Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 31st of October.
Good morning, Scranton.
Residents and local leaders gathered at the Archbald Borough Building this week to plan the future of two historic landmarks—Shifting Shanty and Fan House—at the Gravity Slope site.
They discussed ideas like turning one building into a community center and the other into an exhibit space, and the input will guide Archbald Borough's next steps in funding and planning.
Indra Lahiri expanded her Nepa rescue veterinary clinic at Indraloka Animal Sanctuary in Dalton to offer low-cost pet care for furloughed workers affected by the government shutdown—set to cross into its second month tomorrow.
The clinic provides full services, from microchipping to surgeries—helping families avoid choosing between pet care and basic needs.
After 30 days of the shutdown, the Department of Agriculture said SNAP benefits will be paused November 1—local organizations are filling the gap by extending food pantry hours and Tire Choice auto service centers are collecting donations for a local food bank and the SPCA through November 26.
Host Dan Kosloski interviewed author Maxim W.
Furek on an episode of The Creepy Side of NEPA to explore the famous Smurl Haunting in West Pittston — the discussion also examined other paranormal investigations by Ed and Lorraine Warren.
Brooks Mine, built in 1902 and reopened in 2023 after nearly 40 years of closure, is hosting a haunted experience under Nay Aug Park with a suggested $5 donation to fund its restoration.
The event runs today from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will continue on Saturday from noon to 9:30 p.m.
Scranton’s Everhart Museum is displaying Bucks County vampire artifacts on loan until mid-November.
Museum curator James Lansing said the exhibit features 1800s kits with items such as wooden stakes, oils, and Bibles — offering a glimpse into early vampire lore in the region.
King's College set up a community pantry in the Shoval Center for Community Engagement so students facing food insecurity can get fresh produce, dairy, and frozen meat free of charge.
The initiative, supported by a state grant, now feeds over 200 people weekly—helping to address a problem that affects many students nationwide.
Meteorologist Anthony Bordanaro studied past weather data and noted that the first inch of snow usually comes near November 29—though neutral ENSO conditions may bring it a week earlier around November 23; he advised locals to check short-term forecasts for the Snowthrower Contest deadline.
FOX56 sports director Bob Ide previewed the high school football playoff season on his Sports Voices Podcast, noting that Scranton Prep will play Wyoming Area and Delaware Valley will face Pittston Area while he asked if the Penn State versus Ohio State rivalry will continue.
He also mentioned that high school golf and girls tennis championships will start later in the season.
Team Ireland Returns will host its international boxing event tomorrow at the Holiday Inn Scranton East featuring 14 elite Irish fighters such as Cahir Gormley and J.P.
Hale. Doug Long of Long Productions Entertainment said the sold-out event—designed to give Irish boxers a chance to compete in America—will raise funds for The Irish Boxing Club.
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.
Mixed Media Card Making Workshop
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Retro Cafe — Free for OAOA Members, $15 suggested donation — Discover the art of mixed media as you create your own unique cards in a cozy café setting.
Women Are Power Friendsgiving
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM — ANZ Hotel Scranton — $30 — Celebrate friendship and empowerment while supporting local children in need.
SIX Musical Performance
1-2:30 p.m. — Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple — Ticket prices vary — Experience a high-energy celebration of girl power with the hit musical SIX.
Tower Lighting Event
2-6:30 p.m. — Times Tower — Free entry — Kick off the holiday season with live music, food vendors, and the magical lighting of the Scranton tower followed by fireworks.
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