Settlers Hospitality to Host Chili & Wing Cookoff Return It’s the hottest ticket in town! The Chili and Wing Cookoff returns to Silver Birches in Hawley on Sunday March 3, 2024. The event, hosted by Settlers Hospitality, brings together over 20 of the best chefs from local restaurants, schools, and organizations as well as talented home cooks. Contestants vie for the title of Best Chili and Best Wings during a heated competition at the Waterfront at Silver Birches. The action begins at noon with the awards presentation slated for between 3:30 and 4 p.m. Contestants include local favorites such as Runaway Train Brewery, Draft’s Bar & Grill, Gresham’s Chophouse, The Dock on Wallenpaupack, Hop Baron’s and Paupack Watering Hole. A panel of guest judges will select the winners. In addition to bragging rights, first place winners receive a $100 cash prize and a trophy. Second and third place winners also take home a trophy. Everyone who attends gets a ballot for the People’s Choice Award and a chance to vote for their favorite dishes. The coveted title also brings a $100 cash prize for the winners plus trophies for first, second and third place. A ticket entitles guests to sample each of the wing and chili offerings. Tickets are $30 per person and $15 for children ages 5-10. Silver Birches not only hosts the tasty competition, but also supplies each participant with 80 pounds of wings and all the cups, plates, spoons, napkins, and wet naps necessary for service, at no charge. All proceeds from the Cookoff benefit the Settlers Cares Foundation, which aids local hospitality employees in times of crisis. “Chili and Wing Cookoff is a signature event for us. We are delighted to host this fun, community gathering and be able to support a cause that’s near and dear to our hearts,” states Settlers Hospitality Owner/CEO Justin Genzlinger. Attendees may buy a chance for a 50/50 raffle, which will also aid the hospitality employee crisis fund. Settlers Hospitality, Bold Gold Media Group, and Runaway Train Brewery sponsor the Chili and Wing Cookoff. Tickets are $30 and are available at the door. Call 570-226-4388 for more information or visit SilverBirchesResortPA.com
SWB RailRiders Set 2024 Daily Promotions and Fireworks Slate The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders have set their 2024 daily promotions and fireworks nights for the upcoming season. The RailRiders, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, begin their home slate on April 2 against the Syracuse Mets in the first of 75 games at PNC Field this season. Each day of the week will feature promotions or offers that appeal to fans of all ages and the season-long slate is highlighted by 15 post-game fireworks shows.Season tickets, including full, half, and partial plus the mini and flex plans, are on sale now. Single-game tickets go on sale Saturday, March 2, beginning at 11 A.M.“Our daily promotions are key to the fan experience at PNC Field,” said RailRiders General Manager Katie Beekman. “Each promotion is designed to provide value or entertainment and we change daily to best offer something that will appeal to each type of fan. For years, RailRiders games have been NEPA’s best place for affordable fun for everyone and we look forward to building on that this season.”Most 2024 homestands will follow the standard set in 2021 with a six-game series against each opponent, running from Tuesday through Sunday. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre will host Lehigh Valley starting on July 4 in a three-game set on the back half of a home-and-home split series over the Independence Day holiday week.Fireworks will follow the home opener on April 2. An extended fireworks extravaganza follows the Independence Day game against the IronPigs courtesy of the Pennsylvania Lottery.King’s College will present a fireworks show after the April 19 game against Lehigh Valley. Additionally, Saturday pyrotechnic shows will follow games on June 29 and July 27.2024 Daily PromotionsTurnUp Tuesdays – Get $5 lawn seats for every Tuesday home game this season! While at the park on Tuesdays, fans 21 and older can enjoy $2 16 oz. Coors Light cans until the middle of the eighth inning.Waggin’ Wednesdays – Bring your four-legged best friends to each Wednesday home game this season. There is no cost to bring your pup to the park, but the RailRiders encourage a donation to their weekly animal-friendly non-profit of choice. Fans may purchase seats on the lawn or in the bleachers if they bring their dog out on Waggin’ Wednesdays. Wednesday is also $2 Dog Night with $2 hot dogs all night long courtesy of Sahlen’s Hot Dogs.Thirsty Thursdays – The most refreshing night of the week features $2 16 oz. Michelob Ultra bottles until the middle of the eighth inning for fans 21 and older. $2 16 oz. Pepsi fountain drinks are also available all night long.First Responder Fridays – The RailRiders and NEPA Crane & Hauling continue to honor our brave first responders on Friday evenings in 2024. As a small token of thanks, 100 tickets will be given away to our first responders each Friday courtesy of NEPA Crane & Hauling. Tickets are given away on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to four per week per first responder. First responders can register for complimentary tickets by completing the form under the Community tab at www.swbrailriders.com.Friday Night Fireworks – Beginning on May 24, every Friday home game will be followed by the best pyrotechnic show in NEPA.Saturday RailRiders games will once again feature great giveaway items all season long. Giveaways will be announced soon.Geisinger Family FunDay – We wrap up homestands on Sundays with a Geisinger Family FunDay! Gates open at noon and kids can play catch in the outfield until 12:20 P.M. Plus… Kids can get $2 Mamita’s flavored ice or $2 Dippin’ Dots all game long. After the final out, children 12 and younger can run the bases, capping the best way to spend a day with the whole family at PNC Field.Additional promotions, including giveaways, special offers and theme nights, will be announced soon. All promotions are subject to change.Please note that May 6 and May 22 are STEM School Day Games with 11:05 A.M. first pitches and these are not Waggin’ Wednesday games at PNC Field. The $2 Hot Dog offer is, however, applicable.Thursday, July 4, is excluded from inclusion in the daily promotional lineup.The RailRiders host the Louisville Bats on Wednesday, July 31 at 1:05 P.M. and the Waggin’ Wednesday and $2 Sahlen’s Hot Dog promotions will be available.Additional terms and quantity restrictions may apply during each daily promotion. For more information, please visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-2255.
