News

Scanlon will tend bar for charity

By Cate Lecuyer
staff writer
Published: December 12, 2008

BEVERLY — Mayor Bill Scanlon is a spirit-drinking kind of guy.

"Canadian whiskey, on ice, and a twist of lemon," he said.

But he's ready to break out a shaker and mix up a fruity martini for Mandrake Bar Bistro's new "celebrity bartender" event. Once a month, Mandrake will invite a local celebrity to tend bar for the evening, and all tips will go to the charity of their choice.

Scanlon plans to give the money to Beverly Bootstraps.

"I think it's the place with the most immediate and direct need," he said.

He's also agreed to wear a Santa hat.

"I think it ought to be a howl," he said.

Mandrake owner Jen Lynch said the celebrity bartending is a way for them, as a local business, to support the community. Especially around the holidays.

"Everyone right now in the recession is trying to find creative ways to raise money for different causes," she said.

Scanlon will be behind the bar on Tuesday, from about 6 to 8 p.m.

"I'm not sure if they're going to trust me with everything, but I might mix a few," he said. "I'm 21. I'm allowed."

Lynch said they plan on giving him some training before the event.

"I'd like for him to be able to pour, like a Captain Morgan and Coke, as well as mix a martini," she said.

"We'll see how it goes," Scanlon said.

In January, Lynch said she has former Beverly Rotary president Don Kelley lined up. After that, she's not sure.

"It should be someone who will obviously bring a crowd in," she said.

Someone people know and recognize, and someone who will rack up the tips, since they're going to charity. Lynch said she hopes to get suggestions from people in the community.

"We're putting it out there," she said.

Nominations, anyone?

If you go

What: Celebrity bartender event

Where: Mandrake Bar Bistro, 252 Cabot St.

When: Tuesday from 6 to about 8 p.m.

Cost: Normal drink prices, plus tips.