This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks to Wyoming Valley BMW/Porsche Wyoming Valley general manager Steven Ubaldini Jr. about Books and BMWs, an upcoming school supplies drive whose items will be donated to Volunteers of America.
Residence: Dallas
Educational background:Earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Syracuse University
Title: Event coordinator
Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
A: As a Wyoming Valley West High School alumnus, the recent news about children not being able to afford their school lunches struck a chord. I felt like this was a great opportunity to give back to our local students.
Q: What items are you collecting?
A: We are collecting any type of school supplies that children might need.
Q: What else will be on hand at the event?
A: Rock 107 will here Saturday, Aug. 17, from noon to 2 p.m. with prizes and giveaways. We will have an ice cream truck on site as well. They will also present the donations to Volunteers of America.
Q: How will the donations be used?
A: Donations will be sent to Volunteers of America’s Operation Backpack program. This program gives the school supplies to underprivileged children in Northeast Pennsylvania.
Q: How is this event unique?
A: While we are used to having private events, I am looking forward to having an open event that supports a charitable cause at our dealership.
If you go
What: Books and BMWs
When: Donations accepted, Monday, Aug. 12, through Saturday, Aug. 17; drive with prizes and giveaways, Aug. 17, noon to 2 p.m.
Where: Wyoming Valley BMW, 1470 Highway 215, Wilkes-Barre
Details: For more information, call 570-287-1133.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. Additionally, Laura curates events online and copy edits print editions of the Life&Times and Weekend Times sections of the newspaper. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228; @laurarysz
