There was so much talent in the Showroom and the Showroom lobby on May 17 that the honor of first place was awarded twice!

Sounds odd, but in the 12 years since the Oneida Indian Nation began hosting an Employee Talent Show, 2011’s nighttime showcase yielded two top acts in the performance category. Winners were Alisia Hudson from Ahsi Spa who performed “Stars and the Moon” and Dale Romleski of marketing who entertained with his ventriloquist act called “Thanks a Bunch.”

Both received $500, a trophy, and the opportunity to open for a national act appearing in the Showroom.

Human Resources Melanie Brunet-Relyea earned third place honors for her performance of “Stridono Lassu.” People’s choice award went to Opal’s Rebecca Sherwood for her rendition of “Temporary Home.”

The show, which also showcases art, craft, literary and photography talents, is just one of many ways the Nation gives back to its employees allowing them a chance to showcase their skills.

Other winners included:

Art
1st Place: Gary Maule, Golf, “Drawing of an Old Barn,” pen and ink, $100
2nd Place: Zaw Min Oo, Food and Beverage, “Family Outing,” watercolor, $50

Crafts
1st Place: Paul D’Amore, Food and Beverage, “Electric Guitar that I Built,” $100
2nd Place: Susan Lewis, Player Services, “Christening Outfit,” $50

Literary
1st Place: Colleen Fountain Skinner, Food and Beverage, “For This I Promise,” $100
2nd Place: Jeffrey Gorman, Retail, “On Life as a Process,” $50

Photography:
1st Place: Melanie Bobby, Bingo, “Change,” $100
2nd Place: Scott Herb, Telecommunications, “Eagle Cliff,” $50