La Festa Italiana Set for Labor Day Weekend in Scranton As another summer heads for the horizon, fun seekers of all ages can still look forward to an annual treat that keeps the good vibes flowing.It’s getting to be that time for La Festa Italiana, four days of great food and lively entertainment served up in the Italian culture and spirit in Scranton, PA over Labor Day weekend. La Festa Italiana will be held Friday through Monday, Aug. 29 through Sept. 1, 2025 on Courthouse Square in the heart of downtown Scranton, PA. Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The presenting sponsor is Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, part of Jefferson Health.The festival is an annual celebration of culture, cuisine and continuous entertainment. Admission is free. Of course, there is the food, a mouth-watering variety tempting the taste buds! Among the many culinary delights is the famous porketta sandwich prepared by the Scranton Chapter of UNICO, the national Italian-American service organization. Another hot spot – literally – is the Cappuccino Café, where you can sip a creamy cup to go with your favorite Italian pastry. In between bites, people of all ages will enjoy Italian vocalists, artists and local bands as well as dance groups performing over four days and nights on three stages. In addition, crafts, Italian-themed clothing and novelties, a Heritage Park, bocce games, bounce rides for the kids and more will be available.The Alfredo’s Main Stage opening act on Friday (Aug. 29) will feature a tribute to recently deceased Paul LaBelle, leader of the Exact Change Band. Later that evening is the popular band Picture Perfect. The lineup on Saturday (Aug. 30) features The Cameos, New Jersey’s Favorite Oldies Group, and a Billy Joel Tribute. Sunday (Aug. 31) begins with the annual Mass in Italian at 10 a.m. in the Cathedral of Saint Peter, located one block from the festival site. The Mass will also be televised live by CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton. The entertainment on Sunday includes a Connie Francis tribute and a Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin Tribute Show featuring Chris DiMattio and Las Vegas’ Andy DiMino with Ken McGraw’s Brass & Ivory Big Band and several special guests. On Monday (Sept. 1) there will be a 100th birthday celebration for WWII Veteran Gene “Dempsey” Passarella, maestro of his namesake Orchestra. La Festa Italiana will literally hit the ground running with the 13th Annual Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 10 a.m. The race is being sponsored by the Scranton Chapter of UNICO, the national Italian-American service organization, and proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Northeastern Pennsylvania Christmas Party and college scholarships for students at Captain Minicozzi’s alma mater, West Scranton High School. To register in advance ($25) go to: runsignup.com/Minicozzi or on race day ($35) from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at corner of North Washington Avenue and Linden Street. For news and updates, including the festival entertainment schedule, visit www.lafestaitaliana.org, Facebook: La Festa Italiana di Lackawanna County, Instagram: lafestascranton.
Johnson College to Host Financial Aid Information Sessions Johnson College will host two Financial Aid Information Sessions to assist current and prospective students in understanding and applying for financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), FSA ID setup, alternative loans, and scholarship opportunities. Attendees will have the opportunity to access on-site computers to begin or complete their financial aid applications with guidance from Johnson College staff. The first session will take place on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the college’s Hazleton location, inside the CAN DO Training Center, 370 Maplewood Drive, Hazle Township. The second session is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. in Ideal Saldi Hall on the Scranton campus located at 3427 North Main Ave. Participants are strongly encouraged to create their FSA ID in advance of the event, as processing can take three to five business days. For more information, visit johnson.edu or contact the Financial Aid team at 570-702-8855 orfinancialaid@johnson.edu.
The Dime Bank Graduates Vice Presidents from Leadership Institute Stacy L. Gager, vice president deposit operations manager and Chase L. Holl, vice president commercial lending officer III at The Dime Bank, recently completed the 2024–2025 PA Bankers Leadership Institute. This distinguished program offers a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to leadership development tailored specifically for banking professionals. Led by renowned industry experts Dr. Linda Eagle of Global Bankers Institute and Dennis Budinich of FTCTogether, the program provides participants with a behind-the-scenes look at how strong organizational culture drives performance. Through in-depth exploration of leadership, engagement, and communication strategies, graduates gain the tools to lead with purpose and deliver meaningful results. “The Pennsylvania Bankers Association is proud to continually offer the PA Bankers Leadership Institute,” said Duncan Campbell, PA Bankers’ president & CEO. “Through its unique model, the program develops leaders who will sustain, maintain and grow Pennsylvania’s banking industry, which is vital to the economic future of the commonwealth.” The Dime Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “Investing in our people is investing in our future. The PA Bankers Leadership Institute equips our emerging leaders with the strategic insight, confidence, and network they need to thrive in today’s evolving financial landscape. It’s not just leadership training—it’s a commitment to excellence.”
Scranton Girls Rock Showcase Open to the Public Join us as young musicians ages 6–16 take the stage for the first time to perform original songs they’ve written during camp week! This is a celebration of creativity, courage, and community. Date: Friday, July 19 Time: Doors at 1:45 PM | Show starts at 2:00 PM Location: The Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center 222 Wyoming Avenue, Scranton, PA Tickets: Suggested donation $10–$15 (kids free) Entry: Donation-based / Sliding scale — all are welcome Featuring: 20+ campers performing in bands, duos, and solo acts This is the very first showcase of Scranton Girls Rock Camp, and we’d love to invite local leaders, families, creatives, and educators to come experience the joy and talent of Scranton’s next generation of musicians.
