The Dime Bank Promotes New SVP Chief Operating Officer President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich along with the Board of Directors at The Dime Bank are pleased to announce that Melissa Bowling has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer. Melissa Bowling’s career at The Dime Bank is a testament to growth, dedication, and leadership developed from the ground up. Beginning her career with the bank in October 2008 as head teller at the Honesdale branch, Bowling steadily rose through the ranks, earning successive promotions that culminate in her appointment as chief operating officer. Throughout her tenure, Bowling advanced to assistant branch manager and later branch manager of the downtown Hawley branch, where she gained hands-on experience leading teams and managing branch operations. In October 2016, she was promoted to retail operations officer, taking on responsibility for overseeing the efficient and effective operation of all branch offices while serving as a liaison between retail branches and other departments. Bowling most recently served as vice president, retail operations manager, playing a key role in driving operational consistency, supporting branch performance, and enhancing the overall customer experience across the organization. “Missy’s journey reflects her strong work ethic, deep operational knowledge, and commitment to excellence,” Bochnovich said. As the chief operating officer, Bowling will focus on operational excellence, cross-department collaboration, and supporting The Dime Bank’s mission of delivering exceptional service throughout our branch network in Wayne, Pike, and Lackawanna Counties. “She understands The Dime Bank from the ground up and brings valuable perspective to the chief operating officer role. Please join me in congratulating her on this career milestone,” Bochnovich said.
NEPA Philharmonic’s Contest Opens Doors for Local Artists The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic brought the local music scene to life with its Battle of the Bands event, drawing more than 400 attendees for an evening that celebrated the region’s outstanding original artists. Hosted in partnership with Mohegan PA, and presented by ROCK107, the event featured electrifying performances by Rogue Chimp; Chasing Ashlee; Tori V & the Karma; So Much Hope, Buried.; Jay Orrell Band; The Sorters; One Revived; and Gracie Jane Sinclair & The Band. Each set delivered a distinctive sound and style, representative of the diversity and talent within the local music scene. Additional support from Guitar Center lent itself to state-of-the-art equipment utilized by each of the bands, who were able to perform their eight-minute sets and switch with each other in just a few minutes. Popko, of the Popko Project on ROCK107, was the emcee for the event, conducting interviews between sets as the bands each noted how thrilled they were to be a part of such a unique local event, giving them an opportunity that is one of the first of its kind to be presented by a professional symphony orchestra. The panel of judges included NEPA Philharmonic Music Director Mélisse Brunet, NEPA Philharmonic Executive Director Chason Goldschmitz, NEPA Philharmonic Concertmaster Ruotao Mao, Mohegan PA’s Director of Events Jennifer Ducharme, ROCK107’s on air host Kait, PA State Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, and Marywood University’s Director of Choral Activities Rick Hoffenberg. Gracie Jane Sinclair & The Band earned the $1,000 Audience Choice Award and went on to claim the Grand Prize of $5,000. So Much Hope, Buried. received the Second Prize Award of $1,000. As part of the Grand Prize, Gracie Jane Sinclair & The Band will perform with the full Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic orchestra on a future date in their 2026-2027 season, which is to be announced. The NEPA Philharmonic’s Battle of the Bands reflects the organization’s drive to engage with local talent and vitalize the community with music performances that are unique and accessible to all audiences. For more information about upcoming events and programs, visit NEPAPHIL.org, or call the Philharmonic Box Office at (570) 270-4444.
Applications Open for Geisinger Hospital Elder Life Program Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center, Geisinger Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are accepting volunteer applications for the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) Help is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of older adults. Traditionally designed for college students studying health care, HELP is now expanding to include adults (18+) with an interest in health care including retired doctors, nurses or other healthcare professionals. HELP volunteers receive specialized training to support patients age 65 and older through therapeutic activities, patient and family education, and mobilization and socialization. These interventions help prevent cognitive and functional decline during hospitalization. Volunteers who meet requirements may qualify for: Leadership opportunities Physician and advanced practitioner shadowing opportunities A letter of reference for medical school or other healthcare programs HELP runs year-round, with three application periods: Summer semester Apply: February Orientation: Mid-May Service begins: May Fall semester Apply: May Orientation: Early September Service begins: September Spring semester Apply: September Orientation: Mid-December Service begins: December/January Applications for the summer 2026 semester are open now. Those interested should apply online at go.geisinger.org/elderlife. For more information, call 570-808-6124 or email Deanna Dunning, program manager, at ddunning@geisinger.edu.
