Outreach Hosts Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast to Celebrate National Volunteer Month April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate and honor those who give back to their community. Volunteers are at the center of Outreach—Center for Community Resources‘ work. To show this appreciation, Outreach hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on Friday, April 4th, at the Seventh Avenue Center in Scranton. The breakfast invited those who give their valuable time and resources to the organization throughout the year to come together and be honored for their efforts. Volunteers are crucial to the success of Outreach’s programming. Volunteering opportunities include tutoring GED participants, becoming a youth mentor as part of the Skyview STEM after-school programming, sorting and wrapping gifts for Outreach’s Toyland Workshop, helping clean the grounds of the Center, and so many more opportunities and events throughout the year. If you are interested in learning more, contact Julie Chowanec at 570-558-7569 or email outreachworks@outreachworks.org Since 1988, Outreach – Center for Community Resources has served individuals and families in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The mission of Outreach is to help individuals and families attain economic self-sufficiency and family stability through evidence-based programming. Outreach has served over 30,000 individuals throughout the region in 35 years, including many living at or below the poverty line. Outreach is committed to helping move families forward towards brighter tomorrows.
Marywood Alumnus and Trustee Michael E. Bugno to Chair “Celebrate Marywood” Fundraiser Michael E. Bugno, a Marywood University alumnus and trustee, will chair Marywood University’s flagship annual fundraising event, Celebrate Marywood, on Thursday, May 1, 2025, 5:30 p.m. This vibrant event will take place outdoors in the stunning Motherhouse and Seminary Morgan Memorial Garden for a unique experience in a distinctly Marywood way. The celebration will honor Marywood former trustee Richard Kane and his wife, Erin. Dedicated community advocates, the Kanes have made remarkable contributions to Marywood and various organizations across Northeast Pennsylvania. Mr. Bugno, formerly of Clarks Summit, is an accomplished experiential marketing and strategic global events leader, with more than 20 years of planning and executing successful corporate trade shows and events for mid-sized and Fortune 150 companies. Presently, he is the Vice President, Enterprise Experiential Marketing, for Fiserv, based in New York, N.Y. Prior to Fiserv, Mr. Bugno held a number of leadership positions at Lectra, Food Network, and Comedy Central. He began his career at Walt Disney World, where he was involved in College & International Marketing and Recruiting. Mr. Bugno graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in theatre arts administration in 1998, and he has had a longstanding relationship with the university ever since. He received the Marywood Alumni Association Recent Graduate Award in 2004 and served as a Marywood University trustee from 2006-2015. In 2019, he again joined Marywood’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Bugno has co-chaired and/or worked on sponsorships for the Annual Community Leadership Celebration, now reimagined as Celebrate Marywood, since its inception in 2014. Celebrate Marywood is the University’s signature fundraiser, providing special support to Marywood students and honoring individuals in the community who exemplify Marywood’s core values in leadership and service to others. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit needed campus improvements. To join Marywood University in honoring Richard and Erin Kane, at Celebrate Marywood on May 1, please visit marywood.edu/celebratemarywood for ticket and sponsorship information, or call (570) 348-6238.
