PA Route 6 Alliance to Hold Informational Webinar

Join PA Humanities and the PA Route 6 Alliance on March 17 from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. to learn about Community Heart & Soul™, an innovative community planning process that engages residents in identifying hopes and ideas for their town.

Since 2015, PA Humanities has been working with Community Heart & Soul to engage residents across the Commonwealth in planning for their town’s future. Twelve (12) communities have gone through the process and seen:

●     New volunteers and leaders emerge

●     Updates to zoning ordinances

●     Valuable community feedback for comprehensive and local community plans

●     New businesses emerge

●     Town beautification efforts launched (facades, updates to parks, community clean ups)

….and so much more. Learn about how PA Heart & Soul can help spark community into planning and development efforts – and how to bring the process to your community!

PA Heart & Soul Information Session is to learn more about Community Heart & Soul, please join for a webinar presented by the PA Humanities to discuss the benefits of this program and how interested communities can start the applications process. Below you will find information about the program, including the link to join the webinar.

PA Route 6 Alliance will be applying for funding for communities within the Route 6 Corridor who wish to apply to become a PA Heart & Soul community.

The University of Scranton to Host Engaging Events

Two engaging Collaborative Programs are on tap for The University of Scranton’s Schemel Forum this spring.

On Wednesday, Mar. 29, the Schemel Forum will partner with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine to present “Mozart: The Mind and Music of a Genius,” featuring Richard Kogan, M.D., professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College and artistic director of the Weill Cornell Music and Medicine Program. The program will begin at 5:30 p.m. in WVIA Public Media Studios’ Sordoni Theater, with a reception to follow. Admission is $35 per person.

At the program, Dr. Kogan, a Julliard-trained pianist and Harvard-trained psychiatrist, will explore the mystery of creative genius through an examination of the life, mind and music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791). To illustrate his points, Dr. Kogan will perform some of Mozart’s most sublime musical compositions on the piano.

Then, on Thursday, Apr. 27, the Schemel Forum, the Theology and Religious Students Department and the Weinberg Judaic Studies Institute will co-present “Only in America? Religion, State, and a Hasidic Town in Rural New York,” featuring David N. Myers, Ph.D., distinguished professor of history, Sady and Ludwig Kahn Chair in Jewish History, and director of the Luskin Center for History and Policy at UCLA. The event will take place at 7 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall. Admission is $15 per person.

At the program, Dr. Myers will discuss the remarkable case of Kiryas Joel, a town in New York state populated entirely by Satmar Hasidic Jews. What, Myers will ask, does this town of religiously observant Jews tell us about the “wall of separation” between religion and state of which Thomas Jefferson spoke? And, has that Jeffersonian ideal given way to a new vision of religious liberties as the paramount constitutional right?

To register for the programs, contact Brooke Leonard at 570-941-4740 or brooke.leonard@scranton.edu. Or, to pay online, visit the Schemel Forum’s webpage (scranton.edu/schemelforum)

Keystone College to Present Senior Exhibit at Gallery

Students in the Visual Arts Department at Keystone College will present their Senior Exhibition at the AFA Gallery in downtown Scranton beginning Friday, April 7 and lasting through Saturday, April 29. 

The exhibit, “Feminine Gaze,” will feature seven talented Keystone female artists: Emma Amaral (Mansfield); Cassandra Clapper (New Milford); Madison Guzzo (Lords Valley); Kelly Landon (Dallas, Pa,); Alyssa Morris (Scranton); Yamile Nieves Santana (Nanticoke); and Susan Rode (Lords Valley). The artists have spent the last four years honing their skills in a variety of media including painting, sculpture, glass, photography, and ceramics.

AFA Gallery is located at 101 Penn Avenue in Scranton. An opening reception will be held on First Friday, April 7, from 6-9 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. Regular gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday, noon – 6 p.m.

Misericordia’s Women’s History Month Events

Pride Night, at Men’s Volleyball Game

Wednesday, March 15 • 7:00 pm | Anderson Center

8 Women Who Changed the World Event

Tuesday, March 28 • 7:00 pm | Mary Kintz Bevevino Library, McGowan Room

Art Gallery Exhibit

Through March 31 | Pauly Friedman Art Gallery

Flashpoints: Material/Intent/Fused

Art Gallery Exhibit Event

Thursday, March 16

• 3:30 pm Artist demonstration on encaustic paint with artist and curator Reni Gower Preregistration: llittle@misericordia.edu | 570-675-6250 • 5:30 pm Reception and Gallery Talk | Free and open to the public

RailRiders 2023 Promotions, Giveaways & Themes Announced

Opening Day at PNC Field is 29 days away and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are thrilled to unveil their 2023 promotional and giveaway schedule. Later this month, the RailRiders begin a home schedule that currently features 16 giveaways, 12 fireworks nights, six custom jerseys, four Copa de la Diversión games and much more!


