For the eighth time, an event that combines the Minnesota walleye fishing opener, a talent contest and local charities will be headlined by some local and out-of-state entertainers.
This year’s “Hooked on Talent” contest will take place at 7 p.m. May 11 at Backus Community Center Auditorium. The event is annually held the day before the Minnesota walleye fishing opener.
“This event kicks off the spring season and is really a dynamite show,” said Julie Ehrman, local United Way advisory board member and one of the event organizers. “We really get some incredibly talented people.”
Organizers are hoping to draw 24 singers or groups to enter this year’s singing competition. Ehrman said Wednesday that 18 slots have been filled, including some of “the show’s veterans as well as some new faces.”
Paul Nevanen will emcee the event and cash prizes will be awarded by local judges. A raffle will be conducted during intermission with “great” prize packages, Ehrman noted.
“We’re giving away a golf trip, a few casino trips, and over $500 worth of gift certificates,” the organizer said.
Money raised during the event will go to area charitable organizations the United Way sponsors annually. Organizations include Falls Hunger Coalition, Friends Against Abuse, The Salvation Army, and more.
“Money raised at this event stays local,” Ehrman explained.
Jessica Crosby, another local United Way advisory board member and event organizer, encouraged people to take part in the contest.
“There are a lot of people who can sing who haven’t done this before,” she said. “They need to get up there and sing.”
Advanced tickets for the show are available at City Drug, Backus Community Center, and Betty’s in Fort Frances. Advance admission is $12 for adults and $7 for children. At-the-door admission is $15 for adults and $9 for children.
Applicants may enter the contest until Friday. Forms are available at www.unitedwaynemn.org/events/hooked-on-talent.
For more information call Ehrman at 283-9652 or Crosby at 283-8311.
