Geisinger to Host Sip and Self-Care Breast Bash Free event features breast care information, spa treatments and refreshments Join Geisinger’s breast health team for the Sip and Self-Care Breast Bash on Wednesday, May 14 from 4 – 8 p.m. The free evening of information and personal pampering will be held in the main lobby of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center at 1000 E. Mountain Boulevard, Wilkes-Barre. Attendees will learn about the comprehensive breast services offered at Geisinger and will connect with members of the breast care team who will discuss the latest in breast health, screenings and genetics. Presentations will happen every hour with the last presentation taking place at 7:15 p.m. There will also be mini-facials and chair massages, available on a first come, first served basis, a sound bath demonstration by The Cancer Wellness center of NEPA, refreshments and mocktails. Limited spaces are available. Register now at geisinger.org/selfcarebash
Misericordia University to Honor Visionary Leaders at Commencement Misericordia University is proud to announce that it will honor three outstanding women whose lives and work exemplify the mission of mercy, justice, and service at its Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies on May 10. The University will confer honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees upon Mary Scullion, RSM, and Ana María Pineda, RSM, STD, and present its highest accolade, the Catherine McAuley Medal, to Trustee Catherine McGroarty, RSM. Mary Scullion, RSM: Champion for the Homeless and Advocate for Justice For more than four decades, Sister Mary Scullion has led the fight against homelessness and poverty. As co-founder of Project HOME and Woman of Hope, Sister Mary pioneered programs that provide permanent housing, healthcare, education, and job opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness. Under her leadership, Project HOME grew into a nationally acclaimed model of integrated care and empowerment. Named one of TIME Magazine’s “World’s Most Influential People” in 2009 and a recipient of numerous national awards, Sister Mary has influenced policy and expanded rights for vulnerable populations, including groundbreaking advancements in fair housing and voting rights. Misericordia University is honored to recognize her with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. Sister Mary will be the keynote speaker during the 10 a.m. graduate ceremony. Ana María Pineda, RSM, STD: Theological Leader and Advocate for Hispanic Ministry Sister Ana María Pineda is a distinguished theologian, educator, and advocate for Hispanic ministry in the United States. Born in El Salvador and raised in San Francisco, she has worked tirelessly to center Latino/a voices in Catholic theology and pastoral practice. Her leadership roles include teaching at Santa Clara University, directing the Hispanic Ministry Program at Catholic Theological Union, and is considered one of the founding generation of the Academy of Catholic Hispanic Theologians of the United States (ACHTUS), serving as its president in 2000. As a keynote speaker at the national V Encuentro and advisor to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, she has shaped national discourse on cultural inclusion and justice in the Church. Misericordia will honor her lifelong service and scholarship with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. Sister Ana María will speak to the undergraduate ceremony crowd at 2 p.m. Catherine McGroarty, RSM: Dedicated Trustee and Compassionate Leader The Catherine McAuley Medal, Misericordia University’s highest honor, will be presented to Catherine McGroarty, RSM, in recognition of her 18 years of service on the University’s Board of Trustees and her unwavering commitment to the ideals of mercy and hospitality. Sister Cathy has played a pivotal role in guiding University policy, advancing scholarship initiatives, and supporting programs such as the Bourger Women with Children program. Her legacy includes not only governance and mentorship, but also extensive leadership in health care and outreach through the Catherine McAuley House. Her life of quiet service and powerful impact embodies the values of Misericordia and its Mercy heritage. Misericordia University is privileged to celebrate these visionary women whose work has inspired change, fostered hope, and uplifted communities. Their commitment to service stands as a beacon for graduates and the broader university family. All three honorees are Sisters of Mercy and these ceremonies are a capstone to the university’s 100th anniversary celebration, Mercy Thrives, which was held during the 2024-2025 academic year. The Spring Commencement Ceremonies will be broadcasted on Misericordia University’s YouTube Channel to watch live. The broadcast of the ceremony will be recorded and made available on our YouTube channel for those that are unable to watch it live.
