Last Saturday night at the Jayton-Girard ISD auditorium, “Jayton Idol” gave its namesake national TV show a run for its money — with inspiring performances that provided an enjoyable evening’s entertainment while earning cash for winning contestants and raising even more to benefit the Kent County Nursing Home.
It was the nursing home crew, in fact, that wowed the audience with an opening number: Administrator Nathan Smith, backed by residents and staff, in a splendid rendition of the chart-topping classic “Stay.” Staff and friends returned for a few other numbers following the contestants’ performances and a benefit auction, with Johnna Reynolds joining her husband, Steve, in a soaring duet on “Because He Lives.” Johnna Reynolds also sang a sweet tribute to accompany an in memoriam slide show dedicated to residents of the home who had passed away recently.
Eight contestants presented a variety of solo and duet songs, including covers and originals, some with live accompaniment and others with backing tracks. All presented with verve, heart and a huge dose of talent.
Perhaps none of the acts was as surprising as that of Spur’s Ace Walker and Brody Dempsey, both on guitars and vocals, with Dempsey playing not just a few licks but the entire piece with guitar over his back. Their act went on to take 2nd place and a $500 prize.
Top winner in the contest (according to 25% audience vote and 75% judges’ vote) was the duo of Andrew Walker and Chisholm Ward of Okarche, Oklahoma, taking home prize money of $1,000. If you enjoyed Ward’s original song “Hat Off” as much as we did, you can listen again here: www.facebook. com/story.php?story_fbi d=1076174957878242& id=100064572434346&_rdr Coming in 3rd was James Elrod of Anson, Texas.
Other contestants were Leah Castaneda of Aspermont; Mandy Ryan of Jayton; Kyler Jennings and Hunter Harris of Sweetwater and Rotan; James Wilson of Avoca; The Salt Flats (Griff Reel on solo vocal and guitar after the rest of the band had a scheduling conflict) of Jayton.
We didn’t have a total to share at press time of funds raised via the silent auction, outcry auction, and bake sale, but judging by the strong community participation, the figure easily reached into the thousands.
Organizers expressed their appreciation on social media for all the volunteer support, including the videography services that will soon result in clips for public viewing on the Kent County Nursing Home Facebook page.
