United Way VITA Tax Preparation Program

The United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike is proud to announce the return of its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, beginning on February 4, 2025. This free service is available to qualifying individuals and families, offering assistance with tax preparation to help maximize refunds and ease the burden of filing.

The VITA Program provides free tax preparation services to individuals and families with an annual income of $67,000 or less. Certified volunteers trained by the IRS will assist in preparing and electronically filing both federal and state tax returns. This service is designed to ensure participants receive the full benefits they are entitled to, including tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC).

“We’re thrilled to, once again, support and administer the VITA Program. Continuing to help families and individuals in our community navigate the tax season with ease,” said Gary Drapek, President & CEO of United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike. “This program not only saves participants money on tax preparation fees but also helps them take advantage of critical tax credits that can provide much-needed financial relief.”

Program Details:

For more information about the VITA Program, eligibility requirements, or volunteer opportunities, please visit https://uwlc.net/initiative/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.

UNC Receives $60,000 Grant from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund

UNC is excited to announce the receiving a generous $60,000 grant from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund to support our Leaders in Training (LIT) Program.

UNC’s LIT Program is a distinctive leadership education and empowerment initiative aimed at helping disadvantaged youth, ages 13 through 18, build the skills and confidence necessary to succeed in life. Participants develop into productive citizens, critical thinkers, and leaders through mentorship, education, and a strong support network. Our program’s impact is clear, with 100% of LIT Seniors graduating high school in 2024.

In addition to its core programming, our LIT Program now provides post-graduate support, including continued mentorship, case management, and scholarships for work- and school-related needs.

This contribution from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund will help ensure the continued success which has positively impacted on the lives of hundreds of young people in the community.

The Dime Bank 2024 Dividend Results

Dimeco, Inc. (OTCQX: DIMC), the parent holding company of The Dime Bank, announces unaudited financial results for the quarter and fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.

Total assets increased $90 million or 9.1% from the end of 2023 to $1.080 billion as of December 31, 2024. The loan portfolio ended the year at $775 million, an increase of $52.9 million or 7.3% from the year prior. Deposits also increased year-over-year to $911 million, a gain of $84.5 million or 10.2%.

Dimeco’s 2024 net income of $12.9 million was $2.1 million or 19.5% greater than 2023, resulting in earnings per share of $5.12. Net income at this level produced a return on average assets of 1.25% and a return on average equity of 12.61%, an increase of 12.6% and 6.5%, respectively.

Stockholders’ Equity also increased 8.5% to $107 million. The 2024 dividend payout ratio was 31.64% providing a yield of 4.08%, with year-to-date dividends totaling $1.62 per share.

President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “I am excited to share our financial achievements for 2024. It was a year of noteworthy progress for Dimeco, Inc., marked by numerous positive outcomes. We sustained our robust growth trajectory through sound and prudent banking practices. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the future and confident that the momentum we built in 2024 will carry into 2025. Our commitment to our communities and shareholders is paramount. We value your ongoing support and unwavering dedication.”

Showcase Selected as an Alternate for 2025 SXSW Pitch

Showcase has been honored as an alternate in the prestigious 2025 SXSW Pitch competition in the Entertainment, Media, Sports & Content division. The SXSW Pitch, presented by KPMG, is a globally renowned platform for innovative startups to present their cutting-edge technology to top investors, media, and a panel of expert judges.

As one of over 70 finalists and alternates chosen across nine competitive categories, Showcase joins a distinguished group of early-stage companies making waves in their industries. Since its inception, SXSW Pitch alumni have collectively raised over $23.2 billion in funding, with success stories that include tech giants like Siri and Klout.

The SXSW Pitch Finals will take place March 8–10, 2025, in Austin, TX, where finalists will compete for recognition and awards, announced during the SXSW Pitch Awards Ceremony on March 9. Alternates like Showcase demonstrate the incredible innovation happening across the globe, and their inclusion highlights the platform’s commitment to fostering creativity and progress in entertainment and media.

Scranton Cultural Center Embarks on Major Restoration Project

The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple (SCC) embarked on a major restoration project in late 2024, which will continue over the next several years.  Included in the lengthy list of improvements are theatre repairs, which are set to begin this summer.

“We’re thrilled to finally begin this project, which has been years in the making,” noted Deborah Moran Peterson, SCC Executive Director.  “Almost every area of our building will be impacted, but we’re doing our best to limit impact on our patrons and customers.”

The theatre improvements, which include repairs to ceiling tiles and plasterwork, stenciling restoration and more, will begin this summer when the SCC has a quieter schedule. During this time, the seating area of the building’s historic theatre will be closed to the public. Weddings and events, including the Center’s vibrant Summer Camp program will remain operational. Extensive planning with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services and the team of contractors has ensured all scheduled events will proceed as planned.

“Our unique ability to access the stage from our Grand Ballroom, as designed by renowned architect Raymond Hood, will allow us to continue hosting events and programming while construction persists,” added William Schoen, SCC Board Vice President.

