Tobyhanna’s Stevens, McGlynn Selected as Employees of the Quarter Of the more than 3,000 patriotic Americans who comprise Tobyhanna Army Depot’s dynamic civilian workforce, Team Tobyhanna is proud to announce the selections of Sheet Metal Mechanic Leader Travis Stevens and Directorate Secretary Ellen McGlynn as Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Employees of the Quarter for the 4th quarter of FY25 in the senior and junior category, respectively. Team Tobyhanna is proud to announce the selections of Sheet Metal Mechanic Leader Travis Stevens (right) and Directorate Secretary Ellen McGlynn (left) as Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Employees of the Quarter for the 4th quarter of FY25 in the senior and junior category, respectively. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Both of these hard-working and skilled individuals have embraced the Army core values, going above and beyond to ensure Tobyhanna meets its mission of providing readiness to a ready, modern, and prepared generation of warfighters as efficiently and effectively as possible. Tobyhanna Army Depot prides itself on being a workplace where each member of its talented workforce can reach their full potentials and make a meaningful contribution to its mission. Stevens is proof positive of that. When it comes to a mission as critical as providing readiness to the warfighters defending our freedom, both cost and time savings are essential to delivering the best value to our heroes. Recently, an issue was discovered, through a capstone project Stevens was a part of, in which rusted conveyor rollers were staining assets and shipping containers. In order to uphold the lofty Tobyhanna standard, a solution was presented to correct the issue, which included masking, sandblasting, painting/spraying coating, baking, & unmasking. In a move emblematic of Stevens’ personal drive and commitment to mission, he successfully researched and prototyped a faster, more efficient, and more durable solution using heat shrink tubing. Stevens’ solution takes 15 minutes per roller as opposed to 1.5 hours per roller and reduces the repair cost from $158.54 to $37.94 per roller. Across 960 rollers, Stevens’ solution saves 1,200 hours and $115,771.20, ensuring Tobyhanna continues to deliver our nation’s warfighters the assets they need when they need them at the best quality and value. In nominating Stevens for the award, Sheet Metal Mechanic Supervisor Russell Wren, commended Stevens’ selfless efforts. “Travis’ actions were driven by a desire to improve operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility, which align with the larger mission of the cost center and its support of the warfighter,” said Wren. “His dedication and talent suggest a focus on the team’s success and mission accomplishment rather than personal gain. Proactively seeking and implementing a superior solution, even when a different approach had been suggested, shows a commitment to finding the best outcome for the overall project and the organization.” Wren said Stevens’ team-oriented and mission-focused outlook demonstrates the power for good each member of Team Tobyhanna possesses and elevates the entire cost center in the process. “Mr. Stevens’ commitment to pushing for a better way forward showcases the immense value of individual contributions and the impact that one person can have on the entire team’s success. By taking ownership of the problem and leading the implementation of the new, improved solution, Mr. Stevens effectively demonstrated how courage, skill, and resourcefulness can seize an opportunity to change things for the better. His proactive leadership sets a clear benchmark, motivating everyone to embrace accountability and strive for higher standards in their own work.” Stevens said he was honored and surprised to receive the recognition. He emphasized the team’s pride and commitment to delivering our warfighters only the best quality products, adding that the individual honor is a reflection of the collective excellent work being accomplished by the team. “I am honored to be selected as one of this quarter’s employees of the quarter. It was very unexpected to say the least, and I am very happy to have been selected to receive it. We see many different workloads pass through our cost center daily and we as a team try to do our absolute best to provide the finest product that we can,” said Stevens. “We are one of the last cost centers to see these materials before they are shipped to the field, so we do our utmost to make sure the end product is the absolute finest it can be. We are always trying to find new ways to innovate and improve our processes, and it’s a great feeling being able to continuously help team Tobyhanna deliver the highest quality product to the warfighter.” McGlynn’s recognition comes just three years after joining Team Tobyhanna, and her impact has already been felt across the organization. She is being honored for launching proactive training efforts for division secretaries that have strengthened administrative processes throughout the Mission Execution Directorate. By skillfully managing her leadership’s schedules and navigating frequent changes that stem from higher-level commitments, she helps maximize their time and keeps the mission moving forward. Mission Execution Director Nathan Thomas shared that McGlynn consistently goes above and beyond in her role as Directorate Secretary. Her daily responsibilities range from maintaining the calendars of the Director and Deputy Director to reviewing incoming correspondence with care and accuracy. Colleagues say her ability to anticipate needs before they arise has become a key part of the Directorate’s smooth operation. McGlynn’s attention to detail and her calm, clear communication style proved invaluable during the recent Mission Execution Directorate reorganization. Her positive attitude, adaptability, and steady support of her teammates reflect exceptional interpersonal skills and a strong sense of unity. She regularly sets aside her own priorities to support the broader needs of the Directorate and never hesitates to assist colleagues when help is needed. Reflecting on her time at Tobyhanna, McGlynn shared deep appreciation for the people who have shaped her experience so far. “It’s been such a privilege to work at Tobyhanna Army Depot and the Mission Execution Directorate, formerly the C4ISR Directorate, for the past three years,” said McGlynn. “I’m honored to be recognized among my peers and mentors as a strong member of the team and wish to extend my appreciation to all for the camaraderie and support both on a personal and professional level.” Click here for more information.
