PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Additional $25 Million Investment in Israel Bonds On Thursday, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department invested an additional $25 million in Israel bonds. “Israel is our greatest ally in the Middle East, and I will continue to stand by them in their fight to achieve peace,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Israel bonds are a smart, dependable investment with a proven track record – and it’s especially important to show our support at a time when Israelis and Jews — both abroad and here in the United States — continue to face horrific acts of antisemitism. I’m proud to announce this significant new investment, continuing the strong relationship between Pennsylvania, Israel, and the Jewish Community.” As of July 1, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department will have $64.5 million in Israel Bond investments. This includes the $20 million that Treasurer Garrity invested following the Hamas terrorist attacks in October 2023. These new bonds will earn the Commonwealth a return of 4.96% – roughly 100 bps more than comparable U.S. Treasury Bonds. The Commonwealth has invested in Israel bonds for more than 30 years. “We are grateful to State Treasurer Stacy Garrity and Pennsylvania for their continued confidence in Israel Bonds,” said Dani Naveh, Global President and CEO of Israel Bonds. “This powerful investment affirms our shared values. We are proud to stand together in building a secure and prosperous future for both Israel and the United States.” Development Corporation for Israel (known as Israel Bonds) and its affiliates around the world have generated over $54 billion in worldwide investments since it was founded over seven decades ago. With strong rates, Israel bonds are a smart and meaningful investment serving as a symbolic connection with Israel and the people. Learn more at israelbonds.com.
Johnson College Opens Enrollment for Basic Maintenance Course Johnson College is now accepting enrollments for its 48-hour, non-credit Basic Maintenance course, set to be held at the Scranton campus. Classes will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning July 22 and ending Sept. 11, 2025. Designed for individuals looking to enter the high-demand field of maintenance and repair, the course will cover essential skills needed for the upkeep of buildings and property systems. Instructional topics include tools, equipment, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, pest control, weatherization and painting. The cost of the course is $650. For more information or to reserve a spot, visit johnson.edu/continuing-ed/basic-maintenance. You can also contact Johnson College’s WAVE team (formerly Continuing Education) at 570-702-8979 or wave@johnson.edu.
United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Opens 2025-2026 Grant Application Process United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike is pleased to announce that the grant application process for nonprofit organizations serving Wayne and Pike counties is now officially open for the 2025–2026 funding cycle. This annual competitive grant opportunity is available to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide programs or services aligning with United Way’s mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. Priority will be given to initiatives that address critical needs in the areas of education, economic mobility, and health—the building blocks for a good quality of life. “We are committed to investing in programs that deliver measurable impact and real change for all those who call our corner of Pennsylvania home,” said Dr. Angela Bassani, Ed.D., President & CEO, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike. “This grant opportunity reflects our ongoing dedication to creating stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities.” Nonprofits interested in applying can visit uwlc.net/grants/ to access the grant guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application materials. The deadline for completed applications is July 18th for Wayne County and July 25th for Pike County. For more information or questions about the grant process, please contact Stephanie Miller, smiller@uwlc.net or 570.343.1267 x225
Loop Internet Expanding to Hazleton Hazleton residents and businesses will get access to fast, contract-free fiber internet starting this fall Loop Internet, a locally owned and operated fiber internet provider, has officially broken ground in Hazleton. Construction is underway, and residents and businesses can expect service to begin rolling out this fall. Loop will offer speeds up to 10 Gbps, faster than other providers in the area. The expansion is part of Loop’s mission to deliver fast, reliable, and honest internet to underserved communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania. With its hallmark no-contract plans, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and transparent pricing, Loop is poised to provide a meaningful alternative to the cable monopolies that have long dominated the region. “Hazleton deserves better.” said Jason Wasmanski, General Manager of Loop Internet. “We’re not just building a network, we’re building trust. People are tired of hidden fees, lack