latest fee cut is another step in making sure PA ABLE account owners are saving as much as possible,” Treasurer Garrity said. “PA ABLE is a tremendous program that helps our friends and neighbors with disabilities live more independently and build financial stability.” This latest fee cut is the result of the National ABLE Alliance (NAA) surpassing $700 million in assets. PA ABLE is the largest member plan in the NAA with total assets of more than $175 million. The reduction of two basis points lowers program management fee ranges from 0.30%-0.36% to 0.28%-0.34%. This reduction results in about $35,000 in savings across the PA ABLE program. PA ABLE offers tax-advantaged savings options for people with disabilities. Saving with PA ABLE does not impact eligibility for important benefits such as Supplemental Security Income and Medical Assistance. PA ABLE allows contributions of up to $19,000 annually. With ABLE to Work this limit may be higher for employed individuals who do not contribute to an employer-sponsored retirement plan. Funds saved with PA ABLE are easily accessible and can be used for a wide range of disability-related expenses, from day-to-day things like groceries and rent, to bigger expenses like assistive technology, vehicle adaptations and more. No federal or state income tax is paid on PA ABLE account growth or withdrawals when used for qualified expenses. Currently to save with PA ABLE, a person’s disability must be onset prior to the age of 26. Starting in 2026, this age rises to 46, expanding to include millions more Americans, including one million Veterans.
Mohegan PA Awarded Over $11.7 Million in August Jackpots One Lucky Guest Hits Massive $150,000 Jackpot Mohegan Pennsylvania was the place to be in August! Throughout the month, Mohegan Pennsylvania awarded more than $11.7 million in slot jackpots to its guests. Of that $11.7 million, one Mohegan Pennsylvania guest accounted for $150,000 on Wednesday, August 27th. The lucky guest was playing at a Konami Gaming Stuffed Coins Toad slot machine when they hit the massive GRAND progressive jackpot!
Marywood University Earns “Best Value” Recognition Among NEPA Colleges Marywood University continues to offer the “Best Value” among Northeast Pennsylvania universities, according to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges ranking. Moving up four places to #14 on the Regional Universities (North) rankings for “Best Value,” Marywood continues to demonstrate its exceptional affordability and academic excellence as the top regional four-year private university included in this category. According to U.S. News, the “Best Value” ranking considers a school’s academic quality—the higher the quality of the program and the lower the cost, the better the deal. Only schools ranked in or near the top half of their categories are included. U.S. News considers the most significant values to be among colleges that are above average academically. In the “Best Colleges for Veterans” (Regional Universities North category), Marywood is ranked at #29. Marywood has consistently placed in the top 30 institutions for this category year over year. According to U.S. News, this designation includes the top-ranked schools in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings that participate in federal initiatives helping veterans and active-duty service members pay for their degrees. Marywood University also had a solid showing at #61 (tie) in its overall position on the “Best Regional Universities North” list, which includes institutions from seven states. Marywood is one of only four local universities to attain placement on this list, and the second highest ranked, demonstrating its enduring quality as a higher education provider in the region. Additionally, Marywood placed in the top 100 for Top Performers on Social Mobility, ranking at #88 (tie) overall. Marywood is the only local university to place in the top 100 for this category. This includes institutions that are more successful than others at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of disadvantaged students awarded with Pell Grants. The social mobility ranking also includes borrower debt and college graduates earning more than high school graduates. Click here for additional information regarding Marywood University’s rankings in U.S. News & World Report
Greater Scranton YMCA Halloween Costume Drive Underway The Y is collecting new and gently used Halloween costumes for local families The Greater Scranton YMCA’s 2025 Halloween Costume Drive is underway, providing families in the community with the opportunity to donate and receive costumes for the upcoming holiday. The Y is accepting new and gently used costumes of all sizes and for all ages. Donated costumes can be dropped-off at the Y’s Welcome Center, located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore, through Monday, October 6th. Costume pick-up days will be held from October 7–9, giving families in need the chance to find fun, festive costumes free of charge. “Here at the Y, we believe all children deserve the chance to experience a magical Halloween season,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Through donating new or gently used costumes, community members can help make this Halloween special and memorable for local families and children in need.” The Greater Scranton YMCA is encouraging the community to participate by donating costumes in good condition. Every contribution ensures that more children will have the opportunity to experience Halloween with confidence and excitement. For more information about the Halloween Costume Drive, contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
Dimeco, Inc. Declares Cash Dividend The Board of Directors of Dimeco, Inc. (OTCQX: DIMC) declared a dividend on September 18, 2025, of $0.42 per share to shareholders of record September 29, 2025. The dividend is payable on October 23, 2025, the anticipated date to release earnings for the third quarter of 2025. This dividend is an increase of $0.02 per share over the dividend declared in September 2024 and produces a yield of 4.36% at the market value of $38.54 on September 18, 2025. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “We continue to prioritize delivering exceptional banking services to our customers and the communities we serve. This dividend reflects our sincere appreciation to Dimeco shareholders for their steadfast commitment to our purpose and their continued trust.”
