The Wright Center expands commitment to accessibility across websites, documents and digital media The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education is strengthening its commitment to digital accessibility through a partnership with TechA11y, a Pennsylvania-based provider of AI-powered technology designed to help organizations continuously monitor and improve digital accessibility and compliance. Through the partnership, TechA11y has deployed its accessibility technology and services across The Wright Center’s primary website and affiliated digital properties, including TheWrightCenter.org, HealthyMOMS.org, TheWrightGraduation.org and other digital assets. The initiative also extends to The Wright Center’s PDF documents and digital media, providing a more comprehensive approach to making online information and resources accessible to people of all abilities. For The Wright Center, the initiative reflects both a desire to address accessibility requirements and a broader commitment to ensuring that patients, families, learners and community members can access important information and digital resources without unnecessary barriers. “Access has always been central to the work of The Wright Center, and today that has to include digital access,” said Paul Krzywicki, executive director of marketing and communications at The Wright Center. “Our websites and digital resources are important ways that patients, families, learners and members of our communities connect with our enterprise. We want those experiences to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. Our partnership with TechA11y gives us a continuous approach to improving accessibility as our digital content evolves.” Rather than treating accessibility as a one-time project, the partnership establishes an ongoing accessibility program across The Wright Center’s digital presence. TechA11y’s continuous compliance infrastructure monitors covered websites for accessibility issues, generates and deploys remediation, responds to changing and dynamic web content and documents remediation activity over time. The engagement also includes accessibility remediation services for PDF documents and digital media. The partnership includes accessibility services for: TheWrightCenter.org, The Wright Center’s primary digital presence; HealthyMOMS.org, supporting information and resources connected with the Healthy Maternal Opiate Medical Support (MOMS) program; TheWrightGraduation.org, supporting The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education’s graduation community; PDFs and other digital documents; digital media requiring accessibility remediation; and other digital assets. Digital accessibility presents an ongoing challenge for organizations because websites and other digital resources are constantly changing. New pages are published, documents are uploaded, media is added, third-party components change and users encounter content in different contexts. TechA11y was designed to address that environment as continuous compliance infrastructure rather than as a one-time accessibility audit or user-facing widget. The initiative reflects a shared view between The Wright Center and TechA11y that digital accessibility should be considered part of an organization’s broader commitment to serving its community. For individuals with disabilities, accessible digital resources can affect the ability to locate health information, learn about available programs and services, understand educational opportunities, access documents and media and interact effectively with an organization online. By integrating accessibility into the ongoing operation of its digital properties, The Wright Center is extending its commitment to access into the digital experience.
Barberlife Barbershop taking part in Community Resource Pop-Up event Barberlife Barbershop LLC will be one of the businesses taking part in a Community Resource Pop-Up event on Friday, September 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The goal of the event is to provide resources to people in need in a welcoming environment. The event will be outside the shop at 34 South Main Street Suite 19 in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Attendees will be able to find behavioral health resources, substance use and recovery information, local service and support connections, and community conversation and outreach. This event is free and open to the community. No appointment is needed.
NRG Controls celebrating 50 years of innovation, service & growth NRG Controls is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking five decades of innovation, customer service and growth in the building automation industry. Founded in 1976 by Tom McClay in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, NRG Controls began as a small automatic temperature controls (ATC) contractor with four employees. Five decades later, the company has grown into a full-service building systems integrator serving customers across Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Alabama, West Virginia, and Ohio. “I was a little reluctant to start the company,” recalled McClay, who spent the first 32 years of NRG Controls’ history helping shape its culture, values, and vision before retiring in 2008. “I was 27 years old at the time, had a wife and a small child, but still had that spirit that led me to do it in the first place.” Today, NRG Controls employs nearly 200 professionals at four branch offices and serves more than 300 customers. The company provides integrated building system solutions that help organizations operate smarter, safer and more efficiently, including building automation systems (BAS), security and access control, fire alarm and life safety systems, lighting controls, energy management and service and preventative maintenance programs. “Reaching 50 years in business is more than a milestone for NRG Controls,” said Dave Sholtis, Chief Executive Officer. “It is a reflection of our loyal customers, employees and partners who have placed their trust in us. Our success was built on relationships, technical expertise, and a commitment to delivering value. As we celebrate the company’s history, we are also focused on implementing the next generation of solutions and opportunities for our customers and employees.” Throughout its history, NRG Controls has continually adapted to the evolving building automation industry. What began as a building controls company has expanded to encompass security, life safety, lighting, energy management and other integrated solutions designed to help organizations manage increasingly complex facilities. The 50th anniversary comes during a period of continued momentum for the company. Recent milestones include the acquisition of Nexgen Automation in Harrisburg, expansion into new territories and the addition of new services. These efforts have strengthened NRG Controls’ ability to serve education, healthcare, government, commercial, industrial and institutional customers with integrated building system solutions.
