United Neighborhood Center 17th Annual Frolic United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC) is excited to visit the community to our 17th Annual Frolic –Harvest at the Hilton, presented by PNC. Formerly known as the Chocolate & Wine Frolic, this signature fundraiser has been reimagined into an evening that showcases the region’s finest — from decadent sweets and savory bites to craft drinks, fine wines, live music, and the warmth of community coming together. All proceeds directly support UNC’s essential programs for children, families, and seniors. The event will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:30 PM at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center. Tickets are $50 and include one drink ticket (21+). Guests will enjoy tastings from more than 20 local chocolatiers, chefs, brewmasters, winemakers, and artisans — all while making a difference in their community. Offerings include wine from three local wineries such as Lucchi Family Wine Cellars, beer samples from Susquehanna Brewing Co., sweet treats from four local bakeries and Gertrude Hawk Chocolates, a giant charcuterie display from the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center featuring locally sourced farmers market items, and both sweet and savory dishes from six area restaurants, including A’teria 519 and Andy Gavin’s Eatery & Pub. Tickets and sponsorship details available at uncnepa.org.
Northeastern PA Philharmonic Defying Gravity Performance Exclusive Discount Offer Chamber members, use the promotional code: SCRCHAM at checkout. There is no deadline for the promotional code to be used, provided it is before the concert. Tickets can be purchased here: www.nepaphil.org/tickets
Meals on Wheels Honors Christine Zike Our signature fundraiser, the 2025 Mix and Mingle for Meals on Wheels, will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the beautiful Glen Oak Country Club in Clarks Summit, PA. This elegant evening will feature: An open bar Light dinner fare A fabulous gift basket raffle Live jazz music by the Mark Montella Trio All proceeds benefit our mission-driven programs that nourish, support, and uplift older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. At this year’s event, we are honored to present the Elaine F. Shepard Award for Exceptional Volunteerism to Christine Zike, a tireless advocate and community volunteer whose leadership and service have enriched countless lives across our region. Christine serves the community in many ways: President of the NEPA Philharmonic League (since 2016) Director of Development and Board Member for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Co-President of the Marywood University NEPA Alumni Chapter Member of Women in Philanthropy at the Scranton Area Community Foundation Active volunteer and supporter for Meals on Wheels, The Lackawanna Historical Society, Ronald McDonald House, and UNICO Scranton. Director on the Parish Council of St. Ann’s Basilica Church Past officer of The Century Club of Scranton With over 30 years of experience in teaching, nonprofit leadership, and volunteerism—both locally and internationally—Christine embodies the spirit of service that the Elaine F. Shepard Award was created to honor. We can’t wait to celebrate Christine and gather together for a night of music, connection, and community impact. Mark your calendars and join us in honoring a truly remarkable woman and supporting an even greater cause! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/…/mix-and-mingle-for-meals… Sponsorships and advertisements are available! Email mealsonwheels@mownepa.org for more information.
Circle Drive-Inn Theatre Fall Events Lineup Wine, Witches, and Warlocks Festival Circle of Screams 13 Short Films
Meals on Wheels Honors John Basalyga Honoring John Basalyga at the 2025 Mix & Mingle for Meals on Wheels Mix and Mingle for Meals on Wheels, happening on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the stunning Glen Oak Country Club in Clarks Summit, PA. Join us for a festive evening featuring: An open bar Light dinner fare A gift basket raffle Vacation raffle Live jazz by the Mark Montella Trio All proceeds directly support our mission-driven programs, which deliver nourishment, connection, and life-enhancing services to older adults and individuals with disabilities across Northeastern Pennsylvania. This year, we are proud to present our Annual Founder’s Award for Philanthropy to John Basalyga, President of @JBAS Realty and The Basalyga Group. A visionary developer and dedicated philanthropist, John has transformed countless properties into vibrant spaces that fuel community growth. From revitalizing downtown Scranton and the Marketplace at Steamtown, to creating award-winning restaurants, apartments, and senior care centers, his work embodies a deep commitment to the people and future of NEPA. His support of Meals on Wheels—including the development of our new facility—reflects his belief in building not just spaces, but strong, supportive communities. Help us celebrate a man whose passion and generosity are reshaping the region—while raising vital funds for those who depend on us. Add a congratulatory message for John to our event program by emailing mealsonwheels@mownepa.org. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online here. Glen Oak Country Club, Clarks Summit, PA Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Dunmore Barks Hosts Community Pack Walks Dunmore Barks is excited to be teaming up with Leroy and Company Dog Training for a community pack walk this September! This is a great opportunity to work on leash skills, build focus and connection with your dog, and engage with a supportive community of pet parents, all under the guidance of two local (really cool) dog trainers. We’ll be collecting cash donations at the event to support Friends With Paws Pet Rescue, and we’re hoping to have a couple of adoptable pups joining us on the walk, too! Click the link to sign up today!
