Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 3rd of January.
Good morning, Scranton.
🏘️ Community
Beginning Wednesday, Jan.
7, the Lackawanna County Library System will forgive overdue fines at all ten locations to boost community access, though charges for lost or damaged items (which remain in effect) will still apply.
Coffee Inclusive in Pittston provided training and employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, giving them hands-on work experience and valuable skills.
The local coffee shop remains committed to fostering inclusive opportunities for community members.
James Mitchell completed his Eagle Scout project in December when he led 20 Scouts to renovate the gazebo at Carol Drive Park.
The project replaced the roof, handrails, and benches — saving the borough over $2,000 in repair costs.
💼 Business
Mike O’Neil, who purchased The Nyx on Dec.
3, 2025, has kept live music and trivia while adding country line dancing and a silent book club. The bar in Clarks Summit will serve a mimosa bar plus drink specials for the upcoming Festival of Ice weekend.
Downtown fixture Tom Grudis Optical will close in the next month or two after 45 years of service as shifting trends and online shopping drive the decision.
The shop remains open for several weeks to sell its remaining stock + say goodbye to generations of loyal customers.
🎭 Culture
The Waverly Community House and Black History Project will host a History Trivia Night at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.
7 in the Comm gym. The free event offers local and American history questions, food + drink, and prizes for top scoring teams or individuals.
A’tera 519 in downtown Scranton earned a triple-A four-diamond award as the county's only restaurant with that honor.
Founded by Sheila Bonanno of Basalyga Hospitality, it plans to maintain high standards every day and pursue further accolades.
Classical Arts Entertainment will present Swan Lake performed by the International Ballet Stars at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Theatre on Feb.
8 at 2 p.m. The show features 50 dancers, over 200 handcrafted costumes, and original hand-painted sets (it is family-friendly for patrons 3 and older).
George Graham ended his 51-year run on WVIA Friday night with his final broadcast of the alternative music show Mixed Bag.
The veteran radio host retired from full-time duties but will continue volunteering with WVIA's jazz record label.
Actors Circle will present 'Love, Sex, and the I.R.S.' from Jan.
15 through 18 and Jan. 23 through 25 at Providence Playhouse on Providence Road. Performances start at 7 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday with tickets between $10 and $15.
🎓 Education
The Abington Heights Middle School expansion is underway to add new classrooms, STEM labs and a larger gym with safer entrances and revised drop-off areas.
Construction will be complete fall 2027 — offering better space and smoother traffic flow for students, faculty and parents.
🏥 Health
Doctors are urging local residents to get a flu shot as rising cases have led pharmacies to offer more appointments.
Experts say the vaccine helps ease symptoms and protect at-risk patients (even if it may not completely prevent the flu).
The Wright Center for Community Health’s Clarks Summit and Jermyn centers received Patient-Centered Medical Home certificates from NCQA for giving high-quality care (recognized for extended hours and team-based services).
They maintained the certification as proof of their promise to meet patient needs.
🎉 Scranton Events
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Shiver by the River #1
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Scranton Running Company — Cost varies — Participate in a fun run with options for a 5k, 10k, or a leisurely 2mi walk along the scenic river.
Pennsylvania Bingo Celebration
6 p.m. — Lackawanna County Children's Library — Free entry — Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the USA with a fun Pennsylvania themed BINGO game and local snacks.
🏠 Scranton Real Estate
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💼 Scranton Job Board
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📣 Scranton Announcements
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