Parents get a laugh at PTA's comedy night
More than 100 guests gathered at Salerno's in Onset in Friday night to eat, drink and laugh at the PTA's Adult Comedy Night Friday evening.
Comedians Tony Bates and Christine Hurley brought the laughs, their material ranging from fashion and marriage to the perils of parenthood. Wareham residents dined on a wide range of food and participated in an auction and a 50/50 raffle.
Proceeds raised from the event are going to fund a new PA system for Wareham High School.
Vermont-based comedian and middle school teacher Tony Bates enjoys doing these types of events and sees the value of effecting youths' lives positively. Even something as simple as a laugh.
"If you can make a 13-year-old girl laugh in class then you can do just about anything," said Bates.
Catherine Hurley, Plymouth resident and Funniest Mom in America, does PTA events often within her seven – 10 weekly booked events.
"Being a mother of five I know how important it is for the PTA to raise money," said Hurley. "An audience like tonight's is my wheelhouse and they get my family humor."
There have been five successful adult comedy nights in the past. Since 2012, the PTA has raised more than $12,000 for the high school.
"We are grateful for the Wareham PTA and all they have done for our schools," said Wareham Superintendent Kimberly Shaver-Hood.
Just a few feet away from tables covered in Chinese raffle prizes ranging from gift certificates to an Amazon Kindle, West Wareham resident Carla Troupe was very pleased with the event.
"As busy parents we only get to go out once a year," Troupe said with a laugh. "Coming to an event like this that does a lot for Wareham is a great thing."