UNC Receives $60,000 Grant from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund UNC is excited to announce the receiving a generous $60,000 grant from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund to support our Leaders in Training (LIT) Program. UNC’s LIT Program is a distinctive leadership education and empowerment initiative aimed at helping disadvantaged youth, ages 13 through 18, build the skills and confidence necessary to succeed in life. Participants develop into productive citizens, critical thinkers, and leaders through mentorship, education, and a strong support network. Our program’s impact is clear, with 100% of LIT Seniors graduating high school in 2024. In addition to its core programming, our LIT Program now provides post-graduate support, including continued mentorship, case management, and scholarships for work- and school-related needs. This contribution from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund will help ensure the continued success which has positively impacted on the lives of hundreds of young people in the community.
The Dime Bank 2024 Dividend Results Dimeco, Inc. (OTCQX: DIMC), the parent holding company of The Dime Bank, announces unaudited financial results for the quarter and fiscal year ending December 31, 2024. Total assets increased $90 million or 9.1% from the end of 2023 to $1.080 billion as of December 31, 2024. The loan portfolio ended the year at $775 million, an increase of $52.9 million or 7.3% from the year prior. Deposits also increased year-over-year to $911 million, a gain of $84.5 million or 10.2%. Dimeco’s 2024 net income of $12.9 million was $2.1 million or 19.5% greater than 2023, resulting in earnings per share of $5.12. Net income at this level produced a return on average assets of 1.25% and a return on average equity of 12.61%, an increase of 12.6% and 6.5%, respectively. Stockholders’ Equity also increased 8.5% to $107 million. The 2024 dividend payout ratio was 31.64% providing a yield of 4.08%, with year-to-date dividends totaling $1.62 per share. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “I am excited to share our financial achievements for 2024. It was a year of noteworthy progress for Dimeco, Inc., marked by numerous positive outcomes. We sustained our robust growth trajectory through sound and prudent banking practices. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the future and confident that the momentum we built in 2024 will carry into 2025. Our commitment to our communities and shareholders is paramount. We value your ongoing support and unwavering dedication.”
Showcase Selected as an Alternate for 2025 SXSW Pitch Showcase has been honored as an alternate in the prestigious 2025 SXSW Pitch competition in the Entertainment, Media, Sports & Content division. The SXSW Pitch, presented by KPMG, is a globally renowned platform for innovative startups to present their cutting-edge technology to top investors, media, and a panel of expert judges. As one of over 70 finalists and alternates chosen across nine competitive categories, Showcase joins a distinguished group of early-stage companies making waves in their industries. Since its inception, SXSW Pitch alumni have collectively raised over $23.2 billion in funding, with success stories that include tech giants like Siri and Klout. The SXSW Pitch Finals will take place March 8–10, 2025, in Austin, TX, where finalists will compete for recognition and awards, announced during the SXSW Pitch Awards Ceremony on March 9. Alternates like Showcase demonstrate the incredible innovation happening across the globe, and their inclusion highlights the platform’s commitment to fostering creativity and progress in entertainment and media.
Scranton Cultural Center Embarks on Major Restoration Project The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple (SCC) embarked on a major restoration project in late 2024, which will continue over the next several years. Included in the lengthy list of improvements are theatre repairs, which are set to begin this summer. “We’re thrilled to finally begin this project, which has been years in the making,” noted Deborah Moran Peterson, SCC Executive Director. “Almost every area of our building will be impacted, but we’re doing our best to limit impact on our patrons and customers.” The theatre improvements, which include repairs to ceiling tiles and plasterwork, stenciling restoration and more, will begin this summer when the SCC has a quieter schedule. During this time, the seating area of the building’s historic theatre will be closed to the public. Weddings and events, including the Center’s vibrant Summer Camp program will remain operational. Extensive planning with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services and the team of contractors has ensured all scheduled events will proceed as planned. “Our unique ability to access the stage from our Grand Ballroom, as designed by renowned architect Raymond Hood, will allow us to continue hosting events and programming while construction persists,” added William Schoen, SCC Board Vice President. In addition to improvements in the main theatre, the multi-million dollar restoration project includes a complete roof and gutter overhaul, repairs to mortar and masonry, and restoration to multiple areas impacted by water damage. The SCC anticipates sharing more information about this large-scale project in the coming months. Specific questions about the restoration project can be directed to SCC General Manager, John Cardoni at jcardoni@sccmt.org or (570) 346-7369 x107.