2023 Promotional Calendar Highlights:
Opening Day is March 31 against the Buffalo Bisons. Gates will open at 5:30 P.M. with a magnetic schedule giveaway courtesy of Highmark BCBS for the first 2,000 fans. First pitch is slated for 6:35 and, after the final out, pyrotechnics will light up the sky with our first fireworks show of the season.
During the year, fans can enjoy 11 additional post game fireworks extravaganzas. Friday Night Fireworks begin on May 26 and will follow every Friday home game for the rest of the season. Plus we have added a Saturday show on August 12!
Copa de la Diversión is back for a fourth year with dates scheduled for May 5, June 22, July 6 and August 10, all presented by La Tolteca.
Replica Jersey Giveaways on April 15 and September 16 are set to honor two of baseball’s legendary players. The RailRiders will give away a “42” replica home jersey in April honoring Jackie Robinson and a replica alternate jersey in September paying tribute to Roberto Clemente. The “21” jersey is presented by La Tolteca.
On May 6, this is the way to fun as Star Wars Night returns to a galaxy close to you. The RailRiders will don custom jerseys set to be auctioned off to benefit NEPA Inclusive. Gates open at 3 and the first 2,000 fans will get a pair of custom SWB socks. During the game, galactic agents of good and evil will patrol the concourse for photo opportunities.
May 10 and 24 are STEM School Days, presented by Penn State Scranton, Hazleton, and Wilke-Barre. First pitch on each date is set for 11:05 A.M., but prior to the games, students from across NEPA will have the chance to participate in our annual trebuchet competition.
Military Appreciation Day is May 27 with a 4:05 P.M. first pitch. Gates open at 3 with a RailRiders boonie hat giveaway courtesy of MetLife.

Marvel’s Defenders of the Diamond return to PNC Field on June 9 with custom jerseys to be auctioned off benefitting the Ronald McDonald House.
This season’s bobblehead lineup features three can’t-miss giveaways for the first 2,500 fans. Help celebrate manager Shelley Duncan’s return to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on June 10 with a Bobble Gnome Giveaway courtesy of PNC Bank.
June 11 is our first-ever Sensory Friendly Day. We will provide a sensory-safe environment for fans of all ages as the team takes on the Worcester Red Sox with a 1:05 P.M. first pitch, including reduced ballpark sounds, ZENsory Zone on-hand with sensory-friendly activities and much more.
June 22 is the RailRiders Open with a golf towel giveaway. Be the ball and enjoy a golf-inspired night with your best scramble to the ballpark.
Celebrate our nation’s independence at PNC Field on July 4. Lehigh Valley is in town for a 6:35 P.M. first pitch that night and we will have an extended fireworks show after the game as we honor America courtesy of the PA Lottery!
If you are looking for something for the kids, check out our exclusive Kids-Only giveaway dates on July 9 and August 27. July 9 is CHAMP’S birthday and the first 500 kids 12 & younger will receive a replica jersey honoring everyone’s favorite mascot, presented by Casey Dental. On August 27, the first 500 kids 12 & younger get a paintable CHAMP figurine.
Level up on Retro Video Game Night July 22 with an Anthony Volpe Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2,500 fans. Plus the team will wear custom jerseys to be auctioned off, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters, as we honor the classics from the golden age of video gaming.


Waste away at Margaritaville Night on August 15 with a Hawaiian Shirt Giveaway and custom jerseys auctioned off to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network at the Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital in Danville, presented by Giant.
We all know that there ain’t no party like a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre party, so don’t miss our Office Olympics Night on August 12. Gates at 5 P.M. with an Oswald Peraza & Oswaldo Cabrera Dual Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2,500 fans, games that would make any office proud and maybe even a celebrity fun run plus post game fireworks!
Throw it back old school style on 90s Night August 26. The first 2,000 fans will receive a fuzzy bucket hat and the players will wear custom jerseys to be auctioned off benefitting the American Red Cross.


All giveaways are for the first 2,000 fans this season unless otherwise noted.
All promotions, theme nights and giveaways remain subject to change. More details and appearances will be announced as the 2023 season approaches.
Single-game tickets go on sale March 4 at 11 A.M. online at swbrailriders.com.

