The prestigious statues and plaques went too: Entertainment Achievement: Craig Newell, Vocalist Performance: Jesse Aron, Sacred Performance: Ray Guillimette Jr., Horizon Award: Brandon Bennett, Lifetime Achievement: The Jordanaires, Web Design: kraigparker.com ,Humanitarian Award: Jack Smink, and the People's Choice Award: Eddie Miles.
I‘d heard what an awesome performer Ray Guillemette Jr. was, but had never had the chance to see him live. As many of you know, Ray was going 35 mph on his motorcycle when he was hit from behind by a drunk driver going 85 on July 15, 2001. Ray lost his leg but is continuing his career. Ray is recovering exceptionally well and sang, “Don’t be Cruel,” and even included a few of the Elvis moves, we all know and love, in his performance. A prosthetic leg can’t stop this wonderful performer. Slow him down a tad maybe, but definitely not stop him. Ray also performed an emotional “You’ll Never Walk Alone” that had the audience on their feet. What an amazing voice Ray has.
The last event to take place was the National Finals Contest. It was the perfect ending to three fun-filled days and nights. The winner would be crowned, “World’s Finest Elvis Impersonator.” The sold out crowd watched intently as the culmination of the regional finals held in the previous months held around the country were judged on vocal, appearance, originality and delivery, as they took the stage one by one for their big performance.
These were the top Elvis Tribute Artists in the country and some had came from as far away as Switzerland and Great Britain. Some were the top names in the business, while others were new to the business in hopes of taking their first big win.
They took the stage one by one. Big name stars like Johnny Thompson, Quentin Flagg, Garyelvis Britt, Brandon Bennett and John Loos, as well as some of the best new comers I've seen. Backing them was, the outstanding Extravaganza Show Band on one side, on the other was the marvelous Jordanaires, who sang with Elvis for 14 years.
The winners of the nationals were announced. Third place went to Dwight Icenhower, second place, George Wagner and first place, John Loos.
I’d like to personally thank Jamie and Kitty Coyne for putting on an outstanding extravaganza of fun, music and Elvis.
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