Sixth “Hooked on Talent” will include some veteran performers and new faces
For the sixth time, an event that combines the Minnesota fishing opener, a talent contest and helping local charities will be headlined by some of Minnesota and Canada’s premier entertainers.
This year’s “Hooked on Talent” contest will take place on May 14 at 7 p.m. in the Backus Community Center auditorium. The event is always held the day before the Minnesota fishing opener.
“The event is very popular and Backus is always filled to the brim,” said Lori Lyman, local United Way advisory board member and one of the event organizers. “It’s really a great night of entertainment for a great cause.”
Sixteen singers and groups have entered the contest, including some new names and some familiar faces to the competition.
Competing from International Falls will be newly formed, as-of-yet-unnamed band with members Pele Ugboajah, Seth Berguson, Tom Vollum and Ryan Kittelson; Dean Piekarski and Mark Gierszewski; Brent “Smiley” Olson; Ashley Hasbargen; Bailey Vollum; John Streiff; Doug Piekarski; and Adam Morrish.
Competing from Fort Frances will be Katlyn Shortreed and Jeff Gustafson; Larissa Desrosiers; Erika Tymkim; Brittany Hayes; Dawn Hayes; and Adam Esselink. Competing from Littlefork will be Teresa Rom, and Nikki Rom. Competing from Bemidji will be Suspicious Entertainment.
Paul Nevanen will emcee the event. Prizes will be awarded by three local judges. First place will receive $400, second place $300, third place $200, United Way VIP $100 and audience response $200.
Money raised at the event will go to area charitable organizations the United Way sponsors each year such as the Falls Hunger Coalition, Koochiching Aging Options, Friends Against Abuse, and the Salvation Army. In 2010, United Way provided $171,365 to 18 organizations that help local people in need.
“Money raised here stays here,” Lyman explained.
Tickets are available at City Drug and Backus Community Center in International Falls and Betty’s in Fort Frances. Prices are: adults $10 and children $7 in advance, and adults $12 and children $9 at the door.
If you go:
WHAT: 6th annual “Hooked on Talent” competition
WHEN: May 14, 7 p.m.
WHERE: Backus Community Center auditorium
WHY: Community invited to watch talent competition, raise money for charities
TICKETS: City Drug, Backus and Betty’s. Adults $10, children $7 in advance. Adults $12, children $9 at the door.
