Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces INVEST PA Program Enhancements

New management partnership, Federated Hermes, Inc., will enhance benefits for INVEST PA participants.

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced today that Treasury’s INVEST PA program, formerly called INVEST, will see significant positive changes for program participants thanks to the program’s first upgrade in more than 20 years. These enhancements are possible through the hiring of Pittsburgh-based Federated Hermes, Inc., as the new program manager for INVEST PA.

INVEST PA is an investment tool designed specifically for local government entities and nonprofit organizations that has daily liquidity, no minimum balances, no minimum deposits and no limit on the number of transactions that can be made.

“I’m thrilled to announce this new partnership with Federated Hermes that will bring lower fees and anticipated higher yields for INVEST PA participants,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Federated Hermes boasts a long-term track record of providing competitive performance, diligent credit analysis, a transparent framework and a participant-centered service model, and we’re excited to work with them to bring the best results for our local governments and nonprofits that rely on INVEST PA to meet their financial goals and fulfill their missions.”

INVEST PA’s more than 400 participants include municipalities, counties, school districts, fire companies, libraries and many others. In total, participants have $1.4 billion in assets.

There are two INVEST PA pools, the Daily Pool for local government agencies and the Community Pool for nonprofit organizations. Both pools maintain the highest S&P rating, AAAm. There are also periodic custom investment opportunities for longer-term needs.

Investment management services will be provided by Federated Hermes’ wholly owned registered investment advisor subsidiary, Federated Investment Counseling. Federated Hermes’ investment team of more than 140 liquidity and fixed income analysts, portfolio managers, and traders averaging more than 20 years of experience, will provide investment management for both INVEST PA pools.

Through the new management relationship, new and existing INVEST PA participants can expect to experience:

  • Lower fees;
  • Anticipated higher yields;
  • Extended trading hours;
  • New website & interactive portal;
  • Enhanced security features;
  • INVEST PA Academy, providing educational opportunities for participants;
  • More frequent wire distributions;
  • Ability to mail in checks;
  • Enhanced program oversight; and
  • Improved customer service, with dedicated resources for INVEST PA participants. 

“Federated Hermes has a heritage of working with state treasurers to deliver customized investment solutions. With our global headquarters in Pennsylvania, we are honored that the Commonwealth has selected Federated Hermes to manage its investment pools,” said J. Christopher Donahue, president and chief executive officer of Federated Hermes, Inc. “We look forward to continuing to enhance relationships that provide government investment pools with compelling, high-quality liquidity management services.”

To learn more about INVEST PA, click here.

Misericordia University To Host Fall Open Houses

Misericordia University welcomes prospective students and their families to campus for its Fall Open Houses on Saturday, October 18, and Saturday, November 15, 2025. These events provide an excellent opportunity to explore the university’s academic programs, meet faculty and students, and learn more about admissions, scholarships, and financial aid. Guests will also enjoy guided campus tours and a complimentary lunch while discovering what makes Misericordia a supportive and engaging place to learn and grow.

Location: Misericordia University – Anderson Health & Wellness Center
Check-in: 9:00–10:00 a.m.

Click here for more information.

Mount Airy Casino Resort Named Best Casino Hotel

For the third year in a row, industry experts and USA Today editors and readers bestow Pocono luxury destination top honors.

Mount Airy Casino Resort, Pennsylvania’s first AAA Four-Diamond casino resort, has been voted “Best Casino Hotel” for the third consecutive year in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

This prestigious recognition, announced today, highlights Mount Airy’s commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience, combining world-class gaming, luxury accommodations, and outstanding hospitality. 

Nominated by industry experts and voted on by USA Today editors and readers, the Best Casino Hotels list is made up of the leading properties that offer both top-notch gaming along with excellent amenities. Mount Airy’s award-winning dining, lavish rooms and suites, luxury spa, championship golf course, countless gaming options and first-class entertainment contributed to the prestigious award.

The 2025 Top 10 Best Casino Hotels named by USA TODAY are:

  1. Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, California
  2. Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, Connecticut
  3. Graton Resort & Casino, Rohnert Park, California
  4. Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City, N.J.
  5. Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Biloxi, Mississippi
  6. Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Nevada
  7. Resorts Casino Hotel, Atlantic City
  8. Mount Airy Casino Resort, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania
  9. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City
  10. Fontainebleau, Las Vegas

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by USA Today and, most importantly, by our guests who voted for us,” said Lisa DeNaples, Mount Airy owner and managing trustee. “From our world-class gaming floor and exceptional dining to our luxurious accommodations and entertainment, we strive for excellence in every detail.”

