Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders 2025 Field Staff Announced The New York Yankees have announced that Shelley Duncan will return to lead the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders in 2025; his third straight season at the helm. Duncan paced the RailRiders to an 89-win campaign in 2024, finishing with the second-best overall mark in the International League. “Being a part of this organization, I feel very privileged,” Duncan said. “It’s exciting. I said it from the get-go. I feel the same way now as I did on day one. I feel that within this organization, I’m part of the family. There’s a lot of great people here. There are great coaches. Great front office members. Top down, nobody wants to be anywhere else but with the Yankees and I’m about as lucky as can be.” Gerardo Casadiego returns to Moosic for a second year and becomes the team’s new pitching coach. Mike Merganthaler is the RailRiders’ new hitting coach, while Gil Velazquez, Zak Wasserman and Spencer Medick all join Duncan’s staff as well. Velazquez will serve as the bench coach, Wasserman will be the defensive coach and Medick will be the new bullpen coach. Athletic Trainer Brandon Rodríguez rejoins the RailRiders’ support staff and is joined by Assistant Athletic Trainer Nori Subero, Strength & Conditioning Coach Danny Smith, Home Clubhouse Manager Jim Billington and Advance Scouting Analyst Steven DiMaria, who all return to their roles from 2024. Danny Althoff has been added to the support staff in 2025 as the Video & Tech Assistant. “[Having a new staff] is going to be a lot of fun,” Duncan stated. “Year one, I had to get to know everybody. It was also a situation back then where all the coaches had been there. This time, roles will be reversed, and I will have the experience along with Casa [Casadiego]. It is an absolutely amazing group of coaches and I can’t tell you how excited I am to work with all of them.” Duncan, 45, was tabbed as the 20th manager in franchise history in January 2023. He led Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to a 73-75 record that summer before going 89-60 last year. Duncan was drafted by the Yankees in 2001; 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. Casadiego, 44, enters his 13th season within the Yankees organization. After playing 10 seasons in Minor League Baseball, including parts of two seasons at the lower levels for New York, Casadiego moved to the coaching ranks in 2014. He joined Duncan’s staff last season as the bullpen coach, having previously been the pitching coach with Hudson Valley in 2021, Somerset in 2022 and Tampa in 2023. Mergenthaler, 36, enters his first season within the Yankees organization after eight seasons with the Cleveland Guardians. He worked his way up through the Guardians’ minor league system, including spending 2024 as a hitting coach for the Columbus Clippers. 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, 45, joins the Yankees minor leagues 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. Wasserman, 34, enters his second season in the Yankees organization, having spent 2024 as the Hudson Valley Renegades Defensive Coach. He was drafted in 2009 out of high school by San Francisco but chose to play college ball at the University of Louisville. Wasserman signed with Arizona after school and with New York in 2016, when he pitched in 13 games for the Pulaski Yankees. After his playing career ended, Wasserman was the head coach at Lake Michigan College. Later, he moved to Xavier University as a volunteer assistant before becoming an assistant coach in 2023. Medick, 33, 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 during each of the last two seasons. 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. Rodríguez returns to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, having spent the first half of 2023 with the RailRiders. He enters his fourth 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. Subero enters her fourth season with the Yankees organization and second year with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. She is a graduate of the University of Miami with a B.S. in Athletic Training and earned a Master’s degree in Exercise Science from Concordia University Chicago. Subero, a Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela native, spent 2022 with the FCL Yankees and was the Tampa Tarpons athletic trainer in 2023. Smith joined the Yankees organization in 2017 and has advanced through the ranks, reaching Scranton/Wilkes- Barre last season. He spent 2017 with Pulaski and moved to Staten Island for the 2018 and 2019 seasons. After spending two years with Hudson Valley, including 2021, when he was named the South Atlantic League’s Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year, Smith was promoted to Somerset in 2023. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford with a B.S. in Sports Medicine in 2014 and earned his M.S. in Sport and Exercise Science at Gannon University in 2015, where he served as a Graduate Assistant. The RailRiders open their 2025 slate on March 28 with a three-game weekend set at Lehigh Valley before a six-game series in Syracuse. The home opener is scheduled for April 8 at 6:35 P.M. as the Rochester Red Wings head to PNC Field. “The team we have on day one might be different than the team we have on day two,” Duncan explained. “That’s how it is, so it’s constantly getting the feel of the locker room and understanding the players. Learning their strengths and weaknesses. You try to put the right groups together. You try to build chemistry with the right culture. There isn’t one secret to unlock the potential. To be successful at this job, it’s all about relationships and I have to get to know everybody. I’m going to go in there with an open book, build these relationships right from scratch, not assume anything, and do everything I can for every player, every coach, and the organization. Hopefully, we build something special.” Please direct any interview requests to Adam Marco – amarco@swbrailriders.com Single-game tickets for 2025 go on sale on February 3 at 10 A.M. Season tickets and flex plans are available now. For more information, contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.
