Double D Karaoke will not hold its annual karaoke contest this year, but its organizer says the competition will likely return next year.
The show has been held annually at the Sweet Home Veteran’s Club for the past decade, but due to circumstances beyond her control, the event is on hiatus this year, said Debbie Jewell of Double D Karaoke.
Last year, based on a vote of the Vet’s Club board, Double D parted ways with the club.
“I know the contestants and fans look forward to three weeks of talent and fun each June but having lost my venue, there just hasn’t been enough time to regroup and put it all together. It’s a huge undertaking and takes months of planning and work to pull it off.”
The event has had 20 to 45 contestants, Jewell said, with nearly $5,000 in cash and prizes.
Jewell is continuing a search for a local venue large enough to host “our rowdy group,” she said. “Right now there are lots of ideas swirling around my head. I’m talking to several people about ideas and looking at different buildings. If you have an idea that’s local, give me a shout. I’m open to anything right now.”
Jewell remains hopeful things will back on track next year, she said. She said she is as disappointed as many participants and spectators are, “but we’re on to bigger and better things.”
Jewell thanked all who have supported the contest for the past 10 years.
Double D couldn’t have done it without that support, she said. “You helped make our little contest one of the biggest in the valley, all while getting our veterans information to help make their lives and the lives of their families a little easier.”
In the meantime, “we miss everyone like crazy,” Jewell said. For those who want to sing with Double D Karoake again, The Woods Roadhouse has adopted the show.
Double D is there from 8 p.m. to midnight every other Friday.
“Usually later,” Jewell said.