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Robert Ferraro to VP, Area Manager Kate Bryant, President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank announced Robert Ferraro has been promoted to VP, Area Manager. In making the announcement, Bryant stated, “Bob’s promotion to Vice President highlights his commitment to servicing our customers and our branch teams.” She continued, “His leadership and dedication continue to provide a positive impact for our Bank, and we look forward to his continued success.” As VP, Area Manager, Ferraro will continue in his responsibility for overseeing all the organization’s branches, developing and implementing business plans to achieve area-wide goals and objectives. He will supervise and support branch managers, providing guidance on operations, sales, and customer service. He is a graduate of Abington Heights High School and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from the University of Scranton. Ferraro has been in the financial industry for 24 years. He has developed a comprehensive understanding of banking operations through various roles, including customer service, sales, marketing, and branch management. These experiences have equipped him with a unique blend of customer-focused and operational expertise. Reflecting on his promotion at the Bank, Ferraro noted, “I appreciate the opportunity to work for a company that shares my passion for delivering outstanding customer experiences and fostering meaningful relationships with our clients.” Outside of the Bank, he is an active member of the Junior Cougar Football Association. In his free time, he enjoys coaching young athletes on the football field, helping children develop their passion for the sport. At home, he is a devoted husband to his wife. They are blessed with two wonderful children and two loving pets. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
Marywood to Feature Former NFL Quarterback Ron Jaworski as Commencement Speaker Ron Jaworski will deliver the commencement address at Marywood University’s graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre, PA. After a distinguished 17-year NFL career, with a Super Bowl appearance, Pro Bowl selection, an MVP award, and an Eagles Hall of Fame induction, the “CEO-Quarterback” Ron Jaworski has been teaching and coaching football fans on TV and radio as a multiplatform NFL analyst, with feature roles that included ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown, Monday Night Countdown, the NFL Matchup show, NFL-branded specials, Mike & Mike in the Morning, Pardon the Interruption, ESPN’s Monday Night Football, NFL Network’s Film Sessions, and currently on Westwood One’s NFL Radio broadcast coverage, was a part of the True To Your Heart podcast, focused on cardiovascular health, and the co-host of NBC Sports Philadelphia Eagles’ Pre-Game Live and Post-Game Live. Aside from his storied history on the football field, “Jaws” remains committed to civic activity and philanthropy and has received numerous recognitions for his community service. Ron and his wife Liz Jaworski created the Jaws Youth Playbook Foundation, which focuses on a mission to improve the overall health and wellness of at-risk youth, primarily in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Annually, Ron and his foundation have partnered with HOF Coach Mike Ditka to host the Ditka-Jaws Cigars with the Stars party every year at the Super Bowl, and the annual Ron Jaworski Celebrity Golf Challenge in South Jersey to raise money for the charity. To date, the Jaworski family is proud to have donated over $8 million to at-risk youth. A successful entrepreneur, Jaws owns a Relationship Marketing company called Business Clubs America. In addition, he operates eight signature golf courses in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Ron is also the current celebrity spokesman for the new Live! Casino & Hotel, Philadelphia, after partnering with the Cordish Gaming group and their new landmark property in South Philadelphia.
Pocono Sign Company Earns National Recognition Pocono Sign Company, a family-owned business serving the Northeast Pennsylvania region, has been honored with two highly prestigious awards in the sign industry: the Top Young Sign Maker’s Award and a spot among the Top 5 Women in Signs. The recognition comes at a pivotal time for the company, as it continues to expand its reach along the East Coast and solidifies its position as an industry leader. The awards, presented by Sign Builder Illustrated and Signs of the Times, acknowledge the exceptional achievements of co-owner Lauren Terwilliger and the company’s growth and resilience in an ever-evolving industry. “We are super humbled and excited to be going to the Vegas ISA Sign Expo,” said Lauren Terwilliger, who co-founded Pocono Sign Company with her husband, John. “It is not every day that a family owned, NEPA sign business is selected for these awards, so we are really proud to represent NEPA.” In an article from Sign Builder Illustrated, Lauren Terwilliger was celebrated for her perseverance and business acumen. Despite facing challenges, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pocono Sign Company emerged stronger than ever. The Terwilligers’ decision to construct a new manufacturing facility, along with strategic investments in their business, have allowed the company to double its demand and expand its capabilities. “Our strategy is to become more of an East Coast manufacturing facility with expansive capabilities,” Terwilliger explained. Notably, one of the company’s most impressive projects was the design and installation of a unique, book-themed sign for the Middle Smithfield Township Community and Cultural Center. Lauren’s contributions to the sign industry were also recognized in Signs of the Times, where she was named one of the Top 5 Women in Signs. Her journey to becoming a leader in the field began when she transitioned from a teaching career due to health challenges. Lauren and John established Pocono Sign Company as a home-based business, and over time, the company grew significantly, offering wholesale services to local sign companies and taking on increasingly complex and high-profile projects. Under her leadership, Pocono Sign Company has completed several standout projects, including a replica of an 80-year-old theater marquee in Montrose and a carved library sign featuring dimensional books. Her leadership has been instrumental in the company’s success, and her commitment to work-life balance has set a positive example for others in the industry. “Your clients come in looking for your help to make the impossible and you make the impossible.” said Lauren. “When you step back and look at what you’ve accomplished, your clients are so happy because you helped them get there.” Pocono Sign Company will be formally recognized at the International Sign Association’s (ISA) Sign Expo in Las Vegas the week of April 21. This event brings together sign makers from across the country, and Pocono Sign Company is excited to share its success story and future aspirations.
