Fireworks

There are times in life when something just exceeds your expectations. “Open Mic” at Fireworks could be described as a pleasant surprise for any one passing through. Monday night presented a surprise to an un-expecting student.

According to the website “Open Mic” takes place every Monday at a small bar and grill named “Fireworks”. This entertainment venue begins at 8pm, requires no tickets or cover charge, but simply a state I.D. proving your 21. The event starts in the late evening and continues until close. “Open Mic” features a handle full of aspiring vocalists and musicians whom are maybe trying to make a name for them self or just out to share their music.

“Fireworks” is located just over the Fourth Street Bridge crossing from Corvallis into South Town. I was pleasantly greeted by young female bartender confirming I was of legal age. She handed back my I.D. with a warming smile and gestured to an open doorway. I stepped outside and into a dining area. It was pleasing to take in my surroundings. Clay looking terra cotta walls surrounded the area in a curved fashion. Sheltering the room was a ceiling made of canvas. About half a dozen small round tables were scattered about with calm patrons sitting back enjoying their drinks. Everyone’s attention was focused on one end of the room where a young man sat playing a guitar.

It was while I was searching for a seat that I happened upon Paul Norberg. He was an average sized middle aged man sporting glasses, a goatee, and a very approachable demeanor. When asked if he was going to go up an play Paul laughed and said he was only there to enjoy although he was an amateur the acoustic guitar. We sat and chatted for a bit enjoying the music “This is what I’m here for. The fresh original tunes.” He said after one musician finished up. Paul was very knowledgeable about most of the performers giving me a short back ground of each artist as they stepped up to the microphone.

All of the musicians had there own style and added their own bit of originality to their music. The one thing they did have in common was they all put their hearts into the music. Paul explained to me that he had personally video taped the event for channel 29 and had a total of thirteen episodes so far. These episodes can also be found online on you tube under HeARTS Of The Valley.

Paul pointed out the owner of Fireworks a heavy set older man sporting a black suite and a top hat. His was name Tony Nebler and for some odd reason his clothing fit his cool demeanor as he stood off to the side near the performers also enjoying scene. Although I did not get a chance to speak with him another patron named Jason told me "He provides us with a homey environment.... its a really nice community."

Sadly I could not stay as long as i would have but the atmosphere and the friendliness made it a sure thing that I would soon return.