Mr. Linganore 2016: Matt DeMember crowned winner
DeMember poses with his Mr. Linganore memorabilia.
March 7, 2016
It’s up to you Linganore, Linganore
Matt DeMember moved swiftly and suavely down the auditorium aisles in his Sinatra-style tux and fedora singing his rendition of New York, New York. He won over the crowd by handing out white roses and by mentioning the beloved I-70 trophy in his version of the song.
He was escorted by his good friend, Karly Johnson, who sings in the LHS choir with him.
“I chose Karly because she is my best friend, and I knew we would have a blast together. Also, she is one of the most beautiful girls I know, so she made a great escort,” he said.
DeMember showed his best sides in his talent act. Senior Weston Barrett played the piano for DeMember as he sang hits like Hello by Adele and Sorry by Justin Bieber. After Barrett pretended to be unimpressed with those selections, DeMember suggested a more Linganore-oriented tune: country hit Your Man by Josh Turner. Not sold on that song either, DeMember suggested dancing, and then referenced the Chip and Dale skit he performed with Mr. Linganore 2015 contestant, Connor Bannon. When describing his other talents to Barrett, he mentions that he can make a good basketball shot, referencing his 8th grade backwards-thrown buzzer beater that was featured on ESPN.
He won third place in the talent portion of the competition.
DeMember won over the judges, and the hearts of the audience, with the answer to his finalist question.
The question was, “In the age of social media, many are quick to judge and choose sides. How do you combat negativity from social media and in your everyday life?”
DeMember answered gracefully. “You never know what positivity can do to someone. Simple things like holding the door open or giving a compliment or smile can change someone’s whole mood. You never know what someone is going through.”
With that answer, the judges were nearly positive DeMember was fit to wear the Mr. Linganore crown.
“All the candidates for Mr. Linganore were very deserving of the title, and it’s a huge honor to be selected. It was my favorite memory of high school thus far and is something I will never forget,” said DeMember.
Read about the other ten contestants.