RailRiders announce return of College Rush & Military offers Two popular offers back in 2025 for college students and active or retired members of the military The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, have announced two special offers for the upcoming 2025 season. After popular runs in 2024, the College Rush ticket offer has returned for students and the Military Discount has been upgraded for active or retired members of the Armed Forces. College Rush College students can get $10 bleacher seats for any home game at PNC Field this season. Tickets can be purchased using the student’s valid .edu email address on the RailRiders website, and is limited to two tickets per transaction. Please note that this offer is valid for every game of the 2025 season with the exception of July 4. Military Discount Active or retired members of the military will receive $5 off tickets purchased at the RailRiders Box Office at PNC Field when they show a valid identification card. The offer is good for up to six tickets per person and valid for any home game in 2025. Single-game and season tickets are on sale now. For more information, contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com to purchase tickets online.
Greater Scranton YMCA Sets Kids Up For Summer at Healthy Kids Day Free and open to the public, this annual event features a day of fun filled activities to celebrate kids being kids. The Greater Scranton YMCA is hosting the Y’s annual Healthy Kids Day® on Saturday, May 3rd at 10:00 a.m. located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore. This free, annual event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families and a healthy start to the summer season. Sponsored nationally by Peanuts, Healthy Kids Day’s mission is to prepare families in our community for a safe, healthy and fun summer. Some featured activities include rides, a vendor fair, bounce houses, face painting, first responders, and more. The celebration will kick-off with a free one-mile family fun walk at 10:00 a.m. Registration is not required. “It is so important for kids to stay active over the summer, both physically and mentally,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “At the Y, we believe in providing resources for families to create healthy habits, no matter the time of year. Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free community-wide event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great summer activities the Y has to offer.” Locally, Healthy Kids Day is sponsored by Air Excellence, Scartelli Construction, Community Bank, NET Credit Union, Matrix, Precor, Cal Mal Vending Services, TOPP Business Solutions, and Brucelli Advertising. For more information, contact Brandon Whipple, Senior Program Director and Coordinator of Healthy Kids Day, at (570) 828-3116 or bwhipple@gsymca.org. You can also visit the Greater Scranton YMCA online!