2023 Giveaways and Theme Nights
March 31 Opening Day! Magnetic Schedule Giveaway presented by Highmark; Post Game Fireworks
April 1 Clear Tote Bag Giveaway
April 15 RailRiders “42” Replica Home Jersey Giveaway
May 5 Copa de la Diversión presented by La Tolteca
May 6 Star Wars Night with a Custom Jersey Auction benefitting NEPA Exclusive;
SWB Socks Giveaway
May 10 STEM School Day presented by Penn State Scranton, Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre;
May 13 Fleece Blanket Giveaway
May 14 Mother’s Day at PNC Field with #1 Mom Coffee Mug Giveaway for the first 500 Moms
May 24 STEM School Day presented by Penn State Scranton, Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre;
May 26 Post Game Fireworks
May 27 Military Appreciation Day with a RailRiders Boonie Hat Giveaway presented by MetLife
June 9 Defenders of the Diamond Night with a Custom Jersey Auction benefitting
Ronald McDonald House; Boy Scout Night;
Post Game Fireworks
June 10 Shelley Duncan Bobble Gnome Giveaway courtesy of PNC Bank
June 11 Sensory Friendly Day
June 22 Pride Night
June 23 Copa de la Diversión presented by La Tolteca; Post Game Fireworks
June 24 RailRiders Open with a Golf Towel Giveaway
July 4 Independence Day Celebration with an Extended Post Game Fireworks Extravaganza
presented by the PA Lottery
July 6 Copa de la Diversión presented by La Tolteca
July 7 Post Game Fireworks
July 9 CHAMP’S Birthday with a Custom Jersey Giveaway for the first 500 kids 12 and younger
presented by Casey Dental
July 21 Post Game Fireworks
July 22 Retro Video Game Night with an Anthony Volpe Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2,500 fans; Custom Jersey Auction benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters
August 4 Faith & Family Night; Post Game Fireworks
August 5 Margaritaville Night presented by Giant with a Hawaiian Shirt Giveaway and a Custom Jersey
Auction to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network; Girl Scout Night
August 10 Copa de la Diversión presented by La Tolteca
August 11 Post Game Fireworks
August 12 Office Olympics Night with an Oswald Peraza/ Oswaldo Cabrera Dual Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2,500 fans; Post Game Fireworks
August 25 Post Game Fireworks
August 26 90s Night with a fuzzy SWB Bucket Hat Giveaway and a Custom Jersey Auction benefitting the American Red Cross
August 27 Paintable Champ Figurine Giveaway for the first 500 kids 12 and younger
September 15 Post Game Fireworks
September 16 SWB “21” Replica Jersey Giveaway honoring Roberto Clemente courtesy of La Tolteca
September 17 Fan Appreciation Day

RailRiders University Community Series Begins April 5

Annual series puts local high school and special needs teams on PNC Field 13 times this year.
The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to announce the schedule for the seventh annual RailRiders University Community Series, presented by Geisinger. Each year, the RailRiders welcome local high school and special needs teams onto PNC Field to showcase their talents.


2023 RailRiders University Community Series
Date Time Game Details


April 5 4:30 P.M. Wyoming Seminary High School vs. Holy Redeemer High School
Doubleheader A battle of first-year head coaches starts the schedule when Kyle Ofier and the Blue Knights take on Ryan Knowles and the Royals.
Riverside High School vs. Holy Cross High School
RailRiders University instructor Sean Hughes leads the Vikings against the defending District 2 Champion Crusaders, led by Sandy Menichetti.


April 6 4:30 P.M. Hanover Area High School vs. Greater Nanticoke High School
Eric Spencer’s Trojans and Todd Kolbicka’s Hawkeyes return to PNC Field.


April 10 3:00 P.M. Western Wayne High School vs. Mid Valley High School
Wildcats John Bonyl takes on RRU instructor Ryan Kropa’s Spartans.


April 17 4:30 P.M. Delaware Valley High School vs. North Pocono High School
RRU instructor Brian Jardine and the Trojans host Sean Gilbin and the Warriors, who are making their PNC Field debut.


