To echo Mark Twain’s old words  – the human race has ever only had one weapon against hardship, and that’s laughter.  That’s the message that keynote speaker Jane Jenkins Herlong shared at this year’s Healthy Woman Anniversary Celebration hosted last Saturday night.

As a motivational humorist, Herlong said that her goal is to tell funny stories with a point.

“I learned the value of laughter from my mother.  My mother was so funny,” Herlong said.

“She dealt with some pretty tough stuff in her life.  My brother is a crack-cocaine addict, and he’s been married six times.  My mother called one time and said ‘your brother is weak-minded.’  I said ‘yeah, you think?’ Herlong’s signature brand of humor is well documented in her own works, which include an Amazon best seller in her latest book, “Bury Me with My Pearls.”

More than 100 guests attended the celebration and participated in a health expo, followed by the speaker, and dinner Catered by The King’s Table.  The meal included Caprese chicken, feta pasta, Caribbean vegetable medley, salad and dessert.

Healthy Woman coordinator Linda Holley said the event was a success.  “Jane Herlong had a wonderful message that was full of life’s lessons, singing and original southern humor,” Holley said.  “She can make an audience laugh out loud, and that she did.  Jane’s inspirational speaking helps folks discover the power of humor and the importance of laughter.  She has real Southern charm and teaches one to be yourself and never try to be someone you are not.  She has it all – motivation, humor, song, and charm.”