Christopher DiMatteo was chosen for his work with Scranton’s LaFesta Italiana. (Photo Credit: Michael Straub Photo.)

Christopher DiMatteo of Dunmore is among 13 individuals appointed by the Lackawanna County Commissioners recently to serve on the steering committee for establishing a County Fair.

The committee has  been charged with the development, organization and implementation of a fair, designed to be an economic, recreational and social engine for Lackawanna County.

“The creation of a County Fair is about family and community. It is an opportunity to provide old-fashioned fun that everyone can enjoy at reasonable prices.  The fair will offer something for everyone – food, activities, crafts and entertainment.  It is a “win-win” for residents, visitors and vendors,” said Commissioner Patrick M. O’Malley.

“County Fairs have been very successful in many regional communities.  The individuals involved in planning our fair are in tune with what needs to be done to develop this event that has been very worthwhile, enjoyable and financially rewarding activities in locations,” said Commissioner Jerry Notarianni.

“There are many talented individuals in Lackawanna County.  The people that we’ve selected to organize a County Fair have the insights and contacts to make this a success, something we can be proud of, and an activity that will be economically beneficial,” explained Lackawanna County Commissioner Laureen A. Cummings.      

The individuals named to the steering committee are: Corey Susz, former President of the Kiwanis Wyoming County Fair; Atty. Armand Olivetti, Edward G. Staback, former State Representative, former Hunting & Game Commission Chairman and Lackawanna County Commissioner; Ronald Williams, former Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Director of Agriculture; Michael Taluto, Safety Press Officer for Penn DOT; Jim Rodway, Lackawanna County’s Director of Community Relations; and Donna Grey, Luzerne County Fair 4-H Chair.    

Also, Christopher DiMattio, LaFesta Italiana; Jess Meoni, graphic designer; Marc Gaughan, former Director of the Moscow Country Fair; Sherry Pritchyk, Fund Raiser/Event Planner; Terry Schettini, Penn State Cooperative Extension Administrator; and Robert Noldy, Hartford Fair volunteer.    

The genesis for a County Fair came from the “Big Idea” Task Force created by the Commissioners in May 2015.

Residents who wanted to make a real difference in the landscape of Lackawanna County submitted an application and information to participate in the planning process for committees in a number of segments.

The committee members will be involved in the design, site selection, vendors’ recruitment, activities, entertainment, fee schedule and other facets required to launch this event.