"And the Winner is....?"

The Pointe at Kilpatrick held “The Pointe’s Got Talent” talent show on Monday, January 23rd and it was an overwhelming success. With eight entries, the audience was treated to a wide variety of entertainment, including that from resident Hank “The Voice” Zelkovich, who graciously emceed the event. Though not competing himself, Hank kept the crowd entertained between acts and showed off his vocal talents with rich descriptions of the acts.


First to perform was the New Day Bell Choir who played (and sang) “Let Me Call You Sweetheart”. Organized and directed by Life Enrichment Coordinator, Joyce Rinkevicius, the New Day residents played bells of varying notes. Joyce bought the bells with money that was raised from the Umbrella-Art auction held last May. All of the residents of our New Day neighborhood are living with Alzheimer’s/dementia. The Pointe has an extensive Creative Arts Program, which includes Music Therapy, designed to promote cognitive stimulation and brain health. The Bell Choir was created by Joyce to add to the music program. The group has been practicing for months and really enjoyed performing for friends and family.


The following acts were just as wonderful with Bernice Boblink and Tony Libertore both singing solos. Bernice sang ’My Wild Irish Rose" and Tony, a veteran and true patriot, sang “God Bless America”. Bob McClellan, despite having a nice singing voice, opted to give a motivational speech on positive thinking. Bob worked as an instructor for the Gabriel Rechard Institute, conducting seminars and giving speeches. 
Three of the residents displayed their talents by playing an instrument. Carol Moore played the kazoo and Delores “Dee” Schick played a rousing version of “When the Saints Come Marching In” on the harmonica. Most of those in attendance were unaware that Dee has been playing the harmonica since she was 10 years old. Another resident with a life-long, music background is Florence Coltman who played the piano. Trained and dedicated, Florence played a vibrant medley of songs. Though Florence can often be found in the community room playing the baby grand piano, it was a wonderful treat for everyone to hear her play. “We are so blessed to have Florence as a resident here at The Pointe”, said Executive Director, Zoe Espitia, “It is a special feeling to hear her music throughout the lobby and halls.”


The final performer was Carmen Martinez, who danced a traditional Mexican dance. Carmen went all out and even wore a bright and colorful, traditional Mexican dress, utilizing it in her routine. With music playing in the background, Carmen immediately lit up the room with her perfect staying. She moved gracefully from end of the room to the next, giving everyone a front row view of her performance. The crowd started to clap along to the beat of the song, adding to the festive nature of the performance. At 80 years old, Carmen still has the love of music and dance as well as the energy for a great performance.
Once Carmen had finished votes were cast and tallied for favorite performance. Not surprisingly, every one of the performers received votes, so the final count was close. Each received a certificate of participation. The result were as follows:

3rd Place: Bob McCLellan, Motivational Speech


2nd Place: Florence Coltman, Piano


1st Place: Carmen Martinez, Mexican Dance

All of the acts were videotaped and Carmen’s will be sent to the Affordable Assisted Living Coalition (AALC) panel in Springfield, IL. The AALC is sponsoring a statewide talent show as part of Supportive Living Week in April. They will post all of the videos on-line for public voting and the top ten performers will compete live, in Springfield during Supportive Living Week. “This has been so exciting”, said Angie. “At first, I wasn’t sure who would sign up, but it turned out wonderfully. The residents really enjoyed watching their friends and neighbors perform.”