2005 Al Waterson and You Karaoke Contest Winner

I wanted to let you know that on Sunday, 27 November 2005, I was the winner of the Al Waterson and You Karaoke Contest down at Don Ho’s Island Grill (Aloha Towers).

There were 10 contestants in the competition (one for every month up to October). Each contestant had up to 5 minutes to perform a song. There was a panel of four judges who judged each performance on various areas (entertaining, vocal skills and sound, interaction with audience, professionalism, marketable, etc…). The judges judging the competition were producers, writers, bandleaders, vocal coaches, promoters…just to name a few of their credentials.

It took three times doing this contest before it became my time.  It was worth the wait.  I would do it all over again.  There's nothing like loving what you do.

I would like to thank Christ Jesus my Lord and Savior because without His grace and mercy, none of this would have been possible.  Thank you to my wife and family for all their time, energy, support, shoulders, wiping my tears, etc… all these years.  I love all of you.  In addition to these above, I would like to thank Al Waterson and Nancy Bernal.  Thank you for all your encouragement and dedication for these past three years.  Thank you for believing in me.  Honestly Nancy, I really tried hard to smile more on last night (ha ha ha ha).
 
There aren’t enough words to express the many feelings I am experiencing now.  Truly, I have been waiting for this moment.  WOW!  It is finally here.

You know what really made the difference for me on last night (27 November 2005)?  The many comments on how my song touched their hearts, how the lyrics of the song were so powerful, and how they could feel God’s presence through the words. 

If I have not said it enough, I want to make sure that people who hear me sing leaves with a message of hope, love, peace, etc…  There is nothing like lifting the heart of a nation with your voice.

Please make no mistake in thinking that I take the gift that God has given me lightly.  I take it very seriously.  It is through this gift that I shall proclaim His name and bring Him glory.

Thanks to all of you that came out to support me in my efforts (my church family, friends, fans, etc...).  You made the evening much easier.  This is just the beginning of many and greater things happening through me and for me.  God is good.

I would like to send a shout out to Mr. Matsumoto and his wife.  You have been right there by my side in every competition (Hawaii Stars and Al Waterson) these past three years.  You are an example of perseverance.  You've never stopped going the distance even when things weren't that favorable.  Hang in there my friend.

A special thank you goes out to Hanabi Media (Sam and Nat) for giving me some place to post and share my life with the world.  You're the best.  I really do appreciate your friendship and encouragement for this past year.

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