Pennsylvania Treasurer, Looks to the Future of the Commonwealth Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today began her second term leading the Pennsylvania Treasury Department as she took the Oath of Office during a ceremony at The Forum Auditorium. “Pennsylvania’s potential is unlimited,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Our future will be even brighter than our past. And I can’t wait to lead Treasury in the bright days, months and years ahead.” Treasurer Garrity was sworn into office by the Honorable Maureen Beirne, President Judge of Bradford County, who was joined by the treasurer’s brother-in-law, the Honorable Christopher P. Baker, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York. Today’s inaugural ceremony included remarks from Governor Josh Shapiro; invocations representing Christianity, Judaism and Islam; the presentation and retiring of the colors by the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry; “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” performed by talented students from CASA Charter School in Harrisburg; and a recessional by the Quaker City String Band. The ceremony was hosted by Rep. Tina Pickett, Treasurer Garrity’s representative in the state House, and also featured remarks from Treasurer Garrity’s husband Dan Gizzi; Treasurer Garrity’s niece Jackie Howard; Hugh Allen, who served as Treasurer Garrity’s first chief of staff; and Jeff Bartos, President of ESB Holdings. “It’s the start of a new year, the start of a new term for Pennsylvania’s three row officers, and the start of a new legislative session,” Treasurer Garrity said. “We must put aside past disagreements, embrace this moment of opportunity, and find common ground. We cannot grow by division. We can – and will – grow by working together to make Pennsylvania a leader among states, and to make Pennsylvania a place where our next generation can succeed and prosper.” Recognizing her staff at Treasury, she remarked on the job of the Department and its importance to every Pennsylvanian: “My team at Treasury is second to none. They work tirelessly on behalf of the taxpayers, and I want to thank them for their dedication to public service.” She added, “We help Pennsylvanians save for education and disability-related expenses. We reconnect people with money they forgot about or never knew they had. We return precious military medals to the brave Veterans who earned them, or to their families who sacrificed so much for our country. When it comes down to it, Treasury is about people. It’s about service. It’s about public trust.” Under Treasurer Garrity’s leadership, Treasury has returned record amounts of unclaimed property including hundreds of military decorations to Veterans and their families, reduced fees multiple times for the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program and PA ABLE, and helped the PA 529 Investment Plan be recognized as a top 529 plan in the nation for two consecutive years. The state’s Rainy Day Fund saw unprecedented growth with her dedication to working with the General Assembly and two Governors to build the state’s reserves and her decision to implement a new investment strategy. Treasurer Garrity remains committed to increasing government transparency, cutting waste and fees, returning more than $4.5 billion in unclaimed property to its rightful owners, and making education affordable for Pennsylvanians. Treasurer Garrity is a former businesswoman and retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel who has served the Commonwealth as Treasurer since January 19, 2021.
