Marywood Explores Global Initiatives in Colombia Recently, Marywood University representatives visited Medellín and Bogota, Colombia, to expand Marywood’s global initiatives and explore program development and recruitment in the country. Representatives included Jessica A. Quintana Hess, assistant dean of global initiatives & programs, and Chris Speicher, Ph.D., associate professor of business. Hess conducted recruitment events, including independent school visits, potential university partner site visits, and the EducationUSA Bogota series, while Dr. Speicher presented at Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (Region 9) conference. Jointly, they conducted a series of meetings at the university’s current International Programs partner, Universidad EAN, in Bogota, Colombia, to review proposals for program expansion and development. The trip culminated with a special lecture about design thinking, hosted by Marywood University and presented by Dr. Speicher. For more information about Marywood’s Global Initiatives, visit: marywood.edu/life-at-mu/student-experience/global.
Wallenpaupark Brewing Co To Host Friendsgiving Friends are invited to gather and raise a glass to friendship, great beer, and even better company at Friendsgiving at the Brewery — an evening featuring live music, delicious food, and all their favorite beers on tap. Whether celebrating early with their chosen family or simply looking for a good time before the holiday hustle, guests can unwind, laugh, and make memories over a pint (or two). 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟰𝘁𝗵, 𝟲-𝟵𝗣𝗠 | $𝟰𝟬/𝗣𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 Click here to find more information.
Waverly Community House Announces Two Upcoming Events Bill Teitsworth Exhibit Opening Reception November 7 – 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Waverly Small Works Gallery Guests are invited to meet the artist, enjoy live music, and savor light refreshments. In Winter Free Open to the public Click here for more information. Artisans’ Marketplace November 22 – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Get into the holiday spirit at the 2025 Artisans’ Marketplace! Visitors are invited to The Comm on November 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and November 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a festive weekend of holiday shopping and handcrafted treasures — the perfect opportunity to discover unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. Tickets will also be available on both show days at the door. $5 Click here for more information. Click here to find ticket information.
Leadership Lackawanna Announces 2025–26 Core Program Class Leadership Lackawanna, the region’s premier community leadership and professional development organization, proudly announces the members of its 2025–26 Core Program class. For over 40 years, Leadership Lackawanna has been cultivating dedicated, informed, and engaged leaders committed to improving the quality of life and future of northeastern Pennsylvania. The Core Program, Leadership Lackawanna’s flagship initiative, provides participants with an immersive experience designed to enhance personal leadership skills, expand professional networks, and deepen understanding of the issues, opportunities, and challenges facing Lackawanna County. Through interactive sessions, site visits, and community-focused projects, participants gain firsthand experience of how collaborative leadership works. “I’m so excited to kick off this year’s Core Program with such a passionate and talented group of professionals,” said Nikki Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “The class is eager to learn, ready to lead, and truly committed to making a difference in our community. It’s going to be an incredible year!” This year’s class represents a wide range of industries and backgrounds, reflecting the diversity and talent of Lackawanna County’s workforce. Over the next 10 months, participants will engage in sessions on government, economic development, healthcare, education, and more, while collaborating on a hands-on community service project that directly benefits a local nonprofit. The 2025-2026 Core Class includes: Mateo Arroyopabon, The Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company Linda Beck, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Amanda Brown, Penn East Federal Credit Union Julianna Cardillo, Penn State Scranton Jason Carpenter, designBLD John Conte III, The Honesdale National Bank Matthew Coolbaugh, Quandel Construction Group, Inc. Maria Day, Penn State Scranton Jose Santiago de los Rios, Tuxedo by Sarno Eric Eiden, Lackawanna College Amanda Friday, Peoples Security Bank & Trust Co. Peter Gentile, City of Scranton Douglas Hein, Scranton Counseling Center Haley Houck, Fidelity Bank Joshua Howells, Allied Services Daneece Jones, Greater Scranton YMCA John Joyce, Lackawanna County Walter Kosak, Plaskolite Pennsylvania Diana Latsko, Maximus Federal Services Chris Pahoski, Benco Dental Brittani Pulse, Nunzi’s Advertising, Inc. Courtney Rittenhouse, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Anthony Salva, Integrative Mind and Body Services Deanna Smith, AAA North Penn Madison Theobald, Penn East Federal Credit Union Sarah Weisenfluh, Montage Mountain Resorts Now in its 43rd year, Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program continues its legacy of developing leaders who are not only successful in their professional lives but also deeply committed to civic engagement. Alumni of the program can be found in leadership positions across business, government, education, and nonprofit sectors throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about Leadership Lackawanna and the Core Program, visit leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Zamarie Navarro as Membership and Community Relations Manager The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the appointment of Zamarie Navarro as its new membership and community relations manager. Navarro brings over 20 years of professional experience as an educator, CEO, and community advocate, with a proven record of fostering growth through education, outreach, and organizational leadership. Her extensive background in bilingual communication, instruction, and business management positions her to build strong connections among Chamber members, local organizations, and the broader business community. Kristine Augustine, vice president of membership and marketing, expressed excitement about Navarro joining The Chamber: “We are delighted to welcome Zamarie Navarro to The Chamber as our new Membership and Community Relations Manager. Navarro offers more than two decades of leadership, education, and community engagement experience. Her expertise and passion for empowering others will strengthen our outreach efforts and deepen our ties within the community. We look forward to the positive impact she will make as we continue to serve and support our members across the region.” Navarro shared her enthusiasm and anticipation, saying, “I’m thrilled to join The Chamber! I’m excited to connect with such a passionate and inspiring team, and I look forward to helping our members and community grow together.” In her new role as membership and community relations manager, Navarro will support member recruitment and retention, coordinate Chamber events and outreach efforts, and strengthen community relationships that increase the value of membership. Navarro will also represent the Chamber at community events and collaborate with regional partners to boost visibility and engagement. Before joining the Chamber, Navarro was CEO of ZGA One Stop Multiservice LLC, where she provided business support, interpreter services, and community resources. She also continues her role as an English as a Second Language Instructor at Marywood University, developing curriculum and empowering non-native English speakers through education. A certified bilingual educator and interpreter, Navarro holds various credentials, including Dual Language and ESL endorsements, Interpreter Certification (Spanish/English), and certificates in Rigor and Relevance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is deeply committed to fostering inclusive communication and collaboration across diverse communities.
