The Art House Café sponsored by RHS’ literary magazine Echoes was a smashing success. With art, poetry, food and live performances by some of RHS’ very own students and teachers, it was a great way for the magazine to gain attention and raise money.

As a result of the hard work done by juniors Kyra Wood and Kate Broadhurst, promotions of the café night were made in order to draw more attendees. “Kate and I went around and talked to teachers about this event. We also put up flyers…we basically just put our best foot forward,” said Wood.

The Echoes staff was impressed with this year’s attendance. “It was a much better turnout this year. The student community, as well as the outside community, was present; everybody just enjoyed [themselves]. We also had cooperation from food companies, which was good as well,” said Wood.

Having Rockville’s own AP Psychology teacher Brian Rappelfeld as a performer also triggered motivation for others to attend. Rappelfeld, who has been writing and playing music since the age of 13, also participated last year and truly enjoyed both performances. “The food was good. It was a big turn out. I think [Echoes sponsor David Lopilato] did a good job running it this year for the first time,” said Rappelfeld.

The art show was an opportunity to raise money and promote the magazine. The artwork that was shown at the event was a way to help encourage students to submit their artwork for publication. After being submitted, the work is considered for placement in the 2008 edition of the Echoes literary magazine.

As with any major event, however, there is always room for improvement. “We are going to work on being more organized and getting things done earlier so we don’t have to be rushing at the end,” said senior Samantha Rockler, who has been involved with Echoes in all of her four years at RHS. Future attendees can even look forward to art sales at the event in coming years!