Misericordia University to Hold Summer Theater Camp Join us July 21–26, 2025, for PATA Summer 2025—an inclusive, high-energy performance arts program for youth of all abilities! Held at Misericordia University, this exciting week blends music, dance, theater, and creativity in a supportive and inspiring environment. Learn more and register at patasphere.org/summer-pata-2025.
Grey Towers, Finger Bowl Held at Pinchot Dining Room Come enjoy a unique and historical dining experience at the outdoor Finger Bowl at Grey Towers National Historic Site in Milford, PA, home of two-time governor and conservationist Gifford Pinchot, on July 19 at 5 p.m. Considered Grey Towers’ most popular feature, The Finger Bowl served as the Pinchot family’s outdoor dining room. Added in 1934 to the French-style mansion and gardens constructed in the 1880s By James and Mary Pinchot, the unique water-filled table was the site of many lively discussions about politics, social issues, and conservation efforts. “The food was passed to guests by floating filled wooden bowls and balsa rafts on the water. The opening in the wisteria-covered pergola permitted moonlight to radiate across the water. This recreation of those dinners, which we first did last year with a sold-out audience, is a very romantic and magical evening for everyone,” promises Linda Pinto, GTHA Board member and one of the event’s organizers. Grey Towers Heritage Association invites members and the general public to enjoy a tribute to this lovely tradition in mid-summer as they savor delicious foods prepared and served in the tradition of the Pinchot family’s dinner celebrations. A wine and hors d’oeuvres reception starts at 5 p.m., with dinner seating at 6 p.m. around the water-filled Finger Bowl table, and at tables that line the perimeter of the pergola. Only pergola seats are currently available, and those seats provide an equally magical evening. Seating is limited, so reserve yours now at https://greytowers.org/event/finger-bowl-candlelight-dinner/. A second Fingerbowl dinner will take place on September 5 as a fundraiser for the Heritage Association’s Legacy Scholarship, which awards scholarships to tri-state public high school students who plan to study natural resources, science, economics, ecology, education, and social sciences. Tickets for that dinner are also on sale now at https://greytowers.org/events.
Geisinger Cuts Ribbon on New Cancer Center in Dickinson City Standalone facility expands care close to home for Lackawanna County Geisinger officials, employees and community partners gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 19, to celebrate the impending opening of a new state-of-the-art cancer center. Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City, expected to see its first patients on June 23, will expand cancer services, offer more appointments in the community and keep care closer to home for the residents of Lackawanna County. Planning for the cancer center was driven by research that showed cancer-related visits are expected to increase in Geisinger’s northeast region by 7% between 2022 and 2032, and demand for chemotherapy is expected to grow by more than 9% between 2022 and 2027. “Every program expansion we complete at Geisinger is driven by the needs of the communities we serve,” said Ron Beer, chief administrative officer of Geisinger’s northeast region. “Lackawanna County and surrounding communities deserve a cancer center of this caliber, where all of the specialty care and supportive care they need can be delivered in one modern facility.” Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City is 61,000 square feet and home to 22 infusion bays, a hematology and oncology clinic with 17 exam rooms, and dedicated spaces for multidisciplinary care and palliative care. It will also provide radiation oncology — a first for Geisinger in Lackawanna County — as well as a pharmacy and laboratory services. The campus features a variety of patient amenities, including food services, and a courtyard with gardens and natural views. The cancer center was designed with a focus on patient experience. The infusion area, for example, was built around a circular garden that provides a serene view for anyone receiving infusion therapy. “This facility is our commitment to making sure our patients never have to leave Lackawanna County to receive outstanding care during one of the most difficult times of their life,” said Rajiv Panikkar, M.D., chair of the Geisinger Cancer Institute. “This new cancer center and our team of exceptional providers, in partnership with our comprehensive care teams, allow us to offer our patients leading-edge treatment, advanced technologies and access to a variety of clinical trials.” The opening of the cancer center reinforces Geisinger’s pledge to offer the best quality care to everyone it serves. It complements the Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, where there is also an inpatient unit for treatment of more complex cancers. “Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City continues our legacy of investing in our communities so their residents can live their best, healthiest lives, said Terry Gilliland, M.D., president and CEO of Geisinger. Because we do more than treat patients — we treat people, families and communities. And we’ll continue to do so for decades to come.” Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City is at 703 Martin F. Gibbons Blvd., at the north end of Viewmont Drive, near Dickson City Crossings, Viewmont Mall and Interstate 81. To learn more about cancer care in Lackawanna County, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute.
