It looks like organizer Dawn Booth should have no problem getting a full complement of competitors for the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce’s annual “Quest for the Best.” “We’ve got five confirmed,” she said late yesterday.
“We’ve got lots of people who have picked up entry forms, and quite a few who have said they’re going to do it but haven’t turned in their forms,” added Booth.
“We’ve got quite a few regulars who probably will be back.” Up to 20 acts—whether solos or duets—can sign up for the popular singing contest. Contestants must be at least 14 years old.
The cost to enter is $25 per solo and $35 for a duet. Entry forms can picked up at the Chamber office (474 Scott St.), B93-FM, Rainy Lake Hotel, or Memorial Sports Centre.
They then must be dropped off at the Chamber office with the entry fee.
This year’s show once again will take place during the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship—on Wednesday, July 23 to be exact— under the big tent at the Sorting Gap Marina.
Tickets will go on sale later this month, said Booth, adding 1,500 will be printed. She noted the cost will be the same as last year—$12 in advance and $15 at the door, and she’s hopeful it once again will draw a sell-out crowd.
One thing different this year is that “Quest” will be followed by more entertainment—in this case, adult hypnotist Tyzen Paley—so those who buy a ticket for “Quest” can stay for the second show.
Paley’s performance is being brought here courtesy of the FFCBC.
Meanwhile, Booth is hoping to see more confirmations of participation in an event happening a little sooner than the bass derby—the annual Canada Day parade.
“I’ve had a few people come forward,” she noted, adding that since the theme is “Celebrating a Century of Prosperity & Promise,” she’s hoping this year’s parade will be bigger and better than ever.
“We’re encouraging all businesses and individuals to participate in some way, shape, or form,” she added, noting prizes will be awarded for the best-looking or most patriotic floats.
One marching band from Bemidji, Mn. already has been confirmed for the parade.
This year’s parade will begin at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1. But unlike other years, it won’t start at the old CN station and then travel east down Scott Street.
Instead, it will start at the [Shevlin] wood yard, go down Front Street, turn onto Victoria, and then head back east down Scott Street to the Memorial Sports Centre.
She said while this means the parade won’t go past the downtown core, it would tie in with the grand-opening of the La Verendrye Parkway (Front Street), which is slated to take place at 10 a.m. on July 1.
Booth added she also needs volunteers to help line up the parade and to judge floats. Those interested can call her at 274-5773.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
