We're learning as we go 鈥� trying to feature 91原创's talent, build fan interest in 91原创 Has Talent and get the public involved by encouraging them to:
1. Vote after the show on the night of semifinal competition
2. Vote online
Votes cast on the night of competition were manually tabulated by a team of Rotarians in a system that worked well.
Lots of families and friends attended and voted. The final result of the vote resulted in 12 top finishers. We were excited about getting the online voting process in place to pick a 13th contestant.
Due to unforeseen technical difficulties, we have been unable to provide the online platform. It just didn't work.
We still love the idea and will try it again in the future. In the meantime, a fan favourite will still be added.
We have gone back to the results from the fan voting on the night of the semifinal competition and have selected the contestant with the next highest number of votes to become our 13th performer on May 4.
We will announce this winner on Friday, April 26, once that person has been notified.
A second issue has arisen which we have now addressed.
One of the semifinalists has a connection to some of the event organizers.
All involved in the 91原创 Has Talent event want to ensure that integrity is maintained and avoid even the perception of favouritism. Thus, one act has withdrawn and their place will be taken by the next highest fan favourite.
It will be a lucky day for two fan favourites when the announcement is made on April 26.
It's truly unfortunate that these issues have arisen. We as an organizing group continue to learn as we go and will continue to improve our event so that it honours the talent and the community involved.
On Saturday, May 4, 13 contestants will return to the stage at Christian Life Assembly to compete for a total of $5,000 in cash prizes. As well, the top three competitors will have their choice, in order of placement, of a photography promotion package from Keepsake Studios, jewelry from Key Largo Jewelers, a watch from "It's About Time" jewelers, and a recording package from White Rock鈥檚 Blue Frog Studios.
A special presentation of two $1,500 scholarships will be presented to qualifying contestants from the group of 13 finalists.
Christian Life Assembly is located at 21277 56 Ave. The show begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4. Tickets are $20 and are available (cash only) at the 91原创 Times office, 20258 Fraser Hwy. or online at www.langleyhastalent.ca.
Hope to see you at the show.
