Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine to Host Black Ties for White Coats Gala Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, with learning venues throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania, will host its Black Ties for White Coats gala on Saturday, April 20, at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre to benefit medical student scholarships. Prominent community members who embody aspects of the school’s founding principles, community service and well-being will also be honored. When: Saturday, April 20, 6 – 11 p.m. Where: Mohegan Pennsylvania 1280 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre This year’s honorees are: Community Honoree:The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children Well-being Honoree:Shubhra Shetty, MD Founders Honoree:Tom Churilla, MD ’13
The Chamber is Gearing Up for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is hosting its ninth year of EMPOWER, presented by Geisinger, on Thursday, April 25, at Kalahari Resort & Convention. EMPOWER is the premier women’s leadership event in northeastern Pennsylvania. It is a day-long conference highlighting the ability all women have to create positive change in their communities and lives while recognizing the extraordinary power that exists when women come together to support each other. The 2024 conference theme is “purpose.” It will feature dynamic keynote speakers Dr. Lauren Hazzouri and Patrice D. Banks, as well as special appearances from the mayor of Scranton, Paige G. Cognetti, Honorable State Representative Bridget Kosierowski, and the Honorable State Senator Rosemary Brown. Dr. Hazzouri is a licensed psychologist, speaker, and founder of Hazzouri Psychology, a full-service psychology practice in downtown Scranton. Patrice D. Banks is the founder of Girls Auto Clinic, which provides automotive buying and repair resources, products, and services, and is a platform for Banks to educate and empower women through their cars. Attendees will engage with 44 regional speakers through invaluable breakout sessions and have access to a wellness studio and a small business marketplace. Breakout session presenters include: Lori Moran, The University of Scranton; Kathryn Bondi, Posture Interactive; Dr. Andrea DiMattia and Dr. Michelle Schmude, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine; Bethany Staples and Brittany Watt, Market Share Consulting; Dr. Carrie Demers, PureRejuv Wellness Center at the Himalayan Institute; Jennifer Lutsey, Children’s Service Center; Shane Powers, NeighborWorks of Northeastern PA; Jenna Urban, Urban Mac Media; Dr. Elizabeth Carter, AAPPEAL, LLC; Dr. Katie Desiderio, Moravian University; Olivia Eaddy, Prudential; Kristyn Smith, Tobyhanna Army Depot; Eric Acosta, Wilkes University; Nicole Strauser, Prudential; Shanie Mohamed, the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce; Bella Ceccoli, Scranton Area Community Foundation; Glynis Johns, Black Scranton Project; Kelley Laird, Fidelity Bank; Mandie Hendricks, Janney Montgomery Scott; Dr. Tricia Richards-Service, I Need A Speaker; PA State Senator Rosemary Brown; Marie Beggin, Penn East Federal Credit Union; Chelsey Coslett, NEPIRC; Stephanie Mihal, MMQ & Associates; Dr. Sarah Wodder, Scranton Counseling Center; Jennifer Davis, Sordoni Construction Services, Inc.; Patricia Cummings, Patricia O Cummings Therapy, LLC; Christie Estadt, Body Blueprint PTC; Dr. Barbara Plucknett, The Body Blueprint Demystified; and Brianna Strunk, Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. For a second year, The Honesdale National Bank will sponsor a teen program at EMPOWER. The program is a unique opportunity specifically curated for teen attendees (ages 16-18) designed to enhance personal and professional development. The Teen Program is in partnership with Leadership Lackawanna and Leadership Northeast. Over 800 attendees will appear at EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, on April 25. Tickets are available online at www.ScrantonChamber.com.
