By Andrea Genovese Soares (December 18, 2002)

Not normally a parent-pleaser, tattoos were used for a good cause last Thursday as the International Club sold henna tatoos to interested students and adults alike. This unique fund-raiser made over $90 for the International Club fund that supports the International Dinner and a scholarship.. 
 

The Henna designs ranged from simple ones like wrist bracelets to complicated dragon designs. Besides offering the henna tattoos, the International Club also sold refreshments. According to club sponsor Linda Galofaro, "The tatooing was a unique idea. Students seem to like tattoos so it seemed like it had potential from the start. I was afraid I would get some negative responses, but I explained that it was all natural and it was temporary and that seemed to work. We had a lot of students who do not usually come to International Club events attend this fundraiser."  Galofaro’s room, where the fundraiser was held, was appropriately decorated with saris, traditional Indian dress, as Turkish music filled the air. Though many students had little time to get their Hanna tattoos, they stopped by to beautify themselves with these temporary natural designs.

A satisfied customer 11th grader Christine Gee shows off her new henna tattoo, which will wear  off in about three weeks.  (Photo by Andrea Genovese Soares)

"A lot of people asked about the art of henna tattoos. The art of Mendi has been around for a long time. If you have never seen a ceremonial Mendi, ask Ms. Sinha Mehta to see her wedding photos. People asked about Mendi and the culture, and that means a lot," said Galofaro.