By Tracy Wieneke
The Rock County Fair Board is searching for talented people to participate in the first amateur talent contest August 1. The deadline to enter is July 24.
Jane Wildung is part of the talent contest committee along with four others. "We want to have a night where the entire family can get together and have fun without paying a large amount for their entertainment," Wildung said.
The idea came from a few different places. The Fair Board wanted a new fresh idea and something that was family friendly, Wildung said. Bob Zinnel presented the idea for a talent show after attending one at the Nobles County Fair where response was positive.
The fair Board loved the idea of a show that could involve the public.
"We have set aside two hours in the grandstands on Aug. 1, beginning at 7 p.m.," Wildung said, adding that the committee hopes for a variety of acts.
"It could be anything from singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument or even a comedy skit," Wildung said.
Registration forms are available at the Luverne Chamber of Commerce and at the Luverne Style Shop and entries require a $10 fee. Wildung can be reached at 283-4691 or 283-4053.
Cash prizes are available in each of three divisions. Pre-Teen Division is for contestants 12 and younger, and the Teen Division is for those 13 to 18 years old. The Open Division is for all other ages.
"We are not limiting this to any age group or even people not involved with 4-H. We want to see everyone out there, either involved or in the stands cheering the contestants on," said Wildung said.
"If you win at this local level you can compete at the talent contest at the Minnesota State Fair."