Geisinger Celebrates Growth at Commonwealth Day Event

Geisinger will honor its past and embrace its future as it celebrates its growing College of Health Sciences.

At its third annual Geisinger Commonwealth Day on Sept. 30, Geisinger College of Health Sciences will celebrate its growth as an integrated college with schools of nursing and medicine and a School of Graduate Education poised to launch new programs. The day is dedicated to “honoring the past and embracing the future,” and this year attendees will learn just how far the college has moved to advance its five-year strategic plan, Drive to THRIVE.

“Part of honoring our past is acknowledging how important the community is to our future,” said Dr. Byerley, president of Geisinger College of Health Sciences. “We’re happy to share that our strategic plan has been expanding opportunities for local students and growing programs that will meet the changing needs of our neighbors. This year we have an important milestone to celebrate. With the Class of 2024, our medical school has surpassed 1,000 alumni. That should be a source of pride for our neighbors. And speaking of increasing access and care in our region, our college has expanded its residency programs and introduced new programs in the Northeast.” 

“We’ll also spotlight our research accomplishments, especially the MyCode project which passed 350,000 enrolled participants in September,” she said. “With paired DNA sequence and health data currently available for nearly 230,000 of these participants, MyCode is the largest healthcare system-based study of its kind in the United States.” 

The community is invited to tour the Medical Sciences Building, including the school’s Simulation Center and historical displays, and learn about current research.  

Geisinger Commonwealth Day will be celebrated Monday, Sept. 30, from 1 – 5 p.m. at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, 525 Pine St., Scranton. Register at go.geisinger.edu/geisingercommonwealthday.

Marywood University Partners with Organizations for Fringe Festival

Marywood University’s School of Architecture and its Center for Urban Studies are partnering with The Center for the Living City and the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science, & Art during the 2024 Scranton Fringe Festival, to present their first large-scale 3D projection mapping art installation for Scranton.

The students will transform the exterior of the Everhart Museum into a stunning animated canvas. The kick-off party for the festival is set for Thursday, September 26, from 6 to 9 PM, featuring preview performances, food and drink for purchase, Fringe-inspired original works by CTC of Lackawanna County and Marywood graphic design students, and more.

The 3D projection dates include Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27, in the evening at the Everhart Museum in Nay Aug Park. Events are free and open to the public.

The 2024 Fringe Festival will showcase theater, film, music, visual arts, and more from September 26 – October 6. For the full festival program, visit scrantonfringe.org

This artistic endeavor is made possible by the generous support of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, Lackawanna County, Fancy Parsley Architecture + Design, Endeavor Audio, and Marywood University.

SAF Selected for CFLeads’ Economic Mobility Action Network

The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce it is only one of ten foundations nationwide selected by CFLeads to participate in the Economic Mobility Action Network’s advanced cohort, a network funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The Economic Mobility Action Network is made up of twenty community foundations across the nation, chosen through a competitive process, for their work to advance economic mobility in the region they serve, with a focus on equity. The Scranton Area Community Foundation will work with the Rochester Area Community Foundation, North Texas Community Foundation, Cambridge Community Foundation, Foundation For The Carolinas, ACT for Alexandria, and other leading foundations nationwide.

In 2023, CFLeads was awarded a $4.8 million grant by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its economic mobility work and will support the 20 community foundations in two cohorts with capacity-building support and innovative strategies beginning in September 2024. The goal will be to further strengthen and refine the community’s economic mobility plan with a focus on equity.

The cohort consists of Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO; Ellen Burkey, Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Chair; Vivian Williams, Scranton Area Community Foundation Director of Community Impact; and key partners from the City of Scranton and the Institute for Public Policy.

“This incredible opportunity will provide the Scranton Area Community Foundation with a new national network, allowing it to develop additional relationships with peers who are pioneering innovative approaches to community challenges as well as with funding partners nationwide,” stated Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO.

The Economic Mobility Action Network is led by CFLeads’ Economic Mobility team. More information is available on the EMAN webpage.

CFLeads’ mission is to help community foundations build strong communities by advancing effective practices, sharing knowledge, and galvanizing action on critical issues of our time.

