NEPA Philharmonic Presents Carmina Burana at FM Kirby Center The instantly recognizable Carmina Burana – a mainstay of movies, television, and commercials – arrives at the FM Kirby Center! Wilkes-Barre-Scranton…The Thalenfeld Masterworks Series of The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic presents Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the FM Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre. Philharmonic musicians and Music Director Mélisse Brunet will be joined by renowned vocal soloists Roderick George, Öznur Tülüoğlu, and Christopher Burchett, alongside the Marywood University Concert Choir led by Rick Hoffenberg. Also on the program will be Antonín Dvořák’s joyous and rousing “Carnival Overture”, and music pioneer Dolores White’s poignant “Give Birth to the Dream”. “O Fortuna”, the iconic opening movement of “Carmina Burana”, features accessible, highly melodic, repeated melodies and strong rhythms, making it a captivating experience for audiences. The lyrics, which complement the powerful music, deal with themes of life’s extremes like fortune, fate, and love. Concert tickets are priced from $42-$78 for adults, and college student tickets are $16. Students K-12 admitted at no charge by calling the box office. A pre-concert talk, with Maestra Melisse Brunet, will take place at 6:30 PM and all attendees are invited. Tickets may be purchased online at www.nepaphil.org, by calling 570.270.4444, or at the door on concert night. This concert is sponsored by the Thalenfeld Family Foundation, Christine and Harry Zike, Carol Nelson Dembert and F. Warren Breig, Jr, and Weber Gallagher Law Offices. The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic is a fully professional symphony orchestra performing mainstage and chamber concerts, and free Independence Day concerts in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. The Philharmonic’s educational programs include Young People’s Concerts, a juried mentoring program for talented high school students, and “Music in our Schools”, an in-school interactive program featuring brass, wind, string, or percussion ensembles. Our community engagement includes “Once Upon an Orchestra” in local libraries for children to age 5, and miniature concerts in senior living centers.
Party on the Patio is Back at Mohegan Pennsylvania! Both new and returning tribute bands take the stage for 20 weeks of free, live entertainment beginning Thursday, May 1st Mohegan Pennsylvania is excited to announce the return of the most popular and largest free outdoor concert series, Party on the Patio! The 16th year of this renowned outdoor concert series is set to kick off at Mohegan Pennsylvania on Thursday, May 1st and bring tribute band fans 20 weeks of can’t-miss live entertainment. Additionally, each week guests can indulge in delicious bites from one of Pennsylvania’s most popular food trucks. Doors open at 6:00pm and the bands get the party started at 7:30pm. There is no cover to attend Party on the Patio. This year, Mohegan Pennsylvania’s Outdoor Concert Venue will feature both past fan-favorites such as Stayin’ Alive (a tribute to the Bee Gees) on Thursday, May 8th, Back in Black (a tribute to AC/DC) on Thursday, June 12th, and Philadelphia Freedom (a tribute to Elton John) on Thursday, July 10th. Plus, a few new bands will make their Party on the Patio premiere, including Crash My Party (a tribute to Luke Bryan) on Thursday, June 5th, Fame (a tribute to David Bowie) on Thursday, July 31st, and Stevie Mac (a tribute to Fleetwood Mac) on Thursday, August 21st. The full list of featured bands* for Party on the Patio is as follows: 5/1/25: 52nd Street Band, a tribute to Billy Joel 5/8/25: Stayin’ Alive, a tribute to the Bee Gees 5/15/25: Red Neck Castaway Band, a tribute to Kenny Chesney 5/22/25: Super Trans AM, The Super 70’s Concert Experience 5/29/25: Mamma Mania!, NYC’s Premier ABBA Tribute 6/5/25: Crash My Party, a tribute to Luke Bryan 6/12/25: Back in Black, a tribute to AC/DC 6/19/25: Best of the Eagles, a tribute to the Eagles 6/26/25: Jay Bon Jovi, a tribute to Bon Jovi 7/3/25: Rubix Kube, The Eighties Strikes Back show 7/10/25: Philadelphia Freedom, a tribute to Elton John 7/17/25: Bostyx, a tribute to Boston & Styx 7/24/25: Completely Unchained, a tribute to Van Halen 7/31/25: Fame, a tribute to David Bowie 8/7/25: The Amish Outlaws, Pennsylvania’s Hottest Cover Band 8/14/25: New York’s Finest, a tribute to the Police 8/21/25: Stevie Mac, a tribute to Fleetwood Mac 8/28/25: Idol Kings, a tribute to REO Speedwagon & Journey 9/4/25: Draw the Line, a tribute to Aerosmith 9/11/25: Motley 2, a tribute to Mötley Crüe *Lineup subject to change All guests must be 21+ to attend Party on the Patio. Additionally, 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 is required (driver’s license, passport, military ID). Expired identification will not be accepted. Wristbands issued for Party on the Patio are not valid for the gaming floor. For the safety and security of guests and team members, bags and purses are limited to the following: small clutch purses not larger than 4”x6” or bags that are clear on all sides and do not exceed 8”x10”. All persons, bags and personal items are subject to inspection. No portable chairs are permitted. For more information about Party on the Patio, visit moheganpa.com/potp.
