Hardyston - The Hardyston Parent Teacher Association and Staples of Franklin are sponsoring a benefit performance by the Harlem Wizards basketball team at 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 23, at the Walkill Valley Regional High School in Hardyston. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. The evening of family entertainment will be the first PTA fund raiser for Hardyston Elementary School’s new playground. The event will also be the kick-off of a two-week computer recycling campaign at the Franklin Staples, located at 70 Route 23 North, to raise additional funds for the playground. The Harlem Wizards have been performing worldwide since 1962. The players have college and professional backgrounds and skills that include trickery and theatrical humor, often to the beat of music. The event will feature a basketball game between the Wizards and a team of good-spirited community members. “This chosen group won’t mind breaking into a sweat and breaking into laughter,” said Rebecca Dorney, president of the Hardyston PTA. “There will be plenty of surprises, and we welcome the community’s suggestions for recruits.” Dinner and snacks will be sold, as well as an assortment of Wizard souvenirs. “The PTA gets a percentage of all merchandise sold to help our playground,” continued Dorney. “And the Wizards will sign autographs until the last fan leaves the gym.” In addition to the normal services and items the PTA provides for Hardyston children and their families, the PTA is undertaking a new challenge this school year. “Our young children need a playground,” said Dorney. “School funds have already been cut, so we are relying on donations and volunteers. We welcome any suggestions and or support from community members and businesses. We hope to get the ball rollingor rather bouncingat this Wizards’ event.” Advance ticket prices are $8 children, and $10 adults. Tickets at the gate are $10/$12 and the event is predicted to be a sellout For information, call 973-823-7000. From April 23 through May 7, Franklin Staples will accept computers, monitors, printers and faxes in exchange for a $10 donation to the playground fund. For more information, please contact the store at 973 827-1345. “This recycling event makes it easy for us to do something good for the environment and for a local school,” said Herb Heins, general manager.