Tobyhanna Delivers Critical Communication Support for Army Aviators When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401 and Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is now ensuring this critical system remains ready for the fight. When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401. The IDM-401 connects mission computers, radios, and the tactical internet, allowing helicopters to send voice and data at the same time. It also passes along targeting information and situational awareness to commanders and other aircraft, helping warfighters in the air and on the ground stay connected, informed, and safe. Today, more than 3,200 IDM-401s are in service across every modern Army helicopter. Tobyhanna’s involvement with the IDM-401 began with test-and-inspect work, but the mission quickly expanded. In less than a year, the depot has built up the ability to perform full overhauls on the device. Today, technicians can complete every step of the sustainment process including loading and verifying software, performing vibration and thermal testing, and conducting hardware qualification tests. Four advanced test stations and environmental stress screening chambers ensure each unit can handle tough conditions before being returned to the field. This growth didn’t happen overnight. It has taken teamwork, innovation, and close partnership across the Army enterprise. Experts from Tobyhanna’s Mission Execution Directorate, Strategic Initiatives Directorate, and Software, Simulation, and Systems Engineering and Integration (S3I) worked side by side with the Project Management Office for Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) to validate test equipment and processes. The result is a streamlined production line capable of handling the Army’s needs for years to come. In August 2025, leaders from PM AMSA visited Tobyhanna to walk through the new repair process. They praised the depot’s setup and progress, even presenting coins to three technicians for their outstanding work. Lt. Col. James D. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation praised Tobyhanna’s rapid integration of the workload “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks. When the IDM-401 program arrived at TYAD in March 2024, PM AMSA’s Brett Beatty lauded the depot’s support of the important program. “Tobyhanna is providing outstanding support for the IDM-401. It is a pleasure to work with the professional team here,” said Beatty. The IDM-401 serves as the crucial interface between aircraft mission computers, radios, and ground networks. As the predecessor to the Aviation Mission Computer Server, the IDM has laid the foundation for the Army’s next generation of aviation mission systems. With sustainment expected through at least 2040, the IDM-401 mission will remain an important part of Tobyhanna’s portfolio for years. More importantly, it represents the depot’s ongoing commitment to the warfighter. Through teamwork, innovation, and dedication, TYAD is keeping America’s warfighters connected today, tomorrow, and into the future. Katlin Edmunds of TYAD’s Strategic Initiatives Directorate highlighted the depot’s role in supporting evolving Army Aviation needs, emphasizing the commitment to readiness depot artisans exhibit on a daily basis. “TYAD is proud to enhance sustainment operations for Project Manager Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) and PEO Aviation as Army Aviation platforms and systems continue to evolve,” said Edmunds. “We are committed to rapidly establishing the necessary capabilities for our soldiers to remain operationally ready.” “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation.
The University of Scranton Shines in U.S. News Rankings The University of Scranton is a top 10 college in its region with nationally ranked academic programs and distinction for innovation and support for veterans, according to U.S. News and World Report. The publication’s 2026 Best Colleges report, published Tuesday, ranked The University of Scranton No. 8 in the Regional Universities (North) category. U.S. News has ranked Scranton in the top 10 in its category for an astounding 32 consecutive years. Two of Scranton’s academic programs ranked among the top 40 in the nation. Scranton placed No. 38 in “Best Undergraduate Programs in Analytics” and No. 40 in “Best Undergraduate Programs in Accounting.” The University also tied for 135th in “Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs,” tied for 162nd in “Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” and tied for 254th in “Best Undergraduate Business Programs.” Scranton also tied for 410th in “Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs.” National rankings reflect the results of peer surveys used to identify programs of high academic quality. The University achieved high marks in several regional categories, including No. 3 in “Best Colleges for Veterans,” a selection of schools recognized for making higher education more accessible and affordable for veterans and active-duty service members. Scranton ranks No. 9 in “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” which recognizes schools’ strong commitment to teaching undergraduates rather than conducting graduate-level research. Scranton tied for 13th in “Most Innovative Schools,” which identifies institutions making innovative improvements in curriculum, personnel, campus life, technology or facilities. The University placed 55th on U.S. News’ “Best Value Regional Universities (North).” Scranton also tied for 106th in “Top Performers on Social Mobility,” which examines the success of schools that enroll and graduate students who were awarded Pell Grants. U.S. News uses numerous data points to rank bachelor’s degree colleges in America, including graduation rate and graduation rate performance; retention rates; borrower debt; peer assessments; faculty salaries; student-faculty ratio; financial resources; standardized test performance; and Pell Grant student graduation rates and performance. U.S. News categorizes colleges for their rankings based on the official Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classification of universities. Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings placed five University programs in the top 50 in the nation, and several programs ranked in the top 150 in the country, including business analytics, tied for 28th; finance, tied for 31st; accounting, tied for 39th; healthcare management, tied for 46th; rehabilitation counseling, tied for 49th; occupational therapy, tied for 79th; part-time MBA, tied for 80th; physical therapy tied for 105th; nursing-anesthesia, tied for 111th; doctor of nursing practice, tied for 127th. Scranton has recently appeared in other national rankings, as well, including being designated as one of the nation’s best colleges by Forbes and the Princeton Review. Click here to find U.S. News and World Report – 2026 Best Colleges Click here to find U.S. News and World Report’s Best Graduate Schools Click here to find Forbes Click here to find the Princeton Review
