Chingawassa Idol is new festival contest
A new "twist" on a Chingawassa Days tradition is being planned.
Chingawassa Idol will replace the traditional karaoke contest during the evening events on June 2.
The new contest will be held after the Friday evening barbecue and ice cream social and before the finals of the Extreme Rhino Challenge.
There is a limit of 10 entries for the contest with entrants being accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Entrants must be 16 years of age or older and not afraid of being critiqued. There is no cost to enter and cash prizes will be awarded.
The "twist" for this year's competition will be judges. There will be three judges on the stage during the performances. After each contestant performs, the judges will give verbal critiques of the vocal performances. The winner will be determined by spectator judges who will be randomly selected prior to the contest. The crowd's opinions also will be taken into consideration.
Entries for the contest are available at Gene's Travel at 426 E. Main Street, Marion. G&J Video will provide the karaoke music and contests will be given an opportunity to practice if requested.
For more information about the festival, go to the festival web site at www.chingawassa.com.
County lifts burns ban
Marion County Commission lifted the county burn ban Monday during the weekly commission meeting.
The commission determined sufficient rain had fallen to reduce the fire hazard.
The status of the weather and moisture will be reviewed by the commission at its next meeting Friday.