“This incredible achievement belongs to every single member of the Mount Airy team,” said Todd Greenberg, Mount Airy General Manager and COO. “It directly reflects the passion, professionalism, and dedication that our employees bring to work every day. Their commitment to delivering outstanding service, creating memorable experiences, and upholding our high standards is what truly sets us apart.”

This latest award is added to an extensive list of honors Mount Airy has received so far this year, including 21 Best of Gaming awards from Casino Player Magazine, and another Four Diamond rating by AAA for the 14th consecutive year.

In addition to almost 300 guestrooms and luxury suites, Mount Airy features a variety of signature restaurant options, including Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen and the award-winning Bistecca by Il Mulino. From casual eateries to upscale dining, there’s something to suit every palate.

This all-encompassing, adults-only getaway pampers guests even further at the Spa at Mount Airy, which provides a perfect retreat after a day – or night – filled with excitement. The resort also features a 20,000 square-foot convention center and ballroom for those seeking the perfect wedding venue or conference space, while the four-season pool complex offers private cabanas, a poolside bar and lounge, and an outdoor deck area with table-side firepits and expansive views of the resort’s award-winning, lakefront golf course.

For those seeking the ultimate gaming experience, the heart of Mount Airy is its impressive casino floor. Boasting nearly 1,700 slot machines, including both classic and modern favorites, as well as a wide selection of table games, the casino also features a dedicated poker room and a multi-media sports betting lounge.

For more information, click here.

WVIA Announces New Original Documentary Film, Making NEPA Home

A Story of Resilience and Belonging

 Northeastern Pennsylvania will take center stage when WVIA premieres its newest original documentary film, Making NEPA Home. The documentary, produced, directed, and edited by WVIA’s Kara Washington, premieres Wednesday, October 16th at 7 p.m. on WVIA TV and will be streaming live on WVIA’s Facebook and YouTube pages and at WVIA.org.

Making NEPA Home is part of WVIA’s We Stand Against Hate initiative, which shines a light on stories of resilience, unity, and cultural diversity.

The film shares the journeys of four refugees and immigrants from diverse backgrounds who left their homelands in search of safety and new opportunities, ultimately settling in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Through personal stories, cultural traditions, and moments of community connection, Making NEPA Home reveals the resilience and contributions of these neighbors as they help shape the region’s evolving identity.

The journey builds toward an emotional finale at Scranton’s annual World Refugee Day celebration, honoring the universal search for safety, dignity, and a place to call home. Along the way, the film also highlights the critical role of local service providers and community organizations that make resettlement possible.

Filmmaker Kara Washington shared, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to use WVIA’s platform to share voices and stories that often go unheard. Everyone I’ve spoken with, from refugees and immigrants to the local organizations supporting them, cares deeply about improving lives. That kind of compassion is inspiring, and it’s what makes our community such a special place to call home.”

WVIA is proud to host a series of special public screenings ahead of the broadcast premiere of Making NEPA Home. These events will give our community the chance to preview a portion of the documentary, engage in a meaningful conversation with the filmmaker, and reflect on the powerful stories of refugees and immigrants in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Making NEPA Home is about more than survival, it’s about the courage to rebuild, the beauty of cultural exchange, and the strength of community,” said WVIA President & CEO, Carla McCabe. “We hope viewers walk away with a deeper understanding of what it means to welcome and be welcomed, not just in NEPA, but all over the world.”

The official Making NEPA Home trailer can be viewed here and click here to find more details on upcoming screenings.

Funding support for Making NEPA Home provided by The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, The Luzerne Foundation, and Scranton Area Community Foundation.

Media Opportunities

WVIA welcomes interview requests with filmmaker Kara Washington and members of the WVIA production team. To schedule please contact Holly Biondo, WVIA Marketing & Communications Manager at hollybiondo@wvia.org.

