Greater Scranton YMCA Hosting 2026 Winter Clothing Drive The Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to announce its upcoming Winter Clothing Drive, which is being held to support individuals and families throughout our community during the coldest months of the year. The Y will collect donations of new and gently used men’s, women’s, children’s, and infant’s clothing from January 5–7, 2026. Following the donation period, all collected items will be made available at no cost to community members from January 12–14, 2026. Clothing will be offered in a wide range of sizes, ensuring support for people of all ages. “The Winter Clothing Drive is part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen the foundations of our community,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “When neighbors help neighbors, everyone benefits. We’re grateful to all who donate and help keep local families warm this winter.” The Winter Clothing Drive is open to the entire community, not just Greater Scranton YMCA members. The Y encourages residents to spread the word to anyone who may benefit from free winter clothing. Donation Drop-Off Dates: January 5–7, 2026 Clothing Pick-Up Dates: January 12–14, 2026 For questions about clothing donations and/or pick-up, please contact Tressa Capoccia, Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
RailRiders Holding Game Day Staff Job Fairs in Janurary The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders will hold two game day staff job fairs in January as they prepare for the 2026 season. The job fairs will be held in the club level at PNC Field on Wednesday, January 21, from 5 to 7 P.M., and on Saturday, January 24, from 10 A.M. until 1 P.M. The home opener is slated for April 7, and the RailRiders are seeking game day employees for the upcoming season. Prospective employees will fill out applications and the SWB front office staff will do interviews on the spot during the job fair. “A great game day staff is crucial to a successful season,” stated Shawn Reilly, the RailRiders Team President/ General Manager. “We are looking for energetic individuals who want to help make the fan experience at PNC Field fun for all. We want a staff that will take pride in providing the best customer service so everyone knows what to expect when they come back to the park again and again.” Interviews for game day staff will begin at 5 P.M. on January 21 and at 10 A.M. on January 24. The RailRiders are looking for game day employees to fill numerous roles within the organization. Game day staff includes 50/50 fundraisers, bat boys/girls, box office attendants, Geisinger KidsZone attendants, grounds crew, guest services representatives, HitTrax attendants, parking attendants, premium/ club level attendants, security, ticket takers and video/ production assistants. The RailRiders are also seeking motivated and dynamic Pinstripe Patrol on-field promo team members, an emcee, mascot performers, ushers and ushertainers. An ushertainer is an usher focused on customer service while providing enhanced fun for their particular section in the ballpark. Legends Global, the official hospitality and merchandise provider of the RailRiders, will also conduct interviews at both job fairs. Legends Global is seeking cashiers, concessions cooks, prep cooks, suite attendants and retail associates. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age with working papers. Individuals will choose the open position that best suits their interests or needs, but may be considered for other positions based on availability. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,
Salt Barre Hosting Yoga & Brunch With Sound Healing Coffee Inclusive and The Salt Barre are collaborating once again for their second event together: 111 Yoga & Brunch w/ Sound Healing, a meaningful community experience centered on intention, connection, and mindful living. Join them Sunday, January 11th for an Intention Setting Class led by Nella Pepsin of Magnetic Essence, featuring a 45-minute yoga class followed by a 15-minute sound healing session. Class will take place at The Salt Barre beginning at 11:45 AM, and brunch will begin at 1:00 PM at Coffee Inclusive. This isn’t just a yoga class, it’s an initiation. Click here for additional information.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce AnnouncesNew IGNITE Program Specialist & Grant Writer The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Sam Zavada as its new IGNITE Program specialist & grant writer. In this role, Zavada supports the daily operations of the Chamber’s IGNITE Program by providing entrepreneurs with business support, providing event coordination, and resource development by securing local, state, federal, and private funding. “We are excited to welcome Sam Zavada to our team,” said Mary McDermott, IGNITE Program manager at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “His background in journalism, content development, and community engagement—combined with strong research and writing skills—brings tremendous value to the IGNITE Program and our grant development efforts. We look forward to the energy, creativity, and dedication he will bring as we continue to support entrepreneurs and drive regional economic growth.” Zavada shared his enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, stating, “It’s an honor to be joining The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, an organization that has a long history of helping businesses and entrepreneurs thrive in our area. As someone who cares deeply about the economic and cultural well-being of northeastern Pennsylvania, I am committed to The Chamber’s mission to create a more vibrant business community.