NEWPORT — The Eastside Restaurant’s Dancing Sail was abuzz with excitement as approximately 120 attendees gathered for the 2nd Annual Joshua House Talent Competition on Tuesday, December 12. The event showcased the talents of eight local performers, with Marc Heymann clinching first place, followed by Kelly Stuber and David West in second and third, respectively.
Tim Daley, President of Joshua House, Inc., hosted the event, introducing each performer who had 3-5 minutes to showcase their skills. The lineup included Carly Clark, Tod Pronto, Marc Heymann, Tism Tilly, James Walker, Nate Graves, Kelly Stuber, and David West. In between performances, Daley auctioned off donated items, including a gift certificate from Richie Roberts Construction, generating enthusiastic participation from the audience.
The competition was not just a display of talent but also a fundraiser. Tim Daley’s ‘dance’ to the Nutcracker Suite, a fun addition paid for by an audience member, added to the night’s entertainment. The idea for this unique segment was initially sparked by Erica Gray of the Brown Cow.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with delicious appetizers courtesy of Dena Gray. The event, with its flawless execution aided by Jeff Ramen’s sound provision and Jason Cillson’s front-of-house management, felt like a ‘homecoming’ for the Joshua House Board.
The night was also significant for Brenda Lowther, the Care Provider of Joshua House, Inc., who was honored as a “Hometown Hero” by Barbara Sweet of Modern Woodmen of America. This award recognized Brenda’s substantial contributions to the community and Joshua House over the last five years.
The event was a financial success as well, raising over $15,000 through donors, sponsors, the competition, raffle, and auction. These funds will support Joshua House, Inc., a nonprofit 501c3 organization that has been providing assistance to those in need in the Northeast Kingdom since 1996.
