This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Maureen Duffy about the upcoming Beer Garden Party at Groove Brewing, which benefits the Greenhouse Project, Scranton.
Residence: Scranton
Professional background: Owner of Duffy Accessories, Scranton, and member of the board of directors for the Greenhouse Project
Title: Chairwoman
Q: What inspired this event?
A: Like-minded people enjoying the outdoors, adult beverages and raising money for the Greenhouse Project gardens. Simply raising a pint or two in a local beer garden — hell, what’s not to like? We are strong locavores. We teach others and grow our herbs/veggies. Groove Brewing makes delicious beer together; the magic will happen. Who better to gather with? Our Greenhouse supporters are pretty fantastic humans; they care about the local community. I suggested the idea, (and) Groove Brewing immediately offered to brew a signature beer. It’s a no-brainer: craft beer outside, friends and live music with Ron Morgan (aka the human jukebox). We got game!
Q: What will be on hand at the fundraiser?
A: (It includes an) old-school local beer garden party from 6 to 9 p.m. with locally made beer and live music. There will also be local wine and ciders along with some non-alcoholic beverages. Reserve your seat online at scranton greenhouse.org for a $10 donation. Limited seating is available, so the first 60 people to pay get in. The Scranton summer soiree will have live acoustic music by Ron Morgan; a fresh homegrown brew, Lime Basil Saison; some simple nosh; raffle baskets; T-shirts and a very nice chill hang under the trees.
Q: What is your fundraising goal?
A: A good time had by all plus some much-needed funds for our nonprofit charity.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: We need gardening tools, materials for programs for our fall harvest day, pumpkins, paints and garden supplies.
Q: How can you donate if you cannot attend?
A: Go to our website to donate — scranton greenhouse.org — or donate some locally made pizza for the event.
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.
