Katy Rubino | News Co-Editor

Since 1990, the Johnny Holm Band has been welcoming students to a new school year by playing in central campus. It has become a tradition that the Student Activities Board (SAB) has brought us for the past 22 years. This year Johnny was unable to make it due to a heart attack he suffered on August 18th. Thankfully for the fans at BVU, Johnny knew the signs of a heart attack and was able to receive medical attention before it became too serious.

The reaction by most of the students at Johnny’s absence was mixed. Many were disappointed.

“It is tradition,” Junior Tara Van Surksum said. “I was heartbroken, I don’t like starting the year off without Johnny, it isn’t the same,” Junior Beatrice Biedenfeld said.

Another junior who was hurt by Johnny not being here included Ayana Bolton.

“I wanted to keep it going because it is tradition,” Ayana said. When she heard that SAB was working to get Johnny back, she was happy. “I was super disappointed,” Junior Andrew Zinn said.

Others were not as upset.

“It wasn’t that big of a deal,” Junior Jessica Thuma said.

“I didn’t really care,” Sophomore Greg Sibenaller said.

Fortunately, for those who were looking forward to Johnny Holm, there is good news. According to Student Activities Director, Becka Neary-DelaPorte, SAB is in communication with Johnny’s manager, Steve Babs, and is working on getting Johnny back to campus.

“It is too early to decide,” DelaPorte said, talking about when Johnny will be back. “Johnny is very busy with festivals, fairs, and other campuses, so SAB is looking at what is best for Buena Vista University and Johnny.”

Photos courtesy of Student Activities Board (SAB)