WILKES-BARRE TOWNSHIP – The first of four Jehovah’s Witness Conventions have started at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, but some people are already talking about where the event will be held next year.
Organization spokesman Larry Andrews of Jersey Shore said the four weekend-long events are expected to attract 30,000 people from dozens of congregations this summer.
“We`re going to focus on how that kingdom can be part of our lives and make us better families, better humans, able to cope with things. Even help us with stresses of daily life,” said Andrews. "We've got every hotel filled from Hazleton to Scranton, plus the restaurants will benefit. And we love the way they show us hospitality every year in this area.”
Andrews said the convention-goers from parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York will bring in at least $12 million in revenue to the region.
"I’m very happy that this little town was able to host us,” said Charlyn Thompson of Norrisville. “We really appreciate it.”
Kherisma Smith of Philadelphia said she was excited to see two new hotels under construction near the arena because her group couldn’t book rooms nearby.
"It’s 40 minutes away,” said Smith.
Officials at the Luzerne County Convention Center Authority recently announced plans for an expansion, in part, to compete with a new arena being built in Allentown.
Officials with the Jehovah’s Witness Convention said they have not yet decided where next year’s event will be held.