The Chamber Board Advocates for WVIA’s Impact As you are certainly aware, the White House formally asked Congress to rescind federal funding appropriated for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). This effort would zero out funds already approved by Congress to fund CPB (and NPR and PBS) over the next two years. This is significant to all of us in northeastern Pennsylvania as our public broadcasting station, WVIA, receives approximately $1.2 million in critical federal funding from CPB each year—roughly 20% of its overall budget. If this funding is cut, WVIA could be forced to immediately reduce or eliminate important television and radio programs and resources, and emergency broadcasting services. Perhaps most notable, they would have to re-examine the allocation of resources currently invested in local news. Over the past few years, WVIA has grown its new division in both mediums—providing a valuable additional local perspective on issues and topics of interest to our communities. Further, WVIA long-form news programming allows the station to drill deeper on many subjects of local import, serving the public in both civic and economic realms. WVIA has delivered relevant, in-depth programing for nearly 60 years, including award-winning locally produced documentaries, performances, news and public affairs programs across TV, radio, and digital platforms. On behalf of the Board of Directors of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, we ask you to reject this proposed action, and send a signal of your support of WVIA—an invaluable regional asset.
Maternal & Family Health Services Held Inaugural Education Seminar On June 12, more than 100 healthcare professionals, advocates, and community leaders from across northeastern and central Pennsylvania gathered at the Hilton Scranton for the first-ever Regional Maternal Health Coalition Educational Seminar, hosted by Maternal and Family Health Services (MFHS) in partnership with The Institute. The seminar marked the official launch of the Regional Maternal Health Coalition (RMHC), a multi-county initiative designed to address maternal health disparities and improve maternal health outcomes through local collaboration. The event brought together 110 registrants representing at least 14 counties and a wide array of organizations, including healthcare providers, public health agencies, academic institutions, nonprofits, and community advocates. The seminar focused on the Coalition’s five priority areas, aligned with the Pennsylvania Maternal Health Strategic Plan, and served as the first step in building a unified regional response to pressing maternal health challenges. Notable speakers and attendees included: Dr. Maria Montoro Edwards, President & CEO, MFHS Jill Avery-Stoss, President, The Institute Sara Goulet, Special Advisor to the PA Secretary of Human Services Dr. Aasta Mehta, Director, Division of Maternal, Child, and Family Health, Philadelphia Department of Public Health Dr. Marc Rabin, MFHS and Physicians Health Alliance Dr. Amanda Flicker, Lehigh Valley Health Network Dr. Imanni Sheppard, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Claudia Streets Cramer, Maternal Health Advocate Representative Bridget Kosierowski, PA 114th District Attendees had the opportunity to hear expert presentations, share ideas, and contribute to the development of strategies that will drive local action and advocacy moving forward. Resources from the event, including speaker presentations, are available at mfhs.org/rmhc.
The Waverly Community House – Cars & Coffee, Summer Concerts, and Waverly Wine Fest Hosted on the Comm Lawn and grounds, guests are invited to gain a unique glimpse of collectible automobiles ranging from classic to exotic, antique cars and hot rods. Many of the owners remain by their vehicles and are delighted to share their knowledge with admirers. This event is free and open to the public with donations gratefully accepted. Complimentary coffee and snacks provided! Join us for our summer concerts! These concerts will take place on the Comm back lawn and provide a perfect opportunity for families and friends to gather together and enjoy great music in a serene outdoor setting. Bring your own chair or picnic blanket and snacks. The 2nd Annual Waverly Wine Fest! Spend a delightful afternoon sampling wine and other beverages, exploring delicious food options, and shopping diverse and interesting vendors. Join us from 12:00-4:00PM on the back lawn of the Waverly Community House for an afternoon of food, fun, and live music with the Doug Smith Band!
