Downtown Mars came alive on September 19 as Masterpiece Creations Art Gallery hosted Hope Ignites, a lively fundraiser benefiting Hope Ignites, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Pittsburgh. The evening blended music, art, food, and friendship—showcasing the power of community spirit while raising both awareness and funds for an inspiring cause.

     Guests gathered inside the gallery, where the Treesdale-based band The Bungo’s, led by Mike and Shirline Bungo, filled the space with upbeat classics and crowd favorites. Their sound spilled onto Grand Avenue, turning the street into an open-air dance floor that inspired a congo line down the streets of Mars!

Adding to the celebration was Lisa Shanley, a Howard Hanna Realtor and Treesdale resident, whose energy and generosity helped make the evening possible. Known for her community involvement and kind heart, Lisa played a key role in supporting and promoting the event, bringing together neighbors and friends to rally behind the cause.

 

     Inside the gallery, guests explored the colorful world of Masterpiece Creations, where paintings from local artists adorned the walls. Once again Masterpiece Creations served as more than just a gallery—it became a gathering place where creativity and community meet.

     No Mars celebration would be complete the out of this world local flavor, and Mars Pizza delivered just that. Their fresh, hot pizza fueled a crowd eager to dance, mingle, and enjoy every moment. The mix of art, live music, and great food gave the event a festive, block-party feel that perfectly captured the heart of small-town togetherness.

     By the end of the evening, the event raised $1,000 for Hope Ignites, Boys Hope Girls Hope, supporting the organization’s mission to empower and inspire youth through education, mentorship, and opportunity.

 

     “Events like this remind us why we love this community,” a guest remarked. “It’s about good people doing good things—and having fun while doing it.”

With art on the walls, music in the streets, and generosity in the air, the community once again proved that when creativity and compassion unite, the result is something truly memorable.

129 Grand Avenue, Mars PA 16046