April 21 4:30 P.M. Panther Valley High School vs. Abington Heights High School
The Comets and RRU’s Billy Zalewski, host the Panthers from District 11.
April 24 4:30 P.M. West Scranton High School vs. Scranton High School


Jamie Higgins, a RRU instructor, and the Knights host Brian Minnich and the Invaders in this classic rivalry match-up.
Triple-A Affiliate of the
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRidersPNC Field 235 Montage Mountain Road Moosic, PA 18507 570-969-2255 www.swbrailriders.com
media advisory
April 28 4:30 P.M. Blue Ridge High School vs. Mid Valley High School
The Spartans host coach Rob Dibble and the Raiders.


May 1 4:30 P.M. Valley View High School vs. Abington Heights High School
Another great rivalry game that pits the Cougars, led by Jason Munley, against the Comets.


May 7 TBD Crestwood High School vs. Dallas High School
After the RailRiders host the Rochester Red Wings, Sean Foley’s Comets and Mike Viglione’s Mountaineers wrap our Community Series with a rivalry clash.


There is no parking or admission fee for any of the 2023 RailRiders University Community Series games.
The RailRiders are also proud to host the Wyoming Valley Challenger League as part of the Community Series on June 11, 25 and July 9.


RailRiders University will host three camps this summer – June 27-29, July 25-27 and August 15-17. Save the dates now and be sure to book your six to 14 year-old once registration begins. Contact Robby Judge at (570) 558-4612 or rjudge@swbrailriders.com for additional information.
The 2023 RailRiders University Community Series is presented by Geisinger as part of their continued commitment to Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information, please contact the RailRiders front office at
(570) 969-BALL.

Marywood University Adds More Events to Spring Schedule

Marywood University’s Music, Theatre, and Dance department has added several more events to its original spring semester performance schedule. Performances are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted as admission cost required or designated as a school district performance. Admission prices, if any, will be listed with the performance. Check online at marywood.edu/news/mtd-events-spring-2023 for the most recent performance information.

March
Sunday, 3/5Northeastern Youth Wind and String Ensemble 4 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Saturday, 3/25Gabriella ComesNoonMarian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeSenior Recital
Sunday, 3/26Gabriel Jenceleski 2 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeJunior Recital
Sunday, 3/26Adam Jonkman and Dax Sowul5 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeSenior Recital
Tuesday, 3/28Mason Coccodrilli7 p.m.Room 98, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsSenior Recital
Thursday, 3/30Jack and The Beanstalk*10 a.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts — *School District Performance; not open to the publicChildren’s Theatre Performance
Friday, 3/31Jack and The Beanstalk*11 a.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts — *School District Performance; not open to the public  Children’s Theatre Performance
April
Saturday, 4/1Jack and The Beanstalk*2 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts *Admission cost required. Cost is $10 per person (regardless of age); free with Marywood ID. Tickets can be purchased in advance by credit card at https://marywood.universitytickets.com/ or purchased at the door with cash.Children’s Theatre Performance
Saturday, 4/1  Jessica Tassey and Aryana SmithNoonMarian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeSenior Recital
Sunday, 4/2Nomadic Chromatics2 p.m.Room 104, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsA cappella Concert
Sunday, 4/2Ruiwen Su3 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeJunior Recital
Sunday, 4/16Tutti Concert2 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Sunday, 4/16Wind Symphony4 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Friday, 4/21Orchestra7 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeConcert
Saturday, 4/22Max Kaiser and Bridget Guziewicz 1 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeSenior Recital
Saturday, 4/22Hyun Sook Jeong (guest artist)7:30  p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifePiano Recital
Sunday, 4/23Orchestra Concert2 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeConcert
Wednesday, 4/26General Recital8 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeGeneral Recital
Thursday, 4/27Jazz Ambassadors7 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeConcert
Sunday, 4/30Concert Choir and Civic Orchestra2 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
May
Monday, 5/1String Ensemble Concert7 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Monday, 5/1Voice General Recital8 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeVoice Recital
Saturday, 5/6Chamber Singers7:30 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeConcert
Sunday, 5/7Percussion Ensemble2 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Sunday, 5/7Carlie Cocco4 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeJunior Recital
Monday, 5/8String Project6:30 p.m.Munley Theatre, Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing ArtsConcert
Tuesday, 5/9Evening of Strings7 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeConcert
Thursday, 5/11General Recital8 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeGeneral Recital
Friday, 5/12D’Ambra Galvin7 p.m.Marian Chapel, Swartz Center for Spiritual LifeSenior Recital

First Friday is Tomorrow!

