Guitarists Chuck and Sam made their first appearance at the open mic last Saturday. Photo by Joanne Bateni.

LAKEPORT – The camera crew from Channel 8, our public access TV station, were hard at work setting up cameras and filming the March 1 open mic. When we find out the airing date it will be noted in the LakeCoNews.

Café Victoria has a balcony, which has recently been opened for those overflow crowds that come to the girst Saturday open mic and other entertainment activities.

Slam poets Dante DeAmicis recited and acted out his anti-war poem about a military recruiter and Lorna Sue Sides recited her poem about war, “For the Soldiers,” both which were very dramatic and convincing. Lorna also did her famous “Modesto in July” poem.

A new poet, Leslie Anderson, recited two of her original poems and one that a friend had written for her.

Then the musicians ruled, with newcomers Chuck and Sam playing classical acoustic guitar instrumentals. They brought their fans with them so there was lots of well-deserved applause.

Talented and prolific songwriter Donavan played and sang six of his latest songs including one he had written that day.

Don Coffin, a well-known Lake County musician who has his own band, performed some public domain folksongs.

Dennis Crisp, who also plays in local bands, sang some of his originals including “Those Eagles Fly But They Don’t Fly Far” and “If You Cut Cards with the Devil.”

Don Flowers sang his parents favorite song with no musical accompaniment and told a story about being a dancing teenager in Charleston, N.C. many years ago.

Dennis Crisp and Don Coffin got together to play a few of Crisp’s songs on the small stage as things wound down.

Then host Phil Mathewson performed his song “Wine Tasting” to close out the evening.

The next open mic is April 5 so come by and enjoy our local talent or perform something yourself. Café Victoria is located at 301 N. Main St., Lakeport.

{mos_sb_discuss:5}