The Wright Center Promotes Men’s Health Awareness During Men’s Health Month The Wright Center for Community Health is recognizing Men’s Health Month this June by encouraging men to prioritize preventive care, healthy lifestyle habits, and routine medical screenings to support long-term wellness and improved health outcomes. “In my many years of practicing medicine, one truth has remained consistent: men are often less proactive about their health than women. That reality continues to affect health outcomes across our communities and multiple generations,” said Dr. William Dempsey. Observed each June, Men’s Health Month raises awareness about the physical, behavioral, and emotional health challenges men face while promoting education and early detection of preventable health conditions. This year’s theme, “Partners in Care: For Better Lifespans Across the Lifespan,” highlights the important role families, caregivers, and communities play in supporting healthier lives. Men’s Health Week, taking place June 14-21, also promotes awareness through outreach and educational initiatives, including Wear Blue Day on June 19. Healthcare professionals continue to emphasize the importance of routine primary care visits, prostate and colon cancer screenings, and early health education to help reduce the risk of advanced disease. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men in the United States experience a shorter average life expectancy than women and face increased risks for conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer, HIV, and prostate cancer. Through its Patient-Centered Medical Home model, The Wright Center provides comprehensive, whole-person healthcare services, including medical, dental, behavioral health, recovery, and preventive care services for patients of all ages. The Wright Center’s Lifestyle Medicine initiative also promotes healthier living through nutrition, physical activity, stress management, improved sleep habits, stronger personal relationships, and tobacco cessation programs aimed at reducing chronic disease risks and improving quality of life throughout the region. “Improving men’s health is a shared responsibility,” Dr. Dempsey added. “By encouraging the important men in our lives to prioritize preventive care and healthier habits, we can help build stronger families, healthier communities, and longer lives.”
The Grey Towers Heritage Association Announces Historian Dr. Larry Cook To Speak Grey Towers Heritage Association will host “Presidents, Pinchot, and the Birth of American Conservation,” a special presentation featuring nationally recognized presidential historian Dr. Larry Cook, on Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Grey Towers National Historic Site. Held at the historic home of Gifford Pinchot, the program will explore the important relationships between Pinchot and the U.S. presidents who helped shape America’s early conservation policies. Drawing on decades of research and an extensive collection of presidential artifacts, Dr. Cook will share stories, historical insights, and materials highlighting the role presidential leadership played in establishing the foundation of modern environmental stewardship. “Dr. Cook has a rare ability to bring history to life in a way that is both deeply insightful and highly engaging,” said Joe Kissling. “His perspective on the presidents who shaped American conservation is truly compelling, and we are honored to have him at Grey Towers.” The event will take place on the scenic Pool Terrace at Grey Towers National Historic Site. Dr. Cook will also participate in a book signing following the presentation, and light refreshments will be served. Admission is free for members, $15 for non-members, and $5 for student non-members. Registration is required and can be completed at Grey Towers Events Registration. For registration assistance, attendees may contact info@greytowers.org.
Fidelity Bank To Open New Electric City Branch Fidelity Bank recently announced the upcoming relocation of its Scranton Financial Center Branch to a new downtown location within the bank’s restored Corporate Center at 507 Linden Street in Scranton. Upon reopening, the branch will operate as the Fidelity Bank Electric City Branch. The move represents an important milestone for Fidelity Bank as it continues to invest in the future of banking and the economic vitality of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The new branch will be located on the ground floor of the historic Corporate Center, providing customers with a modern and centrally located banking experience in the heart of downtown Scranton. To accommodate the transition, the Scranton Financial Center Branch will close at the end of business on Thursday, June 18, with the relocation taking place over the weekend of June 20. The Fidelity Bank Electric City Branch is scheduled to open on Monday, June 22. Customers will continue to have access to Online and Mobile Banking throughout the transition, and all accounts, services, and banking relationships will remain unchanged. Fidelity Bank representatives will be available to assist customers and welcome them to the new location. The bank noted that the new Electric City Branch reflects its continued commitment to honoring Scranton’s history while investing in the future of the region and the communities it serves. For additional information, customers may contact Fidelity Bank at 1-800-388-4380.