Misericordia University’s Nursing Department to Host 100th Anniversary Gala Celebrate a century of nursing excellence on May 8, 2025, at The Woodlands Inn & Resort as Misericordia University’s Nursing Department marks its 100th anniversary. You’re invited to an elegant evening featuring hot appetizers, a pasta station, live piano music, nursing memorabilia, basket raffles, and a commemorative 100-Year Nursing Pin. Tickets are $100, with proceeds supporting the Donna Ayers Nelson Scholarship, which benefits future nursing students. Don’t miss this meaningful milestone—register today
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders to Welcome Jaleel White at 90’s Night Jaleel White, famously known for his iconic role as Steve Urkel on the hit 90’s sitcom Family Matters, is set to headline the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders 90s Night on August 2 at PNC Field. The RailRiders host the Nashville Sounds at 6:05 P.M. and White will be on hand for a guest appearance. The acclaimed actor, writer, producer, author, comedian, and father, will have a VIP Meet & Greet prior to first pitch before availability to the fans in attendance. Growing up on the screen, White starred as Steve Urkel for nine seasons on the ABC Friday night sitcom. He is currently the host of CBS’s hit game show, The Flip Side, which was just renewed for a second season. White is coming off of an impressive 2024 with the success of his new show, the release of his best-selling book “Growing Up Urkel” and a leading role in the new Star Wars series Skeleton Crew on Disney +! White recently starred in The Big Show and HUSTLE, both on Netflix. He also famously voiced Sonic the Hedgehog, starred in Big Fat Lairs, just to name a few! He has guest-hosted The View, What the Truff and Jimmy Kimmel Live! with Arsenio Hall. White is frequently seen on 25 Words or Less and Pictionary. Upgrade your throwback with the Ultimate 90s Night Experience, including the VIP Meet & Greet, a Geisinger Champions Club seat for the game and an autographed copy of White’s best-seller “Growing Up Urkel” for only $75 per person. The Ultimate 90s Night Experience is limited to 30 tickets, so act fast! Immediately following the RailRiders game against the Sounds on August 2, DJ Hersh will fire up the way back machine to rock the Geisinger Plaza with all the best hits from the 1990s in a post-game dance party!
Lackawanna Historical Society to Host Photo Scanning Do you have precious family photographs or crumbling documents you’d like to preserve? The Lackawanna Historical Society is partnering with “photo archaeologist” Cheryl Kaiser to host a special scanning day fundraiser on Saturday, May 3 from noon-3pm at the Society’s headquarters, the Catlin House, at 232 Monroe Avenue, Scranton. Join us for this opportunity to preserve your cherished family memories and support the work of the Lackawanna Historical Society! Register online at https://tinyurl.com/LHSScanDay to schedule your 15-minute appointment and purchase a $30 scanning day bundle. This will include your personal appointment with professional hi-resolution scans of up to 10 photos or documents with minor image adjustments to enhance clarity and quality. Your scans will be securely delivered into a private, complimentary Forever digital account, with a guide to get started organizing and maintaining your digital archive. If you have more than 10 photos, additional items can be scanned for $1 each. A portion of the fee for the bundle and additional items will be donated to the Society. If you’re busy, you can sign up for the “short on time” option to drop off items at the Catlin House and pick them up the following week. To register for Scanning Day, go to https://tinyurl/LHSScanDay. For more information, please call the Society at 570-344-3841 or email lackawannahhistory@gmail.com.
Mohegan Pennsylvania to Host Special Dancing and Open Mic Nights Mohegan Pennsylvania is about to turn entertainment up a notch with special Red Dirt Road Line Dancing and Open Mic Nights in May and June. Breakers and Embers Terrace will be hosting the line dancing while The Hive Taphouse will feature open mic nights. These events are free and open to the public though guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Guests are invited to giddy up with Red Dirt Road Line Dancing at Mohegan Pennsylvania, even if it’s their first rodeo! This Country music experience starts with a one-hour lesson led by instructors with more than 10 years of line dancing experience, followed by another hour of open dance. Embers Terrace is set to host Red Dirt Road Line Dancing from 5:00pm – 7:00pm on Thursday, May 15th, 4:00pm – 6:00pm on Saturday, May 17th, 2:00pm – 4:00pm on Sunday, May 18th, and 5:00pm – 7:00pm on Thursday, June 5th. Breakers will get in on the line dancing action on Saturdays, June 7th and 14th from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Open Mic Night at The Hive Taphouse is going to be the new highlight of guests’ Fridays! Those in attendance can showcase their skills in comedy, music, poetry, or anything in between. Sign-ups for 15-minute time slots will begin at 8:00pm, and performances will run from 8:30pm to Midnight. Open Mic Nights at The Hive Taphouse will take place every Friday night in May. From amateurs to more seasoned entertainers, all are welcome to attend! For additional information on Red Dirt Road Line Dancing and Open Mic Nights, visit the Mohegan Pennsylvania website.
Waverly Community House Presents the 2025 Waverly Waddle The Waverly Community House is pleased to announce the return of its highly anticipated annual event, the Waverly Waddle, taking place on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Participants of all ages are invited to join this morning of camaraderie, exercise, and community spirit. The event will feature a 5K Run and a 2-Mile Walk, welcoming both competitive runners and casual walkers alike. The race will be professionally chip timed by Second Wind Race Timing. Awards will be presented to the top finishers in various categories. Local businesses and organizations are invited to support this community-centered event through sponsorship. Sponsors will gain valuable visibility with a loyal local audience while demonstrating their commitment to community engagement. To learn more about the Waverly Waddle, click here.