Scranton Area Community Foundation NEPA Healthcare Foundation Welcomes New Board Members The Northeastern Pennsylvania Healthcare Foundation (NEPA HCF) is pleased to welcome several new members to its Board of Directors. The newly elected board members are: C. Catherine Mihalick, JD, CTFA Michael Elmo Clemente Attorney Terrence R. Nealon, Jr. Patrick G. Connors, MD Jason R. Woloski, MD, FAAFP, FCPP These elections reflect the NEPA HCF’s ongoing commitment to bringing together dedicated professionals to support the Foundation’s mission of improving the health and well-being of the region’s people, particularly the most vulnerable and underserved. The Foundation thanks its departing board members for their service and contributions over the years and looks forward to the continued growth and impact of their work in the region. For more information about the Northeastern Pennsylvania Healthcare Foundation, please visit www.nepahealthcarefoundation.org.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Colon Cancer Fund Raised $25,000 Organizers of the Shine Like Susan 5K, all seniors from Abington Heights High School, recently presented a check for $25,345 to the family of Susan Burke in support of the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer Fund at the Scranton Area Community Foundation. The Susan Burke Foundation was established in July 2022 in memory of Susan Burke, a beloved community member and running coach who passed away from colon cancer. The foundation provides financial assistance to individuals with a colon cancer diagnosis who are facing financial hardship. The Shine Like Susan 5K, held in July 2024 at Abington Heights Middle School, marked the third year of the event organized by the Class of 2025. Since its inception in 2022, the race has raised over $71,350 to support the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer. The Scranton Area Community Foundation administers the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer Fund, which assists local families in need during their cancer journey. For more information or to donate, visit the Scranton Area Community Foundation website.
Treasurer Stacy Garrity: First Money Match Letters Being Sent to Pennsylvanians This Week Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced today that more than 8,000 Pennsylvanians will receive letters this week indicating that unclaimed property will be automatically returned to them. This marks the first step in the new Pennsylvania Money Match program, which was approved unanimously by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor in July. “This is a truly historic day,” Treasurer Garrity said. “For the first time ever, we’re returning unclaimed property to hardworking Pennsylvanians without requiring them to file a claim or submit any paperwork at all. We truly cut red tape out of state government – and how often does that happen? If you receive a Money Match letter, read it and keep it! About 45 days later, your unclaimed property will arrive in the form of a check from the Pennsylvania Treasury Department.” The first batch of letters include 8,366 claims totaling over $2 million worth of unclaimed property being returned to its rightful owners. The first Money Match checks are scheduled to be sent out in about 45 days. Pennsylvania Money Match authorizes Treasury to automatically return single-owner properties valued up to $500 after a thorough identification and verification process. At least 14 other states have successfully implemented similar programs. “This Saturday is National Unclaimed Property Day, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by sending out the first Money Match letters,” Treasurer Garrity said. “But even if you don’t get a letter, it’s still easy to see if you have any unclaimed property available! Just visit our website and search for your name.” Pennsylvania Money Match was signed into law last year after Senate Bill 24, sponsored by former Sen. John DiSanto, was passed unanimously by both the Senate and House. Similar legislation, House Bill 2092, introduced by Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-3), also unanimously passed the House. Treasury plans to send a total of at least three batches of Money Match letters and checks in 2025. “This will be an ongoing effort,” Treasurer Garrity said. “This money doesn’t belong to the state. It belongs to Pennsylvania families, and I want to get it back to them!” Pennsylvania Money Match will not affect claims for properties valued above $500 or those that have multiple owners or other complexities. Those claimants will still need to file a claim and provide any required supporting documentation. More than one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed some of the $4.5 billion in unclaimed property being safeguarded by Treasury. The average value of a claim is about $1,600. Since taking office, Treasurer Garrity has returned more than $700 million in unclaimed property and has implemented multiple improvements to the unclaimed property program, all designed to make the process easier and faster, including: Completing a total system upgrade for the first time in more than 15 years; Implementing a fast-track process for many claims; and Allowing direct deposit payments for many claimants. More information about Pennsylvania Money Match is available at patreasury.gov/MoneyMatch.