Marywood University Announces New Endowed/Annual Scholarships Marywood University recently announced five endowed scholarships and two annual scholarships at the 2026 Scholarship Luncheon. The annual luncheon brought together students, donors, and esteemed guests to celebrate the impact of scholarships and express heartfelt appreciation for the donors who make scholarships possible. Emma Budnovitch ’26, Roaring Brook Township, BS Biochemistry, was the student scholar who spoke on behalf of the student scholarship recipients. She noted, “Scholarships do not just ease financial burdens, but they allow students like me to discover their passions and the confidence to pursue them. Because of your support, I did not just attend Marywood, I fully experienced it.” Institutional aid through scholarships allows Marywood University to assist students and make their education affordable and attainable. In 2025-2026, Marywood provided more than $3.5 million in institutional aid through 642 named scholarships awarded to 556 individual students. New endowed named scholarships can be established with a gift of $50,000 or more. New annual named scholarships can be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. For information on establishing a named scholarship, please contact the Office of University Advancement at 570-348-6238 or development@marywood.edu. The newly endowed scholarships include: The Rocco and Catherine Ciliberti Endowed Scholarship, established by Henry and Margaret Jordan Sallusti ’83, supports academically accomplished local students with financial need, who wish to pursue studies in Nutrition and Dietetics or the Health Sciences. The Kelleher Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Frank Kelleher ’03, Trustee of Marywood University, and his wife, Lauren, supports business students with financial need. The Dr. Lotte Behrendt von Kerczek Endowed Scholarship, established by Elisabeth Gilligan ’59, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need with preference to students enrolled in a major in Science, Math, or Computer Science Department or in the Health Sciences. The Class of 1972 Endowed Scholarship, established by the Marywood Class of 1972 in honor of their 50th Reunion, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need. The Joey Monaghan ’21 Endowed Scholarship, established by Richard Gorelick, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and a desire to help others excel. The newly established annual scholarships include: The Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell Annual Scholarship, established by Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell, M.P.A. ’77, supports full-time graduate students in the Master of Healthcare Administration program with financial need and academic achievement. The Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68 Annual Scholarship, established by Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68, Marywood Alumni Association Board Member Emerita, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need.
Women In Philanthropy To Host Justice Bell Program Exploring Pennsylvania Women’s Fight For The Vote Women in Philanthropy, an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, will host a special community event on Monday, June 8, 2026, highlighting the history of women’s suffrage in Pennsylvania through film, storytelling, and conversation. Held in partnership with the Lackawanna Historical Society and as part of the America250PA initiative, Pennsylvania Women and Their Fight for the Vote will take place from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, located at 612 Jefferson Avenue in Scranton. The evening will feature a screening of Finding Justice: The Untold Story of Women’s Fight for the Vote, a 19-minute documentary that is part present-day detective story and part historical account of the movement for voting rights. The film tells the story of the Justice Bell—a one-ton bronze replica of the Liberty Bell with its clapper chained to symbolize women’s silenced voices—and the determined group of women who carried it across all 67 Pennsylvania counties in 1915 to advocate for voting rights. The bell wasfinally rung in Philadelphia in 1920 following the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a live Q&A with filmmaker and Justice Bell Foundation Executive Director Amanda Owen. Signed copies of her book, The Justice Bell: Tracing the Journey of a Forgotten Symbol, will also be available for purchase. “This event offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the women who helped shape our history, while coming together as a community to learn and connect,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through Women in Philanthropy, we’re proud to create spaces like this that invite people into important conversations and shared experiences.” “We’re honored to partner on this program and to help bring this important piece of Pennsylvania history to our community,” said Mary Ann Savakinus, Executive Director of the Lackawanna Historical Society. “The story of the Justice Bell is a powerful reminder of the determination and courage it took to secure the right to vote, and why preserving and sharing these stories continues to matter.” The evening will also include light refreshments and opportunities to explore several historical and civic features located at the Century Club, including the Inspiration Garden, the America250PA Bells Across PA fiberglass Liberty Bell replica, A State of Giving, A City of Hope, painted by artist Cherie Fruehan, and the Kate Chapman marker on the National Votes for Women Trail, honoring the founder of the Equal Franchise League of Scranton, who led suffrage advocacy in Lackawanna County from 1913 to 1919. The event is free and open to the public, though registration is encouraged
