Comedy Night at PZA entertains, raises funds

BY Dawn Rankins

The Canyon Lake Newbies and Social Club Comedy Night at PZA’s in the Canyon Lake Town Center Saturday was not only incredibly entertaining, but raised over $4,000 for the Canyon Lake Junior Women’s Club Philanthropy and Scholarship initiatives.

The event was sold out and included both comedy by Pete George and Hollywood heavyweight Mark Christopher Lawrence, a two-time Emmy Award-nominated actor, and music by Canyon Lake’s Steel Canyon Band. Local comedian Johnny Herrera, Jr. was the MC for the evening and performed a bit to get the evening going.

“Everyone who attended was so impressed by the fun evening,” club hosts Bradley and Jonda Morton said. “Everyone was laughing and enjoying the evening.”

Event hosts Bradley and Jonda Morton and PZA Owner Joe Luna gather during the Comedy Night Saturday. The fundraiser was sold out and raised over $4,000 for the Canyon Lake Junior Women’s Club. Photo by Bradley Morton.

In addition to the entertainment, raffle ticket drawings and a live auction were held and everyone went home with a little prize.

“We want to give a big shout out to everyone who came out to help support the Canyon Lake Junior Women’s Club Fundraiser,” Bradley and Jonda said. “We also want to thank PZA for allowing the Canyon Lake Newbies and Social group to host the fundraiser at its venue. We are especially grateful to all those sponsors who made this event possible, and to the performers who made the night an evening full of laughs followed by some great music.”

Attending the event was City of Canyon Lake Mayor Kasey Castillo and Canyon Lake POA Board Member Tim Cook.

“It was so good to see the joy and laughter this event created,” Kasey said. “During these challenging times, an evening of laughter was very refreshing. Not to mention the funds raised for the JWC’s philanthropy and scholarship initiatives. This was yet another example of the generosity of Canyon Lakers. This community always seems to answer the call of charity and go above and beyond.”

Brian Wizel, the Lead Guitarist for Canyon Lake’s Steel Canyon Band, performs on stage at PZA Restaurant in the Canyon Lake Town Center during the Comedy Night fundraiser. Photo by Bradley Morton.

Tim said he had a great time and was grateful for community leaders like Bradley and Jonda who put on these types of events.

“Not only was it a great time, it was yet another example of our community rallying around clubs such as the JWC and the good work they do for our young people,” Tim said. “My wife and I had an amazing time and we can’t wait to see what Bradley and Jonda come up with next. We certainly appreciate all they do.”