Peoples Security Bank & Trust Contributes More Than $1.5 Million to Local Educational Organizations Through the PA EITC Program Through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, Peoples Security Bank & Trust (PSBT) contributed $1,572,581.46 in 2025 to support educational organizations across its service footprint. The EITC Program allows businesses to support education by directing a portion of their state tax obligations to a qualified Scholarship Organization, Educational Improvement Organization, and/or a Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organization. PSBT’s EITC contributions helped fund scholarship programs, classroom materials, educational supplies, school grants, and specialized academic initiatives designed to expand access to quality education. In total, 110 organizations benefitted from these funds, including private schools, scholarship organizations, pre-kindergarten programs, school districts, colleges and universities, and other nonprofit partners serving students and families throughout the Bank’s Pennsylvania footprint. Since 2015, PSBT has contributed more than $8.6 million through the EITC program. This sustained investment reflects the Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by helping create opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed. “It is important to us to invest in education because strong schools help build strong communities,” said Jeffrey Drobins, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. “The EITC Program allows us to make meaningful investments that support students today while helping to strengthen our communities for the future.” The EITC Program plays a critical role in expanding educational opportunities across Pennsylvania by encouraging private-sector support for innovative and impactful programs. PSBT remains committed to participating in initiatives that promote access to education and long-term community development. Attached photo: Representatives from Peoples Security Bank & Trust (PSBT) and Pennsylvania private schools, scholarship organizations, pre-kindergarten programs, school districts, colleges, and universities recently gathered at PSBT’s Corporate Center in Moosic, PA., to celebrate the Bank’s 2025 contributions of more than $1.5 Million through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Launches a Young Professionals Program The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of its new Young Professionals (YP) Program, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust, an initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of business and community leaders throughout the greater Scranton region. The program will officially kick off on Wednesday, February 25, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Madame Jenny’s at the Bittenbender, 126 Franklin Avenue, Scranton. The event will bring together emerging leaders from a wide range of industries and careers for an evening focused on connection, professional growth, and community engagement. The YP Program was developed to provide a platform for individuals under 40 to create meaningful opportunities early in their careers, new to the region, or seeking to expand their professional networks. Through structured professional development programs, networking events, mentorship opportunities, and volunteer initiatives, the YP Program aims to strengthen both individual career paths and the broader regional workforce. At the kick-off event, those in attendance will have the opportunity to learn more about the vision and goals of the program, connect with fellow young professionals, and gain insight into the year ahead. “This new initiative reflects our commitment to fostering long-term leadership and economic vitality in our region,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “By bringing young professionals together and providing avenues for meaningful engagement, we are investing in the future of our business community.” The Chamber encourages young professionals across the region to gather friends and colleagues and register to attend. The kick-off event marks the beginning of a dynamic year of programming designed to support career advancement, build lasting relationships, and deepen community involvement. For more information or to register, visit scrantonchamber.com or contact The Chamber.
Johnson College Awarded Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant to Support RISE Students Johnson College has been awarded a $199,675 Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to support students enrolled in manufacturing programs through the College’s Readiness in Skilled Employment (RISE) initiative. The grant program’s mission is to work collaboratively with local manufacturers to identify and teach essential skills missing from entry-level applicants for existing or near-future open positions, engage youth or those with barriers in awareness-building activities related to career opportunities in manufacturing, and advance capacity for local or regional manufacturers. The funding will provide tuition assistance and critical wraparound support services for up to 15 RISE students pursuing manufacturing-focused education at Johnson College. Supported programs include Mechatronics Technology, Electronic Engineering Technology, Welding Technology, and Welding Fabrication and Manufacturing Technology. RISE, launched in 2021, is a workforce development program designed to help individuals gain technical training while receiving additional supports that remove barriers to education. The program primarily serves low-income students seeking sustainable career pathways and upward economic mobility. By addressing challenges such as transportation, childcare, and access to essential resources, RISE empowers students to focus on their education and long-term success. Grant-supported students will engage directly with regional manufacturing employers through industry-focused activities, including Lunch and Learn events held on the Johnson College campuses in Scranton and Hazle Township. These experiences build on the College’s strong industry partnerships, many led by alumni, and ensure that students explore career pathways, strengthen professional and soft skills, and receive an education aligned with current workforce needs. Community partners play an essential role in supporting RISE students throughout their educational journey. United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) provides coaching, ESL services, and assistance with barrier removal, while PA CareerLink supports workforce training through WIOA funding. The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) helps coordinate manufacturer visits and industry presentations. Manufacturing partners committed to the project include McGregor Industries, Power Rail, and Pride Mobility. Since its inception, RISE has supported 75 students across four cohorts, helping participants overcome obstacles and gain the skills needed for family-sustaining careers. With support from the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant, Johnson College will continue to expand access to education while strengthening the regional manufacturing workforce and economic vitality of Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about RISE, visit neparise.org. This program is funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Manufacturing Training to Career Grant program.