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Expands Luzerne County Mortgage Team

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Company (PSBT) announced the addition of two experienced mortgage loan originators to its Luzerne County market. Rose Mahler has joined as Mortgage Loan Originator/Team Leader, and Ellen Leighton has joined as Vice President, Mortgage Loan Originator.

“Adding Rose and Ellen to our Luzerne County mortgage team strengthens our ability to meet the growing home financing needs in the region,” said Jerry Champi, CEO. “Their experience and customer-first approach will help more people in our community achieve their homeownership goals.”

Rose Mahler

Mahler has more than 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry. She specializes in Conventional, FHA, VA, Rural Housing, and First-Time Homebuyer programs, while also leading and mentoring a team of loan originators to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction.

Before joining PSBT, Mahler served as Mortgage Originator/Regional Sales Manager at Luzerne Bank and previously worked at Northwest Bank. She began her career at MGE Mortgage. Mahler earned a Bachelor of Science degree from King’s College and has been recognized with the PHFA Originator Award for her outstanding work in affordable housing lending.

She has also been active in the community, previously serving on the YMCA Wilkes-Barre Community Board, graduating from Leadership Wilkes-Barre, and participating as a member of the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre.

Ellen Leighton

Leighton brings more than 40 years of experience in the mortgage industry. In her role as Vice President/Mortgage Loan Officer, she will provide financing solutions tailored to the needs of local clients and partner with area realtors to deliver programs that best fit each customer’s situation. Her focus is on helping individuals and families finance their dream homes.

Prior to joining PSBT, Leighton held mortgage lending positions at Luzerne Bank and Landmark Community Bank and also served as a partner in a mortgage company. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her sales performance, customer service, and ability to build lasting relationships. In 2024, she earned the Top Producing Mortgage Originator Award from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) for her work in affordable housing lending.

A graduate of Bishop Hannan High School and Lackawanna College, Leighton is also active in the community. She serves on the fundraising committee for Coffee Inclusive, an initiative that supports employment opportunities for individuals with special needs.

Marywood University Offering Free Mental Health Screenings

October 9, 2025, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Marywood University’s Psychological Services Center

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (2021), 8.3% of adults experience a major depressive episode. The World Health Organization (2019) estimates that 280 million people of all ages suffer from depression worldwide. Screening for depression and other mood disorders provides individuals and families with the opportunity to identify warning signs early and to connect with appropriate treatment. It is important to note that symptoms can look different across and within cultures.
 
National Depression Screening Day, set for October 9, 2025, serves as a supportive community initiative to connect the public with mental health resources. Through this program, free depression screenings are offered at Marywood’s Psychological Services Center, located in the McGowan Center on the university’s campus. The screenings will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Each screening lasts approximately 15 minutes. Early recognition and treatment of depression provide the best opportunity for recovery. The screenings offered at Marywood University’s Psychological Services Center are free, confidential, brief, and require no appointment or commitment.

Although the screenings are not diagnostic, they do provide valuable insight. Additionally, screenings can help to identify symptoms associated with depression or other mood disorders and clarify if help may be needed.

For questions about depression screenings or other mental health concerns, please contact Marywood’s Psychological Services Center at (570) 348-6269.

Written by: Kelsey Herrity and Ethan Warner, student therapists at Marywood University.

The Wright Center Launches Free Monthly Newsletter

The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education is excited to announce the launch of The Wright Source, a brand-new, free monthly electronic newsletter.

The Wright Source will keep patients and community partners informed, inspired, and connected to the health and wellness landscape of Northeast Pennsylvania. Each issue will be filled with valuable insights, local updates, and uplifting stories, including:

  • Practical health and wellness tips you can use every day
  • Community events and activities for all ages
  • Delicious, healthy recipes to try at home
  • Introductions to our newest clinicians and their specialties
  • Updates on new service lines and programs
  • And much more to help improve the health and well-being of our communities across Northeast Pennsylvania

To subscribe to The Wright Source, visit bit.ly/WrightSource and enter your name and email address to get started.

The Wright Center for Community Health Earns First Accreditation

The Wright Center for Community Health’s case management services recently earned a three-year accreditation from an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services.

Following a site visit in August 2025, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International granted The Wright Center’s case management services accreditation through Aug. 31, 2028 – the highest level possible. Founded in 1966, CARF International’s mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process.