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Unveil 2025 Promotional Slate The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, are thrilled to announce their exciting 2025 promotional schedule. Fans can look forward to a season filled with fun giveaways, special appearances, fireworks, theme nights, and much more! This year’s promotional calendar will feature 11 fireworks nights, four Copa de la Diversión games, and three brand-new custom jerseys, along with unique events for all ages.Opening Night and Early Promotions The 2025 season kicks off on Tuesday, April 8, when the RailRiders host the Rochester Red Wings. Gates open at 5:30 P.M., with the first 1,500 fans receiving a 2025 magnetic schedule. First pitch is at 6:35 P.M., followed by the season’s first fireworks show.To celebrate Opening Night, fans can Beat the Clock and save big on tickets! Tickets purchased online between 10:00 and 10:59 A.M. will be just $4 plus fees. Prices increase to $6 plus fees from 11:00 A.M. to Noon, and $8 plus fees from 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M. This offer is only available for online purchases.Copa de la Diversión & Specialty Nights The first of four Copa de la Diversión games takes place on May 8 (Thirsty Thursday) against the Red Wings. The RailRiders will also take on their alternate “Vejigantes” identities on June 24, July 31, and August 30.Additional highlights include STEM School Days on May 14 and 28, presented by Penn State Scranton, Hazleton, and Wilkes-Barre. Students will participate in a trebuchet competition before enjoying the game at 11:05 A.M. These games will feature STEM-related activities and local business displays.On May 17, the RailRiders will join Minor League Baseball’s Malmö Oat Milkers for a night of quirky fun in partnership with Oatly, the world’s largest oat milk company.Special Giveaways & Theme Nights Several special promotions will take place throughout the summer, including:May 18 – The first 500 kids 12 and younger receive a CHAMP squish.May 30 – Scout Night, followed by a Scout campout.May 31 – Military Appreciation Day with a camo hat giveaway for the first 1,500 fans and military-themed jerseys worn by the RailRiders.June 13 – Girl Scout Night, with an overnight campout following the game against Syracuse.June 14 – Amazing Golf Ball Whacker Night featuring Christopher McDonald, who portrayed Shooter McGavin in Happy Gilmore, with a custom bobblehead giveaway for the first 1,500 fans.Fans can also look forward to Sensory Friendly Days on June 29, July 6, and August 31, offering a sensory-safe environment for fans of all ages.Themed Events & Fireworks The RailRiders’ Friday Night Fireworks begin on May 30 and will continue after every Friday home game for the rest of the season. Other fun theme nights include:July 4 – Military-themed jerseys auctioned off to benefit Camp Freedom, followed by an extended fireworks show presented by the PA Lottery.July 11 – Christmas in July, complete with holiday decorations and a post-game fireworks show.July 12 – Margaritaville Night with a Hawaiian shirt giveaway and custom jerseys benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network at Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital.August 1 – Faith & Fellowship Night with fireworks.August 16 – Harry Potter Night™, featuring custom jerseys, RailRiders Platform 93/4 socks for the first 1,500 fans, and a special photo op with house elves.August 2 – 90s Night, complete with a 90s Dance Party on the Geisinger Plaza.The season concludes with Fan Appreciation Day on September 14, honoring all who make RailRiders baseball possible.Ticket Information Single-game tickets, along with season ticket plans (full, half, partial, and flex), are available now. Purchase tickets online at www.swbrailriders.com or at the PNC Field Box Office.For more information or to book your group for a promotional event, please contact the RailRiders front office at (570) 969-2255.All promotions, theme nights, and giveaways are subject to change. Additional details will be announced as the 2025 season approaches.
