With applause, whistling and standing ovations, Palmetto’s first annual “Panthers Can Karaoke” was a success. On January 26, multicolored strobe lights lit up the stage as the Chattonettes’ fundraiser began.

Panthers sung their hearts out while being evaluated on vocal ability, song knowledge, timing, stage presence, appearance and the audience’s reaction by judges David Palladino, Dee Jordan, Elizabeth Silverio and Armando Gonzalez.

Jamie Morris, the Chattonettes’ sponsor, said they were fundraising for costumes and registration at Disney World in Orlando.

“Several other high schools in the area do the karaoke night, so Ms. Lima gave me the information,” Morris said. “I thought it would be a really fun idea.”

Students listed ten songs on their application, and when they arrived at the auditorium, one of the songs that they picked was given to them to practice before the show started. Students could perform as individuals or in groups of up to five members. Most of the contestants turned out to be groups such as Sax, Drums, and Violins; ATMS; Get Money; and FGM.

“Karaoke is fun. I just wanted to express myself and my group,” senior Ashley McKay said. “But we also just wanted to help the Chattonette girls out and support them going to the districts.”

While the judges calculated the scores, Principal Howard Weiner took center stage with faculty and friends as back-up dancers and sang “Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen.

“I have been a Bruce Springsteen fan since 1974 and have been to a number of his concerts,” Weiner said. “I have always been a big fan.”

After Weiner’s performance ended, the deejay announced the winners of the karaoke night. Singing “Barbara Ann” by the Beach Boys, Sax Drums and Violins, consisting of seniors Chris Burg, Michael Levey, Matthew Hersman and Jonathan Nunez, won second  place. In first place, singing “Why” by Michael Jackson and awarded with a $40 gift certificate to Sir Pizza,  freshman Leonardo Balladares won with his great performance and dance moves.

“He brought out the M.J. in everybody,” senior Cory Robinson said.

Overall, “Panthers Can Karaoke” was a huge success and Chattonnettes look forward to next year’s fundraiser.