Pennsylvania PBS Honors Seven Champions Of Lifelong Learning Pennsylvania PBS and its seven member stations, including WVIA, celebrated public media and seven Champions of Lifelong Learning award winners during “A Beautiful Day in the Capitol” in Harrisburg on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. “This recognition is a reminder that lifelong learning doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s strengthened by a shared commitment to the public good,” said WQED President and CEO Jason Jedlinski. “We’re grateful for leaders who understand the long-term value of investing in education. Their support helps us equip teachers, librarians, parents, and community partners across Pennsylvania, bringing trusted PBS resources and local storytelling to learners of all ages.” Each member station honored an elected official or Commonwealth employee with a Good Neighbor Award at a presentation at the East Wing Rotunda of the Capitol. 2026 honorees include: · WLVT – Sen. Nick Miller · WVIA – Drew Popish, Northeast Regional Director, Office of Governor Josh Shapiro · WPSU – Rep. Paul Takac · WQLN – Rep. Patrick Harkins · WQED – Sen. Lindsey Williams · WITF – Bob Measel, ESL/Bilingual Education Advisor, Pennsylvania Department of Education · WHYY – Rep. Mary Isaacson Champions of Lifelong Learning honorees regard public media as a community asset. They support Pennsylvania PBS and its member stations’ mission to inspire lifelong learning, engage audiences in civic leadership and be a valued partner in public safety across the Commonwealth. “Each of this year’s honorees reflects the enduring power of lifelong learning,” said Bill Marrazzo, President & CEO of WHYY, “recognizing it not only as a personal strength, but as a force that helps build more informed, connected communities across Pennsylvania. Their leadership underscores the vital role public media plays in serving all residents of the Commonwealth, providing trusted information, educational resources, and opportunities for civic engagement that strengthen our shared future.” Visitors to the East Wing Rotunda were greeted by WHYY character Albie and had an opportunity to meet with representatives from all seven Pennsylvania PBS member stations to learn more about their educational and civic engagement initiatives.
Citizens Savings Bank In Clarks Summit Announces Promotion Ms. McNichols has been promoted to the position of Vice President/Loan Operations in theAdministrative Offices in Clarks Summit, effective April 2026. She joined the Bank in March 2008as Teller in the Bank’s South Scranton branch office, was later promoted to Customer ServiceSpecialist, Collector, and then moved to the Loan Operations Department, where she wasnamed Assistant Loan Operations Manager in 2019. McNichols was elevated to her most recentrole as Assistant Vice President/Loan Operations Manager in May 2022. Ms. McNichols will be responsible for organizing, planning, and directing the Bank’s loanservicing activities and related functions, providing customer service, and participating in specialassignments as directed by the Bank’s leadership. Ms. McNichols resides in Scranton.
Congolese Community Of Scranton Receives $20,000 Grant For Community Transportation Van Congolese Community of Scranton recently received a $20,000 grant from Scranton Area Community Foundation to support its Communal Transportation Project, allowing the organization to purchase a van to address critical transportation needs within the local Congolese community. The newly acquired vehicle will provide transportation for immigration-related appointments in Philadelphia, including Green Card fingerprinting, citizenship testing, and oath-taking ceremonies. The van will also assist community members with transportation to and from work, medical appointments, youth events, and training programs that promote personal growth and development. “This project is more than just a van; it’s a bridge to opportunities, dignity, and community cohesion,” said Ushu Mukelo, Board Chair and President of CCS. “Transportation has always been a major issue for our community, and thanks to SAF’s generosity, we can now address this challenge in a meaningful way.” The Congolese Community of Scranton is made up of refugees who arrived through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and continue working toward successful integration into American society. The Communal Transportation Project reflects the organization’s commitment to mutual assistance and collective community support.