Keystone Mission Worship Night Brings in All Walks of Life Over the weekend, Keystone Mission opened its Scranton facility for a night of song and fellowship among guests and the local community.Keystone Mission opened their doors for food, fellowship, music and the Gospel message from special guests, Livingsong. Livingsong is a nationwide traveling worship band, whose mission is to bring the Gospel to the least, the last, and the lost. Their ministry includes volunteering in recovery support programs, emergency shelters, and correctional facilities by leading worship, and giving a gospel presentation. This event was a time for guests facing homelessness to gather in a familiar place and be a part of something different that is not always available to them. “Bringing together guests, staff and community members, eliminating the line of giver and receiver in the name of Jesus Christ and worship. This platform serves to remind us that community finds its strength in the harmony of compassion and shared humanity,” says Lasha Wyman-Klein, Scranton Program Director. “Beyond the myriad of daily services we offer in Scranton and during designated nights for Code Blue, this event served as an opportunity for individuals of our community to come together,” says Danielle O. Keith-Alexandre, CEO & Executive Director. “The message in song and the spoken word was uplifting, and those who attended left feeling refreshed and renewed about the hope that still exists in our world through Jesus Christ.” Keystone Mission would also like to thank Minooka Pastry Shop, Cuppa Cake Café, and Gerrity’s for their food donations for the night.
Urban Co-Works Partners with Scranton-Based Artist for First Friday Urban Co-Works is excited to announce a new partnership with Scranton-based, Queer Asian-American Artist, SACHIKO, who will curate art to be displayed in the coworking space during First Friday events. The artist SACHIKO will use their marketing and consulting expertise to secure four local artists to showcase diverse and beautiful artwork each month during First Friday. “We feel incredibly privileged to collaborate with The Artist SACHIKO in curating artists year-round at Urban Co-Works for First Friday in Scranton,” said Jeff Goronkin, Urban Co-Works CEO. “Our modern, adaptable office space provides an ideal canvas to showcase the richness of our local talent. We are thrilled to join the First Friday venue community, dedicated to uniting artists, art aficionados, and collectors under one roof.” The artist SACHIKO will seek artwork that stands out for its creativity and originality while ensuring cohesion within the venue. Valuing diversity in styles and backgrounds, they aim to create an inclusive space that encourages engagement and dialogue among viewers. The artist’s ultimate goal is to curate shows that ignite inspiration and celebrate the rich artistic talent in our community. “I met Jeff when I went down to Urban Co-Works to tour the space and discuss exhibiting my work. I was captivated by their vision and ethos for the space, said the artist SACHIKO. “During our conversation, I shared my recent collaboration in curating the show, ‘A Collective of NEPA Artists’ for Little Wild Refillery, alongside my professional background. We sensed a natural alignment for collaboration and the rest is history.” In addition to the gallery at Urban Co-Works, 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 5-9 PM in a walk-able, close-knit footprint, though a trolley bus is available to provide shuttle service at designated stops. “Heading into 2024 we were thrilled to see new venues registering for the event. Urban Co-Works, which opened its doors this past December, was quick to recognize the event is a great opportunity to highlight their amazing space which is filling a much-needed gap in our Downtown,“ said Jack Reager, president of the board of First Friday. Urban Co-Works currently has 3 brilliant artists on display and 14 amazing artists booked so far. The company is in the process of finalizing our 2024 schedule. Please visit https://urbancoworks.com/scranton/ for calendar details.” If you are an artist interested in showing your work at Urban Co-Works, please contact gallery@urbancoworks.com. A full list of scheduled artists is below. For more information on Urban Co-Works or to interview Jeff Goronkin or the artist SACHIKO, please contact Susan Bardack at susan@buzzmediasolutions.com or 518.867.7940. You can learn more about Urban Co-works at www.urbancoworks.com.
