An evening of music, songs, jokes and comedy
An evening of music, songs, jokes and comedy, including an embellished duet by Pastor Dr. Bryan R. Salminen and Bill Roll, emphasized the spirit of the “St. John’s Lutheran’s Got Talent Show,” but their antics did not detract from the winning piano solo performance by Evan Badgley. The event, held Friday April 12 at the Emerald Golf Course, attracted nearly 150 persons who were treated to various forms of talent hosted by MC Mark Holden following a hamburger/hot dog buffet.
With the poise of a performer well beyond his years, Evan Badgley, center, captured the collective heart of the audience. Dad Rob and Mom Mindy smiled with pride following his winning effort. Flanking the family trio is, left, Toni Zimmerman and Sue Brinley, co-chairs of the event.
The evening began with music from a group comprised of Bruce Bishop, Ken Perry, Bill Andrews and St. “Johns’ greatest drummer,” Mark Holden. A brief review of other performers included Cole and Ty Wardin, piano and song; a viola duet by Katherine Harry and Stephanie Ebert; St. Johns Youth Choir; St. Johns Chime Choir and special musical offerings by Bill Roll and sons Marcus and Lucas and Dr. Jeff Massey who captured the attention of the younger set with a special presentation of “Green Eyed Dragon”.
Others on the program were Toni Zimmerman, tap dancing; a song by Annika Fountain, Lorna Fender, comedy; Cameron West, guitar solo and a selection by the Mint City Community Choir.
Evan’s presentation was the overwhelming winner as the audience judged his efforts to be worth loud and heartfelt acceptance. His selection was a piano solo entitled NuVole Bianche, (White Clouds) written by Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi, and his presentation was accented by an air of poise and confidence belying his years. Evan is the son of Rob and Mindy Badgley and a middle school student in the St. Johns Public Schools district.
Chairing the special event – which began as a Pastor inspired idea in September 2012 – were Sue Brinley and Toni Zimmerman. Members of the Talent Show Committee included Gary & Lorna Fender, Mark Holden, Joann Randolph and Rev. George Brinley. The committee enhanced the party atmosphere with a musical motif reflected on place mats and candle bearing vinyl records as centerpieces. A more up to date form of recording was displayed by hanging CDs throughout the party area.