Charleston reservist takes third in AMC Icon talent contest Published Aug. 10, 2013 By Senior Airman Bobby Pilch 315th Airlift Wing JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- Master Sgt. Tobey R. Housey, an equal employment opportunity advisor assigned to the 315th Airlift Wing Military Equal Opportunity office here, earned third place in the annual AMC Icon Talent Contest here Aug. 1, 2013. This was not the first time Housey lent his vocal talents to the annual contest and performed in front of a live audience; however, it was the first time he placed at the event. "I performed the "National Anthem" numerous times when I was on active duty for special events and ceremonies," said Housey with a showman's grin. "This was my third year performing and my first time placing." Getting to the final round required contestants to perform two rehearsals. Contestants were judged on the rehearsal performances and told at that time if they would advance to perform in the final competition. "We were judged on several criteria such as good taste, tone, pitch and stage presence," said Housey. While the contestants chose songs from all genres of music, Housey's song was selected for him. "My wife picked Maroon 5's "Sunday Morning", said Housey. "Adam Levine has a very unique vocal style." To say Housey was purely motivated by competing would be stretching the truth a bit. There were prizes awarded for the top three performers. "Money was the incentive," said Housey who earned two hundred dollars for his third place win. "It was all in good taste and fun, there were some great competitors." All competition aside, Housey stressed that individuals should always make an attempt to accomplish their goals and dreams and to not let failure stand in their way of moving forward. "You just never know what may happen if you do not try," said Housey. "Don't ever give up; continue to pursue your passion."