Good morning, Scranton.

More than 100 residents gathered at a Ransom Township hearing to oppose Scranton Materials LLC's proposed data center on 819 Newton Road (land currently zoned open space and conservation).

A follow-up hearing is set for Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. inside the township garage.

The Greater Scranton MLK Commission is holding its Annual Community Celebration & Awards Dinner tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. at the University of Scranton, where local leaders will honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy with speeches and awards.

Tomorrow, HarmonyTALK starts its fifth season on WVIA-FM at 4:30 p.m. with West Scranton native Marc Spindler (a nine-season NFL veteran) as its first guest, and additional local stories will be featured in upcoming episodes.

Geisinger hospitals in northeastern and central areas are treating a surge of flu patients that pushes hospitals to full capacity; doctors advise residents with breathing difficulties to visit emergency rooms while milder cases can be managed at home or via virtual care—a flu shot is recommended to prevent further spread.

Dr. Fauve Young-Morrison explains that the winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder can leave residents feeling low — due to short days and little sunlight.

The Abington Community Library is lending sunlamps for light therapy, and experts advise getting help if symptoms worsen.

Jennifer Licate, a Pennsylvania based children’s author, explains that anxiety in kids may show as headaches and stomachaches and that early talks can help them cope.

She advises parents and teachers to model openness about nerves in challenging moments — a small step to normalizing emotions.

Drivers in Scranton are encouraged to prepare a winter car safety kit with essentials such as blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a flashlight, and a first aid kit before heavy winter weather sets in, and to keep their gas tank half full to avoid getting stranded (expert tips advise careful driving on icy roads).

Lourdes Regional Girls Basketball team reached a historic milestone with a 59-27 win against Tri-Valley that earned their 1000th win and boosted their record to 13-1 in the Schuylkill League (coach Michael Klembara led the team since 1969).

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.

Shiver by the River Race Series

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Scranton Running Company — Registration Fees Apply — Compete in a 5k, 10k, or join the 2mi walk along a scenic river path.

Galentine's Cocktails & Shopping

5:30-8 p.m. — The Colonnade — Cost of ticket includes one complimentary beverage — Enjoy cocktails and unique shopping from local retailers with complimentary champagne tasting.

The Colonnade Valentine's Dinner

7:30-10 p.m. — The Colonnade — Cash Bar available — Celebrate Valentine's Day with a gourmet dinner featuring a variety of delicious bites and a champagne toast.

Broadway in Scranton Subscription Package: Sunday Matinees

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple — Subscription package available — Immerse yourself in a delightful afternoon of Broadway performances in Scranton.