21st Almost Annual Pun-off benefit for Food for People

Fighting Hunger with Humor
By Jeffrey Smoller, Founder & President of Pun-off Bored of Crustee’s

Despite popular demand, it’s back! The 21st Almost Annual Pun-off is back and a benefit for Food for People. This dreaded event will be held Friday, March 2nd at 8 PM at the Arcata Theater Lounge. Admission is $15 and a can of food. Come watch the heavy wits square off in a contest of the lowest possible standards. Since 1977, The Pun-off has annoyed hundreds of people to raise thousands of dollars so move your cans to the Arcata Theater Lounge Saturday March 5th and fight hunger with humor. The Pun-off is back. Disappointment is guaranteed. Your actual smileage may vary.

So what is a Pun-off? A pun is a play on words that suggests different meanings.
The Pun-off is a mock contest in which 15-20 Puntestants compete for the coveted jar of Pepto Dismal. In groups of three, a category is given. They must take turns punning in sentence form until two of the three Puntestants are eliminated by going over time, not using a legitimate pun or repeating a pun within that category. It’s very simple and quality has little to do with the competition. The winners of each round play each other. Audience members may buy a CouPun from RePunzel and pun non-competitively between rounds.

Entrants are among the most annoying people of Humboldt County. For reason unknown, the Pun-off draws local media personalities and many medical professionals to a tryst of shame and loathing as the crowd jeers them on to ruined reputations. It’s Home Groan Fun for all. Local swing band, Magnolia will provide the music, energy and inappropriate sound effects.