Next week is the first Java open mic of the semester. An event where anyone can perform their music, comedy, spoken word, or even dancing act. The open mic offers the unique opportunity of getting to perform on the Java stage and showcase what you love to your friends and others. Acts will get up to 15 minutes to perform their show. All one would have to do is email Zachary Effman at zjeffm18@stlawu.edu, for a spot. The event is always a ton of fun, and a great place to not only perform things you love, but workshop original projects. “Open mic is always a lot of fun, it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and get out of the house to support your fellow performing classmates,” commented Java elder Anniesa Atischand. 

What makes this event a rather special open mic is that Java will be collaborating with Cheese Club, a club created and run by the lovely people of the lighthouse and their lust for cheese. One may wonder, “What is Cheese Club? Is there actual cheese?” And to answer that Cheese Club Coordinator (CCC), Zach Lawrence describes the club as follows. “Cheese club creates a relaxing atmosphere for folks to meet new people, hang out with good friends, and enjoy good cheese. We’re all about supporting local dairies and local businesses, so we purchase the bulk of our cheese from Nature’s Storehouse and the Potsdam Food Co-op, which carry all sorts of fun cheeses from the surrounding area.” So, not only will you be supporting your peers performing and eating delicious variations of cheese, you’ll also be supporting the North Country community! Senior Carter Gordon heard this news and jumped for joy as he screamed, “CHEEEEESE!”  

One also may wonder, “I thought we could not have snacks or drinks at the Java Barn. How are we supposed to eat cheese with masks on?” Good news! As of now, if you are vaccinated, you will no longer be required to wear a mask at Java shows. This means that the snack bar is back! And yes, you guessed it…CUPSSSSS!!!! After two long years, we are finally back to some sense of normalcy at Java. “I am excited to showcase my newfound breakdancing abilities while stuffing my face with cheese and with the option to hydrate in between songs,” stated Brynn Kent when asked about how they felt. I am sure by reading this not only are you excited to perform or observe, but also to spend an amazing Wednesday night decompressing and enjoying some great music and cheese, with Java and Cheese Club. Bring your own Lactaid, and remember, no bags, no booze, no problems!