She's a veteran of the local stand-up scene, a regular on the national circuit and recently appeared on Oprah Winfrey's OWN network in the reality show "My Life is a Joke," which might get picked up as a series. During her 13 years as a comic, Patti Vasquez has traveled from coast to coast and earned the respect of such top gut-busters as Lewis Black.

Later this month she'll host a two-part stand-up workshop in Chicago's Eckhart Park neighborhood.

Keep checking the Sun-Times for more about Vasquez and her career.

In the meantime, if you're interested in learning funny business basics or know someone who is, here are the particulars:

Stand-Up Comedy Workshop with Patti Vasquez
Tuesday, Feb. 19 and Tuesday, Feb. 26 (both days)
Workshop fee: $55
Space is limited
Register at www.mikeyocomedy.com or call (773) 895-8978

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