Two Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Alumni Awarded Prestigious America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarships The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Lackawanna proudly announce that two former students of the Leadership Lackawanna’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) program have been awarded $10,000 scholarships through the America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program. Ava Wisnosky, a senior at Tunkhannock Area High School, and Anthony Betti, a senior at Mid Valley Secondary Center, were selected among just 25 students statewide to receive the prestigious scholarship. The recipients were recognized during a special luncheon in April at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg hosted by Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and America250PA. The America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program honors Pennsylvania students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and understanding of civic values. More than 1,800 students representing all 67 Pennsylvania counties applied for the scholarship. Each recipient received a $10,000 award to support their pursuit of higher education. Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, a program of Leadership Lackawanna, engages high school juniors throughout northeastern Pennsylvania in leadership development, community awareness, civic engagement, and professional growth opportunities designed to prepare them to become the next generation of leaders. “We are incredibly proud of Ava and Anthony for receiving this prestigious scholarship,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “To be selected among more than 1,800 applicants from across all Pennsylvania counties is an extraordinary accomplishment and a reflection of their leadership, character, and commitment to making a difference. Watching these former Tomorrow’s Leaders Today students achieve such a significant honor reinforces the importance of investing in our young people and providing opportunities for them to grow as leaders.” Wisnosky, who plans to attend West Chester University, reflected on the significance of receiving the scholarship. “I am truly grateful to receive the America250PA scholarship. Pennsylvania’s role at the heart of American history makes this award especially meaningful,” said Wisnosky. “This recognition motivates me to continue working hard as I pursue my education and make the most of the opportunities ahead. I also truly appreciated receiving the award from the Governor and the First Lady and meeting the other award winners at the luncheon in Harrisburg.” Betti, who will attend Penn State University, emphasized the role that leadership experiences have played in his development. “Being named an America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholar is an honor that fills me with deep gratitude,” said Betti. “The leadership opportunities I’ve had—especially through programs like Leadership Lackawanna—have shaped my commitment to service, civic responsibility, and community engagement. Receiving this distinction strengthens my dedication to leading with integrity and purpose as I begin my next chapter.” The recognition highlights the impact of Leadership Lackawanna’s investment in developing young leaders and fostering civic engagement among students throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. As the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, programs such as Tomorrow’s Leaders Today continue to inspire students to become active, engaged citizens who will help shape the future of their communities and the Commonwealth.
Johnson College Receives $2,000 Contribution For Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship Members of the Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association recently presented a $2,000 contribution to Johnson College to support the annual Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded to two students in the Automotive Technology Program for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association was established in 1975 and has been funding the scholarship at Johnson College since 2009. The club raises funds through Cruise Nights held at the Viewmont Mall parking lot throughout the year. For more information about available scholarships at Johnson College, visit johnson.edu/scholarships.
Wally Wine Fest Returns To Lake Wallenpaupack Wally Wine Fest returns to The Waterfront at Silver Birches, June 5-7. The indoor/outdoor event on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack offers three jam-packed days of sampling, shopping and soaking in the scenery. Visitors may enjoy sips from more than 100 domestic and international labels, a varied marketplace of artisan goods and live music on two stages. Festivities kick off on Friday, June 5 with a Platinum Wine Dinner at The Settlers Inn. The Live Fire Dinner in Grant’s Woods features a five-course barbecue feast created by celebrity guest chef, Chad Rosenthal. The charismatic chef is a regular on the Food Network with appearances on “Food Network Star,” “Grill Masters” and most recently, “24 in 24.” Chad also has the distinction of being the only person to “Beat Bobby Flay” three times in all his appearances on the eponymously named show. Chad is an accomplished chef and restaurateur whose Philadelphia eatery, Mary, makes one of the Top 15 steaks in the city according to the “Philadelphia Inquirer.” Guests will take a seat in the open-air woodland diningvenue and watch Chef Chad prepare the feast in the outdoor kitchen. Each course is paired with a curated selection from Kobrand Wine and Spirits. Jody Jackman, a seasoned wine and spirits professional with Breakthru Beverage will guide guests through each selection, sharing regional history, winemaking insight and pairing perspective. A $200 Platinum Ticket allows access to the Live Fire Dinneras well as