Everhart Museum and Lace Village Hold Farm to Table Event Join us as we celebrate the local harvest with the return of Farm to Table, taking place at the beautiful Lace Village! Support the Everhart’s mission while enjoying great food, drinks, and music.6 to 7 p.m. Happy Hour: Open bar, hors d’oeuvres and live music by the Dishonest Fiddlers in the Lace Courtyard7 to 8 p.m. Dinner: Four course dinner of locally-sourced foods and open bar in the Lace Banquet Hall8 to 10 p.m. Post-Dinner: More music, silent auction, and fun activities in the Lace Courtyard6:00 to 8:00 p.m.: Open Bar8:00 to 10:00 p.m.: Cash Bar Tickets:Members $125Non-members $135 Register Now Sponsorships
Lackawanna County Upcoming 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament Basketball Tournament Open to All Teams The Lackawanna County 3-on-3 basketball tournament will return to the streets of downtown Scranton July 25-26 Lackawanna County is hosting its annual 3v3 basketball tournament, with registration now open! The event is open to both youth and adult divisions and welcomes players of all skill levels. Skill Levels: Teams may register under Elite, Competitive, or Developmental categories, depending on their experience and goals. Entry Fee: $125 per teamGame Format: Each team is guaranteed a minimum of three games. The tournament offers an opportunity for athletes to gain experience, develop their skills, and engage in friendly competition. More details regarding scheduling, location, and registration can be provided upon request. Register Now
Northeast Title & Tag to Host Peeling Plate Rally Northeast Title & Tag is teaming up with State Senator Rosemary M. Brown to bring the Peeling Plate Rally to our Honesdale office. If your license plate is peeling, faded, or difficult to read—this event is for you!✅ Have your plate inspected by an on-site Messenger Agent✅ Complete all necessary forms with our help✅ Receive a brand-new replacement plate on the spot💸 Absolutely free—no fees at all! 📅 Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025🕘 Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM📍 Location: 1199 Texas Palmyra Hwy, Suite J, Honesdale, PA 18431 What to bring: Your valid registration card Your driver’s license or photo ID All owners must be present if more than one name is on the title Company vehicles require an authorization letter and ID We’ll handle the paperwork and get you back on the road with a brand-new, easy-to-read plate—without the hassle of mailing forms to PennDOT. 📧 Contact us at help@netitle.org or (570) 895-1000
Cricle Drive-In Upcoming Movie Showings Friday, July 18th & Saturday, July 19th DOUBLE FEATURES ON BOTH SCREENS!Screen One:“How to Train Your Dragon” (PG – 2025) at 9:15 pm“Jurassic World: Rebirth” (PG-13 – 2025) at 11:40 pmScreen Two:“Superman” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:00 pm“F1: The Movie” (PG-13 – 2025) at 11:50 pm Saturday, July 19th Pharoah’s Car Club of Scranton Cars & Coffee from 9am – 12pm All makes, models & ages of cars are welcome at these events. Antiques, Classics, Customs, or just well-loved vehicles may be brought out to be shown off & enjoyed by the community. It doesn’t matter what era, color, stance, or age your vehicle may be. All are welcome to attend. Sunday, July 20th Circle Giant Flea Fair from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm (Vendor Gates at 5:00 am) New vendors are always welcome, no pre-registration required! Come out & sell your crafts, artisan items, homemade products, spring cleaning treasures & more – every Sunday! Learn more at circledrive-in/fleafair24. Sunday Night Movies Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm Screen One: “Jurassic World: Rebirth” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:15 pm Screen Two: “Superman” (PG-13 – 2025) at 9:00 pm Our Concession Stand is open during every event! Stop in for your favorite cold drinks, candy, popcorn, freshly made pizza, burgers & more! Movie tickets, upcoming events, & additional information at circledrive-in.com. Upcoming July Films: Wednesday, July 23rd: 150 Years of Dickson City – FREE Community Movie Night featuring “American Graffiti” (1973 – PG) at 9:00 pm (Gates – 8:00 pm) Thursday, July 24th: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” Presented by the Lackawanna Historical Society (1989 – PG-13) at 9:00 pm (Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm) Friday, July 25th – Sunday, July 27th: (Exclusive Presale) “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” (2025 – PG-13) at 9:00 pm (Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm) Thursday, July 31st: “Dirty Dancing” Presented by the Lackawanna Historical Society (1987 – PG-13) at 9:00 pm (Gates & Box Office 8:00 pm) For the latest updates on upcoming events & more, follow Circle Drive-In on Facebook @CircleDriveInTheatre, on Instagram @circledrivein & Circle Flea Fair on Facebook @circlefleafair! Circle Drive-In is located at 1911 Scranton/Carbondale Highway, Dickson City.
Johnson College Opens Enrollment for AutoCAD Courses Johnson College is now accepting enrollments for its non-credit AutoCAD 1 and AutoCAD 2 courses, set to be held at the College’s Scranton campus. AutoCAD 1 will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 21–23, 2025. AutoCAD 2 will follow the same daily schedule and take place July 28–30, 2025. Each course is $500. These introductory courses in computer-aided drafting are designed for students seeking foundational skills in the field. Participants will learn basic CAD commands used to create professional working drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details. Course topics include creating and editing 2D objects, text usage and editing, hatching and filled regions, dimensioning, AutoCAD layer management, proper use of model space and paper space, and plotting techniques. To register or learn more, visit johnson.edu/autocad. For questions or assistance, contact Johnson College’s WAVE team at 570-702-8979 or email wave@johnson.edu. WAVE, which stands for 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.
