MITCHELL — Trivia nights have become a popular way for people to connect and unwind, and in Mitchell, the Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Trivia Night is no exception.
The monthly event, designed to help locals network and have fun, has gained popularity and attracted young professionals eager to test their knowledge in a relaxed environment.
Robyn and Alex Bartunek weren’t sure if they fit the criteria to attend the Young Professionals Trivia Night in January, but decided to give it a try. The night saw approximately 100 people attend, and February’s event drew around 80 participants.
“We’re not necessarily young or professionals, but it sounded like something fun to do on a Tuesday night,” Robyn said.
The Bartuneks, both passionate about local activities, were excited to try something new. Robyn is a Mitchell native, and Alex hails from Armour. The couple enjoys bowling on a league every Tuesday and even has an unofficial beer club.
“The inaugural night in January was packed. Every table was full,” Alex said. “We noticed a group of young professionals looking around and unsure of where to sit, so we invited them to join us.”
They welcomed a mix of ages, which worked out well, especially with the ’90s-themed trivia.
“It worked out well to have both older and younger members at the table,” Robyn said.
Their team ended up winning first place, maybe thanks to one of their younger teammates who came prepared by Googling ’90s trivia questions in advance.
Submitted photo
The Bartuneks appreciate how the trivia nights also serve as a networking opportunity.
“It’s great to meet new people from different walks of life,” Robyn said. “One of the girls on our team works at a coffee shop, so I made sure to mention that if they ever need apparel or T-shirts, they know who to call.”
Alex agreed, noting that it’s always beneficial to network with people from various industries.
“You never know when someone you meet might be a great fit for a position at your company,” Alex said. “It opens up doors for collaboration or even job opportunities.”
The trivia nights are held on the second Tuesday of every month, starting at 6 p.m. It’s open to anyone.
Alexandria native Michaela Christopher, who has lived in Mitchell for nine years, attended both trivia nights and plans to join in March.
“I’ve been wanting to do more around town, and the trivia nights ended up being a lot of fun,” Christopher said. “We branched out, met new people, and it was great to make new friends.”
“I’ve been wanting to do more around town, and it ended up being a lot of fun,” Christopher said. “We branched out and sat with strangers, and it was great to walk away with some new friends.”
While trivia night clashes with his weekly bowling league, Bartunek said he and his wife plan to return for another event, especially if the theme is interesting.
“We can always make up bowling on another night,” Bartunek said. “Trivia night is a great way to connect, have fun, and maybe even learn something new while we’re at it.”
Jennifer Leither joined the Mitchell Republic in April 2024. She was raised in Sioux Falls, S.D. where she attended Lincoln High School. She continued her education at South Dakota State University, graduating in December 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. During her time in college, Leither worked as a reporter for the campus newpaper, The Collegian. She also interned for Anderson Publications in Canistota, SD the summer of 2000. Upon graduation, Leither continued to reside in the Sioux Falls area and worked as a freelance writer for the Argus Leader for a number of years.
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