Urban Co-Works to Host Entrepeneur Night Urban Co-Works is excited to announce its first Entrepreneur Night, sponsored by Community Bank, will be hosted on April 23, 2024, from 5:30pm – 8:00pm. Local professionals are invited to join for an evening of entrepreneurial innovation, inspiration, and networking at Urban Co-Works, a premiere coworking space located in downtown Scranton. The night will kick-off with a presentation hosted by NEPA Tech featuring Dr. John G Duesler, president of the PA Drone Association, as he discusses The Innovation Trap: How Ideas, Technologies, and Discoveries Deceive Us. Dr. John G Duesler brings a wealth of experience to the table as the President of the Pennsylvania Drone Association. His focus on the burgeoning drone economy is not just limited to aerial work with sports networks but extends into the realm of agriculture. “Building a community of individuals who are passionate about technology, entrepreneurship, business, and the arts is a key to the future growth of Scranton and Northeast Pennsylvania as a whole. That is NEPA Tech’s mission since 2016,” said John George, NEPA Tech Committee Chairperson. “NEPA Tech is excited to collaborate with Urban Co-Work’s Entrepreneur Night to further this goal. Collaboration and cross-promotion is multiplicative. Together we will go far.” Following Dr. Duesler, two young entrepreneurs will pitch their ideas and receive feedback on how to best position their brands. The first to pitch will be David Yeager, CEO and founder of Showcase, a music discovery platform that creates a collective listening experience along with connection points and conversations between both the Artists and the fans. Second to pitch will be Julio Pertuz, CEO and founder of Fidbak, a digital platform transforming the learning and skill development process. “Entrepreneurship is growing in Scranton and we’re looking forward to hosting Entrepreneur Night here at Urban Co-Works to help foster new business ideas throughout the community,” said Jeff Goronkin, founder and CEO of Urban Co-works. “This will be a unique opportunity for anyone interested in starting their own company to learn from local business leaders, gain insights, forge connections, and be a part of the entrepreneurial spirit driving innovation in Scranton and beyond.” Goronkin is working with Ken Okrepkie of Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania to secure additional entrepreneurs to present throughout the year. “Investing in local entrepreneurs is so important so that we can foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem that will lead to job creation and a stronger economy in Scranton and Northeastern PA,” said Ken Okrepkie. “I look forward to working with Jeff to support these entrepreneurs and hopefully bring their companies to fruition in our city.” WHEN: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 5:30-8pm *Presentations to begin at 6:00pm WHERE: Urban Co-Works 116 North Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor Scranton, PA 18503 WHO: Jeff Goronkin – CEO & Founder, Urban Co-Works Ken Okrepkie – Regional Manager, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania Dr. John G. Duesler – President, PA Drone Association David Yeager, CEO & Founder, Showcase Julio Pertuz, CEO & Founder, Fidbak Anyone looking for more information or who wishes to attend can visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/entrepreneur-night-at-urban-co-works-tickets-873625606707?aff=oddtdtcreator to register.
Meals on Wheels of NEPA to Host Designer Purse Bingo Meals on Wheels of NEPA will be hosting their annual Designer Purse Bingo fundraising event on Sunday, April 21. Doors will open at noon and bingo starts at 1:00pm. Bingo will be held at the Space at Olive, located at 541 Wyoming Ave Scranton. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased in advance here: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/mownepadesignerpursebingo -but limited tickets will be available for purchase at the door. Tickets include general admission, entry for the door prize, and a free dauber. There will be 20 regular games, three special games, and one super special game. Features include our signature Bag O’Money 50/50 raffle, designer gift pull, and food buffet. Sponsorship opportunities are available for $150, and are a great way for local businesses to advertise and support a great cause. All proceeds will benefit the programs and mission of Meals on Wheels of NEPA.
Johnson College to Host 7th Annual Carpentry Auction for Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Johnson College’s Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology program will host an auction to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, inside the Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology lab in Woolworth Hall on the Johnson College Scranton campus. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and the auction starts at 6:00 p.m. The auction is open to the public. More than 70 items will be available to bid on, including cutting boards, chess boards, tables, benches, and custom woodworking. All items were created by students in the Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology program. Many of the items were made from re-purposed material. The 2023 Carpentry Auction raised $5,970 to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA. Register for the event at https://forms.gle/TbnaKmm6xfjX7ntLA To learn more about the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA, visit https://cacnepa.org/.
Mohegan Pennsylvania Features Party on the Patio Kentucky Derby Party With the 150th Kentucky Derby taking place on Saturday, May 4th, Mohegan Pennsylvania is set to host a Kentucky Derby Party like never before! Beginning at 2:00pm, this annual event will provide guests with an opportunity to indulge in delicious bites, try various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, 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. Additionally, a special edition of Party on the Patio will take place after the race! There is no cover for the Kentucky Derby Party and Party on the Patio. The Kentucky Derby Party will feature Coors Light, Blue Moon, a variety of seltzers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests can also enjoy the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep, with an opportunity to upgrade to a specialty 150th Anniversary Kentucky Derby glass while supplies last. 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 stop by the Best Cigar Pub booth where a live cigar roller will be in action and a selection of cigars will be available for purchase. Additionally, guests can relax and listen to acoustic music by Ken Norton from 2:00pm – 6:00pm. Throughout the day, the Spa Sapphire team will be set up in the racing lobby and assisting guests with Derby Day essentials. Additionally, guests can explore Spa Sapphire’s exquisite five-star services and plan a day of luxurious self-care. The Hat Revue is back, and guests have an opportunity to compete for lucrative prizes! Registration for the Hat Revue will be from 4:00pm – 6:00pm in the racing lobby. Top prizes include a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card that will be awarded to the “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 incredible shopping selections across the property. Beginning at 10:00am on Friday, May 3rd, Mohegan Pennsylvania will accept advanced Kentucky Derby wagers in Simulcast and tellers will be available to assist. Beginning at 10:00am on Saturday, May 4th, Simulcast will be self-service but guests can place wagers with tellers at the upper-level Pacer’s Clubhouse betting windows. No live harness racing meets are scheduled for May 4th but Simulcast wagering will be available for all tracks with live meets including Churchill Downs throughout the day. All guests must be 18 years or older to place wagers at the indoor Simulcast location. 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 18th. Second – fourth place winners will receive $500, $250 and $100 in free wagers, respectively. Immediately following the end of the Kentucky Derby broadcast, The River 105 and 103.5’s DJ Tommy will take the stage to emcee Party on the Patio. This special edition Party on the Patio will take place from 7:30pm – 10:00pm and will feature Philadelphia Freedom, a tribute to Elton John. Mohegan Pennsylvania recently announced that this year’s Party on the Patio will feature a record-breaking 22 weeks of shows. For more information, visit moheganpa.com/potp. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to access the Kentucky Derby Party and 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 the event are not valid for the gaming floor. All persons, bags and personal items are subject to inspection. No portable chairs are permitted.
