Electric City Farmers Market Opens August 4th The Electric City Farmers Market will open Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Christopher A. Doherty Park in downtown Scranton. Community members are invited to visit the pocket park every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, plants and more. Featured vendors include Hopkins Farms, Cypress House @ St. Luke’s Church and Pierro Plant and Garden Center. Visitors can also enjoy live music from noon to 2 p.m. while supporting local growers and businesses. The Electric City Farmers Market is a project of Scranton Tomorrow, with support from the Architectural Heritage Association.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Celebrates Veteran Employees on National Hire a Veteran Day National Hire a Veteran Day, observed annually on July 25, encourages employers to recognize the value veterans bring to the workforce and support their successful transition into civilian careers. Established in 2017, the observance highlights the leadership, discipline and commitment veterans contribute to organizations across the country. At Tobyhanna Army Depot, hundreds of veterans representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces continue their service as members of Team Tobyhanna. Among them is Ryan Yazdzik, who served in the U.S. Army from 2015 to 2020, including two deployments to Kuwait focused on air defense. Inspired by his family’s long history of military service, Yazdzik joined Tobyhanna Army Depot four and a half years ago as a material handler. In his role, Yazdzik supports the depot’s logistics operations by managing shipping, processing and other essential functions that help sustain critical military systems. Having used many of the same systems during his military service, he understands the importance of ensuring warfighters receive reliable equipment. “A lot of systems we work on I’ve used in deployments and in the field. I know firsthand the importance of these assets to the warfighter.” Electronics Mechanic Denise Pfister also continues her commitment to serving the nation after four years in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronics technician. After enlisting in 2001, she maintained S-3B Viking aircraft used to train pilots and recalls the pride of helping return aircraft to service. She was also in boot camp during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, an experience that shaped the beginning of her military career. After leaving the Navy in 2005, Pfister joined Tobyhanna Army Depot in 2018 after attending one of the depot’s career fairs. Today, she works on Sidewinder missile systems and credits her military experience with instilling the discipline, commitment and mission-focused mindset that continues to guide her work. Pfister encourages veterans transitioning into civilian careers to remain patient and utilize available resources, including those offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs. She also believes veterans bring valuable qualities to employers. “Most veterans are detail-oriented. They’ll show up on time or early. They’re dependable, committed and focused on the mission.” She added that continuing to support the nation’s defense remains a source of pride. “I love working at Tobyhanna because I know I’m still doing my part to help keep this country free.” Harry Heck has also dedicated decades to serving the nation. After joining the National Guard in the 1980s, he continued his military career with seven years of active-duty service in the U.S. Air Force, supporting travel and pay operations. The experience provided the foundation for a successful career in financial management while teaching him the discipline and routine that have benefited him throughout his career. Following positions with Sallie Mae, other financial institutions and a production facility, Heck joined Tobyhanna Army Depot in 2008. Over more than 18 years, he has held several positions within the Resource Management Directorate, including travel accounts technician, lead approving official and his current role as Defense Travel System administrator for the depot. Reflecting on his career, Heck said he values the opportunity to continue serving those who protect the nation. “I really enjoy helping people and assisting them as they go out to serve our warfighters. It means a lot.” As National Hire a Veteran Day recognizes the contributions veterans make to the workforce, Tobyhanna Army Depot continues to demonstrate the value of hiring those who have served. Through the dedication, leadership and expertise of employees like Yazdzik, Pfister and Heck, the depot strengthens its mission while supporting the readiness of the nation’s warfighters.