WVIA Recognized for Impact: Six Prestigious PAB Awards Celebrate Local Storytelling WVIA, Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania’s public media station, is honored to announce it has received six awards from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) for its outstanding work in 2023. These prestigious honors recognize WVIA’s commitment to delivering essential local news, informative programs, and captivating arts and entertainment content for our region. “These awards represent so much more than success for WVIA. They acknowledge the important role we play in informing, educating, and entertaining our neighbors, and inspire us to continue delivering essential public media that strengthens our region.” said WVIA Chief Content Officer, Ben Payavis II. “We are deeply grateful for the continued trust, support, and encouragement from our communities, and look forward to building upon this success in years to come.” The PAB Awards represent the pinnacle of broadcasting excellence in the state, judged by a panel of industry professionals. WVIA’s six recognitions span a variety of categories, reflecting its commitment to serving audiences across various interests and representing all facets of its communities. Outstanding Use of Digital Media WVIA presents PIZZA!, Digital Short-Form Documentary Series ROAR: The Story of the Southern Columbia Football Tigers, Documentary Launch Mind Over Matter, Season Recap Outstanding Feature Story/Report The Hooded Graves of Catawissa, VIA Short Take Conversation group in Scranton Helps refugees from around the world, WVIA News story Outstanding Television Documentary ROAR: The Story of the Southern Columbia Football Tigers, Documentary In addition to these awards, WVIA’s impact extends far beyond broadcast. In 2023, the station reached over 2 million viewers and 1 million listeners, provided educational resources to thousands of students, and hosted community events that engaged residents across the region. “These awards are a reflection of the countless hours, late nights, and passionate hearts poured into every story we tell,” stated WVIA President & CEO, Carla McCabe. “We do this together, for our communities.” Winners were announced online on Friday, February 9th, and a luncheon will be held at The Harrisburg Hilton on Friday April 26th, 2024, at noon, where winners will receive their awards.
Misericordia University College of Business Hosts Event Series Are you or someone you know interested in the business world or becoming a business major? Misericordia University’s College of Business is holding an event series on current business topics and practices. This event is an overview of the Federal Reserve and current research on economic inclusion. It is an excellent opportunity for your students to enhance their knowledge, ask questions, and get inspired! On Friday, February 23rd, from 12:20 to 1:30 pm, Dionissi Aliprantis, Assistant Vice President and Director of the Program on Economic Inclusion Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, will speak to the students in the Mary Kintz Bevevino Library, McGowan Room. This event is free, and registration is required. Please RSVP at: https://www.misericordia.edu/academics/academic-colleges/college-of-business/college-of-business-event-series
SWB RailRiders 2024 Single-Game Tickets on Sale Single-game tickets for the 2024 Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders season go on sale Saturday, March 2, at 11 A.M. The RailRiders will celebrate the first chance to buy individual game tickets by hosting a Family FunFest at PNC Field on March 2 from 11 A.M. until 2 P.M.The RailRiders start their 17th season as the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees on March 29 in Buffalo and play their home opener on April 2 against the Syracuse Mets. The 2024 season is slated for 150 games, including 75 at PNC Field.Individual tickets for any game will be available online only beginning at 11 A.M. on March 2 at swbrailriders.com, including Opening Night, July 4 or any of our great promotional dates.The Family FunFest will offer big 2024 discounts and prizes.Beat-the-ClockStarting at 11 A.M. on March 2, fans can once again Beat-the-Clock and save big on Opening Night tickets at the PNC Field Box Office.Starting at 11, get Zone C tickets for Opening Night for $1.00 at the box office until 11:59:59 A.M.From noon until 1 P.M., Opening Night Zone C tickets are just $2.00. From 1-2 P.M., those same tickets will be $3.00 each! This ticket offer is only valid in person at the box office and the ticket discount is limited to eight tickets per person. Ticketing at PNC Field is all digital.BP & Swing for Savings!Take your Spring Training cuts with a round of batting practice. All ages are welcome to take some practice hacks in the RailRiders home batting cages. Fans can Swing for Savings with a great offer on a new full season ticket membership. Take three swings and your highest velocity on our HitTrax will be your discount on a full season membership. Hit a home run and you’ll get $150 off a full season ticket plan. A $50 ticket membership deposit is required to Swing for Savings. CHAMP’S Kids Club Membership Pick-upCHAMP’s Kids Club members can pick up their official membership cards and gifts in the Geisinger Champions Club between 11-2. If you aren’t a member of CHAMP’S Kids Club, visit the team’s website or sign your kids up during the Family FunFest! Community CornerThe RailRiders Community Corner will be open will with a great selection of game-worn items, autographs and more. All proceeds from this special