Serving Seniors Celebrates 50th Anniversary Serving Seniors, Inc., a nonprofit leader in advocating for and protecting vulnerable older adults in Northeastern Pennsylvania, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a commemorative dinner on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m. at La Buona Vita in Dunmore. Founded in the early 1970s as Interfaith Friends, the organization began as a grassroots coalition of faith leaders and volunteers working to improve the quality of life for those in long-term care facilities. In 1975, the group formally reorganized as Serving Seniors, expanding its mission to include a broad range of services aimed at empowering and protecting older adults across the region. “For half a century, Serving Seniors has worked to ensure dignity, safety, and voice for some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Executive Director David Falchek. “The needs of the older adult population haven’t gone away—and are likely greater now than ever.” The organization will honor long-time advocate Dr. Alice McDonnell, professor at Marywood University and recognized expert in gerontology and hospice, with its Legacy of Care Award. State Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich is scheduled to speak. Serving Seniors provides long-term care ombudsman services in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Wyoming counties, advocating for residents of skilled nursing and personal care facilities. In addition, the agency offers guardianship and power of attorney services, and serves as a patient advocate for older adults recently discharged from hospitals, particularly those with chronic or complicating conditions. The 50th Anniversary Dinner will bring together community partners, volunteers, and supporters to reflect on the organization’s impact and renew its commitment to protecting and uplifting the aging population in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Tickets for the event are available at https://ticketstripe.com/serving50. For sponsorship opportunities or more information, visit https://servingseniorsnepa.org or call (570) 574-4045.
Pennsylvania Economic Development Associationto Host Fall Conference in Scranton The Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) will host its 2025 Fall Conference at the Hilton Scranton and Conference Center from October 22–24, 2025, bringing together economic development professionals, industry leaders, and community stakeholders from across the Commonwealth. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna County are proud to serve as the conference’s Platinum Sponsors. PEDA is the statewide association of local, state, corporate, and nonprofit economic development professionals. PEDA’s mission is to promote sound economic development policies, to provide leading-edge economic development education, and to nurture an effective statewide economic development network to foster economic growth throughout the Commonwealth. Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber, expresses, “We are both pleased and honored that the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) has selected Scranton as host for this year’s conference. We are looking forward to showcasing some of our area’s most creative and successful economic development initiatives to many of the top professionals in the field, from across the Commonwealth.” This year’s event will feature several staff members from The Chamber as key speakers and moderators, including Bob Durkin, president; Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development; AJ Cimahosky, business development manager; Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist; and Maria Day, IGNITE program manager.Their participation will highlight regional perspectives on workforce, talent attraction, and business and economic strategies. Local real estate developer Donald J. Rinaldi, president, BEDA Construction, Inc., will be the Conference Keynote Speaker, providing an overview of the “Lace Village” development project. The Chamber leadership is excited to participate in PEDA alongside other strategic leaders from across the region and the state, including: Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, BIDA, CAN DO, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Lackawanna Transit System, KIZ Resources, LLC, Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance, Penn’s Northeast, Pennsylvania American Water, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, Pennsylvania Tourism Office, PPL, and Team Pennsylvania. By hosting the PEDA Fall Conference in Scranton, the region will showcase its vibrant business community, forward-thinking leadership, and unique opportunities for collaboration with strategic leaders. For more information on the PEDA Fall Conference schedule or to register, visit www.peda.org.
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.