Wayne Bank Promotes Anna Van Acker to Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer Wayne Bank promotes new Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer, Anna Van Acker. “Anna’s professionalism, drive, and commitment to our commercial customers make her exceptionally deserving of this promotion,” said Mr. Donnelly. “Since joining Wayne Bank, she has demonstrated strong credit expertise, sound judgment, and a collaborative approach that consistently delivers value for our clients and our Bank. Her leadership and dedication will continue to strengthen our commercial lending team and support the long-term success of the businesses we serve.” Anna began her banking career in 2018 as a management trainee and joined Wayne Bank in 2021 as a Commercial Lender. Her strong work ethic, relationship-focused approach, and ability to drive positive results have contributed to her rapid success at Wayne Bank, leading to her promotion to Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer. In this role, Anna is responsible for developing and managing commercial lending relationships, structuring and underwriting credit requests, and working closely with business owners to provide tailored financial solutions that support growth and long-term sustainability. Anna attended the University of Scranton, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in French Language and Literature. She is passionate about working with local business owners to help transform their visions into reality and finds the greatest satisfaction in watching her clients’ businesses grow into trusted community landmarks. Inspired by her parents, Anna discovered her passion for community service early in life. She currently serves on the boards of directors for the Human Resources Center, PAWS of NEPA, the Honesdale Area Jaycees, and NEPA Alliance, and is a member of the PA Bankers Young Professionals Committee. In addition, Anna facilitates web management and social media outreach for Habitat for Humanity of Wayne County. Anna resides in Pike County with her husband, Mark, son, Jack, and their dog, Faust.
Greater Scranton YMCA Searches for Camp Counselors The Greater Scranton YMCA is hiring day camp counselors for summer 2026. Camp counselors have an opportunity to make a difference in kids’ lives and have fun every single day. At the Greater Scranton YMCA, camp counselors are more than supervisors. They lead games, guide adventures and help kids discover their confidence in a safe, welcoming environment. “As we prepare to welcome campers starting June 15th, our summer day camp counselors will be at the heart of every experience,” said Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director at the Greater Scranton YMCA. “Their guidance, energy, and care help create a fun, safe environment where kids can learn, grow, and thrive.” Whether you’re a student looking for leadership experience, a teacher seeking a meaningful summer or someone who just loves the energy of camp, there’s no place like the YMCA to spend your summer. Learn more and apply today at https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/jobs/ or by contacting Tressa at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
Geisinger Junior Volunteer Program Applications Are Open Geisinger Community Medical Center, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, Geisinger Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are accepting applications for the Junior Volunteer Program (JVP). JVP is a six-week summer program designed to engage high school students ages 15 to 18 in meaningful service and interactive learning experiences while exploring health care careers. Applications are accepted from Sunday, Feb. 1, through Friday, Feb. 20, for the 2026 program. The JVP offers students the opportunity to: Contribute through hands-on volunteer service Learn about a variety of health care career paths Make a positive impact in their communities Earn awards for the hours they serve Returning second- and third-year participants can also apply to become JVP Leaders, gaining leadership training, mentorship and firsthand experience in patient care and hospital operations. Program requirements include an online application, references, essay, interview and orientation. Participants must commit to 40 service hours, 15 educational hours and attend at least five of the six program weeks. Interested teens can apply and find key dates and details at geisinger.org/juniorvolunteer. For more information, email volunteers@geisinger.edu or call 570-214-6021.