YMCA Offering Community Week Free Trial The Greater Scranton YMCA is calling on individuals and families across the community to experience what it means to truly belong. The Y is a place where people come together to grow stronger in body, mind, and spirit. From group fitness classes to youth sports, from swim lessons to volunteer opportunities, the Y offers something for everyone. But what makes it truly special is the sense of connection that forms when people from all walks of life share space and purpose. “At the Greater Scranton YMCA, we see every day how friendships form, confidence grows, and communities thrive,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “It’s not just about what you do here, it’s about who you do it with.” Membership at the Y means joining a movement that’s been strengthening our community for more than 165 years. Whether you’re looking to get active, give back, or simply find your people, there’s a place for you here. This December, the community and those interested are invited to try the Y free for 7 days! Experience everything the Y has to offer with no commitment, just connection. Visit https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/ or stop by the Y, located at 706 North Blakely St. in Dunmore, to start the free trial today.
Geisinger’s Medicare Advantage Plan Enrollment Deadline Approaching With the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) deadline quickly approaching on Sunday, Dec. 7, there’s still time for eligible seniors to evaluate and enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for 2026. Medicare Advantage plans help older adults fill health care gaps that traditional Medicare does not cover, such as vision, dental and prescription benefits.Geisinger Gold, recently named one of the best Medicare Advantage Plans in Pennsylvania by U.S. News and World Report, offers access to a comprehensive care network with more than 30,000 doctors, 180 hospitals and 3,000 pharmacies. It also includes perks like wellness programs, prescription discounts, financial assistance and Silver Circle membership, a free program designed for men and women 55+ that promotes physical, emotional and social well-being. Geisinger Gold Medicare Advantage plans achieved 4.5 out of 5 Stars in the 2026 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings program for its performance across multiple criteria, including positive clinical outcomes, preventive care, prescription drug services and customer service. CMS evaluates plans every year. Click here to learn more about Geisinger’s Medicare Advantage health plans. Information sessions are also taking place at various locations. To sign up for a session, visit go.geisinger.org/seminar.
Treasurer Garrity Announces New Savings Partnership Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced a new partnership between the Pennsylvania Treasury Department and Gift of College that provides family and friends the ability to purchase gift cards for loved ones in their life to support their savings through the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program and the PA ABLE Savings Program. “I’m excited to expand the ways families can save and encourage others to take part in their savings journey through the Gift of College program,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Providing the option for digital gift card purchases for contributions to PA 529 and PA ABLE is a new, simple and fun way to give the gift of education and more to Pennsylvanians this holiday season.” “We are thrilled that gift cards for PA 529 and PA ABLE accounts are now available throughout the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” adds Wayne Weber, Gift of College, CEO. “Every gift given is a contribution toward a brighter future.” Gift of College provides an easy way to give meaningful monetary gifts to loved ones at any time. Gift of College gift cards can be redeemed directly into PA 529 and PA ABLE accounts and are now available for purchase online at pa529.com/gift and paable.gov/gift. The PA 529 College and Career Savings Program allows families to steadily and strategically save in a tax-advantaged way for qualifying educational expenses no matter what career path a child may take. Saving with PA 529 does not impact a student’s eligibility for PA state financial aid. Families can choose from the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan (GSP) or Morningstar Gold-Rated PA 529 Investment Plan (IP). The PA 529 IP recently earned its third consecutive Gold Rating from Morningstar, maintaining the program’s status as a top-five 529 plan in the country. PA ABLE Savings Program accounts provide a tax-advantaged way to save for qualified disability expenses without impacting important benefits. No federal or state income tax is paid on PA ABLE account growth or withdrawals when used for qualified expenses.Starting in January 2026, PA ABLE eligibility is expanding so eligible individuals of any age can open a PA ABLE account if their disability occurred before age 46. In addition to Gift of College gift cards, PA 529 and PA ABLE account owners can continue to share their unique Ugift codes with loved ones who wish to help them save in their accounts.To learn more about Gift of College and Ugift contributions for PA 529 and PA ABLE, visit pa529.com/gift and paable.gov/gift.