The Greater Scranton YMCA Seeking Marketing Firm for Caring Communities Release Date: June 18, 2025 Proposal Deadline: July 16, 2025 (5:00 PM EST) Contract Value: $10,000 per year (2 years) – Total $20,000 Project Overview The Greater Scranton YMCA, through generous grant funding from the Moses Taylor Foundation, is seeking proposals from qualified, smaller sized marketing firms based in Northeastern Pennsylvania to assist in the strategic promotion and communication of its Caring Communities for Mental Health program. This two-year initiative, which is part of the Greater Scranton YMCA’s broader YMCA Wellbeing Initiative, expands free, community- based mental health services across multiple counties, with a strong focus on underserved and/or marginalized populations. This RFP represents a $10,000/year contract over a two-year period, designed to maximize reach, engagement, and program impact. Program Goals The Caring Communities for Mental Health program aims to: Expand access to free mental health support and case management services. Reduce barriers to care, especially for marginalized and underserved communities. Integrate evidence-based mental health/wellness programs and workshops (e.g., COPE, R1 Learning System). Raise awareness through culturally relevant, inclusive messaging and outreach with our community partners and stakeholders. Scope of Work The selected firm will provide the following deliverables: Marketing Strategy Development A two-year marketing plan aligned with grant objectives. Branding and messaging tailored to health equity and stigma reduction. Content Creation & Design Flyers, brochures, event materials, and signage (print & digital). Videos, reels, infographics and additional content to be used on the Y’s social platforms, website and with the community. Social Media & Digital Engagement Monthly content calendars, platform-specific assets, and ad campaign guidance. Community Visibility Support outreach campaigns to reach priority populations across Lackawanna and surrounding counties. Contract Period and Value Term: August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027 Value: $10,000 annually; $20,000 total. Please note, this is a fixed-price contract funded through grant funding from the Moses Taylor Foundation. Eligibility Requirements Must be a registered small business based in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Demonstrated experience with nonprofit, health and/or mental health campaigns. Ability to collaborate closely with YMCA program and leadership staff, including marketing and program staff to ensure adherence to all YMCA of the USA branding guidelines and requirements. Must sign a sublicense agreement to gain access to YMCA trademarked materials. Proposal Requirements All proposals must include: 1. Cover Letter One-page max, inclusive of firm’s description of services, team bios and relevant experience. 2. Portfolio Samples At least three examples of previous work, ideally in community health or nonprofit marketing. 3. Approach & Work Plan Initial concepts or approach to support the YMCA’s grant goals. 4. Budget & Timeline Clear breakdown of services within the $10,000/year framework. 5. References Two client references with contact details. Submission Process Please submit all proposals via email (PDF format) to: Meghan Carnevale Mission Advancement & Marketing Director GREATER SCRANTON YMCA Email: mcarnevale@gsymca.org Subject Line: Marketing Proposal – Caring Communities Initiative Deadline: July 16, 2025 at 5:00 PM EST
UNC’s South Side Farmers Market Holds PNC Day United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) invites all media outlets and community members to join us on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for a special PNC Day at our year-round South Side Farmers Market. The market takes place every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. We are now outdoors at the corner of 526 Cedar Avenue and Alder Street in Scranton. This event honors PNC, our Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA DCED) Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credit partner, for their investment in the South Side Farmers Market. Through the NAP program, PNC has played a vital role in supporting the market’s growth and long-term sustainability. The Neighborhood Assistance Program continues to strengthen the market by supporting vendor recruitment, marketing efforts, and the development of local partnerships. The market will feature our regular lineup of local vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods, delicious treats, and more. To mark the occasion, everyone who attends the market on June 21 will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win one of two half-share CSAs from Endless Roots Farm in Waverly. Plus, UNC will be purchasing the first 100 ice cream treats from The Rolling Conez Ice Cream Truck — free to market-goers while supplies last! A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) provides subscribers with regular deliveries of fresh, seasonal produce throughout the growing season. It’s like a subscription to healthy, local food — and a great way to support regional farmers! We’re also excited to welcome a new vendor — JaM’s Delights. Come hungry! ShoovyQ BBQ will be serving up delicious food, and families can enjoy fun outdoor activities, including UNC’s brand-new cornhole boards, free to play. The South Side Farmers Market accepts SNAP/EBT. Benefit cardholders can receive an additional $2 for every $4 spent through the Food Bucks incentive program. For more information on SNAP/EBT, Food Bucks, or to become a cooking demonstrator, contact Lee Eckardt, Farmers Market Manager, at fm@uncnepa.org. The South Side Farmers Market is also supported by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s Neighborhood Partnership Program investment from The Dime Bank. This project is also financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development through the PA Fresh Food Financing Initiative, administered by The Food Trust.