edition of the Community Corner will benefit Bake Inclusive, part of PA Inclusive; an agency that provides support services to those with intellectual disabilities and autism, including job placement and training.Cornhole TournamentThe RailRiders will host a free, 24-team cornhole tournament on the Geisinger Plaza. Teams must pre-register and our double-elimination tournament begins at 11:30 A.M. First place wins a pair of Flex Plan packages. Second place takes home a pair of 4-Pack Mini Plans. Visit swbrailriders.com or follow the RailRiders on social media for more details. (Please note: The tournament field is limited to the first 24 teams that sign-up.)Scavenger HuntNavigate PNC Field searching for clues to find treasure! This can’t-miss scavenger hunt will take you around the park and could lead to prizes, memorabilia and special offers if you find your way. Trivia ChallengeStop by the Geisinger Champions Club at 11:30 or 12:30 and test your knowledge will the RailRiders Trivia Challenge. Each game will last about 15 minutes, making sure you have time to enjoy everything going on at the ballpark. You’ll have the chance to win great prizes, including Yankees gear, gift cards and autographed memorabilia. Each game will consist of three rounds of trivial questions: SWB Baseball, Classic MLB and Name that Tune! VIP ToursGet a personal tour and see what we have to offer at PNC Field!The RailRiders Team Store will be open from 11-2. Plus… New 2024 ballpark food options and beverages will be available for purchase.Make plans to join us on Saturday, March 2, for the RailRiders Family FunFest at PNC Field! The full 2024 promotional schedule will be released leading up to single-game tickets going on sale March 2. For more information, call (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.
Wayne Bank Announces Promotion in Collections Department Wayne Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Donnelly is pleased to announce the promotion of Gary Steich to Assistant Vice President and Retail Collections Officer. Steich joined the Bank in 2016 as a Collections Officer and obtained a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in business from Wilkes University. Mr. Donnelly stated, “As a Retail Collections Officer, Gary works to collect outstanding debts so that our organization can continue to invest in our communities and take care of our customers. He does a great job of partnering with our customers to provide options and find the best solution. This promotion is extremely well earned.” Steich enjoys spending time with his wife, Michelle, and their two children, Novaleigh and Maverick.
Donate Non-Perishable Food to United Neighborhood Centers The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce hosted the Mardi Gras Business Card Exchange at Urban Co-Works on Wednesday, February 21. Chamber members networked, toured the facility, and ate great food. The Chamber and Urban Co-Works partnered to collect non-perishable food items from Chamber members to support the United Neighborhood Center pantry. Chamber members are encouraged to continue supporting UNC by donating directly to the organization. Through collected efforts of The Chamber and members like FNCB Bank, UNC was gifted non-perishable food items to stock their pantry. You and your business can continue to support UNC and other nonprofit members in the greater Scranton community by donating directly to them. Search for fellow members and see how you can help them.
Marywood University Schedules Experiential Learning Days in March Marywood University is hosting several experiential learning days in March for prospective undergraduate students. These special exploration days, designated for specific areas of academic interest, allow students a more in-depth look at the learning and career opportunities within each discipline. In March, three programs—social sciences, science, and nursing—will offer special days for students to discover more, participate in learning activities, and meet faculty, including the following: Saturday, March 2, Social Sciences Department Day, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Nazareth Student Center: Are you passionate about understanding human societies, seeking justice, or delving into the depths of history? Spend a Saturday at an event designed for students with an interest in social sciences, including criminal justice, history, pre-law, and sociology. The event features interactive workshops & seminars, campus tours, networking opportunities with current students, faculty, and successful alumni, and admissions and financial aid sessions. To register, go to admissions.marywood.edu/register/SocialSciencesDay24. Monday, March 4, Scientist for a Day, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Center for Natural and Health Sciences: This fascinating opportunity offers students a glimpse into the world of scientific exploration, discovery, and innovation. Participants will have the opportunity to perform experiments in environmental science, immunology, microbiology, and anatomy. Future scientists in attendance will also gather information on career paths in the science field. To register, go to admissions.marywood.edu/register/ScientistDay24. Thursday, March 7, Nurse for a Day, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Latour Room, Nazareth Student Center: Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in first aid training, simulation, and nursing lab activities. The event also includes meetings with faculty and current students. Register by February 29 at: admissions.marywood.edu/register/NFAD.
