RailRiders Unveil 2026 CHAMP’S Home Run Readers Program The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Red Robin are thrilled to announce a new reading program. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers is a premier reading program developed exclusively for elementary and middle schools in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and surrounding communities. This challenge will run from March 2 through March 22, 2026. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers are tasked with tracking their reading minutes outside of the classroom. While only at-home, out-of-school reading counts, this can include school curriculum books, self-chosen books, and both digital and print materials. A reader’s time can also include minutes a parent or guardian reads aloud to the student, encouraging family literacy. They believe in celebrating every milestone in reading. Prizes are awarded based on the student’s highest achievement tier. Each student who participates will receive a coupon courtesy of Red Robin. Single – Read under 400 minutes and receive a participation certificate. Double – Read at least 400 minutes and receive a participation certificate plus two tickets for a specified RailRiders game. Triple – Read at least 800 minutes and receive a participation certificate plus four tickets for a specified RailRiders game. Home Run – Read 1,300 or more minutes and receive a participation certificate plus four tickets for a specified RailRiders game, a first pitch at a specified RailRiders home game and a RailRiders t-shirt. Top Overall Reader: On-Field recognition at a RailRiders game, an autographed baseball PLUS a photo with CHAMP. Student tickets are redeemable on June 9 or June 10, 2026. All prizes are subject to change. CHAMP’S Home Run Readers efforts will be tracked by program coordinators at the student’s school. Each school will designate a program coordinator to assist in the process. Any teacher that has their classroom participate in this challenge, the Program Coordinator and Principal will be awarded a ticket voucher redeemable for four tickets to a 2026 RailRiders game. Some restrictions may apply, and seats are based on availability. The top five schools with the most student participation will receive a suite for a RailRiders game for 12 staff members (food and beverage not included) for a mutually agreed upon date. The top school will receive $250 towards a school Amazon Wish List. The deadline for registering is February 13, 2026. The RailRiders’ 2026 campaign begins on the road March 27 with the home opener at PNC Field scheduled for April 7. Season ticket memberships, including premium seating, full season, half season and partial plans, are on sale now. Learn more about CHAMP’S Home Run Readers, presented by Red Robin, online at swbrailriders.com or by calling (570) 969-2255.
Allied Services VP Retires, Receives Flag From SourceAmerica SourceAmerica representative Marshelle Gaspar presented a ceremonial flag to Bob Ames at a reception today in recognition of and celebration of his upcoming retirement from Allied Services after 35+ years of empowering and enriching the lives of adults with disabilities. Bill Conaboy, President & CEO of Allied Services, first introduced Bob Ames at the reception to many colleagues and thanked Bob for his leadership and loyalty to our organization and for the accomplishments Bob achieved on behalf of adults with disabilities, who live and work with us, across four decades. In her presentation, Marshelle thanked Bob for his advocacy for and commitment to employment opportunities for adults with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as explaining the flag was made by adults with disabilities through one of the SourceAmerica partners in California. Left to right: Marshelle Gaspar, Nonprofit Liaison, East Region, SourceAmerica, Bob Ames, Vice President, Community Services and Real Estate, Allied Services, Bill Conaboy, Esq., President & CEO, Allied Services Integrated Health System.
Equestrian House: Close to the Slopes, Far From the Crowds There’s a secret tucked away in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Elk Mountain—a ski resort that draws skiers and snowboarders who prefer solid terrain, night skiing (a welcome little adventure under the stars), and more time on the slopes than waiting in lift lines. It’s unpretentious in the best way and truly one of the best-kept winter secrets. And Equestrian House’s vacation rentals—a log cabin and several cottages and suites—are just 16 miles away, roughly a half-hour drive through pretty countryside. After a day of hurling oneself down snowy slopes, guests have the luxury of returning to their own quiet place instead of a packed hotel lobby full of clattering boots and noisy retellings of wipeouts. Here, guests can kick off their boots, sink into a couch, and feel that particular satisfaction that comes from a good day on the mountain. And it seems the sporting thing to do to mention that this ski season, from mid-December through mid-March, Equestrian House is offering 35% off any midweek stay of three nights or longer (Sunday through Thursday). Winter fills up faster than most would think, so check availability before all the sensible winter lovers claim the dates. Click here for more information. Check the Elk Mountain webcams for real-time slope conditions.