In addition to improvements in the main theatre, the multi-million dollar restoration project includes a complete roof and gutter overhaul, repairs to mortar and masonry, and restoration to multiple areas impacted by water damage. The SCC anticipates sharing more information about this large-scale project in the coming months.

Specific questions about the restoration project can be directed to SCC General Manager, John Cardoni at jcardoni@sccmt.org or (570) 346-7369 x107.

Scranton Area Community Foundation’s NEPA Thrives Initiative to Host Workforce Barriers Summit

The Scranton Area Community Foundation, through its NEPA Thrives initiative, invites Northeastern Pennsylvania employers to the Workforce Barriers Summit: Addressing Obstacles to Recruitment and Retention on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 9:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber Think Tank in Wilkes-Barre.

As a leading philanthropic organization in the region, the Scranton Area Community Foundation is committed to fostering systemic change and addressing the critical challenges that hinder economic growth and community well-being. This Summit exemplifies the Foundation’s dedication to creating collaborative solutions that benefit employers, workers, and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The Workforce Barriers Summit will convene human resources professionals, executives, and managers to explore and address the most pressing workforce issues impacting our region. In light of the ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce, the Summit underscores the Foundation’s leadership in identifying and implementing effective strategies to meet these urgent needs.

The event builds on the momentum generated in April 2024, when Pennsylvania Secretary of Labor and Industry Nancy Walker highlighted four significant workforce barriers—transportation, affordable housing, childcare, and broadband access—during a Capital Conservation session hosted by The Scranton Chamber of Commerce. These systemic challenges directly affect employers’ ability to maintain robust recruitment pipelines and secure long-term growth for their organizations and communities.

Additionally, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s Anchors for Equity Initiative, in partnership with The Institute, has been addressing workforce challenges since September 2023 by focusing on populations with specific needs, such as ESL workers, individuals with prior convictions, and those requiring soft skills training or industry certifications. These efforts align closely with the Summit’s goal of identifying actionable solutions to workforce barriers. By exploring how anchor institutions—such as universities, hospitals, and large employers—can contribute to workforce sustainability, this initiative highlights the importance of collective action, a key theme of the Summit. Insights from these ongoing discussions will serve as a valuable foundation for identifying strategies to strengthen recruitment, retention, and economic development across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The Workforce Barriers Summit aims to:

  • Enhance collaboration between employers and community organizations.
  • Identify existing gaps in workforce development resources.
  • Foster collective action to address barriers and drive impactful change.

Attendees will benefit from engaging discussions and actionable insights on transportation, childcare solutions, employer partnerships, state and local resources, and K-12 career development. These sessions will not only offer practical tools but also inspire innovative approaches to enhance economic development and community resilience in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

“At the Scranton Area Community Foundation, we believe that addressing workforce barriers is essential to building a thriving Northeast Pennsylvania,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This Summit reflects our commitment to uniting stakeholders and creating opportunities that support sustainable economic growth and improve quality of life for all across the region.”

Join the Scranton Area Community Foundation in this critical effort to strengthen our community and empower our workforce. For more information or to register for the Workforce Barriers Summit, please email Koren Clark, Community Impact Manager at the Scranton Area Community Foundation, at koren@safdn.org.

Pennsylvania Treasurer, Looks to the Future of the Commonwealth

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today began her second term leading the Pennsylvania Treasury Department as she took the Oath of Office during a ceremony at The Forum Auditorium.

“Pennsylvania’s potential is unlimited,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Our future will be even brighter than our past. And I can’t wait to lead Treasury in the bright days, months and years ahead.”

Treasurer Garrity was sworn into office by the Honorable Maureen Beirne, President Judge of Bradford County, who was joined by the treasurer’s brother-in-law, the Honorable Christopher P. Baker, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York.

Today’s inaugural ceremony included remarks from Governor Josh Shapiro; invocations representing Christianity, Judaism and Islam; the presentation and retiring of the colors by the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry; “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” performed by talented students from CASA Charter School in Harrisburg; and a recessional by the Quaker City String Band.

The ceremony was hosted by Rep. Tina Pickett, Treasurer Garrity’s representative in the state House, and also featured remarks from Treasurer Garrity’s husband Dan Gizzi; Treasurer Garrity’s niece Jackie Howard; Hugh Allen, who served as Treasurer Garrity’s first chief of staff; and Jeff Bartos, President of ESB Holdings.

“It’s the start of a new year, the start of a new term for Pennsylvania’s three row officers, and the start of a new legislative session,” Treasurer Garrity said. “We must put aside past disagreements, embrace this moment of opportunity, and find common ground. We cannot grow by division. We can – and will – grow by working together to make Pennsylvania a leader among states, and to make Pennsylvania a place where our next generation can succeed and prosper.”

Recognizing her staff at Treasury, she remarked on the job of the Department and its importance to every Pennsylvanian: “My team at Treasury is second to none. They work tirelessly on behalf of the taxpayers, and I want to thank them for their dedication to public service.”

She added, “We help Pennsylvanians save for education and disability-related expenses. We reconnect people with money they forgot about or never knew they had. We return precious military medals to the brave Veterans who earned them, or to their families who sacrificed so much for our country. When it comes down to it, Treasury is about people. It’s about service. It’s about public trust.”

