The Catskill Chronicle

Story and photos by Carol Montana

HORTONVILLE, NY (April 19, 2013) – The 27th Annual Hortonville Talent Show was once again the place to be on Saturday, April 13.

The event is held at the Hortonville Presbyterian Church and is organized by Jane Orcutt, who also serves as accompanist for some of the acts. The show is MC’d by the ever-witty Richard Ross.

For 27 years, the Talent Show has been a way to raise money for local charities, and this year was no different.

The 2013 beneficiary was the Main Street Thrift Shop in Callicoon, which is sponsored by I.O.U. (Interfaith Outreach United). Overseeing a budget of $75,000, the Thrift Shop helps people with rent, fuel and doctor bills. Halfway through the event, the audience was treated to a mini-fashion show where models sported some of the clothes available at the Thrift Shop.

All performers (and hosts) received a special certificate from judges Jonathan Charles Fox, columnist from The River Reporter, Carol Montana, editor of The Catskill Chronicle and Dharma the Wonder Dog.

Performers included singers: Jim Newton, Ken Rodgers, Walter Egner, Kathy Bernitt, Silvia Hoffmanbeck, and The Sturbridge Lions Quartet (whose annual bribe to the judges – which, of course goes to the charity) was raised to $10 this year);  musicians: Curtis Brooks – piano, Amelia Brooks – piano and violin and Jay Brooks – cellist, Joe Hoffsommer – pen player, Richard Barkley – banjo, Jeff Newton – guitar and harmonica, and Carol Smith & Aldo Troiani of Little Sparrow; and specialized performers: Dan Fritz – storyteller, Kathy Aleschus and Andy White – comedy skit, Lou Setron – storyteller, and Brett Dirie & Dennis Bernitt – Civil War presentation of arms (salute to our veterans).

Here are some additional photos from the show. To see more photos or to purchase prints, go to 27th Annual Hortonville Talent Show, or visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.