By Jim Cavan

They say that laughter is the best medicine. But for two Seacoast environmental organizations, it can also make for a great fundraiser.

On February 12th the Portsmouth Music Hall, in conjunction with Cuzin Richard Entertainment Associates (CREA), will play host to the 9th Annual Comedy Extravaganza benefit. Proceeds from the show will be split between the Green Alliance and the Pierce Island Enhancement Fund.

Mike McDonald headlines a cast of national comedians providing the night’s entertainment. McDonald has headlined the last 8 benefits, all of which were huge successes, with tickets selling out and benefactors receiving significant boosts in both revenues as well as awareness in the community.

For Richard Cuzin, owner and principal of CREA, the yearly laugh-in is something he always looks forward to. “We’ve sold out every year, so hopefully this year won’t be any different,” says Cuzin. “Every year, with the exception of Michael, whom I’ve known for over 30 years, we’ve had new comedians, and that really helps keep it a fantastic and fresh event. Not only is it a lot of fun, but every year we get to help out new organizations.”

Indeed, Cuzin's commitment to local environmental groups has always been a focal point: While living in Hawaii after high school he became intimately involved with the Save Our Shores (SOS) movement. Currently he is the co-chair of the Pierce Island Committee for the city of Portsmouth, which helps protect the tiny island just off Portsmouth's Prescott Park, and has also been a member of the Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs since 1980 and of New England Parks and Recreation since 1985.

Truth be told, Cuzin’s fervent dedication to all things green has even landed him in the clink. Back in 1977, Cuzin was one of the 14 protestors arrested at Seabrook, where demonstrators were picketing the proposed power plant. According to Cuzin, he was one of the lucky ones. "The State police officer who arrested me remembered me from a bad inspection sticker I had to go to court over," says Cuzin. "So I went with him and was released on my own recognizance, and I'm lucky I did -- some of the others were in jail for to a week."

While the last few decades have seen Cuzin avoid such “high profile” antics, he is no less committed to raising awareness of environmental issues. Past benefactors for the Comedy Extravaganza alone have included the Seacoast Anti-Pollution League, Seacoast Local, Portsmouth Community Radio (WSCA), and Clean Water Action.

This year’s benefactors in particular are both dear to Cuzin’s heart: he recently joined the Green Alliance; and the Pierce Island Enhancement Fund helps augment his work as Co-Chair of the city’s Pierce Island Committee.

Beyond their extensive promotions, CREA offers a vast array of music and entertainment services, event planning for weddings, family entertainement, corporate functions, graduations, organizing and managing of fundraisers, and more.

Other Sponsors for the Comedy Extravaganza include Eastern Propane, Smuttynose Brewing, NH Magazine, the Dolphin Striker, Blue Mermaid, and the Shark Radio.

Keep in mind that all 8 previous Comedy Extravaganzas have sold out. To get your tickets, you have to go to the Music Hall’s ticket booth, or call (603) 436-2400

For more information about Cuzin Richard Entertainment Associates, visit their website at www.cuzinrichard.com