NEPA Philharmonic Brings the Joy of Music to Schools The musicians of the NEPA Philharmonic, alongside students from their Mentoring Program, have been keeping busy this winter, spreading the joy of music across the community! From inspiring local students in schools to sharing powerful musical moments with senior center residents, NEPA Phil has truly made a difference this season. Music in Our Schools This January, the NEPA Philharmonic’s Woodwind Quintet visited South Scranton Intermediate and Scranton High School, introducing students to the unique sounds of the wind instruments and offering a glimpse into the world of professional music. In February, former NEPA Philharmonic Principal Cellist Alberto Parrini brought his expertise to Abington Heights High School, working with student musicians—many of whom are also part of the Philharmonic’s Mentoring Program—on key techniques including bowing, rhythm, scales, and tone. Later in the month, renowned pianist Marcantonio Barone joined Parrini for an inspiring performance at Wyoming Valley West Middle School, where they engaged with young string musicians. These opportunities allow students to connect directly with professionals, gaining invaluable insight and experience that enhances the incredible work of local music programs. The enthusiasm and dedication from the students were evident, and their interactions with these accomplished musicians will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. A special thank you goes out to the dedicated teachers—Greg Hulse, Diane Amari, Allison Covell, and Suzanne Hall—whose support made these visits possible. We encourage the community to express their gratitude to local music educators for their ongoing efforts in shaping the next generation of musicians. Mentoring Program and Outreach The NEPA Philharmonic Mentoring Program recently visited Green Ridge Care Center as part of the Music in Our Senior Centers initiative. Students shared their musical talents with senior residents, creating meaningful connections across generations through the universal language of music. The heartfelt performance was a testament to the power of music to bring people together. Rehearsals for the Mentoring Program’s upcoming chamber ensembles are also in full swing. Young musicians—including violinists Isaiah, Roman, Soren, and Alec, violists Judah and Lucas, and cellists Giada and Aiden—are hard at work in coaching sessions with Philharmonic musicians Gabriel and Leah, preparing for their highly anticipated Mentoring Program Chamber Concert on May 18th.
