Singers Vie to Become Brandon's 2012 Idol

For the 11th year, residents who normally only sing in the shower or in a karaoke bar after a few drinks will show off their vocal skills during the Brandon Idol contest Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge, 800 Centennial Lodge Dr., Brandon.

However, music lovers can get a preview of the popular benefit show Thursday, Sept. 27 from 7:30 to 8 p.m. at The Shrimp Warehouse, 779 Lumsden Rd., Brandon.

Founded in 2001 as a fundraiser for Brandon honorary mayor candidate Arlene Waldron, the contest quickly took on a life of its own, said organizer Dave Loebig.

"We've been doing the contest ever since," he said.

It proved so popular, in fact, that organizers added a separate Brandon Teen Idol contest in 2007.

This year's Brandon Teen Idol contest will take place the same day, Saturday, Sept. 29, at 1 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge.

Each year the contest raises funds for various Brandon charities. This year funds will go to the Give A Kid A Chance Campaign at the Brandon Family YMCA. The campaign provides needy children with a chance to attend summer camp at the Y.

The contest gives area crooners a chance to show off their singing talents and vie for the $500 winning prize.

"It's a lot of fun and great entertainment," said Loebig.

In the teen contest, teens compete in two categories: ages 10 to 13 and ages 14-17.

Tickets for the adult show are $25 at the door. To reserve a seat, visit the website.

Tickets for the Teen Idol contest are $15 for adults and $5 for children under 18.

Sponsors for this year's contests are Pacesetter Media, The Law Offices of Laurie E. Ohall, P.A., Sam Ash Music Stores, Planet Smoothie, Marco's Pizza, Magruder Agency Inc., Extravaganza Productions Inc., Cards & Stuff Magic Inc. The Clubhouse Sports Cafe, Kevin D. Wrobel, CPA, NowShopTheWorld.com, Bootleggers Beer and Wine Home-Brewing Supplies, Home Helpers, Grafix and Drug Screen Solutions.