Many are saying the singing ex-waitress with Tamaqua and Summit Hill connections entertained the crowd like a seasoned pro.

Vocalist Samantha Johnson, 26, was featured before a television audience of more than 10 million Tuesday night on "America's Got Talent," belting out the tune "A Natural Woman" by Aretha Franklin. Johnson had the studio audience on the edge of their seats and earned a standing ovation from judges.Before she sang, the judges asked, "Is this the biggest audience you've ever sang in front of?""By far," Johnson responded, before starting her song.The performance was well-received."I think you're going a long way," smiling judge Howie Mandel said afterward.Judge Heidi Klum praised Johnson's stage presence. Judge Howard Stern agreed, noting that Johnson made an impression.Johnson has strong ties to the Tamaqua and Panther Valley area.She lived in Tamaqua for several years with her grandmother, Gloria Smulligan, and worked as a waitress at Vonz Restaurant in the Tamaqua train station in 2013.Her mother, Denis Smulligan, lives in Summit Hill, where Johnson presently stays.Her performance apparently won her new fans from all across the country, some of whom are commenting on Internet sites.Locally, she didn't disappoint her "hometown crowd.""Samantha was awesome! I am so proud to have enjoyed her talent in person at the train station," said Linda Yulanavage, Tamaqua."She really rocked that song!"Mary Ann Dahm, Tamaqua, raved about the rendition."She was fantastic. What a super talent," wrote Dahm on Facebook.Eileen Barron of Tamaqua predicts greater things to come."Wonderful performance. I see a winner," Barron envisioned.Gloria Smulligan is delighted for the outpouring of support for her granddaughter."Over the years, I have been sharing performances that Samantha has been doing, and now it's time for America to see her," wrote Smulligan on her Facebook page.Many missed out on the show due severe weather Tuesday that brought storms, flooding and power outages."We didn't see her. The TVs were out up here," said Diane Bolton, Frackville.For those who missed the show, a video clip of the performance can be seen on YouTube.Johnson could not be reached Wednesday for comment, but she wrote this thank-you note online to her supporters."This has been such an amazing experience. I just want to thank everyone for their support and feedback."Tuesday's performance gets Johnson past the audition phase and into a second round of competition, to be announced.