Amy Bezek Photography Offers Halloween Pet Photos 🐾 Halloween Pet Photo Fundraiser for Blue Chip Farm! 🎃 Amy Bezek Photography will be volunteering photography services to help raise funds for Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge! The community is invited to a fun-filled afternoon at Three Dog Bakery in Kingston on Sunday, October 26th, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The event will feature a pet costume competition and adorable Halloween-themed photo sessions — the perfect way to capture each furry friend’s spooky spirit! 👻 📸 $15 for one photo📸 $20 for two photos All proceeds will benefit Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge. Everyone (and their fur babies!) is welcome to join for a great cause! 💙🐶🐾
Geisinger Health Plan Announces Medicare Advantage Plans for 2026 Seniors have until Dec. 7 to sign up for a plan that helps fill coverage gaps Geisinger Health Plan (GHP) announced its Geisinger Gold Medicare Advantage plans for 2026, which includes benefits for members featuring premiums starting as low as $0 per month. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) begins Oct. 15 and goes through Dec. 7. During this seven-week window, eligible seniors can evaluate and enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for the upcoming year. Medicare Advantage plans help older adults fill health care gaps that traditional Medicare does not cover, such as vision, dental, prescription benefits and long-term care. “Health care should be at the top of everyone’s mind — especially for seniors,” said Roger van Baaren, Geisinger Health Plan chief sales officer. “Now is the time for older adults to review their Medicare coverage for 2026. Everyone’s health and health care needs look different, which is why Geisinger Gold offers a variety of plans that fill the gaps people might have in their current coverage. People can live healthier lives when they have access to the extra services and programs that make managing their health simpler and more affordable.” Geisinger Gold offers access to a comprehensive care network with more than 30,000 doctors, 180 hospitals and 3,000 pharmacies. It also includes perks like wellness programs, prescription discounts, financial assistance and Silver Circle membership, a free program designed for men and women 55+ that promotes physical, emotional and social well-being. Click here to learn more about Geisinger’s Medicare Advantage health plans.
The Honesdale National Bank Offers Relief to Federal Government Employees As the impact Federal Government Shutdown is felt within our local communities, The Honesdale National Bank is offering relief with a special loan program for affected government employees. “HNB is committed to our role as a resource and support system, particularly during times of uncertainty,” said Kate Bryant, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank. “Our team is readily accessible and equipped with resources to assist in navigating financial needs and unknowns to keep everyone moving forward.” Employees of the Federal Government, who are current HNB customers, experiencing financial difficulty due to the gap in their income are encouraged to contact their local HNB Office or loan officer to learn about the options available to them through HNB’s Federal Government Shutdown Relief Loan and other supporting resources. “HNB doesn’t want to see our customers struggle due to circumstances that extend far beyond their control,” said Bryant. “Whether its seeking assistance on paying bills, meeting loan obligations, or assessing financial options, we encourage you to reach out to our team for support.” For more information, visit your local HNB office, call us at 800-HNB-9515, or visit www.hnbbank.bank/relief.
Johnson College Scranton To Host Fall Open House Johnson College will hold its Fall Open House on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on its Scranton campus. To register to attend the Open House, visit Johnson.edu/openhouse or contact Johnson College’s Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu. The Open House will include discussions about the admissions process, information about financial aid for those who qualify, and student services such as student life, student support, and career services. Plus, same-day acceptance will be available for many programs if students bring their high school or college transcripts. Tours of each technical area will be conducted and program directors and instructors will be available to review the specifics of their programs.
