Good morning, Scranton.

Penn State's regional chancellor Elizabeth Wright, who led the Hazleton, Scranton and Wilkes-Barre campuses through a campus consolidation, will step down on Aug.

31 to return to teaching English. Interim chancellor Durell Johnson will take charge starting Sept. 1.

Local farmers and conservation leaders met at Nay Aug Park in Scranton to protest the USDA's cancellation of a $59 million conservation funding grant that helped small farms adopt sustainable practices.

State Rep. Kyle Donahue and local advocates warned that the cuts will threaten food security and force small farms into more challenges—raising concerns for the future.

Attorney General Dave Sunday and 20 state leaders sent a letter to the DEA urging a ban on bromazolam—known as designer Xanax—after the drug was linked to a sharp rise in overdose deaths in Pennsylvania since 2022; officials warned that Narcan does not work for overdoses caused by this highly potent drug.

Senator Dave McCormick and Congressman Rob Bresnahan visited the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant where 400 workers produce 36,000 155-millimeter rounds each month plus the plant will add a warehouse to boost production.

They said the facility is key to national defense and offers new local economic opportunities.

Scranton will demolish several dangerous, blighted properties this late summer and fall as part of an effort to boost property values—Mayor Cognetti said nearly 100 properties have been removed under her administration.

Brdaric Excavating has been awarded contracts using Community Development Block Grant and city funds, and a bid for 110 Marion Avenue will open on Thursday.

Townships in Lackawanna County have filed a lawsuit to enforce local ambulance dispatch rules that name the Covington Independent Volunteer Fire Company as the primary advanced life support provider.

County officials say the Emergency Management Services Department will continue to send the closest available unit — a step they believe protects public safety during emergencies.

Pennsylvania health insurers are proposing a 19% increase in premiums for coverage to start in 2026—people buying plans through Pennie will pay more each month.

Railfest 2025

All day — Steamtown National Historic Site — Admission details TBA — Celebrate the centennial of a steam locomotive with train rides, displays, and interactive programs for all ages.

Anberlin Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Ritz Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energizing performance of Anberlin at the Ritz Theater in Scranton.

Tech Table Assistance

5-7 p.m. — Albright Memorial Library Building Scranton Public Library — Free entry — Get one-on-one help with your tech issues from smartphones to laptops.

Oktoberfest Celebration

12-9 p.m. — Susquehanna Brewing Co. — $10 admission including your first drink — Enjoy craft brews, food, live music, and festive competitions at this lively Oktoberfest.

Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace Co-Headlining Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — The Pavilion at Montage Mountain — Ticket prices vary — Rock giants Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace team up for a night of explosive performances and new hits.