Geisinger Life Flight Earns Accreditation Geisinger Life Flight has earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) for its commitment to exceptional patient care and safety in medical transport. Accreditation is granted only to programs that meet or exceed rigorous standards, which are regularly updated to reflect advancements in care and safety standards for patients and staff during transport. “CAMTS accreditation reinforces Geisinger’s commitment to safe, high-quality care for every patient under our care,” said David Schoenwetter, DO, division chief hospital medicine, Geisinger. “Our team works tirelessly to be a leader in our communities and provide comprehensive air transportation to our patients in their most dire times of need.”
Johnson College To Receive Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grant The Lowe’s Foundation has awarded a $450,000 Gable Grant to Johnson College, northeastern Pennsylvania’s only two-year career technical college, as one of only 12 community and technical colleges receiving the competitive awards in the United States. Since awarding its first grants in 2023, the foundation has expanded skilled trades career pathways through its growing roster of 60 community colleges and nonprofit organizations across 28 states. Through expanded training opportunities, this grant is helping Johnson College build the next generation of skilled tradespeople at a time when the industry needs it most. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the skilled labor gap drives a $10 billion annual economic loss in the housing industry, much of which is felt locally. Johnson College is using the grant to purchase advanced training equipment for its newly expanded heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and electrical construction technology (ECT) laboratory and to update equipment in the carpentry and cabinetmaking technology laboratory on its Scranton campus. Additional equipment will be purchased to expand HVAC and electrical construction labs at Johnson’s satellite campus located in the CAN DO Training Center in Hazle Township. “Collectively, we are writing a comeback story for the skilled trades industry,” said Janice Dupré, Lowe’s executive vice president of human resources and chair of the Lowe’s Foundation. “Through our Gable Grants network, these schools join a community of innovators helping one another effectively recruit, train and employ the people America needs to revitalize our infrastructure.” “Support from the Lowe’s Foundation will not only expand our capacity for skilled trades education today, but for the future as well,” said Walter Wood, building trades and technology division chair and HVAC program director at Johnson College. “Our students will receive hands-on training with technology currently being used in the field. This is a tremendous advantage for employers hiring our graduates and raises the overall capabilities of the skilled trades industry across our region.” From funding new skilled trades facilities and instructors to accreditation programs, the grants will support carpentry and construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and appliance repair training nationwide. These grants are part of the Lowe’s Foundation’s five-year, $50 million commitment to support the training of 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. Since 2023, the Lowe’s Foundation has awarded $43 million in Gable Grants to help educate and advocate for the next generation of skilled tradespeople. The grants support training programs focusing on carpentry and construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and property maintenance. Nick George, left, and Jake Riebe, students in Johnson College’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technology program, work on a residential hot-water boiler purchased with funds from the $450,000 Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grant awarded to Johnson College, northeastern Pennsylvania’s only two-year career technical college and one of only 12 institutions nationwide to receive the competitive award.