Penn State Scranton Offers CP/SCP Exam for HR Professionals Calling Human Resource Professionals. If you’re ready to move your career forward and preparing to sit for the CP/SCP exam, this course if for YOU and we’re here to help. Earning your SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™) or SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™) credential can help you enhance your HR expertise, empower positive change in your workplace, and increase your earning potential. Register online.
Penn State Scranton Offers Operations and Supply Chain Management Certificate ASCM®, the Association for Supply Chain Management (formerly APICS®), is the global leader and premier source of leading-edge knowledge in operations and supply chain management. ASCM® has developed a comprehensive educational program designed for operations and supply chain professionals, and the northeastern PA campuses of Penn State University are collaborating to offer these prep programs to prepare individuals to take the certification exams. Learn more on Penn State Scranton website.
Northeast Regional Cancer Institute Recieves Donation from Northeast Title & Tag, Inc. Northeast Title and Tag hosted an October fundraiser to support the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI). Staff members hosted a trunk-or-treat event and sold wristbands and t-shirts. Through their efforts, they raised $1,500 to help ease the burden of cancer in northeast Pennsylvania. All funds will stay local and support NRCI’s community programming and services. Additionally, they collected personal items for cancer patients for The Cancer Wellness Center of NEPA.
Marywood University Receives 2024 Campus Prevention Network Seal Marywood University has been honored to receive the 2024 Campus Prevention Network (CPN) Seal of Prevention™. Presented by Vector Solutions, the CPN Seal of Prevention™ recognizes institutions of higher education that demonstrate leadership in the areas of student safety, well-being, and inclusion to improve student well-being and success. Each recipient of this recognition has acted to create a safer, more inclusive campus through comprehensive, evidence-based digital prevention education on issues such as sexual assault, alcohol misuse, mental health, and discrimination. The CPN Seal of Prevention™ establishes guidelines for discerning quality online prevention education and implementation practices and positions prevention as central to key institutional outcomes. Marywood educates first-year students on issues of alcohol use/prevention education, sexual assault prevention, and inclusion issues using the Vector’s digital modules, reflecting the university’s comprehensive, mission-driven commitment to fostering a respectful, safe, and healthy community for all members. “The CPN Seal of Prevention™ recipients represent the top 12% of colleges and universities nationwide, underscoring their commitment to academic excellence and the well-being of their students,” said Jonathan Cherins, CEO at Vector Solutions. “Our team at Vector Solutions is proud to recognize the great value these leading institutions and organizations are providing students and the commitment we share to making higher education communities safer and more inclusive.” A full list of the 2024 CPN Seal of Prevention™ recipients and more information on the award can be found at: vectorsolutions.com/resources/blogs/2024-cpn-seal-of-prevention-honorees.
Lackawanna College Enters Agreement with Lower Dauphin School District Lower Dauphin School District Approves Pre-College Agreement with Lackawanna CollegeLower Dauphin School District, located near Harrisburg and Hershey, has approved a pre-college partnership with Lackawanna College, enabling Lower Dauphin School District students to earn college credits while still in high school. Finalized in December 2024, the agreement is new to the Lower Dauphin School District and will be offered online and concurrently through the high school. “Lower Dauphin is looking forward to our partnership with Lackawanna College. The agreement is another avenue for our students and families to evaluate and maximize to make the best possible decisions in assisting with transitioning after high school,” said Todd Neuhard, Assistant to the Superintendent: Secondary Education. The goal of this partnership aligns with Lackawanna College’s commitment to making college more accessible. Lackawanna College creates affordable career pathways, by helping high school students receive access to college level classes through dual enrollment. The college continues to strengthen community ties and prepare students for higher education, while also supporting both student achievement and workforce development. “We are excited to collaborate with the staff, students, and their families of the Lower Dauphin School District. This partnership opens doors for students to get a head start on their college journey, empowering them to earn valuable credits and build a strong foundation for future success, all while still in high school,” said Philip Campbell, Director of College Partnerships at Lackawanna College. Our program provides flexible learning options tailored to meet students’ needs: In-Person: Attend daytime or evening classes at any Lackawanna College location, offering a traditional classroom experience. Online: Utilize the convenience of our Learning Management System (Canvas) to complete courses online, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Concurrent Enrollment: Take college-level courses directly at your high school. We collaborate closely with schools to align our curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) and other qualifying courses, with their offerings. Through these options, Lackawanna College focuses on academic enrichment and college readiness, empowering students to take confident steps toward their educational goals. For more information or to discuss partnership opportunities, please contact our Director of College Partnerships, Philip Campbell, at campbellp@lackawanna.edu.
