Host Phil Mathewson gets ready for the show. Photo by Joanne Bateni.

LAKEPORT – Jan. 5 saw the biggest open mic ever at Café Victoria.

The event featured regulars Lorna Sue Sides, Poetry Interlude founder; Erv Howell, honky-tonk stylist; and Dick Flowers, a cappella singer starting off the show.

Newbies included Andy Rossoff, who played the house piano and sang some of his favorite songs. Andy is a self-taught musician and an open mic virgin. He can be seen playing keyboard in a band called Leftys.

Everybody’s favorite doctor, Milan Hopkins, MD of Upper Lake, strummed his guitar and sang some cool tunes.

Donavan made his second appearance at the open mic, singing his original songs while playing his guitar.

Lourdes Thuesen joined us for the first time, reading a few poems for the full house.

Carley Rae, another first-timer, read a short poem near the end of the session.

Host Phil Mathewson played his mandolin and sang a few of his original songs between acts.

Café owner, Victoria Philips, treated everyone to her freshly baked carrot cake muffins and ice cream.

Next open mic is Saturday Feb. 2. Come early for a good seat.

Poet Lorna Sue Sides reads one of her favorite poems. Photo by Joanne Bateni.

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