Good morning, Scranton.

In Scranton, Catholic Social Services opened a shelter at Weston Field as part of the Code Blue program for cold nights + in Wilkes-Barre, Pastor Sam Garnett’s Calvary Bible Church offered a warm shelter last week, replacing Keystone Mission.

Scranton's Christmas Lights House — a nearly 40-year tradition — lights up Prospect Avenue through early January.

Local families and visitors enjoy free festive displays as donations help sustain this cherished holiday custom.

Catholic Social Services hosted the Gifts for Kids giveaway at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Carbondale on Tuesday, Dec.

11, serving 279 families with donated toys. A second event will run at the University of Scranton from Dec. 14 to Dec. 17 (pre-registration closed) for registered families.

A rooming house fire at the Old West Side Hotel on Wednesday displaced more than two dozen people and injured three residents, a firefighter, and a police officer (injuries remain unconfirmed) while United Neighborhood Center supplied shelter and essentials.

Local leaders from Lackawanna County visited Loudoun County (Data Center Alley) this week to learn how a taxing system on data centers has boosted local revenue while managing community concerns.

The tour guides future proposals for data center projects in our region.

Lackawanna County’s Arts and Culture Department hosted its 17th Annual Wake Up with the Arts Breakfast Thursday morning at the Scranton Cultural Center with local historian Nick Petula showcasing mugshots and stories from the 1930s (The Place We Call Home) to celebrate the city’s artistic heritage.

Lackawanna County and Scranton have extended the Code Blue Alert until Tuesday morning, Dec.

16 to protect residents from dangerous cold with nightly alerts from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. (Emergency shelters are available for vulnerable residents.)

T.J. Watt was found to have lung discomfort, raising concerns about his Monday Night Football status while the NBA Cup bracket has narrowed to four teams; local high school and college players join Nick Zelaya, Alaina Losito, and Ricky Turner on 28/22 Sports Night airing from 8-9 p.m.

Local sports voices looked back on Southern Columbia's 15th state football championship win (with coach Jim Roth sharing insights) and discussed fresh challenges for new Penn State football coach Matt Campbell.

Meanwhile, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins will face Providence on Saturday.

The Nutcracker Performance

2-4 p.m. — The Theater at North — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting story of Clara and her magical journey in this beloved holiday ballet.

The Book of Mormon

2-3:30 p.m. — Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple — Ticket prices vary — Experience the wit and humor of this Tony Award-winning musical about two missionaries in Uganda.

Shiver by the River #1

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Scranton Running Company — Cost varies — Participate in a fun run with options for a 5k, 10k, or a leisurely 2mi walk along the scenic river.