The Wright Center celebrates a new reason to smile at community health center in Tunkhannock The Wright Center for Community Health celebrated the launch of a new dental service line at its community health center in Tunkhannock on Friday, July 24, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Wyoming County Healthcare Center, 5950 U.S. Route 6, Suite 401. The event, which was open to the public, featured remarks from leaders at The Wright Center and Wyoming County Healthcare Center, tours of the four new dental operatories, and a meet-and-greet with the Tunkhannock dental team, led by veteran dentist Dr. Frank Pagano. “We are taking another meaningful step forward as we celebrate the upcoming opening of our new, state-of-the-art dental services center inside our Federally Qualified Health Center Look Alike Center on the fourth floor of the Wyoming County Healthcare Center,” said Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Center. “Oral healthcare is an essential part of whole-person health and our whole-person care model. “A healthy smile is more than healthy teeth. It is about dignity and confidence – for the child who can concentrate in school instead of living with oral pain, the parent who no longer has to choose between paying a bill and seeing a dentist, and the older adult who can eat nutritious food, speak comfortably, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.” Starting Monday, Aug. 3, The Wright Center for Community Health Tunkhannock will begin offering affordable, high-quality oral care services, including routine exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, extractions, restorations, dentures, and other procedures for adults and children. Appointments can be made by calling 570-591-5299. The Wright Center opened its community health center in Tunkhannock in September 2024 inside the former Tyler Memorial Hospital as part of its efforts to expand safety-net primary and preventive care services for underserved populations and communities. “We are grateful to partner with The Wright Center through collaborative funding provided by AllOne Charities, Moses Taylor Foundation, and Appalachian Regional Commission to expand access to dental services at the Wyoming Valley Healthcare Center,” said Lindsay Shalata, the center’s executive director. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving access to quality dental healthcare for the communities we serve.”
SWB RailRiders, Beck Earns International League Pitcher of the Week by MiLB Minor League Baseball has announced its weekly awards for July 20-26 and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s Brendan Beck was named the International League’s Pitcher of the Week. The RailRider did not allow a run while striking out seven to help record a shutout victory against the Syracuse Mets. Beck got the call for Thursday’s contest to face off against the New York Mets rehabber Clay Holmes. The righty earned his team-high eighth win of the season with 6.1 innings of scoreless baseball. He allowed just three hits and one walk, while striking out seven. Beck threw 82 pitches in his first appearance after the All-Star break. Beck has thrown eight quality starts for the RailRiders this season and has helped the team to a 13-5 record when he gets the ball. He is coming off an impressive June where he was honored with the IL Pitcher of the month award. During that time, he worked a 1.24 ERA in 5 starts through 29 frames. This included his seven no-hit innings to begin a combined no-hitter on June 5. The Yankees #23 prospect leads the International League with a 2.89 ERA among qualified pitchers. He is first in innings pitched (99.2), second in wins (8), and fourth in strikeouts (100). Beck also made his Major League debut with New York on May 7 and has pitched in the bigs one other time this season. The 27-year-old was selected by the Yankees in the 2nd round of the 2021 draft out of Stanford University.It is the third time this summer Beck has been tabbed IL Pitcher of the Week, along with appearances in midMay and early June both against Syracuse. Only two other players in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre history have won the International League’s weekly award three times. Andy Ashby received the honor three times as a righty starter in 1991 as did Josh Hancock back in 2003. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre takes on the Iowa Cubs for a six-game set in Des Moines. The RailRiders return homeon Tuesday, August 4 to begin a series against the Rochester Red Wings. For more information on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, visit www.swbrailriders.com
The Wright Center for Community Health to open primary health care clinic at Friendship House’s new Carbondale location Building on their longstanding partnership, The Wright Center for Community Health and Friendship House are working together once again to increase access to affordable, high-quality, whole-person primary and preventive health services, particularly for individuals with complex mental health and substance use disorder needs. On Thursday, Aug. 13, The Wright Center will begin offering whole-person primary and preventive health services at Friendship House’s new Whole Person Care Center at 30 N. Main Street, Suite 100, Carbondale. The new 15,000-square-foot health center will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing a range of services, including checkups, physicals, screenings, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries. The Wright Center for Community Health Friendship House – Carbondale’s services will be