First Friday Scranton features a wide variety of cultural events found in some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes, as well as galleries, boutiques, and other small businesses. All events associated with First Friday Scranton take place from 5-9PM in a walk-able, close knit footprint, though a trolley bus is available to provide shuttle service at designated stops. First Friday Scranton serves as a conduit to artists, connecting them to prospective venues, art lovers seeking entertainment, and venues looking to attract new customers. For over 10 years First Friday Scranton has been a foundational event fostering growth and supporting local businesses and the arts in Downtown Scranton.

M = Live Music
S = Open Saturday

1.) AFA Gallery – “THREE: A Show in 3 Dimensions” featuring various artists. S

2.) Analog Culture – “2EZ” by artists Eric Bussart & Zack Yahn. Live music by K.A.N.O.B.I. M S

3.) Artworks – All Student Show

4.) Bazaar Skateshop – Various works by artist Kaitlyn Kishbaugh. S

5.) Cathedral of Saint Peter – Live music – Renaissance Favorites by The Lyric Consort. M S

6.) Duffy Accessories – Various visual artists from West Scranton Senior High School art class under artist/educator Ryan Hnat. Keyboard music by George Malloy. M S

7.) The Workshop – Accordion Books by Marywood Art Students. S

The University of Scranton Events

March Events at The University of Scranton

Through Mar. 10        Art Exhibit: “ANew Understanding: Paintings by Travis Prince.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 3-5   8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Performance: “Little Women; the Broadway Musical” music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, book by Allan Knee presented by The University of Scranton Players. McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 4     Following 8 p.m. performance: Talk Back immediately after the performance of “Little Women; the Broadway Musical” by The University of Scranton Players as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 5     7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Concert Choir and The Scranton Brass Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 7     6 p.m. Salary Negotiations Workshop offered by The University of Scranton’s Career Development Office and the Jane Kopas Women’s Center as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. Room 405, The DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-6194 or email jkwc@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 8     3 p.m. Women of Vision and Courage Award Presentation offered by The University of Scranton’s Jane Kopas Women’s Center as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-6194 or email jkwc@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 13     noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “The Courage to Care” presented by Carol Rittner, RSM, D.Ed., distinguished professor emerita of Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Dr. Marsha Raticoff Grossman Professor Emerita of Holocaust Studies at Stockton University, New Jersey. The luncheon is part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 20 through Apr. 14        Art Exhibit: “Post COVID: Art by Students for the Scranton School District.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 23     11:45 a.m. Community-Based Learning Talk “Environmental Health” presented by Tonyehn Verkitus. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 24     5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “Post COVID: Art by Students for the Scranton School District” presented by Darlene Miller-Lanning. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Reception to follow at the Hope Horn Gallery. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 25     9 a.m. Preview Day for accepted students to The University of Scranton’s class of 2027. Various locations on campus. Call 570-941-7540 or email admissions@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 28     noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “A Foreigner Called Picasso” presented by Annie Cohen-Solal, writer and social historian, distinguished professor at Bocconi University, Milan, Italy. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     5:30 p.m. Schemel Forum with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Collaborative Program: “Mozart: The Mind and Music of a Genius” presented by Richard Kogan, M.D., professor of psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College and artistic director, Weill Cornell Music and Medicine Program. Sordoni Theater, WVIA Public Media Studies. Reception to follow. Registration required. $35 per person. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “General Recital” featuring flute choir, percussion ensemble, steel drums and more. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     7:30 p.m. Office of Sustainability film and panel discussion “The Seeds of Vandana Shiva.” Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-7520 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 30     5 p.m. 26th Annual ACHE Healthcare Symposium: “Bedside and Administration: A Strategic Alliance.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Includes dinner, presentation and panel discussion. Fees vary. Call 570-709-9892 or email scarlet.alexander@scranton.edu.   

The University of Scranton to Offer Free Masterclass and Concert

On Sunday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band with special guest guitarist and vocalist Matt Munisteri. The 7:30 p.m. concert will take place in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.

Munisteri will also offer a free guitar masterclass in the afternoon before the concert, please email music@scranton.edu for more information.

According to Performance Music directors Cheryl Y. Boga and Philip J. Kuehn, the concert will feature a variety of songs about love and heartbreak, in a nod to the concert’s proximity to Valentines’ Day. Munisteri and the Jazz Band will combine to perform a number of songs together, and there will be several solo pieces during the concert featuring only Munisteri.

A multi-faceted musician, Munisteri is the sparkling guitarist on several chart-topping jazz CDs. He is a critically lauded songwriter and nimble lyricist, an urban banjo-warrior, a selfless and devoted sideman, a wry-yet-honest singer, an engaging and winning front-man, and an arranger whose ear-pulling re-inventions of well-traveled songs have contributed to Grammy winning CDs for artists such as Loudon Wainwright and Catherine Russell.

