Good morning, Scranton.

The Greater Scranton YMCA in Dunmore is hosting its first-ever Halloween costume drive to help children in need in Lackawanna County—donations from members and local groups have filled a bin and coat rack.

Residents can pick out costumes today.

The SPCA of Luzerne County bought the Dundee Gardens property in Hanover Township and will expand its animal care services there—plans that follow the property's closure earlier this year.

WVIA's Lydia McFarlane and Sarah Scinto discussed the expansion on News Voices.

S&S Pools and Spas in Taylor is facing serious financial challenges because the state budget impasse has delayed payment for brine tanks used by PennDOT, and Office Manager Janet Garvey warned that the unpaid tens of thousands of dollars could force the business to borrow money + pay interest.

At Marywood University on Monday night, Curtis Zunigha spoke about indigenous culture and his deep connection to the land—he read from his book and urged that native voices be included in future power decisions.

Officials from PennDOT and other groups announced that over 1,200 truck parking spots will be added at 133 locations by the end of 2026—600 extra spaces are being evaluated by the PA Turnpike so truck drivers can meet federal rest rules and improve safety.

PennDOT warned drivers that lanes on I-81 northbound between Nuangola and Wilkes-Barre will be closed Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for bridge repairs — lanes on I-80 westbound between the I-81 and Nescopeck exits will be closed from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily for dead tree removal.

Today, protesters marched from Courthouse Square to Congressman Bresnahan's district office to urge him to oppose proposed Medicaid cuts during the ongoing government shutdown + they plan to continue organizing to demand affordable health care.

Voters in Lackawanna County can drop off mail-in and absentee ballots at six secure drop boxes— the County Government Center in Scranton accepts ballots from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov.

4, while sites in Carbondale, Clarks Summit, Dickson City, Moosic and Roaring Brook Township are open until noon on Nov. 1.

Lackawanna County held a public financial presentation on October 6 with PFM Group consultants who explained the five-year management plan and pointed out issues like a structural deficit and potential tax hikes.

County officials said that next Wednesday they will present a preliminary 2026 budget expected to close a $5 million deficit and avoid another tax increase—aiming for financial stability.

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.

Foreigner Tribute Concert by Urgent

7-8:30 p.m. — The Theater at North — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying tribute to the iconic rock band Foreigner.