07/02/2024
OKAY...SO...
We have worked things out with the Legion.
We apologize to the finalists from Pembroke and Northern Ontario. Through no fault of your own, you were dragged into a situation caused at the semi-final event on June 23.
Because we had not considered the effect on those coming from out of town, we have arranged with the Legion to return our event to this Sunday, July 7, with some conditions.
Here's what happened on June 23.
Some patrons who were there for our event were breaking some of the Legion's rules. These rules are in place for specific reasons.
First, no hats are to be worn inside the Legion. This is out of respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we would have the freedom to do things like participate in karaoke contests. Several people were asked multiple times to remove their hats.
Second, no outside food or drinks OF ANY KIND...water, pop, NOTHING...are allowed inside the Legion. The Legion is a licensed establishment, and as such, their liquor license could be put in jeopardy if they allow ANY outside food or drinks, as well as their insurance.
Several times people were asked to respect these rules, and the second one was announced...BY ME...twice. The bartender asked people not to consume outside food and drinks, and eventually an executive member had to approach someone and was told "I'm a lawyer...sue me".
I was shocked and appalled to hear this. Especially the rudeness and disrespect towards a Legion executive member. These are volunteers and do not deserve to be treated that way.
So, here's what is going to happen this Sunday.
1. NO FOOD OR DRINKS FROM OUTSIDE WILL BE PERMITTED, PERIOD. If you are seen with outside food or drinks, you will be immediately asked to leave, without a second chance or warning. This applies to both finalists and guests, and if a finalist is asked to leave, they will be immediately disqualified. NO EXCEPTIONS.
2. ANYBODY speaking rudely to ANYBODY from the Legion will be immediately asked to leave, same as #1, with no second chances given.
The Legion isn't going to kick anybody out for wearing a hat, but please be respectful and do not wear a hat. And if you forget and are asked to take it off, do so and do not put it back on.
On a personal note, I have put a lot of time, effort, and more out of pocket money than I have made into this contest in order to make it enjoyable for everyone. If I'm being honest, this behaviour by a few has put a very sour tone on the entire event for me. The Pickering Legion is my new karaoke home base, which is why they allowed me to host these events there, and they would have been well within their rights to not only cancel our finals completely, but fire me from my Friday night gig as well.
Please, PLEASE be cognizant of your behaviour, and respectful of others. That's really what this competition is supposed to be about, bringing together people with a common interest in karaoke.