Comedy competition raises money for a good cause

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa -- Laughter is the best medicine, but it also works as a good fundraiser.  The Beta Upsilon chapter of Phi Mu women's fraternity at Westminster College held their annual Stand Up Stand Off competition on October 18th this year.  The challenge pits student comedians against each other to see who is the funniest.  Each had 3 to 5 minutes to perform.  Three judges evaluated the acts on humor, stage appearance, audience reaction, and overall performance.

The night featured eight different acts, including one humorous interpretive dance team.  Other performers stuck to more traditional humor, such as joking about girlfriends, movies, parents, college life, and even themselves.

Phi Mu Philanthropy Chairman Jessica Cromer helped organize this year's competition.  She enjoyed the variety of comedy.

"I think the best part of Stand Up Stand Off is getting to see the contestants come out of their shell." Cromer said. "You get to see a different side of some people."

The event raised $786 through ticket sales and various raffle items such as gift baskets and purses.  Patrons also had a chance at a 19 inch tv as a door prize.  The money all goes toward Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, Phi Mu's national philanthropy.  This event's proceeds stay local at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Cromer said the event helps raise funds and awareness for CMNH.

"I also love the fact that other students are so happy and willing to be involved and help us raise money..." she told us after the event.

Senior Westminster Student walked home with first place.  Durham has competed for three years in a row.  Her funny anecdotes about going to the movies and getting a vicious new puppy caused the audience to roar with laughter.  Durham's win netted her $50 from Phi Mu toward her sorority's (Kappa Delta) philanthropy.

Clips from her performance as well as other can be seen below.

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