'Funny Fundraiser' Scores With Soccer Boosters

How do the soccer boosters get their kicks? They leave the kids at home and attend the Soccer Boosters Funny Fundraiser, a comedy night out at the Library Fire Hall in South Park.

David Kaye, Bill Benden and John Evans took to the stage for a fun-filled night of comedy and prizes.

There was a huge display of gorgeous gift baskets, largely donated by booster parents. The baskets were part of a Chinese Auction, wherein ticket buyers placed their tickets into different brown paper bags in front of each basket. The baskets had clever themes.

A "Sweet Treats" basket was filled with Ghirardelli and Godiva chocolate, along with peanut brittle and Pop Chips.

An Italian basket had two wine glasses, two bottles of wine, dipping oil and other Italian favorites. There was a George Forman grill, a "Kitchen Help" basket, filled with Corelle dinnerware, a Pyrex pie plate and more.

For big spenders, there was a silent auction on a table loaded with sports memorabilia donated by ReichPM. Among the favorite pieces was an autographed photograph of Mario Lemieux in a tuxedo pouring Mellon Arena ice onto the Consol Energy Center, consecrating the new stadium.

There was a tarrying close-up of Jack Lambert scowling at the photographer. Another autographed photo was an airborne Troy Polamalu making his interception touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.  

The most expensive piece in the collection of collectibles was a photograph of Pele Dual, the famous soccer player, kissing Muhammad Ali on the cheek—the photo was autographed by both sports icons.

Boosters, supporters and friends milled about discerning the prize packages, bidding on silent auction memorabilia, dropping tickets into the Chinese auction bags, buying 50/50 raffles and drinking beer.

A buffet dinner was served by Cyd West Comfort Catering.

Before the auction closed, local Pittsburgh comedian David Kaye introduced the crowd to Cleveland-based comedian Billy Benden. The comedian was gently booed when he mentioned he was a big Browns fan.

“Don’t boo me," he laughed. "I’ve seen more losing games in one season than you Steelers fans have seen in a lifetime!”

He then shared hilarious stories about his childhood.

There was a brief intermission as audience members had a chance to stretch their legs and buy some more 50/50 raffle tickets, which was climbing toward $2,000.

Then, headliner John Evans took the stage. He wowed the audience with a series of impressions, including Dr. Phil, Andy Rooney and a host of others.

Afterward, emcee David Kaye proceeded to award the ticket holders with various prizes.

Behind the scenes, soccer President Rick Enscoe praised the work of Ellen Franty and the other fundraiser committee members, Kathy Barbati; Linda Carpenter; Doug Daley; Lisa Magnotti; Sue Parker; Manny Politis; Lynne Ann Roberson; Bill Santo; Sherri Smith and more.

“Our boys have won seven WPIAL championships, and the girls team, the Lady Indians, have won numerous honors," said committee member Don Franty.

His wife, Ellen, added, “Soccer is the best sport. Everyone participates. It’s incredibly hard, but all of the hard work pays off. And in Peters Township we have the most supportive parents. It’s a great organization for a great team.”