Fidelity Bank, Ruth Turkington Promoted To Executive Vice President, Chief Banking Officer Dunmore, PA – May 13, 2026 – Daniel J. Santaniello, President and CEO of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Ruth Turkington has been promoted to Chief Banking Officer. Turkington joined Fidelity Bank in May 2023 as EVP, Chief Consumer Banking Officer, bringing more than two decades of executive leadership in banking, digital transformation, and client-focused strategy. In her new role, Turkington will continue to drive Consumer Banking, encompassing Branch, Client Care Center and Digital channels, along with Residential Mortgage and Consumer Lending. She continues to lead Marketing, Retail Learning and Development, along with the oversight of Deposit Operations and Digital Banking, further broadening her influence within the bank. This new title reflects both the pivotal role Turkington plays and her unwavering commitment to shaping Fidelity Bank’s future success. In making the announcement, Santaniello stated, “Ruth’s strategic approach to innovation, ability to foster strong relationships both internally and externally, unwavering integrity, and proven track record of success make her exceptionally well-suited for this role.” He continued, “We look forward to seeing the many ways Ruth will continue to drive our bank forward.” A dedicated community leader, Turkington serves on the boards of St. Joseph’s and NEPA Junior Achievement.
SBA Launches $1 Million Patriot Pitch Competition To Showcase Americas Entrepreneurs U.S. Small Business Administration recently launched the Patriot Pitch Competition, a national initiative celebrating 250 years of American free enterprise and the small businesses driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth across the country. The competition features a $1 million cash prize pool funded by Clover Network, Inc. and is open to eligible small businesses that represent American innovation and opportunity while utilizing qualifying SBA capital products. “The SBA is proud to spotlight the legacy and potential of entrepreneurship through the Patriot Pitch Competition,” said Kelly Loeffler, SBA Administrator. “This nationwide contest will award a total of $1 million in cash prizes to small businesses whose innovation, grit, and leadership are helping build America’s next great era of strength, prosperity, and competitiveness.” The Patriot Pitch Competition will include four stages of judging, with submissions evaluated on strengthening American competitiveness, innovation and industry impact, delivering economic opportunity and quality jobs, and demonstrating strong business fundamentals and execution readiness. The competition will culminate in a live finals event in Washington this September, where finalists will present before a panel of judges and a national audience for the opportunity to win a share of the prize pool. The event will also feature speakers from business, government, and industry, along with networking opportunities, supplier matchmaking, and connections with investors and policymakers. Small business owners interested in participating are encouraged to apply by June 10. Additional information regarding eligibility, competition stages, and event details can be found at SBA Freedom 250
PA CareerLink Announces Upcoming Hiring For Healthcare Event PA CareerLink Lackawanna County announced its upcoming Hiring for Healthcare event taking place on Wednesday, May 20 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. The event will feature a variety of healthcare employers on site to discuss available positions, conduct interviews, accept resumes, and connect with job seekers interested in launching or advancing their careers in the healthcare industry. Job seekers are encouraged to save the date, bring copies of their resumes, and take advantage of this opportunity to meet directly with hiring employers and explore exciting new career opportunities.
AVP To Hold The Commemorative Air Force AirPower History Tour The distinctive rumble of radial engines from two of the rarest World War II bombers, the B-29 Superfortress “FIFI,” will be heard in the skies over Wilkes-Barre and Scranton in June when she visits Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport as part of the AirPower History Tour of the Commemorative Air Force. The bomber is to be accompanied by a T-6 Texan, a PT-13 Stearman, and the RC-45J SNB “Big Oily Beast”. The P-51D Mustang “Gunfighter” will also be making an appearance. The AirPower History Tour brings the sights, sounds, and stories of World War II aviation to airports across North America each year. Visitors to the ramp will be able to view all aircraft up close, purchase rides, and tour the B-29 cockpit when the aircraft is not flying. The B-29 is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday June 16 at noon. Accompanying aircraft are scheduled to arrive on Tuesday as well. The P-51D will arrive on Friday June 19 at noon. The aircraft will be staged at the North Cargo Ramp, located at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, 100 Terminal Road, Avoca, PA 18641. Parking for the event will be at The Venue / Culinary Creations lot, 28 Concorde Dr., Dupont, PA 18641. Parking is $10 per car and includes a shuttle to the aircraft location. Credit or Debit Card only. No cash will be accepted. The event will be open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, June 17 through June 21 from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Access to the ramp where the warbirds are parked is $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 11-17 and free for children 10 and under. The T-6, the PT-13, and the RC-45J will be offering rides each day. The P-51D will be offering rides beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The B-29 flies on Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Cockpit tours of the B-29 will be available each day beginning at 9:00 a.m., except on Saturday and Sunday when they will begin at noon. Rides may be booked in advance at AirPowerTour.org where additional information about the event may also be found.