entry to Wally Wine Fest on Saturday, June 6. Wally Wine Fest shifts to Silver Birches Resort on Saturday and Sunday where visitors will have the opportunity to sample vintages from more than 100 domestic and international labels. Wineries from as far away as New Zealand, Italy, France, Napa Valley and the Pacific Northwest are represented. Novice wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample a variety of pours and discover which wine suits their palate. Wine connoisseurs will relish the opportunity to interact one-on-one with wine makers, restauranteurs and sommeliers who are knowledgeable in flavor profiles, can discuss the differences among wine, grapes and varietals, plus point out the notes to be enjoyed for each. Bottles of every wine featured are available for sale. With prices ranging from $10-$100, there’s something to match every taste and budget. An indoor and outdoor marketplace will overflow with fine food, gift items and decor fit for wine lovers– all available for purchase. Visitors may shop offerings from places such as Bellissima Eclectic Apparel, A Girl’s Gotta Spa and Kryzan Design offering hand-poured candles in a variety of scents including some wine-inspired selections. A Silent Auction benefits Lake Wallenpaupack’s Fourth of July Fireworks and features overnight stays at some of the area’s finest accommodations plus gift cards to local restaurants and businesses. Golf and spa packages, as well asboat and paddle board rentals, are also up for grabs. Satellite events at other Hawley area venues extend the Wally Wine Fest celebration. The Settlers Inn will offer a Bubbly Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visitors may savor a brunch menu, live music and a tasting flight of sparkling wine. Glass-wine.bar.kitchen at Ledges Hotel will host a Tour de France French Wine Dinner on Saturday night while the deck at The Dock on Wallenpaupack is the setting for an Italia al Fresco Wine Dinner on Friday evening. Wally Wine Fest at Silver Birches runs from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Everyone who attends receives a commemorative wine glass. Admission is $40 in advance or $50 at the door and includes 15 sampling tickets. The sampling tickets may be exchanged for wine tastings. A $75 VIP admission allows entry to the festival one hour early and 25 sampling tickets. The $200 Platinum admission price offers early entry, increases the sampling tickets to 25 and includes a seat at the Live Fire Dinner at The Settlers Inn on June 5. Admission for designated drivers is $20. Tickets are available at wallywinefest.com
Marywood Event Raises More Than $466,000 Marywood University’s flagship annual fundraising event, Celebrate Marywood, took place on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The outdoor celebration, held in the picturesque Motherhouse and Seminary Morgan Memorial Garden, marked a significant milestone by raising more than $466,000 to support the renovation and transformation of the Center for Natural & Health Sciences. Since its inception in 2014, the event has raised over $4.6 million, with the 2026 total setting a new benchmark for generosity and community engagement. Proceeds from this year’s event will fund the renovation and transformation of the Center for Natural & Health Sciences into a state-of-the-art facility supporting nursing, physician assistant, pre-med, and science programs, including upgraded laboratory spaces, enhanced classrooms, and advanced simulation environments. Marywood’s natural and health sciences students, who consistently attain outstanding licensure pass rates ranging from 98% to 100%, gain the knowledge and hands-on experience that power the region’s healthcare and STEM workforce. This year, Marywood honored Virginia Doherty McGregor, Scranton, and Father Thomas M. Muldowney, Moscow, with the Inspire Award for their outstanding contributions to the university and the broader region. The celebration’s entertainment featured dueling pianos by The Philly Keys and fireworks on campus. President Lisa A. Lori, J.D., praised both honorees and noted that it was Marywood’s privilege to honor “two extraordinary individuals, whose lives reflect the very best of Marywood.” She added, “Individually, they are remarkable. Together, they remind us what it means to live with purpose—through service, leadership, and a deep commitment to others.” Marywood University extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, sponsored, and supported Celebrate Marywood. Their contributions play a pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission and ensuring a bright future for its students. To learn more about Celebrate Marywood, go to marywood.edu/celebratemarywood or call (570) 348-62
Johnson College Recognizes Industry Honors Johnson College of Technology recently recognized more than 10 Industry Honors students during a luncheon held in late April. The honored students represented a variety of programs, including Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Automotive Technology, Electrical Construction Technology, and Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Technology. The Industry Honors program provides students with valuable hands-on experience through internships with local employers, helping them develop the skills and professional connections needed for success in their careers. Johnson College also recognized several industry partners for their commitment to workforce development and student success. Participating companies that hosted interns included Derman Associates, designBLD, Mericle Construction, Procter & Gamble, Strong Enterprises, and Tom Hesser Nissan. The event celebrated the strong partnerships between Johnson College and regional employers that continue to prepare the next generation of skilled professionals for in-demand careers throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
