D'Vine Path hosts second annual Talent Show

FALLBROOK – D’Vine Path staff and students hosted the second annual D’Vine Path Talent Show, Saturday, July 30. D’Vine Path staff, family and friends gathered to celebrate the many great achievements and talents of the students. This year, the theme was “The best day of my life,” signifying the great days D’Vine Path has experienced since moving facilities.

Attendees were welcomed to the property by students, staff, and the new D’Vine Path therapy donkeys. They had the opportunity to tour the facility, visit the vineyard and check out the art pieces in the Arts Studio before being served appetizers prepared by the D’Vine Path Culinary Arts program as well as beer and wine provided by local businesses. Guests were able to spend time shopping for D’Vine Path merchandise before the show began.

The talent show began with an introduction by D’Vine Path Executive Director Lenila Lingad Batali and Board President Randy Anderson before transitioning to the performances.

This year’s Master of Ceremonies was Trellis student Andrew Lilly and he kept the audience lively and entertained throughout the duration of the show. The performances consisted of a mural unveiling by the Arts Studio, a therapy animal presentation by students Monica Sellier and Austin Staack, a viticulture introduction by Trellis student Collin Rotzinger with assistance from JJ Legg Lauve, as well as a variety of singing and dancing performances.

During the introduction, lead facilitator Serena Batali expressed her love for the program and all of her students.

“D’Vine Path is a very special place, not just because of this beautiful fairyland we get to work at or because of our amazing staff. D’Vine Path is special because all of our students carry a bright light inside of them all and turn everything into magic,” she said. “Because of them, every day at work is the best day of my life.”

This year, more than 25 students performed their hearts out, from singing original songs to hula dancing. The crowd seemed to enjoy the performances, clapping along to every song or getting up and dancing with the students.

Students had a great time demonstrating their many unique talents and interests. Singer and songwriter Joseph Zubec entertained the audience with two original songs, while other students such as JJ Legg Lauve expressed his passion for bow-making.

The annual talent show is a private event that gives the students a chance to practice public speaking, teamwork and social skills. It also provides them with the opportunity to share their passions and their artistic side to their friends and family.

LEAFF program student Evan Williams invited his brother, sister-in-law and niece and nephew to attend the talent show and watch his performances. His brother, Taylor Williams.

“The positive change our family has seen in Evan since he began at D’Vine Path is so encouraging,” said Williams. “My younger brother has more confidence, he’s happier and he refers to his new friends at D’Vine path as his second family.”

Many of the performances brought tears to the eyes of attendees, such as Joseph Zubec’s original song “Dancing in the moonlight” and the final act “Best day of my life” by American Authors performed in American Sign Language. The passion and dedication showcased by all the students struck a chord with attendees and they were all eager to congratulate the performers.

Attendee Kasey Howell enjoyed seeing the students perform and express their individuality during the talent show.

“D’Vine Path cultivates grapes, people and talent through their program,” she said. “There was a gifted MC who kept us laughing while students in the programs entertained our hearts and minds, they all shined so bright. I’ll be attending the D’Vine Path talent show for the rest of my life.”

As the night came to a close, many attendees helped to support D’Vine Path students by purchasing items from a wishlist or donating funds to help the organization in their future endeavors. D’Vine Path students and staff are grateful for the public support that helps the nonprofit continue to thrive and provide adults with disabilities a comprehensive, vocational education.

On Sept. 10, D’Vine Path will be hosting its fourth annual soiree to raise money for future endeavors and to celebrate a successful year of hard work by staff and students. This event will consist of vineyard tours, grape stomping, local beer and wine, as well as student performances and a live auction.

Anyone interested in attending the soiree or learning more about D’Vine Path can visit https://www.dvinepath.org/.

Submitted by D’Vine Path.