Geisinger: Pittston Man Emerges Healthier After Medication Side Effect David Centak of Pittston is just your average guy. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Tiffany, and he loves hosting game nights, cooking and grilling, gaming, and spending time outside with his two Australian shepherds, Grace and Hope. What makes the 35-year-old so much more than an average guy is the incredible health battle he overcame and how he emerged on the other side of that journey healthier than ever before. Centak always knew that he was at high risk for colon cancer because of a genetic condition called Lynch syndrome. People with the condition have DNA that lacks the ability to repair their own cells. As cells grow and make copies of a person’s DNA, errors may occur. DNA will make corrections to repair these errors, but for a person with Lynch syndrome the errors may duplicate themselves, resulting in an increased risk for cancer. Because of the condition, Centak had regular screenings. And in the fall of 2024, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. “My doctors recommended a hemicolectomy, but at my age I did not want to undergo that radical of a surgery,” he said. Not ready to have a surgery to remove a section of his colon, he sought other options and found a clinical trial with immunotherapy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. “I received the first dose and when I went back for the second dose, they noticed that my blood glucose level was 561,” Centak said. “It was the day after New Year’s, so I was dehydrated and attributed it to eating Wawa that morning and having an energy drink on the way to the appointment.” The medical team gave him some time and rechecked his levels, and when the number fell to 210, he received his second dose of the medication. On his way home, he received a call from the doctor at Memorial Sloan Kettering telling Centak to go the emergency room immediately. The doctor worried Centak had a very rare side effect from the medication that could affect how his body processed glucose. Centak immediately went to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center’s emergency room. Following some tests, they confirmed that the medication had likely caused him to develop Type 1 diabetes. “The emergency room doctor explained that a reaction like this most likely meant that the immunotherapy had worked to stop the cancer from growing,” Centak said. “That was good news but it had also destroyed the beta cells in my pancreas.” He needed to stop the clinical trial immediately to avoid risk of further major organ damage. Luckily since the trial had stopped the cancer, he would not need radiation or chemotherapy, but now he had to learn to manage having diabetes at 35 years of age. After meeting with Mihail Voica, MD, Geisinger endocrinologist, he connected with a certified diabetes care and education specialist to learn how to deal with his new condition. “I met with Jessica Kozlosky and she had an amazing level of understanding and knowledge,” Centak said. “We talked about my insulin shots, and she offered dietary advice. Early on, I met with her every week and that was critical for me getting everything managed.” Kozlosky, a registered dietitian nutritionist, explained to Centak that she had diabetes herself and shared some tips on how she managed her condition to put his mind at ease and give him reassurance on managing his blood sugars. “Diabetes is a personalized disease. Something that works for one person might not work for someone else, but David was open to my experiences and really wanted to learn more about how he could manage the disease through his eating habits,” Kozlosky said. “He comes to appointments with really great questions and is truly invested in managing his disease.” She explained carbohydrate counting as a tool to help Centak manage his diabetes and talked him into using a pump to make managing insulin and blood sugars easier. “The Omnipod (insulin pump) was a game changer. Getting that advice from someone who understands was invaluable. She explained that I can still enjoy my life,” Centak said. “She also explained things to my father and my wife at a couple of appointments, explaining the course of action and creating a level of trust with my family so they understood it was under control.” Follow-up tests revealed a small spot of cancer still remaining in his colon, so he underwent a partial colectomy in August to remove about one-third of his colon. He has recovered fully from the surgery, has been managing his diabetes and feels great. “This might sound funny to say, but I feel better than I did before all of this happened,” he says. “I am healthier. I sleep better and I feel better, even with these conditions.” Kozlosky is not surprised. “His success is not surprising because he puts the work in. He comes to appointments with questions and is willing to do anything. He is very analytical and looks at trends and the data,” she said. “I have a really positive outlook for him.”
