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Community
Community
IRON RIVER - Open Mic Night at the Windsor Center is in its 13th season with its 92nd show slated for Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. Every program features a wide variety of musicians, ranging from teens to octogenarians, playing nearly every genre of music on many different instruments. The Dec. 16 show, of course, will be Christmas/Holiday and Winter-themed songs.
George Peterson, a local musician and Windsor Center volunteer, organized and emceed Open Mic since its conception in 2010. George, along with his wife Patsy, and Bee and Mike Stafford, have faithfully coordinated this local talent showcase, and all were feeling like it was time to pass the torch. It was in March of this year that George approached a possible successor, and after several months of planning, it was agreed that she would take over starting at the October show.
George emceed his 90th and final show on Aug. 26, and it was at that show that he formally “passed the mic” to Erika Sauter, a pianist and vocalist who has performed on the Open Mic stage many times over the years. “I’m honored to carry on this beloved community event,” Sauter said, “and am looking forward to adding some new elements to hopefully stir up new performers and attendees.”
Open Mic Night, as it’s been run in Iron River, is more structured than what folks generally think of when they think “open mic.” Performers are scheduled in advance, as opposed to signing up that night, which is helpful for planning and quality of performance. Sauter indicated that she plans to try mixing things up in the new year. “For the Dec. 16 show we will keep the same format,” she said, “Next year, attendees can look forward to themed nights, some true open mic hours, scheduled outside guest performers, and some other surprises!”
Sauter also emphasized the need for sponsors. “For each Open Mic, the goal is to have two sponsors at $100 each to help us cover the cost of the promotion, sound techs, equipment maintenance and updates, etc.,” she said. “Individuals and businesses alike are welcome to Sponsor and will receive recognition at the event, and the opportunity to request songs!”
Peterson expressed his best wishes to Sauter. “I and others are excited to see Open Mic continue and to see Erika MC it,” he said. Peterson was formally honored at the August show with an engraved box on behalf of the Windsor Center for his many years of faithful service. “The show will go on,” said Sauter. “I’m grateful George has entrusted me with something that is so dear to his heart, and I will do my best to make him - and our Open Mic audience - proud.”
To learn more, volunteer, sponsor, or sign up to perform for a future show, contact Erika Sauter at 906-284-0647 or email egsauter@gmail.com.