Past winners being called back for ‘Quest for the Best’

If everything goes according to plan, the public will be witness to a musical clash of the titans under the big tent next month when “The Best of Quest” is held in conjunction with the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
“What we’re trying to do is get the 10 previous ‘Quest for the Best’ winners back,” organizer Dawn Booth said Thursday morning.
“With it being not only the 10th anniversary of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship but the 10th ‘Quest for the Best,’ we thought we’d do something different,” she added.
“And because ‘Quest’ has been so popular, we figure people would love to see past winners and participants compete.”
Booth said two possible formats for the singing competition slated for July 21 are being thrown around. One would see 10 new contestants coming in, competing, and then having one winner from there go on to vie against the 10 previous winners.
A second possibility is that first- and second-place winners from past “Quests,” as well as some other popular past participants (like People’s Choice winners), would come back for an all-star showdown.
Booth noted whether that idea will fly depends on getting past “Quest” winners to participate, adding Chamber staff have been working hard to track down who the winners were and whether or not they want to do it.
She said if not enough previous “Quest” participants could be rounded up, then the “Best of Quest” idea would be dropped and the contest would follow its usual format—with 20 singers or duets facing off.
Booth said if anyone is a previous “Quest” winner and have not been contacted by the Chamber, they should call the Chamber at 274-5773, or drop by at 474 Scott St. and let them know if you’re interested.
They also can contact the Chamber via e-mail at thefort@nwonet.net
Anyone who knows a previous “Quest” winner who may not know about the “Best of Quest” yet also is encouraged to contact them and let them know about it.
Booth said she was hoping to get responses as soon as possible so details, including song selections so the backup band can learn them, can be worked out promptly.
Booth added as with every year, “Quest” also needs the support of local businesses to become a reality.
As such, the Chamber is looking for sponsors for cash prizes for first, second, and third place (which last were $500, $300, and $200, respectively, but could be higher this year if sponsorship warrants).
Sponsors also are needed for the two People’s Choice awards ($200), Contestant’s Choice ($100), Most Original ($100), Audience Response ($100), and Show Sponsor ($100).
Sponsors will receive recognition, as well as free tickets and reserved seating, at the event.
If you are interested in being a sponsor or have any questions, call Booth at 274-5773 as soon as possible.
(Fort Frances Daily Bulletin)