Various clubs and businesses helped to raise money for Hurricane Katrina relief on Sept. 23 and 24 with the Arts and Edibles Fair and an Open Mic Night that included a raffle.

“Businesses in the community have kindly donated various prizes which we are raffling off during breaks in the show,” English teacher and co-organizer Jessie Hawkins said. “They donated everything from gift certificates, movie tickets, clothing, journals, live plants and food.”

The number of people who attended the Open Mic Night was so large that the organizers had to turn away people at the door. “It was a huge success not just in financial terms but in the willingness to give back to the community and the support that the audience had for the performers,” English teacher and co-organizer Karen Oppenheim said. “I felt everyone inside the theater was closely connected by a common goal of generosity.”

Many clubs came to provide assistance. “Really, we’re here because our current president [junior Tiffany Chow] thinks it would be good for publicity,” alumni and ex-president of the Comix Club Madeline Graham said. “But I’m just here because I felt it would be fun to draw.”

Staff members Lynn Navarro, Lisa Wu and Soo-Ling Chan donated apparel like scarves and jewelry to be sold at the Arts and Edibles fair. Clubs like SASA, Interact, Francis Rules and Pandora’s Box also helped sell food and apparel.

The Open Mic Night had about 25 artists performing everything from musical performances to stand- up comedy and slam. “It was fun watching my peers on stage,” senior Anna Wachtel said. “There was definitely that community feel. I was surprised it ended so soon. I was having a good time. They were all great acts and it didn’t matter if they messed up—it was a good atmosphere.”

The Palo Alto Slam team also made an appearance. The event ended with a song from English teacher Mark Hernandez. “It was fantastic to see how everyone stood up in the end and raved to Mr. Hernandez’s song,” senior Osma Dossani said. “It was a good ending.”

The relief effort raised a total of $3,088. “It’s hard to get up there and bear your soul to everyone, but I think everyone left feeling great about it,” president of the Thespian society senior Alana Ju said.