available to individuals of all ages, regardless of their insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. Patients do not need to be clients of Friendship House to receive care at The Wright Center’s newest location. The Wright Center will celebrate its continued partnership with Friendship House by hosting a grand opening on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 4-5 p.m. at the Whole Person Care Center. The public event will feature remarks from leaders of The Wright Center and Friendship House, as well as community leaders. This marks The Wright Center’s second partnership with Friendship House, an organization that serves children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities, emotional or behavioral challenges, and the effects of trauma related to loss, abuse, or neglect. Since November 2024, The Wright Center has provided primary care services at Friendship House’s Whole Person Care Center, located at 200 Wyoming Ave., Suite 250, in Scranton. Since opening, the clinical team has provided care during more than 3,500 patient visits. “Building on the success of our partnership at Friendship House – Scranton, we are excited to expand our collaboration and bring whole-person primary health services to Carbondale,” said Dr. Jignesh Y. Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer at The Wright Center for Community Health. “By co-locating primary care with Friendship House’s behavioral health services, we can help ensure individuals and families have greater access to the comprehensive care they need, when and where they need it. This partnership is another important step in our mission 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.” Friendship House’s services in Carbondale will include outpatient mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults; psychiatric evaluations and medication management; on-site psychiatric rehabilitation programs; and additional behavioral health services. “Our partnership with The Wright Center reflects our shared commitment to improving access to comprehensive, whole-person care, which includes behavioral and primary care,” said Alex J. Hazzouri, president and CEO of Friendship House. “As we expand services in Carbondale and the surrounding areas, we’re creating greater opportunities for individuals and families to receive the behavioral and primary care services they need, close to home. “Together, we’re breaking down barriers to care and strengthening the health of the communities we serve.”
Misericordia University To Host Summer Open House Prospective students and their families are encouraged to register soon for Misericordia University’s Summer Open House on August 22, as time is running out to reserve a spot. The event offers an opportunity to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff, connect with current students, and learn more about Misericordia University’s academic programs, hands-on learning experiences, and vibrant campus life. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, envision their future, and discover what makes the university a welcoming place for students and families alike. Those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their spot by visiting: https://apply.misericordia.edu/register/
Marywood University Receives $500,000 Grant to Support Science Center Upgrades Through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program Marywood University has been awarded a $500,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to support a transformative modernization of its Center for Natural and Health Sciences, strengthening STEM education and expanding opportunities for future scientists, healthcare professionals, and technology leaders. The grant, announced by Governor Josh Shapiro as part of more than $52.5 million in investments across 42 Northeast Pennsylvania projects, will help fund the construction of a new physics laboratory, flexible collaborative learning spaces, and significant upgrades to biology, biotechnology, chemistry, and computer science laboratories. The Commonwealth’s investment will be combined with private philanthropic support to create modern, technology-enhanced environments that prepare students for today’s rapidly evolving workforce. “I am grateful to Governor Josh Shapiro, State Senator Marty Flynn, and State Representatives Kyle Mullins, Bridget Kosierowski, and Kyle Donahue, as well as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for their investment in Marywood University and in the future of STEM education,” said Lisa A. Lori, J.D., president of Marywood University. “This transformative grant directly supports our strategic priority of academic innovation by creating state-of-the-art learning environments where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to lead in high-demand STEM fields. It is an investment not only in Marywood, but in the future workforce and economic vitality of Northeastern Pennsylvania.” The renovation project reflects Marywood University’s continued commitment to providing exceptional academic experiences through innovative facilities, cutting-edge technology, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and advanced study. Marywood’s project was selected through the Commonwealth’s highly competitive Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program based on its potential to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy, enhance workforce development, and improve quality of life throughout the region. Renovations to Marywood’s Center for Natural and Health Sciences are expected to be completed in September 2026.