Misericordia University Offers New Major Misericordia University is excited to offer a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, designed to prepare students for careers in one of today’s fastest-growing and most innovative fields. This interdisciplinary program combines technology, data, and problem-solving to help students develop the skills needed to analyze complex systems, create intelligent solutions, and adapt to an ever-evolving digital landscape. Students will gain hands-on experience while exploring the ethical, practical, and real-world applications of artificial intelligence across industries. To learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, visit:https://www.misericordia.edu/artificial-intelligence
RailRiders’ Tickets are on Sale Now Single-game tickets are on sale now, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders have set their 2026 daily promotions and fireworks nights for the upcoming season, headlined by new additions, old favorites and Saturday night fireworks for a total of 20 pyrotechnic extravaganzas to light the sky this year. The RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, start their home schedule on April 7 against the Durham Bulls, the first of 75 home games at PNC Field this year. As always, each day of the week will feature a promotion or an offer that appeals to fans of all ages. RailRiders’ President and General Manager, Shawn Reilly, is excited for the 2026 season and the new additions being added.“This season is going to be an actual blast… By adding Saturday fireworks to honor our nation’s 250th and adjusting our game times to be more convenient than ever, we’re making it easier for fans to join the celebration. We’ve listened to our fans. You want more fireworks, great offers and easier ways to get to PNC Field, and we’re delivering it all,” Reilly said.Beginning on May 15, every Friday home game will be followed by the pyrotechnic showcase. Saturday fireworks shows have been added to the slate in 2026, starting on May 30. As part of America’s semiquincentennial celebration, post-game fireworks follow RailRiders’ games on July 2 and 3. An extended fireworks extravaganza follows the Independence Day game against the Norfolk Tides, courtesy of the PA Lottery. New for 2026, kids can run the bases after every home game (excluding the May 13 & 27 STEM School Days and weather permitting, of course). Dogs are welcome in the lawn and bleachers at PNC Field on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays (excluding the STEM School Days and July 2). See below for the 2026 daily promotions. TwosDay – Get $2 hot dogs courtesy of Sahlen’s all game long. Fans 21 and older can enjoy $2 16 oz. Coors Light cans for two hours after gates open, presented by LT Verrastro. Winning Wednesday – Enjoy great prize giveaways throughout the course of each Wednesday home game all season long. When the RailRiders WIN, fans will receive an outfield box seat ticket voucher good for any remaining Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday 2026 home game. Thrilling Thursday – From May 28 to the end of August, Thursdays will feature giveaways for the first 1,000 fans. PLUS OF COURSE – Thirsty Thursdays – The most refreshing night of the week offers $2 16 oz. Michelob Ultra bottles for fans 21 and older, courtesy of Northeast Eagle, available for two hours after gates open, and $2 Pepsi pours all night long. First Responder Friday – Thanks to Kost Tire & Auto, first responders have the opportunity to receive free tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. One hundred complimentary tickets are given out for each Friday home game. Visit the First Responder Friday page on the Community tab at swbrailriders.com and fill out the form to request up to four free tickets.First responders, including police, fire and EMTs, can also show an ID at the PNC Field box office on Friday nights to save $5 per ticket (limited to four tickets per game). Sensational Saturday – Starting on May 2, Saturday RailRiders games will once again feature a great giveaway, appearance or theme. Giveaways, themes, appearances and additional details will be announced soon. Saturday night skyblasts start on May 30 and run the remainder of the season! Geisinger Sunday Family FunDay – We wrap up homestands on Sundays with a Geisinger Family FunDay! Gates open at 12:15 P.M. and kids can play catch in the outfield from 12:30 to 12:50 P.M. Try the new Sunday value meal – CHAMP’S Family Feast! Feed the crew with this shareable meal that features chicken tenders and over a pound of fries in a souvenir batting helmet, plus four 16 oz. fountain drinks, all for only $40 and only available on Sundays! After the final out, children 12 and younger can, of course, run the bases, capping the best weeks with the whole family at PNC Field. Fireworks begin on May 15 and run after every Friday home game for the rest of the year! All daily promotions are subject to change and restrictions may apply. For more information, please visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-2255.