Indraloka Expands Summer Day Camps To Help Kids When kids enter Indraloka’s Art Barn, the first thing some notice is the wall of windows facing the fields where animals are grazing in the distance. Others immediately connect to the art — stylized photographs of Indraloka’s rescued farm animals — covering the lofted gallery walls. A pool table, piles of games, and reading nooks stacked with books catch some of the kids’ attention. They all sense they’ve arrived at a place that values them and their interests. And this year, they can spend their whole summer at Indraloka. Summer day camp at Indraloka, a farm animal sanctuary in Dalton, PA, offers affordable options for children and teens — ages 5 to 17 — to explore nature surrounded by the love of rescued farm animals. Indraloka runs up to nine weeks of camp for a continuous summer solution. Each day of camp includes active and passive games, sports, arts and crafts, music, and animal lessons and activities based on kindness, compassion, friendship, and storytelling. Indoor space provides respite from inclement weather and rest on hot days. The cost per week of camp ranges between $150-$220 and includes a kid-friendly, healthy lunch and two snacks daily. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. “We are offering more weeks of summer camp based on feedback collected in previous summer camp surveys. Parents and guardians shared that campers love attending Indraloka camps and that having consistency throughout the summer would help with their childcare needs and camper social and emotional growth. We also want to offer continuous employment for our summer camp counselors. With these additional weeks, no matter your summer schedule, we have an opportunity for your kids,” Indraloka’s Director of Education, Sarah Thornton says. Set on 100 acres of beautiful farmland, rimmed by the Endless Mountains, Indraloka is a mere five miles from Clarks Summit. During camp, kids are supervised daily for six hours by a staff of educators and camp counselors led by a former public school teacher with trauma certification. In addition to lunch and snacks, all supplies for games, crafts, and other activities are provided. Camp dates and other important information are available on the Indraloka website. The camps sell out quickly, often to children and teens who have attended previous camps. Indraloka is getting the word out early so first-timers have a chance to enroll. Early registration discounts are currently open, but prices increase February 1. Summer camp counselor jobs and internships are available for anyone interested in working with children and teens. We are grateful for applicants with experience related to teaching, social work, psychology, and similar fields. On Monday, President’s Day, February 17, 2025, Indraloka is sponsoring “Play-cation Day.” The daylong event (9 am to 3 pm) is a great summer camp preview. Indraloka offers numerous year-round events. Public tours, Self-Care Saturdays, Nurture and Nourish Series, and Storytime with the Animals are great ways for parents to experience Indraloka and its offerings. All education events are led by Sarah Thornton, Indraloka’s Director of Education, who holds a master’s in music education and is a Certified Trauma Specialist in Education. Her career includes 20 years in the Sullivan County School District teaching music. “At Indraloka, we focus on joy, healing, compassion, and friendship. Kids jump in puddles, run through sprinklers, and hug pigs, sheep, and feathered companions. Most importantly, they make friends and happy memories. At a time when technology is so often the go-to entertainment for kids, we are honored to bring them outside in a supportive environment where they can experience the magic nature provides,” says Indraloka founder Indra Lahiri, PhD, who has a background in organizational psychology and is also a Certified Trauma Specialist. Dr. Lahiri runs trauma-informed programs and retreats for regional healthcare professionals, the Scranton School District, and others onsite at the sanctuary. Research into the relationship between kids and animals shows that interacting with animals can help build kids’ confidence, empathy, and compassion and that relating to farm animals brings benefits beyond those that companion animals offer. Spending time in a noncompetitive environment that emphasizes respect for all beings and the planet can help develop coping and relationship skills. Dr. Lahiri and Ms. Thornton are available for interviews and can speak about Indraloka’s exciting programs. Please visit Indraloka.org for more information on all events.
