Benefit.

These photos were taken at a benefit show for Mitch Dubey's family, where six bands played. Mitch was an active member of the punk community, was in a band, and had many friends in bands. He and his roommates often opened their home to touring and traveling bands, allowing them to perform in their basement for friends. He was always very supportive of his friends' creative projects, whether they came in the form of music, art, or whatever.

This show took place on April 3, 2011, a little over a week after his death. In my 11 years of seeing bands and making friends via this community, it has become clear to me that the punk community acts like a family when help is needed. This show sold out Toad's Place, which is pretty much New Haven's most sizable venue. About 1,000 people attended. Adding up the proceeds from the show itself, a raffle, and various items sold at the show (baked goods, t shirts, etc), we ended up raising $23,300 for his family, which I consider to be a huge accomplishment. It was a little hard to be around so many of our friends, because I half-expected him to walk through the door at any minute. His presence was felt.