WVIA Honored with Five Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) Awards Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) recognized WVIA with five Excellence in Broadcasting Awards. The honors underscore WVIA’s ongoing commitment to producing high-quality local programming that informs, educates and reflects the communities it serves. WVIA received awards spanning documentary, public affairs, feature storytelling, marketing, and public service campaigns, highlighting the breadth of the station’s work and its investment in meaningful local content. The winning programs explored themes ranging from refugee and immigrant experiences and belonging, to access to resources for older adults and aging in place, aviation history, and the importance of judicial independence, and all topics with deep relevance to local audiences. President and CEO of WVIA, Carla McCabe said these projects highlight real people and experiences in the area. “We’re honored that the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters recognizes the value of this work. These awards belong to our viewers, listeners, members, and community partners who make this storytelling possible,” McCabe said. 2026 PAB Award Wins Outstanding Documentary ProgramMaking NEPA Home Contributors: Kara Washington, Al Monelli, Ron Andruscavage, Ben Payavis Outstanding Television Station Marketing & PromosMaking NEPA Home — Official Trailer Contributors: Kara Washington, Holly Biondo, Chris Zellers, Caitlin Mackiewicz, Jim Jennings, Ben Payavis II, Carla McCabe Outstanding Television Public Service Announcement/CampaignAging Together in PA Contributors: Kara Washington, Holly Biondo, Chris Zellers, Caitlin Mackiewicz, Jim Jennings, Ben Payavis II, Carla McCabe Outstanding Television Feature Story/Report/SeriesWings of the Past: Discovering the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum Contributors: John Alaimo, Kris Hendrickson Outstanding Television Public Affairs Program/Program SeriesWVIA Conversations for the Common Good: Safeguarding Justice Through Judicial Independence Contributors: Tracy Matisak, Ben Payavis II Chief Content Officer at WVIA, Ben Payavis II, talked about how the awards reflect on WVIA. “These awards reflect the care our team puts into telling stories that matter locally… From in-depth documentaries to public affairs discussions and community-centered campaigns, our focus is always on creating content that informs and connects people across our region,” Payavis II said. Kara Washington, producer, director and editor of Making NEPA Home, expressed gratitude because of the award. “This acknowledgment means so much to our team and affirms the power of telling meaningful, local stories,” Washington said. Winners will be recognized at the 2026 PAB Excellence in Broadcasting Awards Luncheon at the Sheraton Harrisburg/Hershey Hotel in Harrisburg on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:30 AM. A full list of winners will be available on the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters website.
Central Penn College Expands Program with New Scranton Site Central Penn College has partnered with Century Dental Associates in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to offer an additional instructional site for its Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certificate Program. The EFDA program is a six-month, blended program designed for working dental professionals. Coursework is completed fully online, with once-a-week, in-person Saturday labs focused on hands-on clinical skills. With the addition of the Scranton instructional site, students in Northeastern Pennsylvania can now complete required lab work closer to home, eliminating the need to travel to Central Pennsylvania. This expansion reflects Central Penn College’s continued commitment to increasing access, flexibility, and convenience for students pursuing advanced credentials in high-demand healthcare fields. Century Dental Associates brings decades of clinical experience and a strong reputation for patient-centered care to this partnership, providing an ideal real-world learning environment for EFDA students. Known for its commitment to advanced dental techniques, modern technology, and professional excellence, Century Dental Associates offers a hands-on setting that reinforces practical skill development and industry standards. This collaboration ensures students gain meaningful clinical experience while benefiting from a trusted dental practice deeply rooted in the Northeastern Pennsylvania community. For more information about the Expanded Function Dental Assistant program, visit centralpenn.edu/EFDA.