Geisinger Health Plan Recognized by U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in health care rankings and consumer advice, has named Geisinger Health Plan (GHP) a 2026 Best Insurance Company for Medicare Advantage in Pennsylvania. The ratings of the Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage evaluate private insurance companies on the basis of U.S. News’ proprietary analysis of 30+ quality measures published by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Less than one-third of Medicare Advantage providers nationwide were named Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage. “This is once again a testament to Geisinger Health Plan’s continued commitment to providing high-quality medical coverage and excellent member services to Medicare beneficiaries across Pennsylvania,” said Karen Murphy, PhD, RN, president of Geisinger Health Plan. “U.S. News’ comprehensive, data-driven methodology recognizes the insurance companies that deliver the best Medicare Advantage plans,” said Sumita Singh, executive vice president and general manager of Health at U.S. News. “By evaluating every company’s Medicare Advantage plans based on dozens of quality measures and recognizing top performers in key areas – including Screening & Prevention and Care Continuity – we’re highlighting those that deliver superior plans and hopefully better outcomes for beneficiaries,” Singh added. “U.S. News’ Medicare Advantage ratings are a powerful tool for beneficiaries as they make one of their most important health decisions.” For the 2026 edition of Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage, U.S. News considered CMS data and quality measure results for every evaluated insurance company’s Medicare Advantage health plans for the 2026 calendar year. U.S. News, in consultation with industry experts, selected 30+ CMS quality measures and assigned each measure a weight reflecting its relevance to consumers. The results for a provider’s plans were averaged together, with greater weight assigned to plans having the most seniors enrolled. Additionally, U.S. News calculated insurers’ ratings for three specific Medicare Advantage award categories: Screening & Prevention, Care Continuity and Highest Satisfaction. For more information, visit Best Insurance Companies for Medicare Advantage. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period ends Sunday, Dec. 7. Click here or call 800-482-8163 to learn more about GHP Medicare Advantage options.
Geisinger’s Peer Support Program Reaches Milestone Geisinger’s employee-led peer support initiative, M-PATH (Meeting Peers at the Heart), has reached a significant milestone, with more than 1,000 employees now trained as peer supporters across the health system. Developed and offered through Geisinger’s Center for Well-being, M-PATH is designed to cultivate a culture of empathy, connection and emotional support among staff. The program equips employees with the skills to provide meaningful peer-to-peer support — whether proactively checking in with colleagues or offering a compassionate ear during challenging times. As part of the training, peer supporters learn how to be an empathetic and active listener, assess situations thoughtfully and connect employees with appropriate resources when additional support is needed. Peer supporters represent a wide range of departments, roles and regions, underscoring Geisinger’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace environment. “We’re incredibly grateful to the more than 1,000 employees who have stepped up to be a source of support for their peers,” said Susan Parisi, M.D., Geisinger’s chief wellness officer. “Their compassion and dedication reflect the value Geisinger places on well-being and the powerful role each person plays in building a connected, caring community. We’re proud of how far the M-PATH program has come and look forward to its continued growth and the positive impact it will have on our colleagues.”
Scranton Cultural Center and Broadway Theatre League Unite Two of the region’s most iconic entertainment organizations have become one. On Wednesday afternoon, Broadway Theatre League of NEPA announced that it has merged with the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. (From L to R) John Murray – SCC Board Co-President; Deborah Moran Peterson – SCC Co-Executive Director; Frank T. Blasi, Esq. – SCC Co- Executive Director; and Brian Cali, Esq. – SCC Board Co-President “This merger represents more than just strategic alignment, it’s a community commitment,” according to Brian Cali, Esq., and John Murray, joint chairmen of the Scranton Cultural Center board. “The Broadway Theatre League has brought the highest caliber productions to Scranton for over six decades, offering world-class performances at a fraction of the cost of New York City, and will now become part of the region’s entertainment Mecca, the Scranton Cultural Center.” “Through this partnership, we ensure that generations of Pennsylvanians – especially those who may never otherwise experience the magic of Broadway – continue to have access to the arts and other future programs planned with our new venture,” they added. The Scranton Cultural Center, a stunning 1930s architectural landmark designed by Raymond Hood and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has long been BTL’s home stage. The special facility is currently undergoing a $10 million restoration helping to preserve the 1930s landmark for generations to come. This merger deepens that impact. “By joining forces, we’re not only preserving a historic structure – we’re amplifying its reach. We’re building an arts and culture hub that will serve students, seniors, families and visitors from across Pennsylvania and beyond,” according to board members, Dr. Kimberly D’Andrea and William Schoen, who are spearheading transition communication efforts. Employees of both organizations have been retained, and Deborah Moran Peterson and Frank T. Blasi, Esq. will serve as co-directors of the SCC. The merger announcement was made in conjunction with the unveiling of the Center’s historic Weinberg Theatre, which has been closed to the public for restoration since June. As part of the large-scale restoration project, funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services, theatre restorations include the removal and replacement of over 2,600 Celotex ceiling tiles, and 1,700 decorative plaster ornaments. Additionally, the decorative proscenium arch that was missing since the 1980s was recreated.
