This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with John Mecca about the inaugural Penn State Scranton THON Bocce Tournament.

Residence: Dunmore

Professional background: IT director at Lackawanna County Housing Authority and member of the Lackawanna County Commissioners Bocce Tournament Committee

Title: Chairman and planner

Q: What was the inspiration for this event?

A: I really enjoy the game of bocce and try to plan one tournament a year for a local charity who could use some help in raising funds for its cause. I help with and play in many of the tournaments in the area each year but plan and run just one. We run a lot of tournaments at Arcaro and Genell’s every year and raise a great deal of money for local charities. Arcaro and Genell’s is an asset to Old Forge and our local community for putting these courts in and giving us a place to do what we do. Bocce is a great game, and it is nice to see new people learning and enjoying playing it while we help out some great causes.

Q: Who is the Bocce tournament open to?

A: Anyone who would like to come out and play or just come and watch and enjoy some food and drinks and support THON.

Q: What will be served?

A: We will have breakfast, lunch and dinner including drinks. $25 per person includes your spot to play in the tournament as well as food and drink all day. For $20, you can come and watch and eat and drink all day if you don’t want to play. It is a great day to just come out and enjoy yourself and have some fun while helping a great cause.

Q: What else will be on hand at the event?

A: We will have raffles with baskets and gift certificates from local businesses and a 50/50.

Q: How will proceeds be used?

A: All proceeds from the event will be donated to Penn State Scranton’s THON organization and will go to help in the fight against pediatric cancer.

If you go

What: Inaugural Penn State Scranton THON Bocce Tournament

When: Saturday, Sept. 28, 8:30 a.m.

Where: Arcaro and Genell’s, 443 S. Main St., Old Forge

Details: Admission is $25 per player and includes play, food and drink all day and $20 per spectator for food and drink all day. For more information, contact John Mecca at 570-241-1430 to be a sponsor or sign up. Team spots are limited.