Pocono News Section

Last "First Night" in Scranton?

Last "First Night" in Scranton? - Monday, November 10, 2008 at 3:05PM EST

? Reported by: David DeCosmo WYOU TV News
Monday, Nov 10, 2008 @ 03:05pm EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- The organization that plans Scranton's annual New Year's Eve celebration says it's pulling out after this year's event.

"First Night" was first planned nine years ago by "Scranton Tomorrow" as a way to attract people to the downtown. It features entertainers, music, amusement rides and fireworks at midnight each New Year's Eve.

Spokesperson Jennifer Battista says the city has changed a lot over those years and now attracts people for dining and shopping on a regular basis. Ms. Battista says the organization would prefer to use its sponsors and volunteers for other special events which are not limited to one day.

Mayor Chris Doherty applauded Scranton Tomorrow for the efforts it has made to make 'First Night' a success. He says he wants the event to continue and will find the money and resources to keep it going even though Scranton Tomorrow will not be involved.