Sarah Willsey
Puerto Rican singer, Ennio Emmanuel, stopped by the Homer Bonné Auditorium on Monday, March 25, 2013 to share his inspiring message and music. After several years of teaching the importance of Spanish, and a second language in general, to students around the country, Justo Lamas passed his mission on to the young and kind-hearted Ennio. Students welcomed Ennio with signs, smiles, and loud cheering. The junior high and high school were joined by a handful of schools from nearby, who were all grateful to be in his presence. Ennio shared songs from his new album, Ojalá, and invited everyone to sing along. One of the favorites of the day was "Nada Es Imposible," or "Nothing is Impossible." He invited many students up on stage, including two junior high students, Kelsey and Jake, who joined him for the song "Confiar En Mi" ("Count On Me"). He gathered a group of students from each school, including Adam, Dean, Sophie, and Tighe from the high school, to assist him in the performance of Magdalena. He held a contest called Tongue Twister, which challenged students to speak fast and clear Spanish; Alfón won by a landslide, receiving a free CD as her prize. Kasey and Ashley were the “angels” of the show, as Ennio sang his song, "Manda Un Ángel" ("Send An Angel"), to the lucky girls. He then shared the stage one last time with a group of talented junior high dancers.
Before closing the concert, Ennio made a point to thank the teachers for all that they do. He emphasized that second languages, including Spanish, are extremely beneficial and will help many to succeed. After the concert, he stayed to sign posters, t-shirts, and CDs, and he stood with excited students for pictures. Many thanks go out to Ennio for the motivating performance. Thank you to Mrs. Passigli and everyone else who brought to us this wonderful opportunity.