Greenlight Expands Across NEPA; Partners with Blakely Borough Greenlight Networks (“Greenlight”), a leading fiber-to-the-home internet service provider, and latest emerging player in Pennsylvania, is accelerating its investment and network buildout across Northeastern Pennsylvania. On the heels of the acquisition of Loop Internet last month, Greenlight today announced several new expansions within the Northeast Pennsylvania region including the Boroughs of Blakely and Throop – bringing residents, businesses, and municipalities the fast, reliable internet they need. The company is pleased to share that Blakely Borough has signed a municipal agreement with Greenlight, securing high-speed fiber connectivity for eight community buildings, including the Borough Office, DPW Garage, Electrical Switchgear Station, Blakely Hose Co. No. 2, Wilson Fire. Co. No. 1, Blakely Borough Community Ambulance, and both the Blakely Borough Community Center and the Blakely Borough Recreation Complex. “Reliable, affordable, high-speed internet is essential infrastructure for our community,” said Christopher Paone, Borough Manager of Blakely. “By partnering with Greenlight, we are ensuring not only our residents but also our municipal operations and emergency services are equipped with the best connectivity available for the needs of today, tomorrow, and beyond.” “The continued expansion of Greenlight Networks’ fiber is a big plus for our regional community,” said Bob Durkin, President of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “With increased remote work and schooling, and the advances in AI., high-speed, reliable internet is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity for families, businesses, and economic competitiveness. We are excited to see this type of investment by Greenlight Networks, here in northeastern Pennsylvania.” Greenlight’s regional expansion is progressing rapidly, with thousands of homes and businesses already connected or under construction throughout Lackawanna County. In Blakely, residents can expect construction to begin in early 2026, with more areas to be announced in the coming months. The company is also accelerating its investment and network buildout across the Scranton market following the acquisition of Loop Internet. Over the past several months, service has become available in multiple new neighborhoods across West and South Scranton, the company has also continued its momentum across Kingston, Wilkes-Barre, and Mountain Top, further strengthening Greenlight’s regional footprint across Luzerne County. “Northeastern Pennsylvania is an exciting place for us to grow, as we continue to partner with communities that welcome competition and are eager for better internet options,” said Mark Murphy, CEO of Greenlight Networks. “Residents and businesses alike want more choice and Greenlight is ready to deliver with the speed and reliability of our fiber network. We are proud of our national recognition as a top Internet service provider for value, reliability, speed and service and excited to further expand access to enhanced connectivity across this region.” Click here for more information.
Johnson College Launches Prison Training Program Johnson College has launched a prison training program designed to provide incarcerated individuals in Northeastern Pennsylvania with industry-recognized credentials that support successful re-entry into the workforce. Initially funded by the Sordoni Family Foundation and now supported with additional funding from the Mellon Foundation through a subaward agreement with Villanova University as part of the Expanding Access to Higher Education in Pennsylvania State Prisons project, this program represents a significant step in expanding access to career education behind prison walls and reducing recidivism. Currently, the College delivers training remotely to the Wayne County Prison, Pike County Prison, and the United States Penitentiary (USP) Canaan. Originally piloted in 2020 through a $10,000 grant from the Sordoni Family Foundation, the program was developed to train incarcerated individuals in workforce-relevant skills. Since then, Johnson College has strengthened its efforts with support from the Pennsylvania Consortium for Higher Education in Prisons (PA-CHEP) to pilot additional courses and expand to more facilities. The College has offered courses in OSHA 10 and Customer Service Basics, providing participants with nationally recognized industry credentials and certificates of completion. This winter, Johnson College plans to expand offerings to include Basic Electrical and Pre-CDL training courses. The College’s efforts are further supported through a partnership with Goodwill Industries to expand workforce development and re-entry programming across correctional facilities. Goodwill identifies individuals interested in Johnson College’s career fields, coordinates participation, and provides post-training career preparation and job placement support for program completers. Funding support for the current phase of the program continues through December 31, 2025, with goals to sustain and expand the initiative going forward. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.
