Local Christian Artists Win Cruise

Andrew Lochridge, placed first in the Senior Division and Magaly Escalera, placed first in the Junior Division of Inspire The Desire TV’s 2007-08 Christian Talent Search TV program, which airs on Channel 55, the Tube.  Among other prizes, Andres and Magaly won tickets on the four-day Spirit Cruise that sailed to Cozumel, Mexico on August 28th.  These local artists were chosen from hundreds of entries to perform on the ship and in Cozumel for an upcoming television broadcast.

Andrew, also known as TEX Swing has had a desire to sing since he was “old enough to remember”. As a minister, Mr. Lochridge ran one of the largest street ministries in Dallas, Texas. Andrew’s performance background includes hosting, directing, and producing four Christian TV programs, in addition to having performed in many live musical productions, and making several appearances for a Dallas Christian TV Station. Recently, Andrew has been cast in several independent films, including one to be released by Sony Pictures early next year.  He attends Faith Church in the Fifth Ward and belongs to The Judah Set (a Christian Jazz Network), as well as several other jazz networks. His website is www.texswing.net and can be reached for bookings through www.inspirethedesire.tv.

Magaly Escalera, First Place Winner in the Junior Division, is a singer and worship leader in the Youth Choir at Lakewood Church. Twelve-year-old Magaly has been a part of the Kidslife Campmeeting Worship Team, “Ninos Con Vida”, and for over a year has performed with Yesterday’s Youth Jubilettes, a nursing home ministry. She is also a member of the Association of Performing Christian Artists (APCA). Magaly is homeschooled by her mother at Star Academy Homeschool and says that her perfect day consists of exercising her voice to create a new song of praise and to worship the Lord with all her heart. You can reach Magaly Michelle Escalera at exposedlight@sbcglobal.net.

The other winners are as follows:

SENIOR DIVISION

Daniel and Lois Reagan   SECOND PLACE

This husband and wife duo are originally from Romania, but now live in Spring, Texas. Their performance careers have allowed them to travel the world singing in major theatres and churches, and Daniel has recently accepted a performance position with the Houston Grand Opera.

Loretta Williams Gurnell  THIRD PLACE

This Ohio native is a soul-stirring psalmist, speaker, lyricist and actor. Her recently released CD, “It’s A New Day”, is quickly gaining momentum in the Houston area. In 2007, Loretta was named Artist of the Year by the Houston Chapter of the Gospel Announcer’s Guild. Visit her website at www.lorettawilliamsgurnell.com.

JUNIOR DIVISION

Chidama Ubah  SECOND PLACE

Thirteen-year-old Chidama is a very active honors student at Kleb Intermediate, serving as VP of the Spanish Club and Student Council Reporter in addition to singing in the choir. She plans to become a professional singer and actor someday and has appeared on television and radio and numerous live concerts.

Kaitlyn Knippers  THIRD PLACE

TV, stage productions, and competitions – this twelve-year-old has done it all in her young career. Kaitlyn has appeared on Maury’s Most Talented Kids in America, has had the privilege to work with three past American Idol Finalists, and still maintains a straight A average. Visit www.KaitlynK.com.

Listen for their singing on the Robin Meade Show, KAFR FM Radio (88.3) on Fridays, 3PM to 6 PM.  You can also see all of these Winners perform live at The CrossFest – 2008 on October 17th & 18th. Call 281-288-9664 for additional information.

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