Johnson College to Host Free “Test Strategies That Change the Game” Workshop on September 10 Unlock the secrets to peak test performance. Many high-achieving students find that mastering effective test strategies and strong time management is the key to translating their knowledge into higher scores. Johnson College’s WAVE Department is hosting a free “Test Strategies That Change the Game” workshop on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. in Ideal Saldi Hall on its Scranton campus. To register, visit johnson.edu/workshops. The free workshop introduces a focused, proven study system designed to maximize preparation time and significantly boost information retention. Participants will leave with practical tools to approach any exam with confidence and precision. Attendees will explore the underlying structure and design principles of written exams; learn a reliable, step-by-step method for studying, organizing, and retaining crucial information; and master proven techniques to eliminate incorrect answers and improve test-taking accuracy. The workshop is open to individuals ages 15 and older and is free to attend. PA EMS continuing education is included (3.5 hours, other). Space is limited to 65 participants per workshop. For more information, email wave@johnson.edu or call 570-702-8979. WAVE (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) is Johnson College’s hub for continuing education and workforce development. WAVE empowers learners with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to an ever-changing workforce and achieve long-term career success.
Geisinger College of Health Sciences to Host Free Event to Explore Bullying and How to Respond Bullying can take many forms, and recognizing the warning signs can help adults deter bullies and help their targets. That’s why Geisinger College of Health Sciences will host the free event They’re Not Just Bein’ Mean: Navigating the World of Kids Who Think They Are Sopranos on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 5:30 p.m. at 525 Pine St., Scranton. Timothy Lionetti, Ph.D., pediatric psychologist, will lead the session, which will provide practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting children and navigating the reporting process. Attendees will learn about: ● Different types of bullying and how they may present ● Warning signs that a child may be experiencing — or engaging in — bullying ● Practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting children ● How to navigate the reporting process ● Ways adults can help create a safer, more supportive environment for children Register for free at: go.geisinger.edu/bully The event is part of Geisinger’s Third Wednesday Community Education Series, which brings trusted health expertise to the Scranton community. Lionetti is available for interviews before the event.
SWB RailRiders, Cornielle Earns International League Pitcher of the Week by MiLB Minor League Baseball has announced its weekly awards for August 24-30 and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s Alexander Cornielle was named the International League’s Pitcher of the Week. The RailRider did not allow a run in eight frames to garner in the deepest outing of his career. Rodríguez made the start for the RailRiders on Friday, helping the team to 9th shutout victory. The right-handertossed eight innings of quiet ball. He allowed just two hits and a pair of walks, while striking out six. Cornielleis the first SWB pitcher who has entered for the eighth frame this season. The 25-year-old, has lowered his ERA to 2.83 in 54.0 innings of work. He has made a dozen starts withScranton/Wilkes-Barre, racking up 53 strikeouts and holding a .210 average against. Cornielle has been gettingstronger and more efficient with each month after beginning the season on the 60-Day Injured List. In August,he boasts a 1.57 ERA through four starts, totalling 23 strikeouts. Cornielle joins Brendan Beck as the only other pitcher from the RailRiders to receive the award this season. It is his first time being honored and marks SWB’s sixth selection of the summer. Yanquiel Fernández and Tyler Hardman have also won as Player’s of the Week. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre takes on the Lehigh Valley IronPigs for a seven-game set at PNC Field. The RailRidershave just two more series in Moosic before they wrap up for the summer. For more information on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, visit www.swbrailriders.com
Eric Gatto Joins Fidelity Bank Wealth Management as Client Portfolio Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President & Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Eric Gatto has joined Fidelity Bank Wealth Management as a Client Portfolio Manager. In his new role, Gatto will assist the investment research team in building and managing client portfolios while supporting the overall investment strategy for clients. He will also collaborate with client segment leaders across the Bank and Wealth Management division to help deliver personalized investment solutions and exceptional service to clients. “We are excited to welcome Eric to Fidelity Bank Wealth Management,” said Santaniello. “His investment knowledge, analytical skillset, and commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals make him a valuable addition to our team. As we continue to grow our Wealth Management services, Eric will play an important role in supporting our clients and enhancing the personalized experience they have come to expect from Fidelity Bank.” Gatto resides in Jefferson Township, Pennsylvania, and is a graduate of Holy Cross High School. He earned his degree from Penn State University, where he attended from 2014 to 2018. As Client Portfolio Manager, Gatto will work closely with Fidelity Bank Wealth Management team to support portfolio construction, investment research, and strategic client initiatives designed to help individuals, families, and businesses pursue their financial objectives.