Mohegan PA Announce Partnership with Philadelphia Flyers Mohegan Digital, the iGaming division for Mohegan, is excited to announce a new marketing partnership with the Philadelphia Flyers, which will comprise of various campaigns driving engagement across digital and in-person platforms. Mohegan PA Online Casino, which now includes online sports betting, will be recognized as a proud partner of the Flyers with new in-arena experiences, broadcast integrations and dynamic digital promos. “This partnership offers a great opportunity for Mohegan Digital to expand visibility in the Philly market, and what better way to do that than collaborating with the Flyers, one of the most storied franchises in pro hockey,” -said Guy Greene, VP of Digital Gaming for Mohegan Digital. “We’re excited to bring this multi-faceted campaign to life and deliver memorable experiences both on and off the ice through this dynamic alignment with the Philadelphia Flyers and NBC Sports Philly.” “We’re thrilled to provide a platform here in Philadelphia for Mohegan Digital and Mohegan PA Online Casino to reach the most passionate fans in America” said Bryan Furey, Senior Vice President, Corporate Partnerships. “We appreciate this new partnership and how it will enhance Flyers fans’ experience in Xfinity Mobile Arena and beyond.” Partnership Highlights In-game and on-site activations throughout the year, including ice contests for randomly selected fans Featured digital branding and broadcast and social media integration, including a unique “Rink Roulette” ice projection during certain games A special game highlight segment on NBC Sports Philly named the “Mohegan Moment” Inclusion in gameday marketing and sponsored ads during NBC Sports Philly broadcasts
Wright Center’s Ryan White Clinic Leading HIV/AIDS Care Each year on Dec. 1, World AIDS Day offers an important moment to recognize the resilience of people living with HIV, honor the lives of those we’ve lost, and reaffirm our ongoing commitment to equitable, compassionate, and evidence-based care. Mary Louise Decker, M.D., FACP, FIDSA With consistent access to health care, people living with HIV can thrive, age in good health, and build lives that reflect their goals, relationships, and aspirations. At The Wright Center for Community Health’s Ryan White Clinic, they are proud to support their patients with the services and care that make these outcomes possible. The Ryan White Clinic operates within the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre community health centers and has been a regional leader in HIV care since 2002. Guided by a comprehensive approach to care, the clinic team focuses on improving both health outcomes and overall quality of life through personal and culturally responsive services. Earlier this year, the clinic received more than $1 million in federal funding through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part C Early Intervention Services Program, administered by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The three-year grant supports comprehensive HIV primary health services, education, treatment adherence counseling, and referrals for additional services when needed. The clinic has a dedicated, passionate staff who provide testing and continuous coordinated care for patients diagnosed with or at risk of contracting HIV. This care includes prescribing critical daily medication regimens, as well as important vaccinations, specialized care for hepatitis B and C, treatment for sexually transmitted infections, and referrals to specialists for advanced care when needed. Thanks to continued progress in medication adherence, more than 95% of the clinic’s patients have achieved undetectable viral loads, meaning they cannot transmit the virus to others. In addition, the clinic staff offers behavioral health counseling, dental care, medical nutrition therapy, and addiction and recovery services, as well as ancillary services such as housing assistance, transportation, emergency financial aid, a food bank, home-delivered and congregate meals, nutritional supplements, support for durable medical equipment purchases, help with lab and medical bills, and psychosocial support. The clinic welcomes all patients, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Patients range from age 18 to over 80, with more than 60% 50 or older – a reflection of the success seen in extending both lifespan and quality of life for those living with HIV. Their ongoing commitment is to ensure that every person seeking care receives the dignified, comprehensive, and person-centered support they deserve. The Ryan White Clinic will continue to strengthen access to high-quality medical care, expand supportive services, and promote the overall health and well-being of individuals living with or affected by HIV throughout the local community. To learn more about the Ryan White Clinic, visit thewrightcenter.org/services/ryan-white-hiv-clinic/ Dr. Mary Louise Decker is a board-certified infectious diseases physician and Infectious Disease Medical Director for The Wright Center for Community Health. Dr. Decker leads The Wright Center’s Ryan White HIV and Infectious Disease/Hep C Clinic.
