This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Donna Praefke about Egg My House, which raises money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Residence: Dickson City
Family: Megan Gillette, Patti Vagnarelli, Laynie Buli and Barbara White
Educational background: Associate degree in business administration from Luzerne County Community College
Title: Team captain CQ
Q: Tell us about Team Mel’s Family.
A: Team Mel’s Family was formed in memory of my father, Melvin White, who passed away in August 2008. He was diagnosed in April 2006 with leukemia and had a hard fight. The team is made up of family and friends who walk every year in his memory at the annual Light the Night Walk for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Our goal is to raise awareness and money so that no family has to lose someone to this horrible disease.
Q: What was the inspiration behind having an Egg My House fundraiser?
A: We have had a difficult time with fundraising because of COVID-19. We decided to try something a little different and unique. We have been holding craft fairs annually since 2008and participating in the Light the Night Walk in remembrance of my father, Melvin White.
Q: How does the fundraiser work?
A: People can purchase eggs to be delivered in a basket or scattered in their yard for family and friends that are local, and it also will come with a letter from the Easter Bunny. If people would like eggs (delivered) that are not local, we can ship orders in a box to the families.
Q: What is your fundraising goal?
A: $10,000. Our main goal is to raise awareness and help find a cure.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: All proceeds that Team Mel’s Family receives will go directly to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
How to Participate
What: Egg My House
When: Saturday, March 13, through Sunday, April 4 (Easter)
Details: The cost is $15 for 30 eggs, $25 for 50 eggs and $50 for 100 eggs. All eggs are filled with individually wrapped candy or toys. There is an additional cost to ship out of the area. To order, call 570-840-8539. For more information, email Teammelsfamily@gmail.com or visit “Team Mels Family” on Facebook.
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. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. 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. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.
