‘Quest’ entries keep coming in ‘Kiddie Quest’ nearly full

Singers looking to compete for cash and glory at this year’s “Quest for the Best” on July 25 had best sign up soon as spots are filling up fast.
Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce manager Dawn Booth said yesterday that since the entry forms were first made available at the trade show here late last month, nine entries have come in for “Kiddie Quest” and four for “Quest,” including one duet.
Booth added there’s a limit of 10 contestants for “Kiddie Quest” and 20 solo or duet performers for “Quest.”
“It’s to our advantage to have people signed up early. It gives the band extra time to learn the songs,” she noted. “We encourage anyone out there that wants to do ‘Quest’ to get their entry forms in as soon as possible.”
Entry forms are available at the Chamber office (474 Scott St.) The deadline is Friday, June 9.
“We’re really hoping we don’t have to extend the deadline this year,” stressed Booth.
“Quest for the Best” is a local singing competition held annually to showcase the many talented performers in the area. It is open to anyone age 14 and up, with both solo and duet performances being eligible.
The entry fee for “Quest” is $25 per person or $35 for a duet.
This year also will see the return of “Kiddie Quest,” which is open to contestants age 13 or younger. The entry fee is $10.
Both “Quest” and “Kiddie Quest” will take place under the big tent at the Sporting Gap Marina on Tuesday, July 25. Once again, the event is being held in conjunction with the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
“The Faculty,” comprised of Rob Donaldson, Chris Denby, Steve Denby, and Jim Newman, will return as the back-up band this year.
In related news, organizers already have most of the prize sponsors confirmed for “Quest.”
The Chamber and B•93 FM are the main “Quest” sponsors while Sears Canada has come on board again this year to sponsor “Kiddie Quest.”
Some sponsors still are needed for some of the prizes, including the first-place prize ($500), People’s Choice—second set ($150), and Contestants’ Choice ($100).
For information on sponsoring a prize, contact Booth at 274-5773 or drop by the Chamber office.
As well, Booth said the Chamber has confirmed a winner for its “Quest for the Best” logo contest, which first was announced last month.
Six entries came in prior to the May 5 deadline, with Debra Bruyere’s being chosen as the best.
“We had her make a few minor changes to it, but she had no problem with that. We’re very happy with the results,” said Booth.
The logo will appear on tickets, a banner, and even on T-shirts at the July 25 event.
Bruyere also will receive $100, two tickets to this year’s “Quest for the Best,” and special mention during the event.
Booth said tickets for the perennially sold-out “Quest” will go on sale in the first week of July. They will cost $12 in advance and $15 at the door (if there’s any still left).