Ricky Gower Joins Fidelity Bank as Vice President, Business Development Officer Daniel J. Santaniello, President & Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, announced Ricky Gower has joined Fidelity Bank as Vice President, Business Development Officer. In his role, Gower will focus on developing, cultivating, and growing business and commercial banking relationships throughout the market. He will work closely with business clients to understand their unique financial needs and help them achieve both their short- and long-term goals. His responsibilities also include strengthening existing client relationships, generating new business opportunities, and increasing the Bank’s visibility within the communities it serves. “We are excited to welcome Ricky to Fidelity Bank,” said Santaniello. “His extensive banking experience, commitment to relationship building, and deep ties to the Lehigh Valley make him a tremendous addition to our team. Ricky’s community-focused approach aligns perfectly with our mission of helping individuals, businesses, and communities thrive.” A resident of Slatington, Pennsylvania, Gower earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and Economics from Moravian University and is a graduate of Bethlehem Catholic High School. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gower is actively involved in several community organizations. He serves as Board Secretary for the Lehigh County Redevelopment Authority, is a Finance Committee Member for the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority and serves as Treasurer of the Main Street Lehigh Valley Foundation. Reflecting on his new role, Gower said, “It is great and refreshing to be a part of an amazing team of local bankers who are family-oriented and have a huge opportunity to positively impact the markets we serve.” Outside of work, Gower enjoys spending time with his wife, Jessica, and their three children, Lena, Nico, and Evie. The family enjoys outdoor activities, including beach vacations, snowmobiling in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, and exploring new destinations together.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Recognizes Gilchrist as Supervisor of the Quarter Tactical Missile Branch Chief Don Gilchrist has once again been recognized for his leadership at Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD), earning the installation’s Supervisor of the Quarter award for the third quarter of Fiscal Year 2026. The honor marks the second time Gilchrist has received the recognition. He was first named Supervisor of the Quarter in 2024, highlighting his continued commitment to leadership and excellence throughout his career. Supervisor of the Quarter nominees may be submitted by subordinates, peers or supervisors. A panel of judges evaluates each nomination based on four criteria: accomplishment of duties, effectiveness as an example to others, efforts to improve local productivity, and demonstration of the Army’s core values. Gilchrist brings more than 34 years of professional experience to his role. An Air Force veteran, he spent 16 years serving and working for the Air Force before transitioning to Army civilian service more than a decade ago. Since joining the Army civilian workforce, he has applied his technical expertise to depot operations and earned the respect of colleagues and employees. Gene Haikes, Chief of the Mission Execution Directorate’s Avionics & Sensors Division, submitted Gilchrist’s nomination and highlighted his commitment to his employees, the mission and professional development. “Don’s stellar conduct and professional presence serve as a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for his staff, peers, and fellow leaders across the depot. He is eager to step forward to help other people and takes complete accountability for his team’s actions, no matter what consequences may arise from their work. Committed to progress, Don consistently guides and mentors various employees, helping them recognize and pursue pathways for professional advancement.” Gilchrist’s performance during the quarter also contributed to his selection. According to Haikes, Gilchrist and his team maintained a strong record of completing projects efficiently while supporting continuous improvement across the branch. “During the quarter, Don achieved an exceptional 100% frozen performance to promise average for all branch projects, marking the highest rate in the division and exceeding the depot standard by 11%. Working closely with his dedicated team, he routinely completes highly complex and challenging taskers well ahead of scheduled deadlines. He remains actively engaged in vital mid-month progress reviews, providing critical oversight. Furthermore, Don provides the necessary resources and support for his personnel to explore innovative methodologies, empowering them to find better, safer, and more efficient ways to accomplish the Tobyhanna mission.” For Gilchrist, effective supervision extends beyond performance metrics. Building trust and accountability within a team is central to his leadership philosophy. Reflecting on receiving the award for a second time, he pointed to the principles that have guided him throughout his career. “It’s like TYAD Commander Rob Lantka says, and it’s right from the military – respect, trust, accountability – I expect that in my workers, and my workers should expect that in me. Accountability is very important – we all have a mission to do, and we owe it to the warfighter to deliver a top product,” he said. Tobyhanna Army Depot is designated as the Center of Industrial and Technical Excellence for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, electronics, avionics, and missile guidance and control. The depot provides cradle-to-grave lifecycle support through depot-level repair, systems integration, software and cyber engineering, and field support. As a key contributor to operational readiness for joint and allied forces around the world, TYAD uses emerging technologies to expand the Department of War’s organic capabilities in areas including microelectronics, secure communications infrastructure, unmanned aerial systems, joint all-domain command and control, integrated air and missile defense, and the Army’s Next Generation Combat Systems. Through its ability to rapidly increase production, deploy field support teams and scale operations for contingency and theater-level missions, TYAD continues to play an important role in strengthening strategic readiness and operational reach.