NEPA Philharmonic Highlights “Dreams & Klezmer” The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic present an upcoming program that highlights the rich history and expression of Klezmer music and Jewish culture. Attend an intimate chamber music program, “Dreams & Klezmer.” The program is Sunday, February 22nd at 3:00pm at the WVIA Sordoni Theatre in Pittston. The “Dreams & Klezmer” chamber concert weaves together the expressive fire of klezmer music with mystical and dreamlike modern works. The music explores themes of memory, spirituality, and cultural tradition through a soundscape of Jewish mysticism, folk tradition, and dance. This evocative program for clarinet and string quartet features Osvaldo Golijov’s mesmerizing and powerful “Dreams and Prayers of Isaac the Blind,” music by Dmitri Shostakovich. The concert also has traditional klezmer melodies arranged by NEPA Philharmonic violinist and Chamber Series coordinator Sasha Margolis. The concert features an ensemble including Margolis on violin, NEPA Philharmonic Principal Clarinetist Pascal Archer, Principal Cellist Lucas Button, violinist Robyn Quinnett, and guest violist Mialtin Zhezha. The NEPA Philharmonic 25-26 Season is presented by PNC; Philharmonic season media sponsors include WVIA, Lamar Advertising, Halibut Blue, Happenings Magazine, and Darren Elias Photography. The Philharmonic Chamber Series is presented by the Stoppini Family Foundation, and the Dreams & Klezmer program is presented by the Robert H. Spitz Foundation. A generous grant from the Robert H. Spitz Foundation’s Spring 2025 Grant Cycle, provided through the Scranton Area Community Foundation, underwrites for the event, as well as a distribution of free Angel Tickets for upcoming Philharmonic concerts to local Jewish non-profit organizations serving community members in need. Tickets for concert are $29 in advance or $35 at the door, with limited seating available. For tickets or more information, visit NEPAPHIL.org, or call the Philharmonic Box Office at (570) 270-4444.
The Wright Center for Community Health Offers Dementia Education Sessions The Wright Center for Community Health, in collaboration with Age Friendly Lackawanna, is offering free, informative sessions to help people better understand and support loved ones with dementia. Led by a specially trained Dementia Champion, these one-hour sessions focus on increasing knowledge about dementia and small, practical, everyday ways to support people who have it. Participants can attend a session in person or virtually. “We know that receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be overwhelming,” said Nicole Flynn, the director of The Wright Center’s geriatrics service line. “These sessions are a great way to learn more and become more familiar with how to help your loved ones with dementia.” Dementia Champion sessions will be available on: Feb. 17 from 3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, 501 S. Washington Ave. March 13 from 2-3 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley, 5 S. Washington Ave. April 15 from 3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave. May 15 from 2-3 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley, 5 S. Washington Ave. June 23 from3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, 501 S. Washington Ave. July 15 from 3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Sept. 22 from 3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton, 501 S. Washington Ave. Oct. 23 from 2-3 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley, 5 S. Washington Ave. Nov. 18 from 3-4 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Wilkes-Barre, 169 N. Pennsylvania Ave. For more information, including how to join a session virtually, contact Flynn at flynnn@TheWrightCenter.org. The Wright Center has been a community leader in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, offering the nationally recognized Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care (ADC) Program, where geriatricians, advanced practitioners, and dementia care specialists at The Wright Center work closely with each patient’s primary care and referring physicians to develop a personalized care plan. The program also provides ongoing patient monitoring and round-the-clock access to assistance and advice, helping patients avoid emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Learn more at TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
Wayne Bank Announces Transition to Enhance Wealth Management Services Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce a transition in the Bank’s brokerage and investment platforms, moving from LPL Financial to Cetera Wealth Services, LLC. “Our transition to Cetera Wealth Services supports our continued focus on enhancing our wealth management offerings, improving our service capabilities for our customers, and keeping the trusted relationships our customers rely on front and center,” said Joseph Adams, Senior Vice President & Director of Wealth Management and Investment Services. “Our commitment to personalized guidance and long-term relationships will remain unchanged.” Cetera Wealth Services will provide the investment services previously offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL”), effective March 1, 2026. Wayne Bank’s current LPL-affiliated Financial Professionals will associate with Cetera Wealth Services. A premier independent broker-dealer with more than 25 years of experience, Cetera Wealth Services offers a wide range of carefully screened financial solutions designed to meet the needs of both investors and financial professionals. This administrative change aligns with Wayne Bank’s long-term goals of enhanced service, expanded resources, and a strong client experience. Most importantly, clients trusted advisory relationships with the Wayne Bank team will remain unchanged, and the Bank will continue to serve as the primary point of contact and steward of each customers’ financial plan. Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp., Member FDIC, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.