Munisteri’s debut CD “Love Story” from 2003 wound up on several critic’s “Best Of” lists, and garnered the number two slot on Amazon’s Top Ten Jazz CDs of The Year. A formidable lyricist, his literate songs have been compared to Randy Newman, Mose Allison and Bob Dorough. Munisteri has been featured on France’s ARTE television, profiled in Downbeat magazine, honored with Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s Editor’s Choice award, and has been the subject of several broadcasts on NPR.

When not working on his own projects, his primary sideman gigs for the last few years have been playing with violinist Mark O’Connor’s Hot Swing, Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra and with the singer Catherine Russell, for whom he also currently serves as Music Director. He also lent a hand to his friend, guitarist Julian Lage, producing Julian’s acclaimed solo guitar debut “Worlds Fair” (2015).

The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no music major at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) from every major are eligible for membership in the University bands, choirs and string ensembles, with neither an audition nor enrollment fee required for membership. Hundreds of students participate in the ensembles each year, and a number of University faculty, staff and alumni perform with them.

Performance Music’s large ensembles include Concert/Symphonic Band, Concert Choir/Singers, String Orchestra and Jazz Band (big band format). Smaller groups are made up of members from within the large ensembles, and include Steel Drum Band, Percussion Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble and Sax Ensemble, plus other small vocal and instrumental groups in various formats. Solo, duo and trio performance opportunities are available to members of the ensembles through the general recitals offered each semester. Other programs within the department, including guest artist concerts, World Premiere Composition Series, Nelhybel Collection and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers. High school juniors and seniors who are considering applying to Scranton are encouraged to contact Performance Music to arrange to sit in on a rehearsal, meet the staff, attend a concert or tour the building.  

For further information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. Please check Performance Music’s website, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.

For further information about Munisteri, visit mattmunisteri.com.

The University of Scranton News

The University of Scranton Celebrates Black History Month

The University of Scranton’s Multicultural Center, the Office of Community Engagement and Government Relations, the Weinberg Memorial Library, the Hope Horn Art Gallery, the Louis Stanley Brown Black Student Union and other organizations have planned a number of events for Black History Month at venues on- and off-campus.

“As many have said, African-American and Black history is American history,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president, in a Black History Month message to the University community. “The historic and ongoing resistance to racial injustice that Black people have undertaken has made the United States more just, more equal, and more democratic in ways that have changed our country forever for the better.”

On Wednesday, Feb. 1, the University will light its Class of 2020 Gateway sign in red, yellow and green for Black History Month. The sign will feature these colors on Saturday evenings in February. The Multicultural Center will sponsor a table sit on the second floor of the DeNaples Center titled “MC Awareness Month Table Sit: Black Resistance.” The table sit begins at 11 a.m.

Also on Feb. 1, the University’s will begin its Black History Month Film Series with the screening of “Moonlight,” which won the 2017 Academy Award for Best Picture. Presented by the Weinberg Memorial Library and the Louis Stanley Brown Black Student Union, the films will be shown at 7 p.m. free of charge on Wednesdays in February in the Moskovitz Theater of the DeNaples Center. Other films planned for the Black History Month Film Series are: “Blackkklansman,” the 2018 Academy-award winning film directed by Spike Lee, on Feb. 8; “Whose Streets?,” a documentary about how the police killing of Mike Brown inspired a global movement, on Feb. 15; and the documentary “Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975,” on Feb. 22. The series will conclude with the screening of “Sparkle,” a musical film inspired by The Supremes, on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m.

On Friday, Feb. 3, the University’s Hope Horn Art Gallery will host a lecture by artist Travis Prince about the exhibition of his work titled “A New Understanding: Paintings by Travis Prince.” The lecture will take place at 5 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall, followed by an opening reception of his work in the Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Prince’s work will be on display during gallery hours through March 10. The exhibit and lecture are free of charge.

