This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Amber Normil about a free educational series, “Let’s Explore Your National Parks,” which will take place through Aug. 6 throughout the Lackawanna County Library System.
Residence: Scranton
Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Marywood University and master’s degree in library science and information studies from Clarion University
Title: Program host for Nancy Kay Holmes Branch Library
Q: What will be on hand at the event?
A: Informational brochures and pamphlets about our national parks. A park ranger from Steamtown National Historic Site will visit the library to share how you can become a Junior Ranger and help to protect our national parks.
Q: What inspired this event?
A: The Lackawanna County Library System had a similar event planned with the Junior Rangers for (last) spring, but because of the pandemic, we could not host it. We are happy to host the program this year with the focus on making it a family-oriented event for everyone to enjoy.
Q: What is unique about this event?
A: Did you know that we have a National Park Service site here in “your backyard”? During this event, we will explore the Steamtown National Historic Site, Scranton.
Q: Who is this event geared toward?
A: Children ages 5 and older and their families.
Q: Why are national parks important?
A: The National Park Service preserves and protects special places for all people. From huge sequoia trees in California to the Statue of Liberty in New York City, park rangers share the stories of these special places.
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.