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Zavada worked as a reporter for the Times Leader, writing daily stories, interviewing community members, providing photography, and supporting multimedia initiatives. He previously served as a content marketing specialist with LSEO, an advertising assistant with the Times Leader, and a copy editor and news clerk with the Standard-Speaker. His early experience includes a media relations internship with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he assisted with press materials, game recaps, and communications outreach. Zavada received a bachelor’s degree from King’s College.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceWelcomes Miranda Kane as Finance Assistant The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Miranda Kane has joined its Finance Department as Finance Assistant, supporting the financial management of The Chamber and its affiliated divisions. In this role, Kane will assist with accounts payable and receivable, maintain accurate financial records, reconcile bank and investment accounts, process payments, and support month-end and year-end reporting. “Miranda brings a strong blend of technical skill, accounting knowledge, and practical experience to our finance team,” said James Coleman, vice president of internal operations at The Chamber. “Her background in tax preparation, financial reporting, and data management—combined with her strong attention to detail—will enhance our financial operations and support the long-term success of our affiliated organizations.” Kane shared her excitement about joining The Chamber, stating, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that plays such a vital role in the region’s economic growth. I look forward to supporting the finance team and continuing to expand my skills in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.” Before joining The Chamber, Kane worked as a staff accountant at Herbein + Company, Inc., preparing tax returns, analyzing financial data, and supporting compilation and review processes. Her earlier experience includes an accounts receivable internship with Axiom Product Administration and management roles at two agricultural businesses, where she handled bookkeeping, sales transactions, and operational duties. Kane received a bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania and an associate’s degree from Lehigh Carbon Community College.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Kyle Walsh as Staff Accountant The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Kyle Walsh as its new staff accountant, supporting the financial operations of The Chamber and its divisions. In this role, Walsh will maintain accounting records, prepare journal entries and reconciliations, review accounts payable and receivable, and assist with financial reporting, annual audits, and budget development. He will work closely with the vice president of internal administration to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong internal controls across all financial procedures. “We are excited to welcome Kyle to our finance team,” said James Coleman, vice president of internal administration at The Chamber. “His strong academic background, practical accounting experience, and commitment to accuracy will strengthen our financial operations and support our continued organizational growth. Kyle’s professionalism, analytical ability, and dedication to learning make him an excellent addition to the Chamber.” Walsh shared his appreciation for joining The Chamber, stating, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with an organization that has such a meaningful impact on our community. I look forward to applying my accounting experience, expanding my skill set, and contributing to the Chamber’s mission.” Walsh brings hands-on experience in tax preparation, auditing, and client communication through previous roles at Liberty Tax and McGrail Merkel Quinn & Associates. His background includes preparing individual tax returns, performing account reconciliations, updating financial statements, and supporting accountants and partners during tax season. Walsh holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from The University of Scranton.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Juliette Meyers as Program and Events Coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Juliette Meyers as the new program and events coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna, the Chamber’s community leadership and professional development division. In this role, Meyers will assist in the coordination of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature programs—Tomorrow’s Leaders Today and Leadership Collegiate—as well as alumni engagement initiatives, fundraising efforts, and community events. She will also collaborate with regional partners and program participants to support Leadership Lackawanna’s mission of developing informed, committed, and engaged leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We are delighted to welcome Juliette to our team,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Her unique background in art therapy, education, and program management brings a creative and compassionate approach to this position. Juliette’s experience working with diverse groups—and her passion for today’s youth—will allow her to thrive as our new Program and Events Coordinator.” Meyers expressed her enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, saying, “I’m honored to become part of an organization so deeply committed to leadership development and community impact. I look forward to helping cultivate experiences that inspire collaboration, creativity, and service across our region.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Meyers worked as manager of Art Therapy Integration Services at The Wright Center, where she implemented innovative art therapy programs across clinical settings. Her background also includes roles as art coordinator at Winfield Children’s House in Maine and transition coordinator at The Opportunity Alliance, where she supported young adults in a transitional housing setting develop life skills. Meyers earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Marywood University.