My Benefit Advisors: The Power of Upskilling and Professional Development in the Workplace In today’s fast paced and evolving workplace environment, employers face numerous challenges in their efforts to remain competitive and successful. One method of establishing an essential edge is through upskilling. Upskilling is a strategy that involves investing in the development of an employee’s skill and knowledge. And upskilling not only benefits employees by enhancing their professional growth but also proves to be an asset for employers by fostering a skilled, engaged, and more productive workforce. When a company is willing to invest in employee development, it shows genuine interest in growing people and helping them succeed…on the job and in life. By investing in upskilling programs, employers enable their workforce to stay current with industry trends and advancements in technology. As employees acquire new skills and knowledge, they become more adept at their roles and develop the necessary proficiency to handle new tools and cutting-edge systems. This adaptability translates into a more agile and future-proofed organization with increased productivity and efficiency among staff. Upskilling provides a way for employees to handle complex tasks with confidence and competence, leading to higher-quality outputs and better results for the organization. Upskilling can be a winning strategy, enriching the career prospects for employees while contributing to the long-term success and prosperity of the employer. Embracing upskilling as a fundamental aspect of talent management can position organizations for growth and excellence in today’s dynamic and competitive business environment. Investing in your employees helps attract and retain quality talent and further shows your employees you are interested in their professional and personal well-being. A competitive employee benefits portfolio is another way to invest in your employees. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at gscc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536. This e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender by replying to the sender. After notifying the sender of the error, you should immediately delete this e-mail from your system. Please be aware that any unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, distribution, duplication or use of the e-mail contents or any attachments therein is strictly prohibited.
Misericordia University Hosts Doctor of Physical Therapy Hooding Ceremony Misericordia University recently celebrated the achievements of its newest Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) graduates during the annual Hooding Ceremony held on campus. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, signifying the culmination of years of rigorous academic and clinical training. Misericordia University’s DPT program, known for its commitment to excellence in education and clinical practice, continues to prepare students for impactful careers in healthcare. Congratulations to the Class of 2024 DPT graduates as they embark on their journeys to make a difference in their communities! To learn more about the program, click here. Names and hometowns of graduates: Jillian Rogers, Denville, NJ; Andrea Carlson, Newton, NJ; Tara Sweeney, Jessup, PA; Matthew Myers, Hughesville, PA; Kaylee Sturans, Fredericksburg, VA; Eric Jeffies, Nanticoke, PA; Shannon Williams, Hellertown, PA; Brianna McPeak, Warrington, PA; Brianna Fox, Laurel, NY; Zoee Farr, Vestal, NY; Katrina Redline, Dallas, PA; Nicholas Toronzi, White Haven, PA; Micaela Fasolino, Poughkeepsie, NY; Sean Burg, New Castle, DE; Zackary Jayne, Towanda, PA; Matthew McCaffery, Simpson, PA; Katelyn Butczynski, Nanticoke, PA; Shelby Brittain, Milford, PA; Jacqueline Stack, Mahopac, NY; Samantha Lubin, Doylestown, PA; Ashlynn Fitzgerald, Dallas, PA; Brandon Istvan, Dover, NJ; Spencer Sundeberg, Lynbrook, NY; Thomas Vaccaro, Montrose, PA; Justin Occhipinti, Dunmore, PA; Devin Dougherty, Shavertown, PA; Kristen McCloskey, Lumberton, NJ; Alexa Wagner, Elmira, NY; Cheril Parmar, Scranton, PA; Kaden Martell, Canton, PA; John Kelley, Levittown, PA; Kyle Romanofski, Swoyersville, PA; Alexandrea Steele, Nanticoke, PA; Alanna O’Malley, Mays Landing, NJ; Zachary Johnson, Nanticoke, PA; Jason Winters, Palmer, PA; Jarod Cipriano, Scranton, PA; Wayne VanNewkirk, Honeoye Falls, NY; Dane Frantz, Lehighton, PA; Tyler German, Allentown, PA;
I Need A Speaker CEO Appointed on Two International Committees Dr. Tricia Richards-Service, founder and president of I Need A Speaker, has been appointed to serve on two prestigious advisory committees for Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the premier global organization for meeting and event professionals. Starting January 1, 2025, Dr. Richards-Service will serve on both MPI’s Event Program Review Advisory Board and Research Advisory Board. In these roles, she will help shape the future of the meetings and events industry through educational programming and research initiatives. As a member of the Event Program Review Advisory Board, Dr. Richards-Service will review and validate speaker proposals for MPI’s signature event, World Education Congress (WEC). She will also provide strategic input on topics, speakers, and educational formats for the organization’s programming. On the Research Advisory Board, she will contribute to MPI’s research initiatives focused on education, industry advocacy, and thought leadership. The role includes developing white papers and conducting analysis of the business events sector. “I’m excited to serve the organization in these international roles,” said Dr. Richards-Service. “I look forward to contributing my expertise in both public speaking and strategic leadership to advance MPI’s educational and research objectives.” Dr. Richards-Service brings more than 20 years of communication experience to these roles, having worked with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to local non-profits. An accomplished international speaker herself, she has presented at conferences across North America and Europe, including Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, and Romania. She earned a Ph.D. in strategic leadership and business administration, a master’s degree in healthcare administration, and a bachelor’s degree in communications/journalism. Through I Need A Speaker, she continues to advance the speaking industry by providing a global platform that connects speakers of all price points with event organizers while also offering public speaking training.