“CFLeads is committed to empowering community foundations to lead change in their local place-based work. With the Economic Mobility Action Network, we’re fostering collaboration among 20 community foundations to advance equitable economic mobility. By aligning our shared focus on racial equity with a community leadership lens, we’re driving systemic change that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities,” stated Mary L. Thomas, CFLeads’ President & CEO.

“I am thrilled to announce the selection of an outstanding group of community foundations to join our Economic Mobility Action Network. The competitive process highlighted the incredible commitment and innovative approaches of applicants across the country. In making our selections, we considered not only the strength of each application but also the scope, geographic diversity, institutional alignment, and deep community engagement demonstrated by these foundations. We are confident that this cohort will drive meaningful change and advance economic mobility in their communities,” stated Dr. Leonard Brock Vice President for Learning and Impact (Issues) at CFLeads.

To learn more about the Scranton Area Community Foundation, visit safdn.org or contact Mary Joyce, Communications Manager at the Scranton Area Community Foundation at 570-347-6203.

Moon Tavern to Host Performance with Dr. Dirty John Valby

Moon Tavern and Entertainment Complex is thrilled to announce a special performance by the legendary Dr. Dirty John Valby on Saturday, September 28. Famous for his outrageous humor and unforgettable live shows, Dr. Dirty is set to deliver a night of comedy and music that’s guaranteed to entertain.

Doors will open at 6:30 PM, and the show will begin at 8:00 PM. In addition to the hilarious entertainment, Moon Tavern will be offering a variety of family-friendly dining options before the show. Our menu features food made-from-scratch food, sauces, breads, indulgent desserts, and other delicious dishes. Whether you’re here for dinner or just the show, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Tickets are priced at $15 in advance and $25 at the door. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.MoonTavern.com or call 570-290-8117 after 5:00 PM.

Event Details:

·         Date: Saturday, September 28

·         Doors Open: 6:30 PM

·         Showtime: 8:00 PM

·         Tickets: $15 ADV • $25 @ Door

Moon Tavern to Host Meat Loaf Concert Tribute

Moon Tavern and Entertainment Complex is excited to announce a night of unforgettable entertainment with All Revved Up – The Ultimate Meat Loaf Tribute on Friday, September 27. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the event promises an electrifying performance that fans of the legendary Meat Loaf won’t want to miss.

Kicking off the evening is the local acoustic duo Side Piece, performing live at 7:00 PM. Headlining the night, All Revved Up will take the stage at 8:30 PM, delivering a powerful tribute to the iconic rock singer.

Tickets are available for $15 in advance and $25 at the door. Secure your tickets and find more event details by visiting www.MoonTavern.com or calling 570-382-3191.

Join us at Moon Tavern and Entertainment Complex for an epic night of live music, great food, and an exciting atmosphere!

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, September 27
  • Doors Open: 6:00 PM
  • Opening Act: Side Piece, 7:00 PM
  • Headliner: All Revved Up, 8:30 PM
  • Tickets: $15 ADV • $25 @ Door

The Honesdale National Bank Honors 21 Employees

The Honesdale National Bank has had the great fortune of having loyal and long-tenured employees to help serve its customers and greater communities. The Bank is pleased to recognize 21 employees who celebrated milestones of service in 2024.

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President & CEO of HNB, remarked, “The lasting success of our company highlights the devotion and steadfast commitment of our long-term employees, who have consistently driven our accomplishments over the years.” He added, “Their dedication and skill are key to our ongoing success every single day.”

5 Years of Service

(Standing Left to Right): Jessica Meoni, Web & Graphic Designer, Corporate Center; Kai Klinger-Hiller, Data Processing Clerk, Corporate Center; Marc Sturdevant, Application Analyst, Data Processing/IT, Corporate Center; Burt Chapman, Associate Financial Consultant, Corporate Center; Michelle Kowalewski, Commercial Loan Officer II, Hallstead Office; (Seated Left to Right): Pamela Kocher, Teller, Main Street Office; Rachel Jacobino, Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager, Corporate Center; Megan Patten, CSR, Main Street Office.

10 Years of Service

(Standing Left to Right): Emily M. Zielinski, BSA Assistant, Corporate Center; Alfred Beck, Director of Honat Bancorp, Inc., Corporate Center; Alyssa Herzog, Mortgage Advisor, Main Street Office.