Under Treasurer Garrity’s leadership, Treasury has returned record amounts of unclaimed property including hundreds of military decorations to Veterans and their families, reduced fees multiple times for the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program and PA ABLE, and helped the PA 529 Investment Plan be recognized as a top 529 plan in the nation for two consecutive years. The state’s Rainy Day Fund saw unprecedented growth with her dedication to working with the General Assembly and two Governors to build the state’s reserves and her decision to implement a new investment strategy.

Treasurer Garrity remains committed to increasing government transparency, cutting waste and fees, returning more than $4.5 billion in unclaimed property to its rightful owners, and making education affordable for Pennsylvanians.

Treasurer Garrity is a former businesswoman and retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel who has served the Commonwealth as Treasurer since January 19, 2021.

My Benefit Advisors: The Power of Upskilling and Professional Development in the Workplace

In today’s fast paced and evolving workplace environment, employers face numerous challenges in their efforts to remain competitive and successful. One method of establishing an essential edge is through upskilling. Upskilling is a strategy that involves investing in the development of an employee’s skill and knowledge. And upskilling not only benefits employees by enhancing their professional growth but also proves to be an asset for employers by fostering a skilled, engaged, and more productive workforce.

When a company is willing to invest in employee development, it shows genuine interest in growing people and helping them succeed…on the job and in life. By investing in upskilling programs, employers enable their workforce to stay current with industry trends and advancements in technology. As employees acquire new skills and knowledge, they become more adept at their roles and develop the necessary proficiency to handle new tools and cutting-edge systems. This adaptability translates into a more agile and future-proofed organization with increased productivity and efficiency among staff. Upskilling provides a way for employees to handle complex tasks with confidence and competence, leading to higher-quality outputs and better results for the organization.

Upskilling can be a winning strategy, enriching the career prospects for employees while contributing to the long-term success and prosperity of the employer. Embracing upskilling as a fundamental aspect of talent management can position organizations for growth and excellence in today’s dynamic and competitive business environment.

Investing in your employees helps attract and retain quality talent and further shows your employees you are interested in their professional and personal well-being. A competitive employee benefits portfolio is another way to invest in your employees.

The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at gscc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.

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Misericordia University Hosts Doctor of Physical Therapy Hooding Ceremony

Misericordia University recently celebrated the achievements of its newest Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) graduates during the annual Hooding Ceremony held on campus. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, signifying the culmination of years of rigorous academic and clinical training.

Misericordia University’s DPT program, known for its commitment to excellence in education and clinical practice, continues to prepare students for impactful careers in healthcare.

Congratulations to the Class of 2024 DPT graduates as they embark on their journeys to make a difference in their communities! To learn more about the program, click here.

Names and hometowns of graduates: Jillian Rogers, Denville, NJ; Andrea Carlson, Newton, NJ; Tara Sweeney, Jessup, PA; Matthew Myers, Hughesville, PA; Kaylee Sturans, Fredericksburg, VA; Eric Jeffies, Nanticoke, PA; Shannon Williams, Hellertown, PA; Brianna McPeak, Warrington, PA; Brianna Fox, Laurel, NY; Zoee Farr, Vestal, NY; Katrina Redline, Dallas, PA; Nicholas Toronzi, White Haven, PA; Micaela Fasolino, Poughkeepsie, NY; Sean Burg, New Castle, DE; Zackary Jayne, Towanda, PA; Matthew McCaffery, Simpson, PA; Katelyn Butczynski, Nanticoke, PA; Shelby Brittain, Milford, PA; Jacqueline Stack, Mahopac, NY; Samantha Lubin, Doylestown, PA; Ashlynn Fitzgerald, Dallas, PA; Brandon Istvan, Dover, NJ; Spencer Sundeberg, Lynbrook, NY; Thomas Vaccaro, Montrose, PA; Justin Occhipinti, Dunmore, PA; Devin Dougherty, Shavertown, PA; Kristen McCloskey, Lumberton, NJ; Alexa Wagner, Elmira, NY; Cheril Parmar, Scranton, PA; Kaden Martell, Canton, PA; John Kelley, Levittown, PA; Kyle Romanofski, Swoyersville, PA; Alexandrea Steele, Nanticoke, PA; Alanna O’Malley, Mays Landing, NJ; Zachary Johnson, Nanticoke, PA; Jason Winters, Palmer, PA; Jarod Cipriano, Scranton, PA; Wayne VanNewkirk, Honeoye Falls, NY; Dane Frantz, Lehighton, PA; Tyler German, Allentown, PA;

Misericordia University Announces Distinguished Speaker Series

Join us for an engaging workshop featuring the latest research and clinical updates on Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). All sections of this workshop will follow specific cases in childhood apraxia of speech and autism throughout the day to provide real life illustrations of concepts presented. Age ranges covered will include preschool through adolescence.

For more information and Registration please visit https://www.misericordia.edu/speech-language-pathology/distinguished-speaker-series