JACKSON – Despite an overcast summer day with a bit of rain, a good-sized audience turned out to join members of Jackson Elks Lodge 2744 for a “Talent Extravaganza” that honored veterans and first responders.
The event featured a number of performers – some of whom are also members of the local lodge that has over 150 members.
Entertainers included RB Express with Tom and Kelly, Silver & Gold, Linda Garofolo and Ken Ryan of “The Way it Used to Be” plus special guest appearances by local recording artists and music by Priority Entertainment. The event also featured some delicious food prepared by members of the Elks Lodge.
The event was initiated by Lodge member George Arnold “Circling Eagles” Tooks, who has decades of performing and recording experience and has a long history of supporting veteran and community causes.
He and many other lodge members presented the Talent Extravaganza which served to not only honor veterans and first responders but also provided an opportunity for the community to participate in the fundraiser to benefit Elks’ charities.
The lodge has contributed over $10,500 to the surrounding community this year. Those contributions benefitted the Jim Hall Memorial Fund, the Elks National Foundation, Camp Moore, Army of Hope, various local charities such as special needs children, food pantries, scholarships and drug abuse awareness.
Ronny Brooks, a veteran who is well known for his powerful singing voice opened the event by singing the Star-Spangled Banner.
Former Lodge Exalted Ruler Betsy MacDonald-Cotter was among those cheering on the talent and clapping during the afternoon praying that the rain would stave off until after the last performance. The event however was rain or shine.
“This honors police, firefighters, EMS and veterans,” Cotter said. “If they are a first responder they get in for free. She noted that a tent had been set up for the performers who would go on stage one or two at a time considering the act. “This will be a nice varied show.”
Through the donated effort of Pyxysprite Entertainment owned by Kathy Feld, that provides marketing and support services to the entertainment industry, a full press packet was assembled.
Tooks has been involved with musical historical programs that have honored the achievements of black men and women of the west. He has introduced audiences to explorers, teachers, lawmen, outlaws, rodeo stars and Buffalo Soldiers that were left out of history books and films.
The Manchester Township resident has also been non-contract player and extra character actor who has appeared on every daytime drama (soap opera) produced in New York including “All My Children,” “Another World” “As The World Turns,” and “Guiding Light.” He was “Tony, the Maitre’d” on the soap “Texas” for two years.
Singer and songwriter Anthony Blaszka also took the stage during the afternoon. The Vietnam veteran sang several heartfelt country songs. He has had live appearances at the Heart of New York Show. Blaszka has always taken an active role in his community and veteran support organizations often donating his time and talent with his original work and as an Elvis impersonator.
Blaszka came on stage with some high energy and in a tight white Elvis costume and shades during the event providing some favorites from “The King” to the pleasure of those present.
Surge was another singer and songwriter who came out for the event. His country single, “Missing You” is now on rotation on Thunder 106, WKMK-FM, WTHJ-FM, The Breeze WHTG-AM and other area radio stations.
The singing duo of Tom & Kelly, Silver & Gold performed some memorable classics that drew on nostalgia and creating an experience designed to be up lifting. They’ve made appearances on the Vito Picone TV Show in Staten Island, the New England Doo-Wop Society and many local venues.
Ryan and Garofolo began performing after several years of singing guest spots with local artists. Ryan said, “I try to bring our love for the classic voices and music of the past and present to life. Adding Linda’s beautiful voice to the show brought in a fresh new element and excitement.”
The lodge has karaoke every Friday at 7 p.m. by DJ Pete. For more information about the lodge call 732-363-4101or visit elks.org/lodges/home.cfm?LodgeNumber=2744.
