Dear editor:
On Friday, March 16, I was honored again to be one of the judges for the United Way of the Ouachita's annual "We've Got Talent," which features talent from the seven Garland County school districts and ASMSA. The other judges were former band director Ryan Alexander, musician Clinton Coleman, musician Marsalis Weatherspoon and musician/performer Laura Lee Williard, all excelling in their fields. The master of ceremonies was Jeremy W. Brown and Terry Lockwood-Owen served as stage manager. The time and efforts expended are all from volunteer hours. There are many others, behind the scenes, to make this event a success, including Sarah Fowler, Katie Gibson and Jackie Arrison.
The effort the young talent puts forth is truly impressive. Hours of practice and study is spent to reach the goal of being presented on this program. All are winners and receive awards and recognition, but there are only three moneyed scholarships that are awarded and distributed to the respective school. Each contestant represents their school. Krystyna Valdivia won for Lakeside High School, Kristen Brown won for Fountain Lake and Alexsus Nellum won for Hot Springs World Class High School.
This event is the "brainchild" of former Oaklawn Race Track announcer Terry Wallace. He was present and glowing in the joy that his efforts are still bringing education, talent and community together in a common cause.
I remember being on the other side of the stage lights playing piano with my high school band, The Dixieland 6, entering contests (winning), performing at community venues and relishing every minute. I know how important it was last night for these young people to showcase their talent.
Shirley Chauvin
Hot Springs
Editorial on 03/20/2018