The NEPA Philharmonic Kicks Off Summer with Independence Day Celebrations and Community Events The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic kicks off its 2025-26 Season, Presented by PNC, with a lineup of summer festivities, Independence Day celebrations, and three nights of music under the stars on July 3-5, 2025. With full-orchestra fireworks performances, patriotic favorites, community education and wellness events, and chamber music in the great outdoors, the NEPA Philharmonic presents outdoor large-ensemble concerts in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre on July 3rd and 4th; an outdoor chamber music concert at Harmony in the Woods in Hawley on July 5th; and community programs in Scranton, Peckville, and Carbondale. On Thursday, July 3, 7:30 PM, the full NEPA Philharmonic returns to Courthouse Square in downtown Scranton for a free concert as part of the Lackawanna County Scrantastic Spectacular. The performance – led by guest conductor Jeffrey Spenner, Assistant Director of the U.S. Coast Guard Band – features the full orchestra for the first time since 2019, with an array of patriotic classics capped by a fireworks display. For more details, visit https://www.scrantasticspectacular.com/. “I’m thrilled to celebrate the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic’s performance at our annual Scrantastic Spectacular on July 3rd,” says Lackawanna County Commissioner Chris Chermak. “Their vibrant orchestra will bring patriotic spirit to Courthouse Square, uniting our community in a joyful Independence Day celebration. We’re proud to support their artistry and look forward to an unforgettable evening of music and fireworks.” Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan also notes, “The Scrantastic Spectacular always is a great event and it will be even more so this year, with the full Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic bringing its extraordinarily talented musicians to the perfect setting of Courthouse Square. I can’t think of a better way for the whole community to come together to celebrate the nation’s 249th anniversary.” The celebration continues Friday, July 4, 9:00 AM, with the 12th Annual Yoga on the Roof atop the Marketplace at Steamtown’s parking garage. The NEPA Philharmonic string trio joins Jaya Yoga Clarks Summit for a unique sunrise yoga session with live music, highlighting powerful connections between arts and wellness. Registration is $20, online at www.nepaphil.org/tickets or at the door; proceeds benefit NEPA Philharmonic community and education programs. Maximum Zen Bakery of Clarks Summit provides light breakfast. On July 4, 8:00 PM, the NEPA Philharmonic Brass and Percussion Ensemble return with guest conductor Paul Bryan to Wilkes-Barre’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at Kirby Park. This free, festive event features music, food, games, and another evening of lighting up the sky with fireworks. The NEPA Philharmonic Brass also presents two all-ages educational events: Once Upon an Orchestra at Valley Community Library in Peckville on Thursday, July 3, 10:00 AM and Meet the Instruments outside at Memorial Park in Carbondale on Saturday, July 5, 11:00 AM. Once Upon an Orchestra blends music and storytelling, bringing to life Ben’s Trumpet by Rachel Isadora with a brass trio performing 1920s-style jazz, while Meet the Instruments features instrument demonstrations and short musical excerpts with brass quintet. Both events are free; registration for the July 3 library event is at https://lclshome.org/event/once-upon-an-orchestra/. The weekend concludes as the NEPA Philharmonic expands the Stoppini Chamber Series with a special concert in partnership with Harmony in the Woods, a premier outdoor performance venue in Hawley, PA. On Saturday, July 5, 6:00 PM, the NEPA Philharmonic Brass Quintet takes center stage with “Americana Brass in the Woods”. The performance will feature a dynamic mix of New Orleans jazz, lively ragtime, and classic film scores, alongside timeless works from Gershwin, Ellington, Bernstein, Irving Berlin, and more. Tickets ($50 for adults, $25 for children) are available at www.harmonyinthewoods.org. The Scrantastic Spectacular is sponsored in part by Lehigh Valley Health Network, Scranton Tomorrow, The Lackawanna County Commissioners, The City of Scranton, and Audacy Pennsylvania. Additional support for the NEPA Philharmonic at Scrantastic Spectacular is provided by PNC, Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC, Fidelity, Geisinger, and Xfinity. Once Upon an Orchestra is presented by the Lackawanna County Library System. The NEPA Philharmonic Brass at Wilkes-Barre’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July is presented by the City of Wilkes-Barre. Americana Brass is presented by Harmony in the Woods, with additional support for the Philharmonic from PNC and the Stoppini Foundation. In case of inclement weather, the July 3rd, 7:30PM Scrantastic Spectacular concert will go on as scheduled, with a rain location at Scranton High School; rain location announcements will be provided by Lackawanna County on the event website. The rain location for the July 5th, 11AM Meet the Instruments event in Carbondale will be at the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the NEPA Philharmonic’s summer programs and the upcoming 2025–2026 Season, Presented by PNC, visit nepaphil.org, or call (570) 270-4444.
