Kiwanis to host comedy fundraiser

Guests will dine, donate and be entertained at the Comedy in the Conejo fundraiser event planned for Sun., Aug. 13 by the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks.

Renowned magician Ivan Amodei will warm up the night, and top-notch professional comedians Bruce Baum, Carrie Snow, Jay London, and Chicago John Caponera will entertain guests with two hours of adult comedy.

A live auction after the show will offer Mexican Riviera-style vacation packages and a high-end TV. The club will also auction off 15 to 20 items worth up to $500 and will give away five raffle prizes valued at up to $100.

The Kiwanis International Foundation is a 91-year-old organization well established in 96 nations, with a membership of about 280,000. The club is composed of volunteers seeking to make a difference in the lives of children and their communities all over the world. Kiwanis sponsors several service clubs for students, such as Key Club International, Circle K International and Builders Clubs.

The Thousand Oaks chapter is thriving in its 41st year and has a membership of about 100 men and women. Every year, the club sets aside between $35,000 and $40,000 for about 35 service projects. Past community activities have included aid to Meals on Wheels, Manna and Wellness Community. Kiwanis also donates to CVUSD and about 20 organizations, such as Hospice of the Conejo, YMCA, Casa Pacifica and Villa Esperanza.

Kiwanis organizes numerous fundraisers in the community, notably the Annual Car Show, Conejo Valley Days Parade sponsorships, and Conejo Valley Days Parade beverage sales. This is the first time the club has held a comedy show.

"We're hoping to raise funds from Comedy Night for upcoming events, including the bicycle rodeo, our mission with the Salvation Army and help for the needy during the holidays," said Jack Tucker, publicity committee chairperson.

The event will be at The Canyon in Agoura Hills. Tickets $30 per person. Guests also have the option of enjoying a gourmet dinner for $40. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m., and the show will commence at 7:30 p.m. Call (818) 879-5016 for tickets.

The Kiwanis Foundation hopes to raise between $10,000 and $15,000 from gate and auction proceeds to give to local charities. They're hoping for a great turnout.

"Don't miss Comedy Night," Tucker said. "You'll be rolling in your chairs with laughter long after the evening's over."

Chelsea Ma will be a senior this fall at Westlake High School. She's completing a summer intern- ship for the Acorn Newspapers.