NEPA Philharmonic & Partners Launch RxArts NEPA in Lackawanna County The NEPA Philharmonic — in collaboration with United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties; the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging; Age Friendly Lackawanna; and Marywood University Music Therapy & Visual Art Therapy — announces the launch of RxArts NEPA, one of Pennsylvania’s first dedicated arts prescription programs for older adults. The innovative pilot initiative is designed to connect under-resourced adults age 55 and older with meaningful arts experiences that promote mental health, enhance quality of life, and combat loneliness and social isolation. The program provides six free daytime arts events over a six-month period, featuring a variety of arts disciplines based on participant artistic preferences and wellness priorities, to include music, visual art, drama, and other creative experiences. A two-year economic and qualitative analysis on the impacts of the program is underway in partnership with The Institute. The program is currently open to Lackawanna County residents age 55 and older along with their caregivers, with priority given to low-income individuals and those with limited access to social and artistic opportunities. Events for the inaugural cohort will be free and held monthly on select Tuesday afternoons from September through February at Marywood University; food and transportation assistance will be available to ensure accessibility for participants in need. Interested and eligible participants or care providers can submit a free referral for themselves or someone else, available at https://agefriendlylackawanna.com/arts-therapy/. “Arts prescribing is a creative way to reduce and combat social isolation among older adults,” says Sara McDonald, Director of the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging. “Through this partnership with the NEPA Philharmonic, older adults and caregivers will connect to meaningful activities, programs, and social activities aimed at creating social connections, building a sense of belonging, reducing loneliness, and connecting with others from our community. The Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging is grateful for this partnership and opportunity to pilot this innovative program. Programs like this are what make Lackawanna County the ideal Age Friendly Community!” “Social and arts prescribing programs are growing in their impact, reducing healthcare costs and improving health outcomes across more than 30 countries and dozens of cities and states in the United States,” says Chason Goldschmitz, NEPA PHIL Executive Director. “The NEPA PHIL is proud to be part of the Age Friendly Lackawanna collaborative and to partner with United Way and Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, and we are excited to utilize the unique power of arts experiences to address the growing and critical health needs of our region, especially for older adults, through one of Pennsylvania’s first programs of this kind.” Prospective participants for RxArts NEPA may self-refer or be referred by healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, county agencies, and municipal partners. Following a referral, a dedicated Arts Navigator will contact prospective participants to confirm eligibility and assess interests, artistic preferences, and wellness goals. Selected participants will join a cohort of more than 25 older adults and their caregivers who share similar interests and wellness priorities. Each cohort member will participate in six arts-centered experiences over a six-month period. Lunch and transportation assistance will be provided as needed through the support of local partners. The program is designed to support a broad range of wellness outcomes, including cognitive enrichment, confidence, empathy, creative expression, mobility, motivation, relaxation, reminiscence, resilience, socialization, happiness, and improved sleep quality. Organizers expect the initiative to measurably reduce social isolation while contributing to improved mental health and quality of life throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. While the program is currently exclusive to Lackawanna County residents age 55 and older, the NEPA PHIL seeks to expand the program throughout the region with additional cohorts in 2027 and 2028. Support for this program has been provided by the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging; United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike; and the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy and Community Needs initiatives. For more information about Age Friendly Lackawanna and the RxArts NEPA program, visit https://agefriendlylackawanna.com/arts-therapy/. For more information about the NEPA PHIL and upcoming public events, please visit https://nepaphil.org/.