Geisinger expansion strengthens commitment to Schuylkill County Geisinger is strengthening its commitment to offering access to high-quality health care options to the residents of Schuylkill County with a $2.5 million expansion of Geisinger Cancer Center Pottsville. The expanded facility will add new services, support staff and treatment space, resulting in more access to care for the community and surrounding region. Chief administrative officer of Geisinger’s central region, Alex Zimmerman, talked about how this expansion made him feel as a lifelong Schuylkill County resident. “Geisinger is committed to enhancing care for our neighbors across the region… I’m proud to see this expansion as it will allow more of our friends and family to receive these critical services locally, without having to travel,” Zimmerman said. The cancer center, at 1 E. Norwegian St. in Pottsville, will gain nearly 2,000 square feet of space on top of the existing 3,760-square-foot footprint. To make room for the expansion, a tenant will be relocated to the second floor of the building. The cancer center will occupy the entire first floor. Work on the expansion will be completed in phases to minimize interruptions. Services will remain open for the duration of the project. The facility provides hematology and radiation oncology services, infusion and medicine infusion. With an aging population and earlier cancer diagnoses on the rise, the need for comprehensive cancer care is increasing, underscoring the importance of investing in modern, expanded treatment facilities. The added space will expand upon the services offered and doubles the cancer center’s patient care areas, including new exam rooms and infusion spaces, along with a new dedicated blood draw area. It also adds staff and office spaces. The Pottsville cancer center opened in 2018 and complements the services Geisinger offers throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania, including at Geisinger Medical Center and the Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. The project also demonstrates Geisinger’s continued commitment to local outpatient cancer services, in conjunction with Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City, which opened in 2025, and current construction of a new cancer center in Lewisburg, expected to open later this year. Rajiv Panikkar, M.D., chair of the Geisinger Cancer Institute, said the expansion will allow more patients to stay closer to home while they are going through treatment. “Our cancer program features top-tier physicians and advanced practice providers who work with comprehensive multidisciplinary care teams to establish treatment plans, while also providing the latest technologies and clinical trials for our patients,” Panikkar said. Geisinger offers a comprehensive portfolio of outpatient services to serve the health needs of residents of Schuylkill County, including family medicine, women’s health, pediatric subspecialties, laboratory and imaging. The cancer center expansion project is in design and work should begin later this year. Completion is expected in 2027. To learn more about cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute.
Duncan returns as Yankees announce 2026 RailRiders’ Field Staff The New York Yankees have set the RailRiders field staff for the 2026 season with Shelley Duncan returning to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 2025 International League Manager of the Year helms the Yankees’ Triple-A squad for the fourth consecutive season and gets back the crux of the staff that helped pace the RailRiders to a second-half title and postseason berth.“Being a part of the Yankees organization is a huge privilege,” Duncan said. “It’s the best organization in baseball… the best organization across the sports. It’s awesome. And it’s family… the people in this organization. I absolutely love them from the top down. It feels like a home to me. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre has been absolutely wonderful the last three years. And to be there a fourth year, it’s going to be another fun one.”Spencer Medick is the RailRiders’ Pitching Coach after serving as the Bullpen Coach in 2025. Hitting Coach Mike Merganthaler and Bench Coach Gil Velazquez return for a second year on Duncan’s staff as well, while Raul Dominguez is back in Moosic as the club’s defensive coach after three seasons as the Double-A Somerset manager. Peter Larson joins the staff as the new Bullpen Coach.Athletic Trainer Brandon Rodríguez, Assistant Athletic Trainer Hannah Davis, Home Clubhouse Manager Jim Billington and Video & Tech Assistant Danny Althoff all return to their roles with the RailRiders, while Isiah McDonald joins the staff as the Strength & Conditioning Coach and Matt Wells is the Advance Scouting Analyst.Duncan, 46, has led Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to 249 wins over three seasons at the helm and to a second-half IL crown last year. He was named the 20th manager in franchise history in January 2023. Duncan was drafted by the Yankees in 2001 as a second-round selection out of the University of Arizona. He reached Triple-A with Columbus in 2006 and spent portions of three seasons in an SWB Yankees uniform. Duncan appeared in 272 games for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre between 2007 and 2009. In 2009, he hit .277 with 30 home runs and 99 runs batted in over 123 games, garnering the nod for International League MVP. His Major League career spanned 330 games for the Yankees, Cleveland and Tampa Bay over seven years.