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The Equality Herald - East Tennessee's source for LGBT community news |
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Talent twinkles at MCC-K 3rd Annual Talent Show a big success by Ken Palmer, Knoxville News Writer Chuckles, chortles, and many "chansons' filled Metropolitan Community Church of Knoxville (MCC-K) at the January 13 talent show. Singer-songwriter and radio personality Karen Reynolds hosted the 3rd annual event.
Rev. Ray Neal, assistant to Pastor Bob Galloway, explained," The talent show is one of the annual fundraisers that enable us to raise financial support for the ministries of the church." With more than 70 in attendance, the audience was treated to singing by soloists and duets, dancing, American Sign Language, poetry, and stand-up comedy. The fundraiser supports the ministry of the Deacon's Pantry and Deacon's Fund. The Deacons Pantry and Fund give food and financial support to needy LGBT persons in our community. Many times LGBT persons have nowhere else to turn for help, especially if they identify themselves as LGBT, explains Neal. “The support has included rental assistance, utility payment assistance, medications, medical costs, transportation needs, and help for transients." The Talent show included 14 acts committed to the cause of putting “fun” in the fundraiser. Dean Turner, after receiving 3rd place recognition, was "surprised at the response of his singing and piano accompaniment." Connie Beebe, a last minute entrant, was “thrilled to receive 2nd place" for performing “Summertime,” a song she said is "filled with childhood memories" for her. Lisa Johnson, winning first marks for a stand-up routine about childbirth, was left "speechless" as her family congratulated her.
The third place winners received certificates from local merchants including Wild Mountain Rose Log Cabin Rentals, Townsend, TN Alive After Five Concert/Dance Series at the Knoxville Museum of Art, Fountain City Ruby Tuesday, Panera Bread’s Fountain City Location, and Fountain City Kroger. "Of course, all of our events help us develop relationships with members of the greater community as members invite friends, relatives, coworkers and other acquaintances to such events," comments Rev. Neal. Karen Reynolds, MCC-K member and native Knoxvillian opines," I would like to see [this event] continue to grow and be a regular thing, involving the entire community of performance artists and musicians in the Knoxville area, as well as the talented members at MCC. "The higher profile it becomes, the more money it raises for the Deacon's Fund," Reynolds observes. A very young audience member supported the idea of the talent show becoming an annual event "from now on and always." Like many at the performance, Pastor Ray admitted, "I smiled and laughed until my cheek muscles hurt." Go here to see more photos from the talent show. For information about MCC-K events, visit them online at www.mccknosville.org or call 865 531-2539 (local) or 866 531-2539 (toll free.) Contact Karen Reynolds by email at soundad@aol.com. |
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"My
expectations for the show are to have a wonderful time," noted Reynolds.
“By showcasing many talented folks and raising funds we continue the good
work that MCC-K does in serving the community." 
All
performers received certificates. The youngest entrants received special
recognition. A.J. and Jessica Sneed, children of Beau Sneed and Reggie
MacKay, performed together. A.J. sang “You’re Beautiful” a cappella while
Jessica danced behind him. They received a standing ovation.