The Chamber Announces Scranton Business Award Winners The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announces the winners of the 2026 SAGE, ATHENA Leadership, and Milestone Awards. The recipients will be recognized at the 157th Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, on March 25, at the Scranton Cultural Center. The Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence (SAGE), recognize the outstanding efforts, talent, creativity, and innovation within the northeastern Pennsylvania business community. The SAGE for Business of the Year The SAGE for Business of the Year, sponsored by Fidelity Bank, recognizes a business that has a clear strategic vision and has demonstrated growth in at least one of the following categories: customers, revenue, product and services, or employees. The 2026 SAGE Business of the Year will be presented to Basalyga Hospitality. Basalyga Hospitality is a food, beverage, and entertainment business creating dining, nightlife, and hospitality experiences throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Its multi-faceted portfolio includes eight properties that span from taverns to movie theaters to fine dining. Its mission is to restore and revitalize buildings and create new business opportunities while providing exemplary service to our community. The SAGE for Small Business of the Year This SAGE for Small Business of the Year, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank, recognizes a business that has demonstrated growth in at least one of the following categories: customers, revenue, product and services, or employees. The 2026 SAGE Small Business of the Year will be presented to Everything Natural. Everything Natural is a community-focused health and wellness store dedicated to elevating the well-being of its customers. Originally established in 1985 as one of the region’s first health food and supplements store, the business has evolved and provides healthy grab-and-go meals, a fitness studio, and educational opportunities for its customers. The business is laser-focused on serving its community through event sponsorships and providing support to community groups and organizations in the area. The SAGE for Community Involvement Excellence The SAGE for Community Involvement Excellence, sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water, recognizes a business that has made outstanding contributions to its community through philanthropy or the investment of financial or other resources, such as time, talent, materials/facility/equipment, or involvement of staff or others in the organization. The 2026 SAGE Community Involvement Excellence will be presented to CHOP Out Hunger (CHOP). CHOP is a nonprofit organization with the mission to eradicate childhood hunger. CHOP works alongside schools, businesses, and community partners to ensure children have food when they need it the most. CHOP serves approximately 45,000 children across Pennsylvania, partnering with 150 schools and community organizations. The ATHENA Leadership Award The ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti, LLC, CPA, is presented to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her/his business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award will be presented to Laureen “Laurie” Cadden. For more than 35 years, Laurie Cadden has shared her time and talents with dozens of civic organizations and charities in northeastern Pennsylvania. In addition to her love of the arts, Cadden has committed herself to empowering women through financial education and literacy. Through decades of hands-on service and leadership, she has helped shape a more vibrant, equitable, and connected community in which women are encouraged to lead, invest, and thrive. The 2026 Milestone Awards The Milestone Award, sponsored by NBT Bank, recognizes businesses and nonprofits celebrating anniversaries in 5-year increments. A. Pickett Construction Automated Lifestyles Ballet Theatre of Scranton – The Presentation of the Nutcracker Blu Elefante Events Community Bank, N.A. Crystal Window & Door Systems PA Damage Control, Inc. EHEALTH Wellness & Fitness Studio, Inc. Golden Technologies Groove Brewing Home Health Care Professionals & Hospice – HHCP La Festa Italiana Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania Nibbles and Bits Northeast Regional Cancer Institute PA Advocates Inc Mohegan Pennsylvania (Pocono Downs) Pulman Interiors Quest Studio Scranton Jazz Festival Serving Seniors Inc. The Dime Bank The Honesdale National Bank The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education TravelWorld United Sports Academy United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Wayne Bank WRC, Inc. (formerly Women’s Resource Center) WVIA Additionally, all SAGE and Milestone recipients will have the opportunity to be chosen as the 2026 SAGE People’s Choice Award recipient, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank and Trust. The winner will be chosen at the 157th Chamber Annual Dinner using a live online voting platform.
