Hampden Lions Club set to host night of laughter

Date: 10/5/2009

By Kaitlyn Schroyer

Staff Intern



HAMPDEN For many people, blindness and other eye conditions are reality. The Hampden Lions Club is determined to help out not only those with eye conditions, but other organizations in the area.

On Oct. 16, the Lions Club will be hosting a fundraiser to aid eye research and help other local organizations. From 7 to 10 p.m. at the Hampden Country Club, the organizations will be hosting a comedy night.

"Some people get used to just giving money," Rick Rubin, a member of the Hampden Lions Club, said. "We wanted to give them something back."

From 7 to 8 p.m., hors d'oeuvres and appetizers will be served. Beginning at 8 p.m., the live comedy starts. Las Vegas comedians Stephen Bjork and Joey Carroll are to be featured with local headliner Jack Lynch as master of ceremonies. In addition, there will be a cash bar and a 50/50 raffle.

According to his Web site, www.stephenbjork.com, "Stephen Bjork has been delighting comedy audiences with his singular take on everyday life - not to mention occasional trips deep into absurdity - for more than 16 years. A longtime favorite in nightclubs and colleges around the country, Steve enjoys equal success in corporate settings, and even in the unique setting of all-ages shows."

"Joey Carroll made his way onto the comedy scene on a dare. His first open mike got him his first paid gig," Carroll's Web site, www.joeycarroll.com, stated. "Joey has been described as a cross between George Carlin and Dennis Miller. His no holds barred style has won him the respect of his fellow comedians and the laughter of his audiences. Edgy is his favorite way to work."

As the seventh largest Lions Club in the district including Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin counties, the Hampden Lions Club is dedicated to eliminating blindness and donating time and money to local organizations.

"We are a club for members to not only get together, but help out the community and help out eye research," Rubin commented.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased by calling Scott Southworth at 250-0385 or Rick Rubin at 250-8108. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

"Our goal is 150 people and hope it will go well," Rubin said.