If you walk through the halls of Whitman, you will find all different types of people. At first glance, you might even be able to tell a little bit about them. But this first impression is never comparable to what you can find when you talk to them for just a little bit of time. Some people, however, give the world bits of themselves without having to say anything—“say,” meaning the rawest form of the word. These are the artists, whether they draw, paint, sing or play instruments. They share themselves through artistic expression, and in many ways contribute to their communities while doing so.

Mr. Pipolo, from Walt Whitman’s English department, seems to have quite an understanding of how to take Whitman’s student talent and use it for the greater good of the community. At the annual Mercy Benefit Concert, the talented musicians of the school provide a night of entertainment in which all of the proceeds go towards Project H.O.P.E., a local soup kitchen that feeds many members of our South Huntington community. With an eclectic group of musicians and a lively MC,  Harris Ansari, the night of June 5th was nothing less than spectacular for all who attended, and in the bigger picture, a wonderful show of support  for our community.

Before a note was even played Friday night, $1,200 had already been raised through ticket and tee shirt sales. When walking in, you could already feel the auras of good vibes and good deeds. The performances included beautiful solo acts from Eve Metzger, Sam Hartig, Chelsea Saccente, Tyler Zeoli and Marina Kopf (by the end of which I could swear there were at least three ukuleles floating around the room); and group performances by the beloved bands The Warehouse, Pursuing JC, The LBJ’s, the Tony James Band and 10 Below 17.

Friday night was definitely not one to miss. All who attended enjoyed a night of good music from the performers, delicious pastries provided by Nicole Grennan, beautiful henna tattoos done by Zarmeen Mussa, and cute and kind compliments from the compliment booth. All proceeds will go towards the food pantries and beneficiary organizations of our community.

Thank you to all!