Offutt Idol 2010

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Matthew Opdyke
  • 97th Intelligence Squadron
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Why not share your talent, bare your soul and surprise yourself as you dust off those windpipes and dazzle the judges at this year's Offutt Idol?

The March 30 and 31 auditions are coming soon, so practice a couple of your favorite songs and be ready for Offutt Idol 2010 April 16 at the Patriot Club. Department of Defense ID card holders 18 or older are invited to compete.

Many agree that there are countless rewards beyond the cash and prizes of winning a top-three spot in the competition that come from simple participation.

"What I enjoy most is singing on stage providing entertainment for people," said Judith Frison, a participant in last year's competition and a contestant this year as well. Mrs. Frison is a dental technician for the Offutt Dental Residency Clinic.

"It's always inspiring to meet others who share the same interests," she added.

For Sam Swerczek, last year's Offutt Idol winner, it's all about the performance.

"I deeply enjoy performing in an intimate venue for people who truly appreciate it," said Mr. Swerczek, son of retired Navy Capt. Anthony Swerczek, director of logistics at U.S. Strategic Command. "I also enjoy the chance to perform alongside people who, on most circumstances, wouldn't have had the opportunity to perform," he said.

Ultimately, the winner of Offutt Idol will go home a few dollars richer and with potentially more confidence in his or her ability to perform.

The first place winner will receive $1,000 and recording time at a local studio. The second place winner will receive $500 and the third place winner will receive $200.

"This year we're adding another award to the competition. The squadron with the most audience members will receive $300 for their unit morale fund," said Glenn Simms, a program director with the 55th Force Support Squadron.

While in some cases, Offutt Idol may seem similar to other talent search competitions, many involved prefer this platform for various reasons.

"In comparison to other talent competitions, with Offutt Idol it seems as though the people who run it and set it up really enjoy what they do," said Mrs. Frison. "Other competitions I've been in could have been more fun if the judges were enjoying it as well as the contestants," she said.

"One of the biggest differences I've noticed between Offutt Idol and other talent competitions I've participated in is the hosting," said Mr. Swerczek. "The hosts present a new aspect to the performance, and make it more entertaining for the audience."

"What I enjoy is the talent level and dedication to music shown by most contestants, here on base, as well as the support from other squadron members," said Mr. Simms.

Leni Hester, a professional singer and pianist, and judge for this year's competition, recommended contestants, "Be careful in song selection, choose something unique that will reach a wider audience and be well-rehearsed as well as enthusiastic; really put yourself into what you are doing and demonstrate your self-confidence."

Mrs. Hester has been judging this show for six years, from its beginnings as the Base Talent Show. The name was changed a couple of years ago to Offutt Idol to increase turnout and pay homage to the extremely popular television show, American Idol, which encourages young people to share their singing talents, Mr. Simms said.

Mr. Swerczek said he practiced for several years, building his talents and being involved with a traveling group prior to competing at Offutt.

"I have performed since my freshman year of high school, doing musical theater and other talent shows," he said. "Since high school, I have been performing with a performing arts group called, The Young Americans."

Veteran participant, Mrs. Frison, shared her unique experiences with singing, prior to Offutt Idol.

"I've been singing since I was about six-years-old," she said. "I used to love to mimic commercials. In high school, I sang in the school choir and in the drama club. I also enjoyed singing with the band in our church."

She said she currently enjoys singing the national anthem for retirement ceremonies and graduations.

"While some of the contestants have an extensive background in singing, don't be bashful about simply going out rehearsed and with confidence. This is an opportunity to learn, to improve your talent and to put yourself out there," said Mrs. Hester.

"Many participants of Offutt Idol would agree that they enjoyed the constructive critiques given by the judges, because they get the sense that their critiques are meant to help them improve upon their talent, rather than tear them down," she added.

"The judges' comments make the whole experience more fun," Mr. Swerczek added.

In addition to Mrs. Hester, Damorah Alexander, a prior Tops in Blue performer and John Worsham, a song writer and lyricist with more than 20 years of experience will be judging this year's competition.

As contestants sing their best, the crowd that cheers the most and votes for their favorite performer will decide who is the next Offutt Idol.

For more information about Offutt Idol, call Mr. Simms or Mary Fabian at 294-6247.

(Sergeant Opdyke is a volunteer staff writer for 55th Wing Public Affairs)