15 Years of Service

(Standing Left to Right): Amy Gregory, Mortgage Underwriter, HNB Mortgage Center; Brian Wilken, VP, Business Development & Relationship Manager, Corporate Center.

20 Years of Service

(Standing Left to Right): Kate Bryant, EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Center; Laurie Harrington, VP, Commercial Loan Officer, Corporate Center.

25 Years of Service

Elizabeth Hazen, AVP, Loan Review Officer, Corporate Center

HNB extends its appreciation to all its employees for their dedication to supporting its customers and local community!

NEPIRC Event to Address AI, Medical Marijuana, and Talent Retention

Will AI replace employees? How will medical marijuana impact the safety of a workforce? How do you attract and retain the most skilled and talented people at an organization?  These are just a few of the questions that area manufacturing leaders will find the answers to at the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center’s (NEPIRC) 2024 Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo this year.

The event takes place on Friday, Oct. 4 at Mohegan Pennsylvania Convention Center, Wilkes-Barre Twp. from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  

“Manufacturing Day is an opportunity for all area manufacturers, businesses that provide services to manufacturers and individuals who want to learn more about northeastern Pennsylvania’s growing manufacturing sector to gather together under one roof at the region’s most impactful manufacturing networking event,” said Chelsey Coslett-Traver, NEPIRC’s manager of marketing & stakeholder engagement. “We look forward to this year’s event being the largest in its history, both with the number of exhibitors and the number of attendees. We are very excited about all that we have planned for this year’s Manufacturing Day!”

While this event is geared toward manufacturers and advocates of manufacturing, educators, students and curious community members are welcome to attend as there will be a great deal of valuable information shared. 

Registration, breakfast and networking take place from 7:30 to 8:50 a.m., followed by welcoming remarks Eric Joseph Esoda, NEPIRC president & CEO, and Chelsey Coslett Traver.  

Morning break-out sessions that take place from 9:30-10:15 a.m. include:

  • “Refueling the Talent Pipeline: Sparking Careers in Manufacturing,” a
    panel discussion featuring ambassadors from NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Ambassador Dream Team
  • “Effectively Using the Power of AI in Manufacturing,” with Mark Morgis, NEPIRC continuous improvement specialist
  • “Medical Marijuana and the Workplace: Navigating Safety Concerns and Policies,” with Brian Matyjevich, NEPIRC OSHA-authorized outreach trainer; Marni Sherrill, SHRM-CP, senior human resources business partner, Volumetric Building Companies
  • “Navigating Environmental and Energy Excellence: An Overview of ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 in Manufacturing,” with Ray Kryeski, NEPIRC manufacturing and industrial engineering specialist, and
  • “Unlocking Leadership Potential with Emotional Intelligence Coaching,” with
    Leo Gilroy, NEPIRC director of leadership and organizational development.

After a break for networking, a panel discussion and breakout session will take place on:

  • “Building High Performance Compensation Systems: How to Get Your Team Rowing in the Same Direction,” with Mike Pickreign, Tech 42, breakout session sponsor, and
  • “Cybersecurity & CMMC Panel Discussion,” with moderator: Kara Smith, NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator, panel discussion sponsor; and panelists: Marc Gonzalez, Site 2 and Zane Patalive, Real IT Care.

Lunch will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. and feature keynote speaker Chris Czarnik, author of Winning the War for Talent. He will share knowledge from his 20 years of experience learning what attracts people to organizations and why they leave. Czarnik is an author, coach, trainer, and subject matter expert on talent recruiting, engagement and retention in today’s environment. His career includes experience as a former military officer, human resource manager, career services manager and job search advisor.

After the lunch keynote, event attendees can continue connecting with other manufacturing professionals and visit the nearly 100 manufacturers and businesses that will have exhibit booths and product demonstrations

Afternoon speakers Katie Desiderio, Ph.D. and Michael Frino, Ph.D. will present “Becoming a Be Keeper” at 2:10 p.m. The Wall Street Journal bestselling co-authors will discuss resiliency, grit, and determination in the workplace among constant change.  Closing remarks Eric and Chelsey will follow.