Girls Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania Upcoming Events Women in Distinction Celebrating those who lift others in our community Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania’s Women of Distinction Gala identifies five women of influence who serve as inspirational figures for girls and young women. These women are members of our local communities and represent the core values we instill in girls through Girl Scouts. Please join us on March 26, 2025, at the Harrisburg Hilton for our 2025 celebration. Discover more about the event. 2025 Embracing Ambition Conference Join us for a powerful day of inspiration at our Embracing Ambition Conference! The conference is centered around the book, “Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, Be Seen, & Lead,” which shares the stories of twelve remarkable women leaders who have overcome challenges, broken down barriers, and paved new paths across various industries. Together, they reveal insights on addressing perception barriers, integrating personal identity with professional success, embracing new challenges, and leading with a visionary spirit. The authors, including Girl Scout in the Heart of Pennsylvania’s President and CEO, Janet Donovan, will bring these themes to life, offering invaluable advice and encouragement for women ready to make their mark. Attendees will leave motivated, empowered, and ready to turn their own ambitions into action. March 26, 2025 | Harrisburg Hilton | Harrisburg, Pa. Discover more about the event
Geisinger Wyoming Associate Chief Medical Officer Selected for Carol Emmott Fellowship Alison Brodginski, D.O., associate chief medical officer and associate chief quality officer of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is among 24 women health leaders chosen by the Carol Emmott Foundation for its Fellowship Class of 2025. The flagship program of the Carol Emmott Foundation, the Carol Emmott Fellowship works to accelerate gender and racial equity in health care leadership by providing women leaders a platform for national visibility and a continuously growing network of peers, mentors and sponsors in the industry. “I am privileged to be part of this program, joining an inspiring cohort of talented and dedicated health care professionals,” said Dr. Brodginski. “The fellowship offers an incredible opportunity to collaborate and grow with exceptional leaders dedicated to advancing equity and innovation in health care.” The program equips participants with the necessary resources and connections to lead innovation and create equitable health care systems and governance. The Fellowship Class of 2025 comprises a remarkable group of health care leaders who have demonstrated their commitment to driving change within the industry and beyond. During the 14-month program, fellowship recipients are paired with hand-selected mentors who are nationally recognized senior executive leaders. Each fellow pursues an impact project, which they plan in coordination with their health organization, that promotes sponsorship opportunities and visibility within the organization. Fellows are also afforded opportunities to publish and present their work to the extensive foundation community. Fellows were nominated by senior executive leadership at their institutions and carefully selected through a competitive process focused on the inclusion of professionals with diverse backgrounds, expertise and experiences. The Class of 2025 represents a range of disciplines within health care, from clinical care to financial analysis, education, operations and strategy, bringing a comprehensive perspective to the cohort. Among Geisinger leaders who have participated in past Carol Emmott Fellowship Classes are: Cindy Sheridan, J.D., Geisinger’s associate chief legal officer of litigation services Karlyn Paglia, M.D., chief medical officer of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Andrea Wary, R.N., B.S.N., vice president of Geisinger’s Women and Children’s and Cancer institutes Sandra Culbertson, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Women and Children’s Institute Christa Lese Martin, Ph.D., Geisinger’s chief scientific officer Rachel Manotti, M.H.A., Geisinger’s associate chief strategy officer Denise Torres, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Surgery Institute
