Mission Bell Resort was full of laughter and singing as the crowd enjoyed the entertainment and eagerly waited for the winners of this year’s Valley Star Awards to be announced. Many of the entertainers had their own little entourages show up to support them.

Some attendees arrived early to save their seats before enjoying several lunch options provided by Mission Bell. Attendees also had the opportunity to mingle with some of the entertainers performing, and some of the nominees that attended the show.

This year, entertainment was provided by four of last year’s winners and two that were nominees.

The show opened with award winning Anthony Hernandez Illusions. He wowed the crowd with his magic, made them laugh with his comedy, and brought out some awes when he shared a personal story during a beautiful magic trick where he made it snow.

Julia Lane Cooper lent her beautiful voice to her fun songs and dances on the stage, bringing the crowd to tears with some of her antics. Buck Hollow had the crowd singing along to their familiar tunes. They also brought some delight when Teresa Condon did her yodeling.

After a short intermission the show was started back up again with some redneck comedy by Paul Mayham. Just like they say, he was unpredictable, but he brought the laughs. Jaime Layton then shared his voice with some beautiful gospel tunes. Tunes that most of us grew up with. Attendees sat in their seats, singing along in reverence.

The show ended, to everyone’s delight, with the rock sounds of Vinyl Spin. The crowd was on their feet as Annie belted out tune after tune – and now we know why she was awarded Female Vocalist of the Year.

Oh, and let’s not forget, the winners were announced by the amazing emcee Dale Eisenhauer who shared Valentine’s Day humor in between acts before announcing each award and act.

And now for the winners.

Duet Musical Group again went to the duo Buck Hollow Band who were once again surprised and thankful.

Curt James received the Individual or Small Band Award.

Concert Band or Choir went to Razz-Ma-Tazz who were at a state competition during the event. Anthony Hernandez Illusions was in pure shock to win the Novelty, Comedy, or Variety Act again this year.

Family Group of the Year was Lindley Creek, and even the youngest little member was there to help receive the award. Gospel Group was awarded to Goldwing Express, making it their sixth win.

Steven May and the Southern Knights received the Country Band of the Year award. Rock N Roll Band of the Year went to none other than Vinyl Spin. The Everything Band was very thankful for the award, surprised to be chosen by the Winter Texans who they already call their friends.

Male Vocalist recipient, much to the delight of the crowd, was Ron Moshier, who gave his biggest thanks to the Lord and then to all his cherished fans.

Annie Rodriguez, of Vinyl Spin, was awarded the Female Vocalist of the Year. She was truly taken aback by the award, especially since it was right before they had to perform.

And Entertainer of the Year went to Steven May and the Southern Knights. Steven said the band couldn’t do what they do without their fans.

We at the Winter Texan Times would like to give a huge thanks to all the Wintertainers™ that give their all each year to visit the Valley and entertain. We are so thankful to you and our Winter Texan family. You have become friends and family to us, and we couldn’t ask for better people to work with.

We want to thank all of the activity directors that bring these entertainers to the Valley for you. We also thank them for the help they give us each year in selecting the nominees – if it wasn’t for them, there wouldn’t be a Valley Star Awards. Please thank your activity directors for the entertainment they bring to the Valley as well. We love the work they do and are truly appreciative of it.