Stop us if you've heard this one: A half-dozen comedians walk into a bar, and they come out with nearly $2,000 for a local middle school. It's not a joke. That's what happened when close to 200 people attended the 3rd Annual Comedy Showcase benefiting Osceola Middle School on Feb. 1 at Finley's Irish Pub and Eatery in Largo.
Local comedians Johnny B., Trish Keating, Bill Ohse, John J. Murray and Ward Smith joined Mike Rivera to raise money for the school. Rivera is a member of both camps and put the show together: He's a world history teacher who has been at the school for 20 years, but he's spent an even bigger part of his life as a comedian. ABC's "The View" named him America's Most Hilarious Teacher a few years back.
The comedy at the benefit was often adult in nature, but the funds raised will help children directly. Rivera said the money will go into a student and staff appreciation fund so they can buy items that probably wouldn't make it into a school budget, but make life easier for faculty and the student body.
Rivera said he was happy to use one career to help out those he works with in the other.
"It feels great to give back to my students and teaching family," he said. "The fact that because of my comedy I can help and bring attention to the needs of the school is rewarding."
Rivera also credited Finley's for not only donating the stage, but taking care of the performers and purchasing auction items as well.
The third show in this annual event was the most successful to date, and when the jokes were told, Rivera was left with plenty of money for his school, and plenty of gratitude as well.
"The kindness and outpouring of love from our comedy family, school family, and the generous patrons of Finley’s is a blessing. The success comes from the fact that I can help my students," he added.
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This article appears in Feb 6-13, 2020.