Marywood Community Leadership Celebration to Spotlight President and Alumna Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., Marywood’s President, who will retire on June 30, will be recognized with a special spotlight at Marywood University’s 11th Annual Community Leadership Celebration on Thursday, May 2, 2024, 5:30 p.m., at the Center for Athletics and Wellness on the University’s campus. The event also will honor community leader and Marywood alumna Mary Ellen McDonough. As Marywood’s 12th President, Sister Mary has guided Marywood University for the past eight years with her collaborative leadership and bold vision, devoting her life to promoting Marywood’s mission and core values. During her presidential tenure, Sister Mary made strides in the scholarly life of the university by restructuring and streamlining the Colleges, adding or expanding several signature academic programs, and establishing the Offices of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Global Education. During her eight years, Marywood has welcomed national retail partnerships to Marywood, including Starbucks, the popular Gear Shop, Apple, and Amazon stores. Additionally, Marywood’s endowment has nearly doubled and maintained a fiscally responsible status under her leadership, even during universally challenging financial times in higher education. To further strengthen Marywood’s future, Sister Mary is presently bringing the University’s $30 million comprehensive campaign to its conclusion. This campaign is designed to fund new construction and academic spaces on campus, provide scholarships for students, and enhance the student experience. In moments such as an unprecedented global pandemic, Sister Mary supported the entire community of faculty, staff, and students with strength and confidence. Her engagement, both in the public arena and on campus among the students, are two highlights of her presidency. She has represented Marywood well locally, nationally, and even internationally, but when asked, Sister Mary notes that the best part of the job was interacting with the wonderful people who are our students. The CLC is Marywood’s signature fundraiser, providing special support to Marywood students and honoring individuals in the community who exemplify Marywood’s core values in leadership and service to others. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit campus improvements as part of the EMPOWER Campaign. To join Marywood University in recognizing Sister Mary Persico, IHM, and in honoring Mary Ellen McDonough at the 11th Annual Community Leadership Celebration on May 2, please visit marywood.edu/clc for ticket and sponsorship information, or call (570) 348-6238.
NeighborWorks Kicks Off of West Scranton Events with Spring EGGstravaganza NeighborWorks is hosting its second egg hunt in West Scranton on Saturday, April 13th at Novembrino Park (201 10th Ave, Scranton, PA). There will be music, community resources, games, and more from 11am to 3pm. The egg hunt will start promptly at 1pm and all ages are welcome. The event is free and will be held rain or shine, and participants are encouraged to bring their own baskets. NeighborWorks is expanding the event this year to have more activities available to participants. The Youth Arts Coalition will be providing arts activities for children in attendance. Additionally, the Albright Memorial Library will be signing people up for library cards and have free books to give away. Friends of the Poor will have healthy snacks and information on their services available just a few blocks away from the splashpad. Fidelity Bank will have free ice cream from 12-2pm, PennDOT will have crosswalk safety demonstrations, and the PA Department of Health will have COVID test kits, tick prevention information, and more! Both years, the event has been initiated and driven by West Scranton’s Image, Identity, and Events committee member, Vivian Williams. She has worked with West Scranton Intermediate School to get candy donations and volunteers to help fill the eggs with candy for the egg hunt. This year she will also be managing the volunteers during the event to make sure everything runs smoothly. This initiative is part of NeighborWorks’ West Scranton Neighborhood Plan, a comprehensive 10-year strategy for improving the neighborhood. It kicks off a slate of annual events in the neighborhood, including the Allen Park Summer Concert Series, Fall Festival, and West Side Wonderland Tree Lighting. Please contact Miranda Pace at mpace@nwnepa.org or 570-606-7359 for additional information.