Mohegan Pennsylvania Hosts Derby Day Extravaganza at Pocono Downs With the 151st Kentucky Derby set to take place on Saturday, May 3rd, Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania is gearing up for a one-of-a-kind Derby Day Extravaganza! Beginning at 10:00am, this annual event will provide guests with an opportunity to indulge in delicious bites from popular food trucks, try various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, experience live harness racing, participate in a Hat Revue for a chance to win up to a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card, and join in on a promotion where guests can win up to $1,000 in free wagers. Refreshing beverages being served at the Derby Day Extravaganza include Coors Light, Modelo, Party on the Patio Lager with Lime, Twisted Tea, and a variety of seltzers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests can also enjoy the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, mint juleps! Those looking to grab a quick bite can head over to the Burger Bus and Eat Up Now food trucks, where a variety of mouthwatering options will be available. Guests can also stop by the Best Cigar Pub booth, located outside near the Winner’s Circle, where a selection of freshly rolled cigars will be available for purchase. Specialty juleps will also be available for purchase at Breakers, Crafty Stir, Embers Terrace, The Hive Taphouse, Latitudes, Molly O’ Sheas, Pearl Sushi Bar, Rustic Kitchen, and Sunset Bar. For a full list of flavors, guests can visit the Mohegan Pennsylvania website. The Hat Revue is set to return, and guests have an opportunity to compete for lucrative prizes! Registration for the Hat Revue will be from 5:00pm – 6:00pm in the Racing Lobby. Top prizes include a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card that will be awarded to those named “Best Couple” or “Group Themed Hats”. Winners of the “Most Classic Derby Hat” and “Most Creative Hat” categories will each receive a $250 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card. Mohegan Pennsylvania gift cards can be redeemed towards an overnight stay, divine dining choices and other incredible offerings across the property. Beginning at 10:00am on Friday, May 2nd, Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania will accept advanced Kentucky Derby wagers in Simulcast and tellers will be available to assist. Beginning at 10:00am on Saturday, May 3rd, Simulcast will be self-service and available for all tracks with live meets (including Churchill Downs) throughout the day. The upper-level Pacer’s Clubhouse will also have live tellers at the betting windows. Additionally, guests can wager on live harness racing, which is set to take place from 1:00pm – 5:00pm. All guests must be 18 years or older to place wagers. Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania is holding a promotion where guests who wager $100 or more with a teller on any race will receive one entry for every $100 wagered. Guests must place these entries into one of the 20 boxes located in the Racing Lobby based on who they think will win the Kentucky Derby. At approximately 6:57pm, the Kentucky Derby will begin, televised on the outdoor jumbo screen and indoor racing TVs. At the conclusion of the race, four winners will be selected out of the corresponding boxes of the official top four finishers. The selected first-place box winner will receive $1,000 in free wagers valid for Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 17th. Second – fourth place winners will receive $500, $250 and $100 in free wagers, respectively. Following the Derby Day Extravaganza, the party goes on at various venues across the property. Wilkes-Barre native Bill Hoffman will be playing solo acoustic rock music from 6:00pm – 10:00pm at Embers Terrace, Bean and Vine Café & Wine Bar will feature a Piano Night with Lee Strubeck from 7:00pm – 11:00pm, Breakers will have Light up the Moon playing a show like no other from 8:30pm – 12:30am, and The Hive Taphouse will feature Reel in the Years playing all the 50s, 60s, and 70s to current day favorites from 9:30pm – 12:30am. Additionally, guests can play their favorite slots and tables games for their chance to win a share of $35,000 in cash and Free Slot Play with the “You’re Off to The Races” promotion! From now through Saturday, May 3rd, guests will receive one entry for every Status Point earned. Those who play on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the designated time period will receive 10X entries! On Saturday, May 3rd between 3:00pm – 5:00pm and 7:30pm – 10:00pm, there will be two winners chosen every 15 minutes to select a rose and reveal a prize up to $5,000 cash. Guests must activate their entries each hour by playing slots or table games with their Momentum card. The Derby Day Extravaganza is an all-ages event. However, most areas of Mohegan Pennsylvania are restricted to guests 21 years of age and older, including the hotel, gaming areas, and several restaurants. Valid, unexpired photo identification (driver’s license, passport, military ID) is required to access 21+ areas. Expired identification will not be accepted. All persons, bags and personal items are subject to inspection. No portable chairs are permitted.