Tickets start at only $50 and can be purchased at www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com. Tickets provide access to two morning breakout sessions of ticket holder’s choosing, the exhibitor hall, keynote presentation, afternoon breakout session and all meals and refreshments.

NEPIRC would like to acknowledge top-level sponsors of this year’s event that include Gold Sponsor: Tech42, APEX Accelerator Sponsor: APEX Accelerator at NEPA Alliance,

Student/Faculty Sponsor: Lackawanna College Continuing Education, Welcome Reception Sponsor: Scranton Printing Co., and Silver Sponsors: Ashley Machine & Tool, Mitsubishi Chemical Group and SIMONA. 

For a complete list of sponsors and partners, visit www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com.

For more information or to purchase tickets, email Chelsey Coslett-Traver, NEPIRC’s manager of marketing & stakeholder engagement, at Chelsey@NEPIRC.com or visit NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Day webpage at www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com.

Geisinger’s Hispanic Group Hosts Event on Metabolic Dysfunction

In observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, Geisinger’s Hispanic Latino employee resource group, SALUD, has partnered with NASH kNOWledge to host an informational event titled “Metabolic Dysfunction (Fatty Liver Disease) and its Impact Within the Hispanic Community” on Monday, Oct. 7, from 4 to 5 p.m. 

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), commonly known as fatty liver disease, affects about a third of the U.S. population, with the highest prevalence in the Hispanic community. While it’s often thought to be clinically symptomatic, fatty liver disease can impact quality of life and in some cases, lead to more serious liver diseases like cirrhosis. Awareness of the condition is important, especially for those at higher risk, because lifestyle changes and medical management can prevent progression to more severe liver disease and other chronic diseases. 

Featured speakers Alberto Unzueta, MD, hepatologist at Geisinger, and Maria Hernandez, Latino community outreach coordinator at NASH kNOWledge, will provide education about the condition and prevention. 

The event will be held virtually on Microsoft Teams and is free and open to the public. To join, visit go.geisinger.org/fattyliverdiseaseimpact.

Hospice of the Sacred Heart to Host Remembrance Walk

Hundreds of walkers are expected to pause and remember their loved ones in a unique and special way at the Hospice of the Sacred Heart Remembrance Walk. The walk will take place on Saturday, September 28th at McDade Park in Scranton. Registration begins at 8:30 am and the walk will kick off at 10 am. The Wright Center is the presenting sponsor.

The one-mile walk around scenic McDade Park is wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly. The $25 registration fee ($30 after September 6th) includes lunch and a long-sleeve t-shirt with a customizable pin-on bib so participants can walk in memory of a loved one. Teams of five or more are $20 each and children 12 and under are free. There will be a DJ, basket raffle, children’s activities, a ceremonial bell ringing and ice cream courtesy of Fidelity Bank. Proceeds from the walk will help support Hospice of the Sacred Heart programs and services.

The event will begin with an opening prayer by Rev. Thomas M. Muldowney, Pastor, Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Moscow and WNEP-TV anchor and reporter, Stacy Lange, will start the walk. Diane Baldi, Hospice of the Sacred Heart CEO, will be available for interviews.

Those wishing to participate individually or as a team can register online at www.HospiceSacredHeart.org, by calling 570-706-2400 or at McDade Park the day of the walk.

The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Joseph Sweeney

Joseph Sweeney Promoted to Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Joseph Sweeney has been promoted to Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst.

Joseph Sweeney, Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst

In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Joe’s promotion underscores the impressive contributions he has made during his time with us, showcasing his strong commitment and exceptional performance.” He continued, “His expertise will play a key role in enhancing our credit analysis processes and supporting our strategic objectives as we move forward.”

As Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst, Sweeney will be responsible for providing financial analysis relating to commercial lending, to determine credit worthiness.

He is a graduate of Valley View High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from Pennsylvania State University.

Currently residing in Jessup, PA, he started his 32-year career in the financial industry as an Accountant and Financial Analyst for a manufacturing company.

In commenting on his new role at the bank, Sweeney noted, “I am grateful for the opportunities that HNB has provided me. This organization cares about its employees and the customers they serve. I am proud to be a part of that.”

Outside of the Bank, Sweeney enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

Additionally, he is part of the Pennsylvania state Alumni Association.