WVIA Wins Five Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Awards, Including Overall Excellence WVIA won five Emmy Awards – including the prestigious Overall Station Excellence – at the 43rd annual Mid-Atlantic Awards in Philadelphia Saturday night. The historic Station Excellence win – a first for WVIA in its more than 50 years of service – capped off a successful night of five total awards that highlight the station’s continued pursuit to honor the creative journey, its commitment to the craft, and employees’ passion to tell the stories of the region. “Despite the many challenges we’ve faced this year, our staff has continued to deliver meaningful, impactful content that truly serves the people of Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania,” said Carla McCabe, President & CEO of WVIA. “We are incredibly honored to receive five Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards, including the Overall Station Excellence. This recognition is a powerful testament to the dedication, creativity, and resilience of our entire team. Being recognized for that commitment is an extraordinary moment of pride for all of us.” The Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Awards celebrate excellence in television production across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and parts of Ohio and West Virginia. This year saw 749 entries in 80 Emmy categories – 305 of those received nominations. The Overall Excellence category recognizes a television station for the high standard of its overall programming and community service across all its endeavors. WVIA was nominated among three outstanding stations from larger metropolitan markets, including KDKA in Pittsburgh, WGAL in Lancaster, and CBS Philadelphia. This station-wide recognition underscores WVIA’s mission to create programming that not only informs and inspires but also reflects the rich heritage and stories of the region. “To be recognized for Overall Excellence is both humbling and inspiring,” said Ben Payavis II, WVIA’s Chief Content Officer. “It’s a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and a reflection of the responsibility we carry in telling the stories of this region. Stories don’t just entertain us; they connect us. They build bridges between different perspectives and remind us of our shared humanity.” 2025 Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Award Wins for WVIA: Overall Excellence WVIA – Carla McCabe, President & CEO, WVIA Health/Medical News Keystone Edition Health: She Beat Cancer – Tim Novotney, Director/Camera/Editor Historical/Cultural- Short Film VIA Short Takes: The Secret Beneath Hazleton – Tim Novotney, Director/Camera/Editor Human Interest – Long Form Content 2024 Little League Challenger Exhibition – Ben Payavis, Producer; Ken Sawyer, Play-By-Play Announcer; Tom Speicher, Color Commentator News/Program Promotion/PSA – Single Spot NEPA @ Work Trailer – Alexander Monelli, Director/Camera/Editor In total, WVIA received nine nominations for its outstanding work across a variety of genres. Additional nominated projects include: Sports – One Time Special The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles – Ben Payavis, Producer/Director; John Mikulak, Director of Photography; Ron Andruscavage, Audio/Drone/Camera Entertainment-Long Form Content The Story of Palma: A Musical Fable – Ben Payavis, Director/Editor; Larry Vojtko, Associate Producer/Score Reader; Erika Funke, Associate Producer; George Graham, Audio Producer/Mix; Lisa Mazzarella, Narrator/Associate Producer; Ron Andruscavage, Production Manager Magazine ProgramNEPA @ Work -Alexander Monelli, Director/Camera/Editor VIA Short Takes #503 – Ben Payavis, Executive Producer; Alexander Monelli, Cinematographer/Editor/Director; Tim Novotney, Cinematographer/Editor/Director; John Alaimo, Producer/Director/Editor Among the evening’s honorees was WVIA’s Chief Technology Officer Joe Glynn, who was officially inducted into the 2025 Silver Circle Society, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the broadcasting industry over more than 25 years. Click here to find the full list of Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Award recipients
Johnson College Receives Scholarship Award from Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club The Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support the organization’s annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students with demonstrated financial need. This marks the 15th year the scholarship has been awarded to Johnson College students. Funds are raised through donations, volunteer work, sponsorships and annual calendar sales. Johnson College’s two-year associate degree program in Automotive Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the automobile and diesel industries. Graduates may work in automotive, truck, farm and earthmoving equipment dealerships; truck, power generation and construction companies; automotive service centers; engine repair and machine shops; automotive equipment distributors; independent service garages; automotive parts manufacturers; sales roles; and auto insurance companies. During Johnson College’s Truck and Cruiser Palooza event in mid-September, the Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club Inc. presented a $1,500 check to support its annual scholarship for Johnson College Automotive Technology students. Pictured from left: Dave Thomas, Villa Capri secretary; Kathy Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Luke Casterline, Villa Capri treasurer; Sal Pizzo, Villa Capri vice president; John Eggleston, Villa Capri member; Doug Cook, senior director of college advancement, Johnson College; Joe Caputo, Villa Capri board member; Dr. Kellyn Williams, associate vice president of special programs, Johnson College; and Joe Carra, Villa Capri president.