Electric City Improv Launches ECI TeamWorks, Bringing Improv-Based Professional Development to NEPA Businesses Electric City Improv is expanding beyond the stage with the launch of ECI TeamWorks, a new professional development program that helps businesses and organizations strengthen communication, collaboration, leadership, and workplace culture through theprinciples of improvisation. Designed for companies of all sizes, ECI TeamWorks transforms the techniques used by successful improv ensembles into practical workplace skills. Through interactive, hands-on workshops, participants develop stronger listening skills, become more adaptable, communicate more effectively, and learn how to work together with greater confidence and trust. Unlike traditional lectures, ECI TeamWorks emphasizes learning by doing. Every workshop is customized to the organization’s goals, creating an engaging experience that is both enjoyable and immediately applicable in the workplace. The program focuses on helping teams improvecommunication, embrace change, solve problems collaboratively, strengthen leadership, and build a culture where every employee can contribute at their highest level. The ECI approach applies the core principles of improv to help your team support one another, build on each other’s ideas, and recognize the unique strengths each person brings. Workshops are available for businesses, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, educational institutions, government agencies, and professional associations throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. Programs can be delivered on-site or at Electric City Improv and are tailored for staff meetings, leadership retreats, conferences, and ongoing professional development. As a member of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, Electric City Improv is excited to introduce ECI TeamWorks to the regional business community and looks forward to partnering with local organizations to help their teams communicate more effectively, collaborate moresuccessfully, and lead with confidence. To learn more about ECI TeamWorks or schedule a workshop, visit https://www.theelectriccityimprov.com/teamworks or contact Electric City Improv through its website.
Johnson College to Host Barn Quilting Workshop Johnson College will host a Barn Quilting Workshop on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its Scranton campus. Registration is now open, and participants can register online at johnson.edu/workshops. During the workshop, participants will create a 12-inch-by-12-inch hand-painted barn quilt. Inspired by traditional quilt block patterns, barn quilts have become a popular form of outdoor art and are featured along local barn quilt trails throughout the country. Participants will select their own pattern and colors to create a unique piece. Instead of stitching fabric, attendees will use paint to bring their chosen quilt block design to life. All materials will be provided, but participants are asked to bring a hair dryer to assist with the painting process. Each participant will leave with a completed barn quilt ready to display at their home, porch or shed. The cost to attend the workshop is $75 per person. The workshop is part of Johnson College’s WAVE (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) Workshop Series, which offers hands-on learning opportunities designed to help community members develop new skills and explore creative interests.
Greenlight Networks Expands with FastBridge Fiber Acquisition Greenlight Networks has completed its acquisition of FastBridge Fiber, a Reading, Pennsylvania-based fiber internet provider, further expanding its presence across Pennsylvania and New York. The acquisition supports the company’s continued growth throughout the Northeast, with a particular focus on communities in Northeast and South-Central Pennsylvania, as well as Western New York. The addition of FastBridge Fiber expands Greenlight’s service area to include more than 65,000 additional household passings across communities including Buffalo, New York, and Pennsylvania locations such as Berks County, Bloomsburg, Danville, Williamsport, Erie and Hazleton. The company expects to add tens of thousands more household passings by the end of the year as construction projects continue. “We are pleased to see the continued growth and investment in the fiber network for our businesses and residents being brought through the acquisition of FastBridge Fiber by Greenlight Networks. This will further enhance the connectivity in our community providing additional resources that Greenlight Networks will be bringing to our market,” said Jason Fink, President/CEO of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce. “With our recently announced joint venture with T-Mobile and last year’s acquisition of Loop Internet, this marks yet another major step in Greenlight’s evolution as a leading fiber provider in the Northeast,” said Greenlight CEO Mark Murphy. “Through the addition of the FastBridge team’s deep, local roots to our existing efforts in Pennsylvania, we are accelerating expansion into new markets across the state, while further strengthening our footprint in Buffalo, New York.” The acquisition also strengthens Greenlight’s workforce, adding 120 FastBridge employees to the company’s existing team of 250 employees. In addition to expanding its operational hub in Buffalo, Greenlight will establish new operational hubs in Wyomissing, Williamsport and Robesonia. Greenlight currently serves more than 320,000 households and businesses across New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland and continues to invest in expanding high-speed fiber internet throughout the region. Earlier this year, the company also announced a $62 million expansion into Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. Its fiber network provides symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 8 Gbps with no data caps, contracts or hidden fees. To learn more about Greenlight Networks, visit GreenlightNetworks.com.