“This achievement is an indication of your organization’s dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of patients served,” according to CARF International’s accreditation letter to The Wright Center. “There is strong evidence that patients are benefiting from the services they receive from The Wright Center, as evidenced by their own words, reviews of individual records, and a variety of other reviews and reports.”

The Wright Center sought accreditation through CARF International for its case management services at its Ryan White HIV Clinic and Opioid Use Disorder Center of Excellence, according to officials. Case management is a process in which clinicians assess patients and develop a team-based treatment plan tailored to each person’s specific needs. The patient is regularly monitored and assessed to make sure they are progressing as expected.

CARF officials visited several of The Wright Center’s community health centers, including Clarks Summit, Mid Valley, North Scranton, and Scranton, to interview staff and patients, and review records. They also examined records from The Wright Center’s community health centers in Hawley, North Pocono, Tunkhannock, Wayne, and Wilkes-Barre.

An accreditation report issued by CARF praised The Wright Center’s excellent technology planning and implementation, as well as its exceptional knowledge and use of a variety of data gathering, measurement, analysis, and reporting activities. They also noted The Wright Center’s deep focus on expanding services to meet community needs, as well as its commitment to whole-person primary health services for patients of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses. 

“This accreditation shows that The Wright Center is providing the highest standard of evidence-based care,” said Louis Strazzeri, director of behavioral health integration, social, and case management services. “We are honored that CARF has validated what we have long understood – that our patients receive exceptional, team-based care that empowers them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.”

The Wright Center’s Brian Ebersole Recognized and Honored

Brian Ebersole, vice president of academic affairs and associate designated institutional official for The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, was recently selected for City & State Pennsylvania’s “Forty in their 40s” list. The list celebrates Pennsylvania’s most influential and accomplished leaders across nonprofits, government, business, and media, honoring their exceptional achievements, visionary leadership, advocacy, philanthropic contributions, and deep commitment to bettering lives and championing progress throughout the commonwealth.

The multimedia news organization selected Ebersole in recognition of his visionary leadership in transforming health care workforce development through innovative, community-rooted graduate medical education models that are expanding opportunities, addressing physician shortages, and improving health equity across the nation. To read the list, go to cityandstatepa.com.

“I’m grateful to City & State Pennsylvania for this recognition that reflects the collective efforts of so many of my mission-driven partners at The Wright Center who are working to reshape how we train physicians and serve communities,” said Ebersole. “At The Wright Center, we believe the future of health care starts in the neighborhoods that need it most, and I’m proud to help build that future alongside such dedicated colleagues, board members, learners, patients, and partners.”

A visionary leader in graduate medical education, Ebersole played a pivotal role in designing and advancing The Wright Center’s innovative Graduate Medical Education Safety-Net Consortium. Through this model, he transformed residency training by placing physician learners in community health centers, rather than traditional hospital settings, to equip them with better practical, community-rooted experience while addressing physician shortages and improving retention in underserved areas. Ebersole also secured critical federal funding, forged strategic partnerships, and established a sustainable health care workforce pipeline that prioritizes community health over institutional convenience.

In 2013, he further advanced The Wright Center’s 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” by launching its National Family Medicine Residency Program, which was the first nationally coordinated network of high-performing, patient-centered Federally Qualified Health Centers serving as unified training sites under a single, centrally managed program.

Under his leadership, both initiatives have become scalable and replicable national models that redefine how and where America’s future physicians are trained.

Ebersole has more than two decades of experience in health policy and innovation. Before his current position, he served as senior vice president of mission delivery and business development at The Wright Center, successfully securing federal, state, and local funding to support and expand a wide range of programs.  He previously held public health leadership roles under four Pennsylvania governors and served as senior director of health innovations at Geisinger Health System, where he focused on initiatives addressing social needs across Northeast Pennsylvania.

A founding member of the American Association of Teaching Health Centers, he rejoined the organization’s executive committee as treasurer in 2023. He also serves on The Institute’s Health and Health Care Task Force and is actively involved with several community-based nonprofits.

A native of Duncannon, Pennsylvania, Ebersole earned a Bachelor of Arts in politics and education from Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. He has a son, Keegan, and resides in Old Forge, Pennsylvania, with his husband, Jeff Smith.

For more information about The Wright Center for Community Health and The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.