Nellie's Cafe Hosts first PHS Art Show and Open Mic

Colorful paintings and art projects lined the brick walls of front room Tuesday evening. Peekskill high school students' work was displayed for the first open mic night and art show at the gelato cafe/karaoke bar.

"We just thought this was a nice idea to have artists and students come together to present a mix of art and music," said Peekskill High School art teacher Heather Brown.

Nellie's donated $3 of the $5 cover charge to the Peekskill High School arts department. Owner Ginael Alexander said she hopes to host the event monthly.

Brown's students' work was hung amongst work from other art classes taught by Sarah Soyka and Elizabeth Domiano.

In front of the paintings Steve Sacasari, 11th grade,  Emanuel Henry, ninth grade and Paul Belledino, ninth grade, set up their instruments, practiced a bit and awaited the start of the event.

"The kids have definitely been more focused leading up to the event," said PHS English teacher Fred Hutchinson. Hutchinson's student Montel Simmons performed what he called "rap poetry," with a theme about real life.

Brown said that the opportunity to present a show like this was rare and was thankful to Nellie's cafe for arranging the kind of event that allowed Brown, Hutchinson and the other art and music teachers to showcase their students' work.