Batesville, Arkansas – Polk & Paddle in Batesville will host a stand-up comedy night on Friday, August 23, 2025, to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, marking the venue’s first such event since the COVID-19 pandemic. Organized by local resident Patrick Moody, the event supports his $4,000 fundraising goal as a St. Jude Hero preparing for the St. Jude Marathon in Memphis this December.
The comedy show, held at Polk & Paddle’s new outdoor area at 305 S. St. Louis St., will feature Little Rock’s Alexi Barrientos, who recently released his debut comedy album, as the headliner. Joining him are Paul Hodge from Northwest Arkansas, Zane Lovelady from Little Rock, Batesville’s own Jason Eddington, and two additional guest comedians. The event promises a night of laughter and community spirit for a vital cause.
Tickets are $20, payable at the door, though Polk & Paddle encourages reservations by calling (870) 793-3000 to secure a spot. Raffle tickets, priced at $2 each, will offer chances to win Arkansas-shaped plates donated by Nature’s Market and RV Park in Southside, paired with market items. All proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which funds groundbreaking pediatric cancer research and treatment.
Moody, a dedicated St. Jude Hero, is leveraging the comedy night to rally Batesville’s support for his marathon fundraising goal. “This event is about bringing our community together to laugh and give back,” Moody said. Donations can also be made directly at fundraising.stjude.org/goto/patrickmoody.
The event underscores Batesville’s commitment to charitable causes, boosting local engagement while supporting St. Jude’s mission. For more information or to reserve tickets, contact Polk & Paddle at (870) 793-3000.
