‘AtlantiCare’s Got Talent!’

Last night some of AtlantiCare's best and brightest took center stage.  And I don't mean in the confines of a medical facility.  Nope, these health professionals have other special skills which they showcased in a talent competition called 'AtlantiCare's Got Talent'!  I was fortunate enough to be invited to make my sophomore appearance at this year's judges table.  Who knew so many of these caretakers had such ability!My fellow judges (Claire Collins, Music Dept. Chair at Holy Spirit High School; Brian Jackson, Chief of Staff at Richard Stockton College; John Emge, Executive Director of United Way Atlantic County) were treated to some incredible performances during this annual competition at Richard Stockton College of New Jersey in Pomona.  The Performing Arts Center was a buzz with the sounds of Adele, Lady Gaga, and Christina Perri as interpreted by the evening's contestants.

Some of my favorite outstanding moments of the evening came from the group Bay Grass Harmony and their diversely instrumented rendition of 'Graveyard Shift'.

Directly below is the completely gifted Grand Prize winner Jacqueline Scaffidi who's nod to Adele 'Someone Like You' delivered a crowd- silencing (and almost doppelganger-like) vocal worthy of the Grammy golden girl herself.

I also enjoyed Brittany Sciullo's 'Jar of Hearts' which was perfectly pitched.  And the visually stunning belly-dancing of Izadora Sanchez Zanin who's hips gave the audience all they had!

There was no shortness of creativity especially when Jessica Acosta took to the stage with blue hair, lace and leather as she channeled her inner Lady Gaga for 'You And I'.  Some truly beautiful singers let us into their secret little world last night.  And I was entertained by the passion and bravery of the participants!  These are the men and women who care for us in our time of need, which just goes to show you never know what talent could be lying within!   I can't wait to see the 2013 bunch!

Proceeds from the evening's event went to the United Way of Atlantic County.  The organization now has a quick and easy way for you to give.  Simply text the word READ to 85944 and $5 will be automatically donated to United Way.