02 Broadcaster Press October 7, 2014 www.broadcasteronline.com Open mic nights at the Varsity Pub provide important creative outlet for local musicians By Thomas Hatzenbuhler For the Plain Talk Per capita, the city of Vermillion, S.D., is more richly saturated by individuals of extraordinary musical talent than seems plausible. This is in little doubt because of the diversity of people brought here by the University of South Dakota. Regardless, however, of the circumstantial factors that led these musicians to Vermillion, there are here to be heard and to be appreciated. Perhaps foremost among the reasons to discover the local music scene is the breadth of genres amalgamated into a single experience; and there are few other places where bluegrass and shoegaze, indie-rock and country and hip-hop and metal commingle quite as well as the Varsity Pub on Main St. For the previous eight weeks, the Varsity Pub has hosted an ever-increasingly successful open mic night each Thursday from 9:30 p.m. until close. Furthermore, the pub has played host to several local acts–bands from Vermillion and the surrounding areas–such as 20 Bold Ideas, The Worried Mothers, Tenenbaums and others. These performances have always been well attended and loudly played. In fact, the basement of the pub has a long tradition of hosting musical acts. “It is really fun to revive that, and kind of relive those basement memories,” said Varsity co-owner Diane Wirth. “The memories go back so many years for so many people. People come to take sentimental journeys.” While it is true that many of the musicians who now perform at the Varsity Pub are new to the location, there are those who come for the sense of nostalgia. One such artist is T. Wilson King, who recently performed during one of the regular open mic events. Nostalgia, however, isn’t the only reason for which The Varsity Pub has become a big spot for the local music scene. (Thomas Hatzenbuhler) musicians come to the open mic night events. “One of the big things for me is that [open mic events] are how I got my start, becoming confident with playing music in front of people,” said Zach Baltz, a local musician and member of 20 Bold Idea. “It is one of those things that I feel just has to be there, there has to be that outlet for people to go play. There are plenty of people, especially in a college town, who need to play music, they want to play music. “We wanted to make that happen for them and James Heating & Cooling “Quality Service with Reasonable Prices.” “Serving the Vermillion Area Since 1993” Vermillion, SD 57069 • 605-624-9140 Our Services Include: • Furnace and A/C Replacement/Repair • Hot Water Boiler Replace and Repair • Air Duct Cleaning • Window Replacements • In Floor Heating Systems Licensed & Insured • Call for a FREE Estimate the Varsity seemed to be a good fit.” The existence of the open mic nights at the Varsity Pub was born out of that necessity, as several regular open mic performers returned to Vermillion after the summer to find that the events had been indefinitely suspended at their usual downtown location. Nathan Glanzer, a regular patron of the Varsity Pub, along with musicians Jesse Mohling and Baltz, are largely responsible for laying the foundations of the weekly event and alternate as MCs. “We talked to Diane, and she was on board,” Baltz said. “It has been great so far. A lot of people have shown up and that has been awesome.” Despite the necessity out of which the open mic nights at the Varsity Pub were formed, there are many other aspects that have contributed to the success of the events. “Acoustically, it was a really great space to do our show in,” said Baltz. A general sense of café ambiance has also given character to the space, which, at times, becomes alternatively a dance floor and a mosh pit. “It’s what an open mic night should be,” said Baltz. “People can come, hang out and play music.” Thank You The family of Richard Jepsen sends a heartfelt Thank-you to all the truly wonderful people that helped us get through the rough times during Richard’s hospitalization and passing. Many thanks for the visits, ?owers, food, cards, memorials and just the time taken to spend with us, sharing the tears and memories. Words cannot express how much each and every prayer, kind word, and hug meant to us all. A special thanks to the women of Bergen Lutheran Church for the wonderful lunch and to Mary Hanson who was a tremendous help. Thank you to Pastor Dan Brandt who gave such a meaningful service. He gave us much comfort in our time of need. Thank you also to Dale Johnson for your beautiful voice and to pianist Becky Aga. Also thank you to Bob, of Hanson Funeral Home, for your help and support in this dif?cult time. You all hold a special place in our hearts and your kindness will never be forgotten. Donna Jepsen, LaVonne Jepsen, Brandi and Eric Johnson, Brett and Jenn Jepsen, Margo and Jim Ryken Calling All Veterans Calling All Veterans a n te a Remember Grain Bin Fans - Fall Special - In Stock Bin Safety Centrifugal Fans, Add or Update your equipment this fall. Prevent Bin Fires 10-15hp Single Phase - Three Phase. 1760RPM Baldor Motor. Includes motor starter controls. Axial fans also available - 2 week lead time. Brock Fan - Used/New Take-offs $1950 ----- 6 Available Sukup Fan - Used/New Take-offs $2450 ---- 3 Available Grain Bin Fan Heaters - Fall Special - In Stock Add a Propane heater to your Centrifugal Fans this fall! Take the most advantage of your on-farm storage and marketing potential. Propane fired Contact Heine Electric units 10-20Hp, Low Temp and High Temp Units. and Irrigation today! 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