of reliability, slow upload speeds, and out-of-town call centers. We’re changing that.” Loop’s fiber infrastructure is being installed across Hazleton in phases, with service activations beginning as early as this fall. Residents and businesses are encouraged to check availability and pre-register for service at loopinternet.com to be among the first connected. Known for its community-first approach, Loop plans to keep Hazleton residents informed every step of the way through local mailers, social media updates, and appearances at neighborhood events. The company’s crews, customer support staff, and leadership are all based in Northeastern Pennsylvania, offering Hazleton a local partner, not a faceless provider. Loop Internet already serves thousands of customers in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Mountaintop, and Kingston. The Hazleton expansion represents another step in Loop’s long-term commitment to bring better broadband to more communities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Geisinger Pediatrician, Child Abuse Advocate Awarded Humanitarian Award A Geisinger pediatrician and former medical director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Central Susquehanna Valley in Sunbury was recently presented with an award in recognition of his commitment to improving the lives of others through personal sacrifice, and his leadership through his vocation. Pat Bruno, M.D., was presented with the Juniata College William E. Swigart Alumni Humanitarian Award for his selfless service to his community and beyond through his commitment to preventing child abuse and developing programs to evaluate and serve children who have been abused. “I am honored to receive this award. I have been fortunate to have a team that has worked with me for more than 20 years helping to advocate for children,” Dr. Bruno said. “Many thanks go to my team for the difficult work that they have done.” Despite the emotional and practical challenges that come with treating child abuse and neglect cases, after so many years of specializing in the topic, Dr. Bruno understands its complexities. “Child maltreatment is a preventable multidisciplinary, multigenerational community problem,” he said. Until 2024, Dr. Bruno served as medical director and child abuse pediatrician at the Children’s Advocacy Center and was the director of the Division of Child Safety and Advocacy at Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital. He continues to work in general pediatrics and child abuse pediatrics while serving as associate professor of pediatrics at Geisinger School of Medicine. During his career, Dr. Bruno has evaluated and treated more than 6,000 children referred for child maltreatment evaluations and has testified in many counties in the state on behalf of child victims. As a certified member and fellow of the American Board of General Pediatrics, Dr. Bruno is board certified in child abuse pediatrics. He has lectured on child abuse prevention to medical students and residents, and is the author of “How Can I Not?: Reflections on a Life Evaluating and Treating Victims of Child Maltreatment.” Dr. Bruno has been twice recognized with the Thomas Paine Award for Journalism from the Central Susquehanna ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) in 2013 and 2019, and the Dr. Chuck Fasano Memorial Red Cross Award for Medical Heroes in 2014. Dr. Bruno was named Sunbury Citizen of the Year by the Sunbury Rotary Club in 2016.
Woodloch Resort Massage Therapists Shine at Penn State Four skilled massage therapists from The Lodge at Woodloch recently showcased their expertise at Pennsylvania’s 2nd Annual State Massage Championships, held April 12–13 in Pottstown, PA. Melissa Minaya-Nina, Daniel Slater, Junie Fenton, and Stephen Kober represented the award- winning destination spa, demonstrating exceptional talent and professionalism among some of the state’s best practitioners. Junie Fenton and Stephen Kober earned top honors, placing in the top three in their respective categories. Stephen Kober, competing in the “New & Emerging Massage Therapists” division, impressed judges with his innovative fascia-focused therapeutic massage technique, earning a coveted medal despite practicing for less than a year. Junie Fenton was awarded for her mastery in Western Freestyle Techniques, combining unique skills that set her apart in the competition. The Pennsylvania State Massage Championships bring together approximately 50 of the state’s finest massage therapists to challenge their skills, foster professional growth, network, and celebrate the healing art of massage therapy. “The participation and success of our therapists reflect The Lodge at Woodloch’s commitment to wellness excellence and continuous professional development,” said Nancy Deaton, Spa Director at The Lodge at Woodloch. “We are proud to have such talented individuals on our team who contribute to our guests’ exceptional spa experience.” The Lodge at Woodloch invites guests to experience the expert care of its award-winning massage therapists and explore a wide array of wellness treatments nestled within 400 scenic acres of the Pocono Mountains. For more information on the Pennsylvania State Massage Championships, please visit: https://pamassagechampionship.org/.