WVIA Wins Best of Show at AAF NEPA’s American Advertising Awards – “Girls Wrestling Documentary,” which follows the inspiring journey of the barrier breaking athletes of the Western Wayne Girls Wrestling Team, tells the story of young athletes reshaping the landscape of high school wrestling. On Friday, February 28, the American Advertising Federation of Northeastern Pennsylvania (AAF NEPA) hosted the 2024 American Advertising Awards, where they presented the 2024 Silver Medal Award, the Game Changer Award, winners of Cropped and the Rising Star Award. This year’s event was held at the Mohegan Pennsylvania Convention Center. The American Advertising Awards are widely acknowledged to be the largest and most representative competition of its kind, with more than 25,000 entries received as part of the three-tier competition. Campaigns need to advance through both local and regional levels in order to be eligible for the national award. In addition, the awards are often viewed as a lens offering insights into work that may also perform well at other upcoming international creative competitions. Local Gold winners will automatically advance to the regional level and silver winners have the option to send their work on. In all, 8 Professional ADDYs and 13 Student ADDYs were awarded at the Northeastern PA American Advertising Awards, along with 8 Special Judges Choice Awards. Winners were announced during the award show on February 28th, which was attended by 80+ creative professionals, educators and students from across the advertising, marketing, media and tech communities. Said Dan Kimbrough, President of AAF NEPA, “It’s a heavy lift pulling off the show each year, but we have an amazing board and being able to come together and celebrate our creative community makes it worth it.” Other highlights from this year’s American Advertising Awards include: ● WVIA’s Webseries “NEPA @ Work”, which took a gold medal, along with “Girls Wrestling Documentary”. ● Halibut Blue won two Silver Awards for their work with local non-profits Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA, and The United Way of the Wyoming Valley. ● Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Student Hunter Rossmann took home 5 trophies. ● Stephanie Klemick of Marywood University took home the student Best of Show with an innovative package design called “Fruit Cups”. Awards were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges representing 4 different markets and agencies not local to NEPA. Outside of our AAA Competition awards, Danielle Antonello-Smolley of Triggerfinger Photography, was awarded the Silver Medal Award, which recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to advertising and has been active in furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence and responsibility in areas of social concern. Kevin Jones, owner of VizVibe, took home the Game Changer Award, which recognizes local visionaries who are pioneering new and exciting ideas within the advertising industry. And Stephanie Klemick of Marywood University won The Rising Star Award, which celebrates emerging talents in the advertising industry who exhibit outstanding potential and a commitment to excellence in both their professional endeavors and community engagement. All professional and student entries and the winners can be viewed online at adflix.aafnepa.org.
Keystone Mission Christmas Meal Operation – Volunteers and Donations Needed Keystone Mission’s Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Innovation Centers for Homelessness & Poverty are gearing up for the Christmas season. Following the success of serving over 280 meals during Thanksgiving, the team is preparing for an even greater impact this December. On Monday, December 23rd, Keystone Mission will host a special Christmas Meal for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Scranton Innovation Center will begin serving at 12 PM, followed by the Wilkes-Barre Innovation Center at 4 PM. “As the colder weather drives more people indoors, we’re distributing additional winter supplies and serving more meals,” says Jillian Mirro, Communications & Marketing Manager. “We encourage the community to get involved—not just during Christmas, but throughout the season—by donating essential items or volunteering.” Keystone Mission is currently seeking volunteers to assist with the Christmas Meal, whether by serving food or contributing needed items. For more information on volunteering or bringing a dish to share, please visit www.KeystoneMission.org/volunteer. For more information on most needed items, please visit www.KeystoneMission.org/donate-goods.
Keystone Mission: Giving Thanks Despite the Circumstances Before being served a Thanksgiving Meal, guests at Keystone Mission’s Scranton Innovation Center location stood in front of their peers to give thanks. To encourage an atmosphere of gratefulness, staff asked if anyone wanted to share what they were thankful for. Several individuals who were waiting for a meal rose their hand to talk about what God has been doing in their life despite their current circumstance. One guest gave glory to God about finally being cancer free. Another encouraged those around her that real community is found “the walls of Keystone Mission.” “Though we may think without a home or stable job, there wouldn’t be much to be thankful for. Their testimonies were eye opening, and I believe it gave everyone in that room – volunteers, staff, other guests – a new perspective on their own situation,” says Jillian Mirro, Communications & Marketing Manager. In total Keystone Mission served over 280 meals across their locations in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre for Thanksgiving. “We are grateful to each volunteer who assisted in serving and prepping a dish for our guests. This means so much to our guests. It’s amazing how a simple act of kindness can go a long way during the holiday season,” says Danielle O. Keith-Alexandre, CEO & Executive Director.
