T.J. Schiltz captures talent treasure

T.J. Schiltz performs a piano solo during the New Richland's Got Talent competition Friday, July 6. Schiltz was chosen the winner by vote of the crowd. (Star Eagle photo by Jody Wynnemer)

By JODY WYNNEMER

Staff Writer

Even though New Richland is pretty far from the ocean, it didn’t prevent a pirate from coming to town and plundering the “loot” at the Farm and City Days “New Richland’s Got Talent” event Friday evening, July 6.

The week-long temperatures close to 100 couldn’t deter the audience gathered on Broadway in front of the stage from having a good time. The format for the annual event was changed from last year’s New Richland Idol to allow different forms of talent in the contest. Instead of judges, the audience determined the winner.

Master of ceremonies Kelly Martens welcomed everyone and introduced the first performer, Lillie Nielsen (New Richland Idol Junior Winner 2011) who sang “Rolling in the Deep.”

The first contestant was Kasandra Koziolek who performed the country song “Jar of Hearts.”

She was followed by Ethan Strenge, who put on a cooking demonstration on how to make meatballs. Ethan offered samples of his culinary prowess to the audience following the completion of his demonstration.

Next up was an interesting skit by Sophie Stork and Sarah Johns on getting ready for school. The actions included brushing teeth, having breakfast and putting on makeup. The effort brought many laughs from the audience.

Rayna Crosson was the fourth contestant with a very nice dance number.

T. J. Schiltz was next on the agenda with an excellent piano solo from the movie “Pirates of the Caribbean.” T.J. was in full pirate costume including sword and a hook hand.

The last contestants were Ruth and Keith Hagen with a nice rendition of “Are You Going to Kiss Me or Not?”

Several door prizes were handed out by Martens and it was time for the audience to cast their ballots for their favorite.

Schiltz was unveiled as this year’s winner as he rode in Sunday’s Farm and City Days parade. For his efforts, T.J. was awarded $100 in New Richland Bucks.