Oak Street School PTO Comedy Night Fundraiser a Huge Success

Friday night's Oak Street School PTO fundraiser exceeded all expectations, bringing in an estimated $12,000 and providing a memorable evening for all who attended. Over 220 people arrived for "A Night of Comedy" at The Stone House Restaurant in Warren. The tickets ($80 per person) included an open bar, passed hors d'oeuvres, a continental-themed buffet dinner and a comedy line up of three stand-up comedians.

One of the evening's highlights was the balloon pop. Heather Lusardi, PTO VP in Charge of Fundraising and organizer for this event, with help from her co-volunteers, garnered over 375 donations from the community and the surrounding area; everything from lottery tickets and dinners-for-two, to a $550 women's bike and a DROID Verizon wireless phone.

The prizes were numbered and each number was placed in a balloon. The balloons were then sold to attendees for differing values: Gold balloons went for $200, silver for $75, and red and black were priced at $25 each.  After attendees purchased a balloon at the door, they popped it and discovered their prize. "It was great," stated Heather, "everyone could afford a balloon and all the balloons sold by 8:15 p.m. People loved it."

The balloon pop was seen as a nice change from silent auctions and raffles. In addition, the balloons made for terrific decorations. Upon entering the foyer of The Stone House private catering area, attendees were greeted with enormous bouquets of balloons creating a festive arena. "The Stone House staff was gracious and wonderful," commented Heather "and the food—delicious." Cocktails and dinner were hosted in a large, two-tiered area and the comedy show was held in an adjacent room, set up cabaret style and complete with lighting, stage and sound system.

Having tasted a variety of hors d'oeuvres, including tuna tartare, mini glazed scallops and mini Cuban sandwiches, attendees made their dining selections from five different culinary stations; Hot Sicilian, Pasta, Tuscan, Crudités, and Fruit & Cheese. Dessert (Petit Fours) and coffee were provided at the cabaret tables for everyone to enjoy during the show.

This year's event was primarily open to Oak Street School parents, teachers and administration. Parents were given the opportunity to purchase tickets for the teachers. Many elected to do this, often in situations where the parents themselves would not be able to attend. Consequently all the teachers who wanted to attend were able to, compliments of the parents. As Heather reiterated, "this is a very generous group."

The proceeds from the fundraiser will go to support Oak Street School children's enrichment programs, school assemblies, teachers' mini grant programs, cultural events and the PTO student care fund.