Mohegan’s Jingle at The Hive Returns with Holiday Fun Jingle at The Hive Taphouse Returns to Mohegan Pennsylvania with SantaCon, Brunch with Santa & more!Now through January 1st, The Hive Taphouse ramps up Holiday Entertainment, Events and Festive F&B specials Mohegan Pennsylvania is thrilled to announce the return of the ultimate holiday experience in NEPA, Jingle at The Hive Taphouse. Now through Wednesday, January 1st, guests can head over to The Hive Taphouse to experience a decked out holiday pop-up takeover that promises to bring the festive spirit to Northeast Pennsylvania. The holiday celebration kicks off with the much-awaited return of Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns on Thanksgiving Eve! From festive food & drink specials to holiday inspired special events, Jingle at The Hive Taphouse has something for everyone. Jingle at the Hive Taphouse is open from 9:00am – 10:00pm on Sundays, Noon – 10:00pm on Mondays – Thursdays, and Noon – 1:00am on Fridays & Saturdays. Special Events Experience special holiday events throughout the month of December! On Saturday, December 21st, guests will have another opportunity to compete against one another during Jingle at The Hive Taphouse’s Holiday Beard and Mustache Contest! From 8:00pm – 10:00pm, guests are invited to show up with their best holiday beard or mustache and compete for bragging rights and special prizes! The first, second and third place winners in each category will receive a $75 Mohegan Pennsylvania Gift Card, Champagne Brunch at The Hive Taphouse for two, and Top Golf for two, respectively. Winners will be announced at 10:30pm. Additionally, trivia and karaoke continue on Fridays with special holiday themes! On Fridays, the 20th, beginning at 7:30pm at Jingle at the Hive Taphouse, guests can take part in Holiday Trivia Nights with DJ Tommy, where the top three teams will win a Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card! Following trivia, guests are invited to stay for Christmas karaoke where they can sing along to their favorite Christmas songs and other holiday season favorites all night long. Entertainment Jingle at The Hive Taphouse is also home to a live music stage which will feature popular local bands performing holiday classics along with their own crowd pleasers. The lineup of top-notch holiday entertainment includes: Saturday, December 21st | Until Sunrise Friday, December 27th | Bad Liars Saturday, December 28th | Chasing Ashlee Signature Cocktails featured during Jingle at The Hive Taphouse Guests can enjoy signature holiday cocktails during the whole month of December! Jingle All The Way | Bulliet bourbon, orange liqueur, sour mix, topped with merlot The Grinch | Captain Morgan, orange liqueur, Kool-Aid, sprite Christmas Vacation | Vanilla vodka, peach schnapps, pineapple juice, sour mix Dining Specials Jingle at the Hive Taphouse is offering multiple holiday dining specials in addition to a full dining menu, featuring a wide variety of dishes like appetizers, flatbreads, salads, wings, burgers, sandwiches, tacos and entrees. Santa’s Helper | Open face roasted turkey sandwich with a smoked bacon and fresh apple cider gravy Sleigh Bells Ringing | Maple chicken and carved ham Monte Cristo with Swiss cheese and cranberry mayo Comin Down the Chimney (OL’ Smokey Burger) | ½ pound burger with smoked Gouda cheese, candied bacon and smoked paprika aioli
Maternal and Family Health Services Elects Board Officers Maternal and Family Health Services (MFHS), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of families, recently elected a new slate of board officers. These individuals bring a diverse and dynamic range of expertise, which will help further the organization’s mission to provide essential health services, education, and advocacy for women, children, and families in the communities we serve. The newly appointed board officers include: Chair: Christine Jensen, Site Administrator, Pennsylvania Career Link Vice Chair: Lake Ryan Gemzik, Chief Operating Officer/SVP of Finance and HR, Building Blocks Learning Center Treasurer: Suzanne Fletcher, CPA, CGMA, Retired Secretary: Jesse Simon, IT Tech Support, Luzerne County Head Start, Inc. These distinguished leaders collectively possess vast experience that will help guide MFHS as it continues to address the ever-evolving needs of families. “We are thrilled to welcome this new slate of board officers who bring an impressive breadth of knowledge and a shared commitment to our mission,” said Maria Montoro Edwards, President and CEO of MFHS. “Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective that will help ensure that MFHS remains a vital resource for the families we serve.” MFHS expresses its deep gratitude for the time, dedication, and leadership these new board officers bring. Their ongoing commitment to MFHS’s mission will play a key role in helping the organization create lasting, positive change for families in need.