The Chamber Announces the 2026 Scranton Business Awards The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announces that applications are now open for its annual Scranton Business Awards, which include the SAGE Awards (the Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence), the ATHENA Leadership Award, and the Milestone Awards. New for 2026, the SAGE Awards will be presented at The Chamber’s 157th Annual Dinner. The awards recognize members of the local business community who demonstrate strong and consistent efforts through talent, creativity, leadership, and innovation. All applicants must be current Chamber members in good standing. The SAGE Award categories include Business of the Year, Community Involvement Excellence, and Small Business of the Year. All SAGE Award finalists will automatically be entered into the People’s Choice Award category. In addition, The Chamber will present the ATHENA Leadership Award to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, demonstrated meaningful community service, and actively supported women in attaining professional goals and leadership skills. The Milestone Awards will be presented to businesses that are celebrating anniversaries in five-year increments. They will be honored with Milestone Awards in recognition of their longevity, leadership, and continued impact within the community. All Awards will be presented at The Chamber’s 157th Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, to be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Scranton Cultural Center. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, January 23, 2026, at midnight. For more information and to access applications, visit scrantonchamber.com.
The Chamber and CAN DO Host Greater Philadelphia Business Development Event The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce led a delegation of community and business leaders on a business development industry tour to The Scranton Plan and the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), the business development affiliates of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with CAN DO, Inc, of Greater Hazleton, recently hosted a business development broker mixer in the Greater Philadelphia region to strengthen relationships with commercial and industrial real estate professionals and advance business development efforts in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The event brought together brokers and economic development leaders to highlight current and emerging development opportunities across the region, including available building and land sites, workforce assets, infrastructure, and competitive business environment. The mixer provided an informal setting for meaningful dialogue focused on business attraction, expansion, and long-term regional growth. “Engaging brokers in key markets like Greater Philadelphia is a critical component of our development and marketing strategy,” said Amy Luyster, Vice President of Business and Workforce Development, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Their market insight and professional networks help ensure Lackawanna County and Northeastern Pennsylvania remains visible and competitive as companies consider new locations.” “The Greater Hazleton area is an integral part of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s industrial market,” said Jocelyn Sterenchock, Director of Economic Development, CAN DO, Inc. “By working collaboratively with partners like The Scranton Plan and SLIBCO, we are able to present a regionally aligned picture of available sites, infrastructure, workforce strengths, and long-term value to companies considering expansion or relocation through engagement with strategic audiences such as Greater Philadelphia.” The mixer opened the door for The Chamber and CAN DO to advance follow-up site tours, generate new prospect referrals, and deepen ongoing partnerships with brokers and regional stakeholders. To learn more about business development opportunities, available sites, and economic development support services in Lackawanna County and the Greater Hazleton area, visit www.scrantonplan.com or www.hazletoncando.com.
Johnson College Receives $3,000 Swipe Out Hunger Grant Johnson College has been awarded a $3,000 grant from Swipe Out Hunger to strengthen food security support for its campus community. The funding will enhance the Refuel Station, Johnson College’s food and resource pantry. The Refuel Station is available to students, staff, and faculty and currently provides access to non-perishable foods, pantry staples, and guidance related to local food insecurity resources. With this grant, the College will be able to supplement the variety of foods provided by The Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank, purchase additional shelving to expand storage capacity, and acquire a mini-fridge to safely store dairy and other perishable items. These improvements will help ensure that the campus community has reliable access to nutritious resources throughout the year. Swipe Out Hunger is a national nonprofit focused on addressing food insecurity among college students. The organization works with colleges, legislators, and community partners to develop and support programs that increase access to food and essential resources on campuses across the country. Funding for this grant is provided by The Giant Company, a proud partner of Swipe Out Hunger. Giant’s investment helps expand access to nutritious food for college students, ensuring that no one has to choose between learning and eating. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu.