On Thursday, Feb. 9, the University will host a Community-Based Learning Talk, titled “Black History and Housing in Scranton,” by Glynis Johns, CEO and founder of the Black Scranton Project. The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a National Endowment for the Humanities funded initiative led by the University and community organizations. The talk, offered free of charge, beings at 6 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater of the DeNaples Center. Registration is required to attend and can be made at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CBL23BlackHistoryHousing

Also as part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a Black History PBS Film Series will be screened on three Sundays in February. The first film of the series, “Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom,” will be shown at 3 p.m. on Feb. 5 at the Black Scranton Project Center for Arts and Culture, 1902 North Main Avenue. The film “Becoming Frederick Douglass” will be shown at 3 p.m. on Feb. 19, also at Black Scranton Project Center for Arts and Culture. The series will conclude with the showing of “Jim Crow of the North” at 3 p.m. on Feb. 26 at the Moskovitz Theater of the DeNaples Center. The files are presented free of charge. Registration is required to attend and can be made by emailing info@blackscranton.org or by calling 570-941-4419.

In addition, the Multicultural Center will also host a trivia night for students the evening of Feb. 7, and is planning additional events for later in the month, including a grand opening ceremony for the Center’s newly-renovated location on the first-floor of the DeNaples Center. The University also launched a progress update webpage for its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, to inform the University community of the ongoing work accomplished regarding this initiative.

For additional information about the University’s Black History Month events and learning opportunities, contact the Multicultural Center at 570-941-5904 or multicultural@scranton.edu

2023 Earth Day Essay Contest Set for Area Students

Area students in grades 5 to 12 can participate in The University of Scranton’s Earth Day Essay Contest 2023. The contest is offered free of charge. This year’s essay theme is “The People’s PlanetClimate Justice,” a celebration of our shared global community and how we may all contribute to make it a better one.

Topics students can write about include Conservation, recycling, bees, access to healthy eating, factory farming, renewable energy, eliminating single use containers, gardening, public transportation, community, family, vertical planting and plant-based meals, among other subjects.

Essays for students in grades five and six must be between 200 to 400 words. Essays for students in grades seven and eight must be between 300 to 500 words. Essays for students in grades nine to 12 must be between 500 to 700 words. Electronic submissions must be sent to susan.falbo@scranton.edu on or before Monday, April 3. Mail-in entries must be postmarked on or by April 1 to be considered and can be sent to: The University of Scranton, Office of Sustainability, Smurfit Arts Center, 445 Madison Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510, Attn: Earth Day Essay Contest.

Visit the Sustainability & Energy Management Department section of the University’s facilities management page, then scroll down to locate the contest guidelines, complete submission rules and details.

Winners of the Earth Day Essay Contest will be announced by the University’s Sustainability Office and student Sustainability and Conservation Society at an Evening of Environmental Science program for participants and their families and teachers on Thursday, April 20, 2022, beginning at 5:30 p.m., in the atrium of the Loyola Science Center on campus.

University of Success Now Accepting Applications

he University of Scranton’s University of Success, a four-year pre-college mentorship program, is now accepting applications for the upcoming 2023 academic year that begins this summer. Students who are currently in the eighth grade are eligible to apply.

The University of Success is an academic and enrichment program funded entirely by corporate and foundations grants, so there is no charge to students and their families. The program’s goal is to assist first generation bound students to successfully complete high school and gain entrance into a college or university.

Accepted students will begin the program with a two-week residential summer academy which will be held on the campus of The University of Scranton from July 9 to 21. Upon completion of the summer program, the students will continue to meet for enrichment sessions throughout their high school career.

The deadline for submission of applications is Saturday, April 1, 2023.

Applications may be obtained by emailing Margaret Loughney, University of Success program director, at margaret.loughney@scranton.edu. Applications may also be obtained online at The University of Success web site.

The University of Scranton to Offer Free Masterclass and Concert

On Sunday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band with special guest guitarist and vocalist Matt Munisteri. The 7:30 p.m. concert will take place in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.

Munisteri will also offer a free guitar masterclass in the afternoon before the concert, please email music@scranton.edu for more information.

According to Performance Music directors Cheryl Y. Boga and Philip J. Kuehn, the concert will feature a variety of songs about love and heartbreak, in a nod to the concert’s proximity to Valentines’ Day. Munisteri and the Jazz Band will combine to perform a number of songs together, and there will be several solo pieces during the concert featuring only Munisteri.

A multi-faceted musician, Munisteri is the sparkling guitarist on several chart-topping jazz CDs. He is a critically lauded songwriter and nimble lyricist, an urban banjo-warrior, a selfless and devoted sideman, a wry-yet-honest singer, an engaging and winning front-man, and an arranger whose ear-pulling re-inventions of well-traveled songs have contributed to Grammy winning CDs for artists such as Loudon Wainwright and Catherine Russell.