Wright Center Dedicates Liberty Bell in Jermyn A piece of American history will forever be located at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley. From left: Lauretta Graham, data manager; Kellie Knesis, vice president of human resources and chief human resources officer; Sheila Ford, vice president and chief compliance officer; Dr. Jumee Barooah, senior vice president of education and designated institutional official; Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO; Terrell H. McCasland, vice president and chief revenue officer; and Dr. Jignesh Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer. Wright Center leaders and staff joined community members and local dignitaries at its community health center, 5 S. Washington Ave., Jermyn, for a ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 12, to dedicate a hand-painted fiberglass Liberty Bell in honor of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial, commonly known as America250PA, is working to place at least one fiberglass bell in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. It’s the fifth Liberty Bell sponsored by The Wright Center in Northeast Pennsylvania. Others are located at Carbondale City Hall, 1 N. Main St.; The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave.; Wayne Memorial Hospital, 601 Park St., Honesdale; and Wyoming County Healthcare Center, 5950 U.S. Route 6, Tunkhannock. The Wright Center for Community Health Tunkhannock is located in the Wyoming County Healthcare Center. Artwork adorning each bell was meticulously researched by Gina Lettieri, The Wright Center’s archivist, and hand-painted by Allison LaRussa, The Wright Center’s associate vice president of health and wellness, to reflect the unique spirit and landmarks of the communities where they are placed. “Each of our five Liberty Bells embodies the strength of our rich, collective history and our ongoing responsibility and commitment to safeguard the well-being of our communities,” said Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, The Wright Center’s president and CEO. “May this Liberty Bell in Jermyn serve as a bedrock reminder of the innovation, compassion, solidarity, service, and leadership that define both this remarkable, hard-working community and our mission at The Wright Center to improve the health and welfare of our communities through responsive, whole-person health services for all and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce that is privileged to serve.” For more information about America250PA and to see a full list of Liberty Bells across Pennsylvania, visit www.america250pa.org/PPE:_Bells_Across_PA. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org. The Wright Center for Community Health sponsored five Liberty Bells in honor of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. Each was hand-painted by Allison LaRussa. The Liberty Bell sponsored by The Wright Center for Community Health and placed at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley.
WVIA Secures Grant for Lycoming County-Focused Initative WVIA is proud to announce it has been awarded a grant through the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP) through the Williamsport Lycoming Competitive Grant Program to launch Lycoming County @ Work and Lycoming County Careers that Work, two groundbreaking workforce development initiatives designed to connect students, families, and job seekers with the region’s most in-demand career opportunities. Building on WVIA’s successful Careers that Work and NEPA @ Work programs, this new Lycoming County–focused initiative will shine a spotlight on the area’s exceptional manufacturers and the high-priority occupations driving the region’s economy. Through engaging short-form documentaries, bilingual educational resources, and a dedicated online portal, Lycoming County residents will have free access to information about local employers, training opportunities, and career pathways. “We are grateful for the support of First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania as we introduce students to manufacturing opportunities and pathways for employment in their own backyards,” said Vicki Austin, WVIA’s Chief Education, Grants, and Corporate Relations Officer. “Partnering with schools and businesses in Lycoming County to implement Lycoming@Work will allow us to empower teachers and with essential information as they support students in matching interests with careers.” The initiative comes at a critical moment. Lycoming County faces a shrinking workforce as an aging population nears retirement, creating urgent demand for skilled employees in manufacturing, engineering, and related trades. According to the Lycoming County Chamber of Commerce, at least seventeen unique manufacturing employers are actively providing sustainable career opportunities but many remain unknown to local students and families. Regional ImpactLycoming County @ Work and Lycoming County Careers that Work will: Prepare students for future success by offering free educational videos and classroom resources that introduce young people to high-demand local careers. Support local employers by highlighting innovative manufacturers and connecting them with the next generation of skilled workers. Empower families and job seekers with clear, accessible information about training programs, career pathways, and salaries. Strengthen the regional economy by helping to fill critical job vacancies and attract new talent to the county. Build community pride by showcasing world-class products made in Lycoming County and the people behind them. Through this project, WVIA will produce video profiles of ten Lycoming County manufacturers and ten in-demand careers, provide lesson plans and activities aligned with Pennsylvania Career Education and Work Standards, and host a public kickoff event with county organizations, business leaders, and educators. All resources will be permanently available online in English and Spanish through a dedicated landing page, PBS LearningMedia, and WVIA.org.
My Benefit Advisor: State Mandated Benefits As the American workplace continues to evolve, so too does the legal and cultural expectation that employers support their employees during times of illness, injury, or family needs. One of the most significant shifts in employee benefits policy in recent years is the emergence and expansion of state-mandated-disability insurance and paid leave programs. These mandates require businesses to offer income replacement benefits for employees who are unable to work due to non-work-related medical conditions, family caregiving responsibilities, or childbirth. The challenge for benefit consultants is to work with employers not only in maintaining compliance but also in managing the financial and administrative complexities that arise from these evolving laws. As the legislative environment continues to shift, particularly with the possibility of future federal mandates, organizations must remain agile and informed. By working closely with their benefit consultants in order to coordinate efforts with insurance carriers and legal advisors, business owners can better navigate the complexity of disability and state-mandated benefits while delivering valuable support to their workforce. My Benefit Advisor is accessible to The Chamber’s members as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit gscc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.
