Okay, superstar, so you go to a couple of shows a week, buy local records from local record stores, and wear your favorite groups' buttons everywhere you go. That's awesome and all, but there's more to supporting the scene than just being a fan. Most of Seattle's all-ages venues, including the Vera Project and the Paradox, are always looking for volunteers to help out at shows. And while you'll probably have to do some thankless tasks like sweeping the floor or emptying the trash after shows, you'll still get into the club for free. And who doesn't want that privilege?

If you're interested in knowing more about volunteering, it's the perfect time, because the Paradox needs help now more than ever. And with summer approaching, it's not like you're gonna be in school, right? To help gather the masses, the Paradox is hosting a Volunteer Open House for anyone who has questions or wants to meet the staff. All the kind Paradox folks will be on hand to talk to you about volunteer opportunities and show you around the venue. As for what kinds of tasks they need kids to cover, well, that runs the gamut.

"We're looking for kids who are interested in working at shows—setting up the room, working the concessions center, answering questions at our promo table, security, running the door, etc." says programming director Alicia Blake. "Other opportunities include writing for our friends at Nadamucho.com. You can write show or CD reviews of bands involved in upcoming Paradox events. And there's plenty of room for people interested in handing out fliers, and getting the word out about the venue and upcoming shows too."

While some of the work may seem less than exciting and not very challenging (no one wants to pick up garbage, right?), every helping hand really does make a big difference. "Volunteers are really what keep the Paradox alive," says Blake. "Everyone's a volunteer here. I'm a volunteer here! Volunteering is a great way to help out the community, and if you love going to shows, this is a great place to do both. There's so much room for people to learn new skills, learn all the 'behind the scenes' stuff."

And she would know! Blake didn't know much about anything when she started volunteering at the Paradox years ago, when it was still located in the old theater on University Way. "I didn't know a damn thing about how shows worked until I started at the Paradox. I told the sound guy I wanted to learn how to run sound and he said to show up for tomorrow's show. I've been here ever since. It's pretty amazing what kind of opportunities there are if you just make them for yourself. The Paradox is what you make it."