Johnson College Hosts Debut Event for Bracey Hall Johnson College celebrated the completion of Bracey Hall during a debut event at its Scranton campus on April 2, 2025. This new facility has doubled the size of the former Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning (HVAC) laboratory to provide necessary training facilities for the College’s growing Building Trades programs, specifically HVAC Technology and Electrical Construction Technology. Members of the Johnson College community and the Bracey family gathered to see the newly constructed building that will allow more students to enroll in the College’s hands-on Building Trades programs to meet industry needs throughout the region and beyond. “We prepare our students for the workforce from the moment they step on campus, ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of technology and industry,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO of Johnson College. “This building—Bracey Hall—will help us do just that. It’s vital to our continued growth and success, allowing us to better serve the increasing demand for skilled technicians and technologists.” Bracey Hall is one of four components of the College’s comprehensive, five-year capital campaign, “Innovation at Work.” It was named after the Bracey family in recognition of their immense support of Johnson College and its building trades programs. The Bracey’s pledged a major gift to the College’s capital campaign, aiding its mission to meet the needs of its students, industry partners, and the community through real-world, hands-on, and industry-driven education. In addition to the transformational gift from the Bracey family, the College was awarded a $1 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through the City of Scranton. The grant will help the College expand its workforce development programming for high-tech and in-demand fields, including HVAC and Electrical Construction. The HVAC and Electrical Construction Technology programs also benefitted from a $280,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant for campus technology upgrades. Walter Wood ’11, HVAC Program Director and Chair of the Building Trades Division at Johnson College is elated by the opportunities the new space will provide his students. “The demand for skilled technicians is increasing, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of preparing our students for success in various industries, both locally and globally. This expansion is about more than just space—it’s about creating an environment that fosters innovation, teamwork, and excellence,” he said. Construction of Bracey Hall began in 2024, following the official reveal of the building, designed by Studio KLP Architects. Under the construction management of L.R. Costanzo Co., Inc., the building took shape quickly with the help of many of Johnson College’s industry partners and alumni.
Northeast Regional Cancer Institute Announces New Officers and Members to the Board of Directors The Northeast Regional Cancer Institute’s Board of Directors elected new officers. Holly Roever Carron, was elected as Chair of the Board of Directors, Maria Montoro Edwards, Ph.D, Vice Chair, Susan Belin, Secretary and John Ruddy, DPS, CFA, CPA, Treasurer. In addition to the new officers, the Board of Directors appointed four new Board members, Gail Smeraldi, DPM, Amber L. Sobuto, D.O., John J. Sobuto, D.O., and David J. Grega, CPA. Holly Roever Carron is President at HW Roever Inc, a family operated Real Estate Holding company and former Dunkin franchisee. Holly is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University at University Park with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and International Business with a concentration in Spanish. She currently serves as Chair of the Board at St. Joseph’s Center, an organization designed to assist those with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays and sits on the Family Business Alliance Board. Ms. Carron has also begun a new career in college admissions as a First Reader at the University of Miami. Gail Smeraldi, DPM is a retired Podiatrist, the 2024-2025 CASUAL Day Co-Chair, an active community fundraiser and a mother of two, Hayley and Caleb. Amber L. Sobuto, D.O. is board-certified in Hematology, Oncology and Internal Medicine. She is a Hematologist/Oncologist with Hematology & Oncology Associates. Dr. Sobuto is a graduate of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her fellowship in Hematology and Oncology and her residence in Internal Medicine at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, PA. She is a mother of four children, Giovanni, Scarlett, and twin girls Livianna and Juliet. John J. Sobuto D.O. is a Pulmonologist with Geisinger and will be transitioning to the Lehigh Valley Physician Group in May 2025. Dr. Sobuto is a graduate of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed Fellowship training at Lankenau Medical Center. His specialty is in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine. He holds board certifications in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine all under the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Sobuto has a special interest in Advanced Bronchoscopy with a focus on early-stage lung cancer diagnostics. He is a member of the American College of Chest Physicians and the American Thoracic Society. Dr. Sobuto is a father of four children, Giovanni, Scarlett, and twin girls Livianna and Juliet. David J. Grega, CPA is the Corporate Controller at Medico Construction Equipment, Inc., where he is responsible for overseeing all accounting and financial operations while playing a key role in driving the company’s growth. Before joining Medico Construction Equipment, Inc., David served as a Director at McGrail Merkel Quinn & Associates, P.C., bringing 16 years of experience in public accounting. David holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Wilkes University and resides in Shavertown with his wife Sarah and their three children. David is a member of the Knights of Columbus and has previously served on the Finance Committee at Wyoming Valley Country Club. He also dedicates his time as a coach for both Back Mountain Little League and Lake-Lehman Youth Basketball.