Munisteri’s debut CD “Love Story” from 2003 wound up on several critic’s “Best Of” lists, and garnered the number two slot on Amazon’s Top Ten Jazz CDs of The Year. A formidable lyricist, his literate songs have been compared to Randy Newman, Mose Allison and Bob Dorough. Munisteri has been featured on France’s ARTE television, profiled in Downbeat magazine, honored with Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s Editor’s Choice award, and has been the subject of several broadcasts on NPR.

When not working on his own projects, his primary sideman gigs for the last few years have been playing with violinist Mark O’Connor’s Hot Swing, Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra and with the singer Catherine Russell, for whom he also currently serves as Music Director. He also lent a hand to his friend, guitarist Julian Lage, producing Julian’s acclaimed solo guitar debut “Worlds Fair” (2015).

The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no music major at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) from every major are eligible for membership in the University bands, choirs and string ensembles, with neither an audition nor enrollment fee required for membership. Hundreds of students participate in the ensembles each year, and a number of University faculty, staff and alumni perform with them.

Performance Music’s large ensembles include Concert/Symphonic Band, Concert Choir/Singers, String Orchestra and Jazz Band (big band format). Smaller groups are made up of members from within the large ensembles, and include Steel Drum Band, Percussion Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble and Sax Ensemble, plus other small vocal and instrumental groups in various formats. Solo, duo and trio performance opportunities are available to members of the ensembles through the general recitals offered each semester. Other programs within the department, including guest artist concerts, World Premiere Composition Series, Nelhybel Collection and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers. High school juniors and seniors who are considering applying to Scranton are encouraged to contact Performance Music to arrange to sit in on a rehearsal, meet the staff, attend a concert or tour the building.  

For further information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. Please check Performance Music’s website, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.

For further information about Munisteri, visit mattmunisteri.com.

March Events at The University of Scranton

Through Mar. 10        Art Exhibit: “ANew Understanding: Paintings by Travis Prince.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 3-5   8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Performance: “Little Women; the Broadway Musical” music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, book by Allan Knee presented by The University of Scranton Players. McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 4     Following 8 p.m. performance: Talk Back immediately after the performance of “Little Women; the Broadway Musical” by The University of Scranton Players as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 5     7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Concert Choir and The Scranton Brass Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 7     6 p.m. Salary Negotiations Workshop offered by The University of Scranton’s Career Development Office and the Jane Kopas Women’s Center as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. Room 405, The DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-6194 or email jkwc@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 8     3 p.m. Women of Vision and Courage Award Presentation offered by The University of Scranton’s Jane Kopas Women’s Center as part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-6194 or email jkwc@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 13     noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “The Courage to Care” presented by Carol Rittner, RSM, D.Ed., distinguished professor emerita of Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Dr. Marsha Raticoff Grossman Professor Emerita of Holocaust Studies at Stockton University, New Jersey. The luncheon is part of the University’s year-long “Celebrating Women: 50th Anniversary of Coeducation” series of events. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 20 through Apr. 14        Art Exhibit: “Post COVID: Art by Students for the Scranton School District.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 23     11:45 a.m. Community-Based Learning Talk “Environmental Health” presented by Tonyehn Verkitus. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 24     5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “Post COVID: Art by Students for the Scranton School District” presented by Darlene Miller-Lanning. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Reception to follow at the Hope Horn Gallery. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 25     9 a.m. Preview Day for accepted students to The University of Scranton’s class of 2027. Various locations on campus. Call 570-941-7540 or email admissions@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 28     noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “A Foreigner Called Picasso” presented by Annie Cohen-Solal, writer and social historian, distinguished professor at Bocconi University, Milan, Italy. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     5:30 p.m. Schemel Forum with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Collaborative Program: “Mozart: The Mind and Music of a Genius” presented by Richard Kogan, M.D., professor of psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College and artistic director, Weill Cornell Music and Medicine Program. Sordoni Theater, WVIA Public Media Studies. Reception to follow. Registration required. $35 per person. Call 570-941-4740 or email brooke.leonard@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “General Recital” featuring flute choir, percussion ensemble, steel drums and more. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 29     7:30 p.m. Office of Sustainability film and panel discussion “The Seeds of Vandana Shiva.” Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-7520 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.  

Mar. 30     5 p.m. 26th Annual ACHE Healthcare Symposium: “Bedside and Administration: A Strategic Alliance.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Includes dinner, presentation and panel discussion. Fees vary. Call 570-709-9892 or email scarlet.alexander@scranton.edu.