“Sometimes, it’s hard to leave that off-season lifestyle,” Duncan said. “You know, you get this beautiful weather down here in Arizona. You get to spend time with family. But as soon as spring training starts and everyone starts talking baseball, the grinds start going. And you always look forward to doing new things, trying to grow as a coach, trying to grow as a manager. You have a whole new and different team. We’re going to have different faces and players. I’m going to spend a lot of time in spring training, building relationships, seeing what we got and seeing what type of atmosphere we’ve got to build. That’s always exciting. There are always little things that you want to bring to the table that you want to keep going on from years past. But in reality, it’s a new year. The challenge of trying to figure out what you need to build is something that really excites me.”Medick has been a coach in the Yankees’ farm system since 2022. After a stint as the pitching coach for the FCL Yankees in 2022, he served in the same role for Hudson Valley for the two seasons before joining Duncan’s staff last year. Medick pitched at Elon University and began his professional career with Arizona in 2014. He closed his playing days with three seasons in the Frontier League. After retiring, Medick became a throwing trainer at both Prime Sports Performance and Driveline Baseball before joining New York’s minor league fray.Mergenthaler enters his second season as the RailRiders’ Hitting Coach. Before joining the Yankees’ Minor League ranks, he spent eight seasons with the Cleveland Guardians, working his way up through their system. Mergenthaler was originally selected in the 32nd round of the 2011 First-Year Player Draft by San Francisco out of the University of Richmond and played professionally for three years.Velazquez returns to the RailRiders’ dugout for a second straight year as well, having rejoined the Yankees organization in 2025 after ten years as a manager, coach or coordinator with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations. He was selected by the New York Mets in the 14th round of the 1998 draft and played professionally for 16 seasons, including 27 games in 2013 for the RailRiders. He began his coaching career in 2015 and managed the Great Lakes Loons in 2016 and the Reno Aces in 2022.Dominguez spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons on the RailRiders’ staff. He initially signed with the Yankees as a non-drafted Minor League free agent in 2001 and played four seasons before moving to the player development side. Dominguez led the Somerset Patriots to 232 wins over the last three seasons, making the playoffs in each year. 2026 marks his 18th season in the Yankees organization.Larson enters his second season with the Yankees after serving as the Somerset Pitching Coach last year. He spent six years in the Minnesota Twins Minor League system, including two seasons with the Triple-A affiliate in St. Paul. Larson graduated from Ferrum College in 2009 and was a four-year member of the Panther baseball team. Before his time in the professional ranks, he served as a coach for King University, Siena College, the University of Albany and Fordham University. “In my eyes, everything’s going to run really smoothly,” Duncan said. “Raul has experience in Scranton. Pete has a lot of Triple-A experience. Both guys have been in the organization, so this isn’t new to them. I’ve spent a lot of time with Raul over the last three years. Our communication has been lockstep over the course of the last few seasons, and I’m extremely happy to have him. He’s one of the best coaches in our organization. What Pete brings to the table, in complementing Spencer, is going to be another valuable asset. He’ll be in the bullpen, adding all kinds of different things to these guys to get them big-league ready. The pitchers are going to have a higher big-league awareness.” “Having Mergie [Mike Mergenthaler], Spencer and Gil back again,” Duncan continued, “I tell you what… It’s a lot of fun when you go into year two of the coaching staff rather than a brand new one. You always have some growing pains at the beginning when you have a new staff, but when you have continuity, it really allows you to have a smooth start and get things going around the get-go.”Rodríguez returned to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2025, having spent the first half of 2023 with the RailRiders. He enters his fifth season with the Yankees after starting with the Tampa Tarpons in 2022. He took the lead role in Somerset midway through the 2023 campaign and remained in that spot in 2024. Before joining up with the New York, he spent two seasons in the Baltimore Orioles organization. Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Rodríguez received an Associate’s Degree from the University of Puerto Rico-Ponce and his B.S. and M.S. in Athletic Training from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania.Davis enters her second season with the Yankees and the RailRiders. Before joining the organization, she spent several years working in Division 1 college baseball. Davis also spent the 2021 season with the Chicago Cubs and their Triple-A affiliate in Iowa. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, she completed her undergrad at the University of South Carolina with her B.S. in athletic training and went to grad school at Baylor University, where she received her M.S. in athletic training.McDonald enters his first year with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and his fifth with the Yankees. He started in New York’s Minor League system in 2022 with the FCL Yankees, where he was named the Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year during his first year in professional baseball. After serving the same role with Hudson Valley in 2023, McDonald spent the last two seasons in Double-A with Somerset. McDonald played baseball collegiately at Thompson Rivers University and graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in kinesiology and exercise science. “They’re the unseen architecture of the operation,” Duncan said of the RailRiders’ training and support staff. “Day to day, Brandon, Hannah, Isiah, Danny, Matt and Jim manage the hidden variables: workload, recovery curves, information flow and competitive readiness. Their work integrates physiology, data, preparation and foresight into one coherent system. Nothing is accidental, and nothing is reactive. They are as good as it gets in each of their respective fields.”
