J. Johnson said he hope to see this program grow through the years. “With talent competitions such as this, we can make a positive difference with our youth with Christ at the center.”

By JUDITH LYNN LEE

Staff Writer

Family, friends and Gospel Music lovers from Akron and surrounding areas, gathered to celebrate Easter weekend with “The Kingdom’s Finest” inaugural Gospel talent competition. The April 7, 2012 program held at the Akron Urban League featured nineteen lively powerhouse singers (mostly youth), who really motivated the audience.

Those who love gospel music understand well, the impact it can have on the mind and spirit. Positive, uplifting music can bring feelings of happiness and peace.

“Jesus is the cure all for everything that’s ailing… gospel is the revitalization for something that was tainted by negativity,” said J. Johnson. The program coordinator mentioned that he saw this type of competition on a national level and decided to try it out himself.

Pastor DeJuan Kelker II, of Akron’s Burning Bush Church, talked about the positive attention that our youth’s need.  “We need to focus more attention on our youth, get them off the streets to stop all of this gun violence.” Speaking from a wheelchair, the minister claims that he was a victim of gun violence.

The competition was underway and it was evident that contestants were feeling God’s presence. As they took the stage in four-round elimination, some chose to hold on to their original song throughout the competition while others sang something different.

Young Taylor McCants captured the hearts of everyone as she entered the stage to sing her rendition of “God is Able.” Her innocence was adored in beautiful blue sun-dress, braided extensions, and a smile that could melt your heat. She made her way to the final round.

One of the few adult competitors was Anthony Taylor. Decked in all white, this man with the golden voice wowed the crowd with the motivational sound of soul by the late great Sam Cooke, “A Change Gone Come.”

There were a lot of talented competitors and by the final round the count had been narrowed to five contestants.

Most agreed that the winner should be between two individuals, 10-year old Elijah Johnson and adult Stephanie Hernsberger. The two had generated the loudest reaction from the crowd throughout the competition.

Three judges were used as a deciding factor: Akron Beacon Journal Writer Malcom X Abrams, House of the Lord Minister Mariam Hammond, and Musician/Retired Akron Public School Teacher Sheila Watkins. Decision was also made with the use of noise detector from the cheering crowd.

Young Elijah managed to show up in every round. The Canton, Ohio Middle Branch Elementary School student with strong tones, along with the ability to implement great emotions throughout his choice of songs, tied for winner along side Stephanie Hernsberger.

Jordan Harris was not a competitor. However, the seventh grader of Heritage Christian School in Canton was instrumental as pianist for Elijah’s performances. “I’ve been playing piano since I was in Kindergarten,” Jordan said.

Elijah could only smile when asked how long he had been singing.  He was not sure, but one thing he does claim to know is that he will always be singing for the Lord. “I love gospel music… that’s all I’ve ever known.”

Stephanie Hernsberger sang the gospel “This is my Story,” in her final round of competition. The native of Akron also had a daughter (Hannah Hernsberger) who had been competing on the evening.  Stephanie brought out a lot of emotion in the crowd each time she stepped onto the stage.

“I love singing gospel because it keeps me motivated and always feeling uplifted. God gave me a gift and I’ll always only use it for him,” she said as she waited for the final decision.

The final decision was tough for the judges and the crowd. Therefore, both Elijah and Stephanie ended up taking home the winnings. A gift of $1,000 was split amongst the two and both were satisfied with that.

J. Johnson said he hope to see this program grow through the years. “With talent competitions such as this, we can make a positive difference with our youth with Christ at the center.”

He ended the program by giving thanks to the following sponsors: Acenshun Clothing, HSX Design, First Merit Bank and the Akron Urban League. He also thanked program Orator Pat Reese and Pastor DeJuan Kelker of Burning Bush Church.