In an inspiring blend of comedy and community spirit, The Zones hosted an unforgettable evening of laughter and generosity with the 6th Annual Punchlines for a Purpose comedy show fundraiser on April 27th. Held at Barrel Proof Lounge (BPL) in downtown Santa Rosa, the event brought together local and nationally recognized comedians, community members, and supporters for a night dedicated to providing equitable access to enrichment programs to local youth.
The show kicked off with a warm welcome from The Zones CEO, Amber Heidtke, who invited the room to celebrate the impact the center has on young lives every day. Her words, along with those of BPL owner and former center member, Casey Williams, set the stage for what was to become a night filled with laughs for a great cause.
The lineup featured a mix of seasoned comedians and rising stars from the local scene, each bringing their unique style and energy to the stage. Three openers Atom Stranj, Holly Shaw, and Jon Lehre, treated the audience to a mix of clever punchlines and ridiculous observations about everyday life.
New York-based comedian, actor, and all-around loveable guy, Michael Rowland, provided an electric, hour-long headlining set involving awkward moments during his upbringing in Atlanta, GA, his romantic escapades, and his deep desire to cover Joe Biden in kisses. Hope your first time in Sonoma County was a memorable one, Mike! Thanks for making the trip.
Other highlights of the evening included the delicious bites provided by local vendors during our Taste of Santa Rosa pre-show. We want to thank Grossman’s Noshery & Bar, Canevari’s, The Bird Restaurant, Mandarin Kitchen, and Crumbl Cookies for their donations and for providing a wonderful tasting menu. To say guests enjoyed the food would be an understatement! Special thanks to Joe Castro, owner of The Bird Restaurant, for serving up AMAZING brisket mac 'n cheese! Even our Presenting Sponsor, Poppy Bank, got in the fun, inspiring “The Popptini,” the featured cocktail of the evening.
Attendees also tried their luck in our prize drawing which included 12 exclusive ticket and gift packages, plus a special drawing for 2 tickets to see Def Leppard, Journey, and Steve Miller Band in SF this summer. Thanks to our Prizes Sponsor, Mead Clark Lumber, and to everyone who contributed to the drawing. Congrats, winners, we hope you enjoy!
The funds raised from ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations are earmarked for our Membership Scholarship Fund which provides youth from low-income households low- or no-cost access to after-school enrichment. This fund is vital for providing a safe and nurturing environment for all young people to learn, grow, and thrive.
The Zones team sends a big *THANK YOU* to everyone for an amazing event and supporting our youth and families. We couldn't do it without you!
~ Nate, Zach, John G., Casey, Scott, Kate, Amber, John V., Amanda, Ian, and Tiffany
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