United Sports Academy Names Emilia McCormick As President United Sports Academy announced the appointment of Emilia McCormick as its new President. In this leadership role, McCormick will help guide the organization’s continued growth and commitment to providing exceptional athletic training, development opportunities, and community engagement throughout the region. With a passion for youth development and sports excellence, McCormick brings strong leadership and vision to the organization.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Announces Two New Staff Members The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Emilie Gebert and Elena Kiernan to its staff team, further strengthening the organization’s workforce development and administrative operations. Emilie Gebert (on the left in the photo) joins The Chamber as workforce & leadership assistant. In this role, she supports Leadership Lackawanna, Skills in Scranton, and The Scranton Plan through administrative coordination, event support, and program operations that strengthen workforce development and community leadership across the region. Gebert brings nearly two decades of experience in customer relations, sales leadership, team development, and operational management through her career in the telecommunications industry. She earned a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University. Outside of her role at The Chamber, Gebert serves as Assistant Director of the Montage Ski Patrol, where she helps oversee volunteer coordination and guest safety operations. Elena Kiernan (on the right in the photo) joins The Chamber as a front desk receptionist, serving as the first point of contact for members, visitors, tenants, and guests while supporting daily office operations across the organization. Kiernan has more than 15 years of experience in administrative support, customer service, event coordination, and office management. Her professional background includes positions within the travel and hospitality, legal, and finance industries, where she coordinated meetings and events, managed executive schedules, and provided administrative support in fast-paced corporate environments. She earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and completed additional coursework through New York University. “The addition of Emilie and Elena further strengthens our team and enhances the support we provide to our members, programs, and regional initiatives,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to service will be valuable assets to The Chamber and the community we serve.”
The Dime Bank Announces First Quarter 2026 Earnings Dimeco, Inc. (OTCQX: DIMC), the holding company for The Dime Bank, reported unaudited results for the first quarter of 2026. For the three months ending March 31, 2026, Dimeco recorded net income of $4.8 million, up 48.7% or $1.6 million from the same period last year. Net income at this level resulted in a return on average assets of 1.68% and a return on average equity of 14.96%, an increase of 42.4% and 25.9%, respectively, over the first quarter of 2025. On March 31, 2026, total assets were $1.1 billion, an increase of $40.2 million over March 31, 2025. During this same period, total loans increased by $61.6 million to $845.6 million, a growth rate of 7.9%. Deposits were $981.3 million on March 31, 2026, $47.3 million or 5.1% greater than the previous year. Maintaining a strong capital position, stockholders’ equity was $127.8 million on March 31, 2026, growth of $16.9 million over balances a year earlier. Dividends reflected a 7.1% increase, amounting to $.45 per share for the period ended March 31, 2026. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “I am pleased to present the results of Dimeco, Inc. for the first quarter of 2026. The year began on a strong note, with continued growth in both loans and deposits strengthening our overall financial performance. As the year progresses, I remain optimistic about the opportunities ahead, as management continues to pursue disciplined strategies to strengthen the balance sheet and enhance the Company’s solid performance. As always, we thank our shareholders and customers for their continued support and commitment.”