Woodloch Resort Becomes Official Destination Partner of Penn State Athletics Woodloch, a premier family-owned and operated resort destination in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, is thrilled to announce a dynamic five-year partnership with Penn State University Athletics and Playfly Sports, officially designating Woodloch as the Official Resort Destination of Penn State Football and Penn State Athletics. “For generations, Penn Staters have found a home away from home at Woodloch, and this partnership strengthens our deep-rooted connection with the University while allowing us to give back in meaningful ways,” said Bradley Kiesendahl, CEO and Owner of Woodloch. “From unforgettable fan experiences to supporting those battling cancer, we’re honored to align with Penn State Athletics and Playfly Sports to create lasting memories on and off the field.” This collaboration pairs Woodloch’s signature hospitality with the Penn State community through impactful initiatives, exclusive giveaways, and special events that extend well beyond the field — all while showcasing the breadth of experiences across Woodloch’s three unique properties: • Woodloch Pines, the flagship inclusive family resort known for its spirited activities, nightly entertainment, and multi-generational traditions; • Woodloch Springs, a championship golf course and residential community offering refined accommodations and scenic beauty; • And The Lodge at Woodloch, an award-winning luxury destination spa designed for personal wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Key highlights of the partnership include: • Honoring Cancer Warriors: As part of its commitment to giving back, Woodloch will provide a VIP game-day experience for a cancer patient and their guest at each home football game, offering them a memorable day in partnership with Penn State Athletics. • Happy Valley NIL Event at Woodloch: Woodloch will host a special NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) event bringing together Penn State student-athletes, fans, and key stakeholders to celebrate Penn State! • Exclusive Getaway Giveaways: Penn State fans will have the chance to win unforgettable escapes to each of Woodloch’s distinct properties. “We are thrilled to welcome Woodloch into our corporate family,” said Dan Solomon, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Penn State Sports Enterprises. “The Pocono Mountains are a cherished region of Pennsylvania, and partnering with an Official Resort Destination from this iconic area is a natural and exciting fit. We look forward to building a successful, long-term partnership with a family-owned, first-class brand that shares our commitment to quality, tradition, and excellence.” Beginning in 2025, Penn State fans and alumni will see Woodloch featured throughout the Penn State Athletics experience — both in Happy Valley and in the Pocono Mountains — further solidifying its connection to Nittany Nation. To learn more, please visit: www.woodloch.com/penn-state.
The Scranton Area Community Foundation, NEPA Gives Raised Over $1.3 Million for Local Nonprofits More than 8,000 donors rally in support of 257 organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that NEPA Gives 2025 raised over $1.3 million in just 24 hours to support 257 nonprofit organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania. The sixth annual event—held from 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5 through 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6—saw more than 8,000 donors come together to uplift the critical work of nonprofits making a difference throughout the region. NEPA Gives is the largest day of giving in Northeastern Pennsylvania, coordinated by the Scranton Area Community Foundation in partnership with The Luzerne Foundation, Wayne County Community Foundation, Monroe County Community Foundation, Carbon County Community Foundation, Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, Greater Pike Community Foundation, Posture Interactive, and dozens of generous community sponsors. “NEPA Gives is a celebration of community—and a powerful reminder of the generosity that defines our region,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “We are grateful to every donor, sponsor, and nonprofit that helped make this the most successful NEPA Gives to date.” Thanks to over $250,000 in bonus funds, matching gifts, and incentive prizes, donations went even further to help participating nonprofits maximize their fundraising potential. Support came from every corner of the region, both online and in person. A festive NEPA Gives Launch Party was held on June 5 at the Foundation’s new headquarters in the Century Club of Scranton, and the celebration continued at the popular NEPA Gives Block Party on June 6, drawing hundreds of attendees to downtown Scranton for live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. Nonprofits of all sizes and missions participated, including returning participants such as Saint Joseph’s Center, Women’s Resource Center, NEPA Youth Shelter, and the Lackawanna River Conservation Association. The event’s success was made possible through the support of generous sponsors, including The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Moses Taylor Foundation, Coterra, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, Schwartz Mack Foundation, Fidelity Bank, Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation, Honesdale National Bank, Wegmans, and many others. Media partners such as WBRE/WYOU TV, FOX56, Audacy, Cumulus Media, Lamar Advertising, and Times-Shamrock Communications provided critical promotional support to raise awareness across the region.
