Good morning, Scranton.

Brandon Lux from Old Forge is organizing a peaceful protest at Courthouse Square in Scranton this Sunday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. to challenge misinformation linking Tylenol in pregnancy to autism — he says the claims hurt families and workers.

Barktoberfest will return for its fourth year on Sunday, October 5 from 12-5 at Maiolatesi Wine Cellars to benefit Griffin Pond Animal Shelter; the event will offer wine, food trucks, craft vendors and adoptable pets—tickets cost $25 for two drinks and a chance to join a pet costume contest while leashed dogs are welcome.

Minooka native Sean O’Shea, a retired National Guard, recalled guarding Saddam Hussein during a 10-month assignment in Iraq when he was 19 — he described sharing cigars and everyday talks with the infamous leader.

He shared his recollection on Thursday evening and said the experience still feels hard to believe even after many years.

Michael Villa—appointed to the Scranton Human Relations Commission despite a 2022 drunken driving arrest in Wilkes-Barre—has faced further arrests for trespassing, assault and disorderly conduct, prompting city officials to begin his removal as they review their vetting process.

Steve and Patti Erickson helped their young neighbor by offering a safe haven decades ago—an act that has allowed her to reclaim cherished childhood memories she thought were lost forever.

At Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, officials are swapping the Union Pacific Big Boy 4012 with the Reading T1 2124—moving the trains into the roundhouse and separating them on the turntable to prepare for fall excursions and historic celebrations in 2026.

The project shows how these giant engines were handled and will give visitors a closer look at local rail history.

Lyndwood Elementary in Hanover Township closed yesterday at 11:00 a.m. after a leaky roof forced an early dismissal - the superintendent said repairs are underway and the school will reopen today if rain does not delay work.

A Taste of Ireland: The Irish Music and Dance Sensation

3:00 – 4:30 PM — The Theater at North — Ticket prices vary — Experience an exciting return of Irish music and dance that has captivated audiences across the USA.

Blast from the Past Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — The Theater at North — Ticket price unknown — Relive the golden harmonies of The Del Satins, one of the iconic vocal groups of the 1960s.

Family Friendly Halloween Bash!

7-9 p.m. — Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a spooky dance party with fun Halloween activities for all ages.

The Neil Diamond Experience

2-3:30 p.m. — The Theater at North — Ticket prices vary — Experience the tribute to Neil Diamond with captivating performances by Robert Neary.