PORT ST. LUCIE The third
Applebee's involved in
Talent Quest Florida's East
Coast Swing produced a
smaller crowd than the
other two, but several big
voices. In all, eleven
people advanced to the
regional finals after the
local contest on Saturday,
June 19.
"Once again the roughest
part was the appearance
portion of the contest," said
Phil Garris, head judge and TQFL co-owner. "I know a lot of contestants don't see appearance
as an important part on the local level, but really, it is. Your look has got to match your song.
It's an easy 10 points from every judge."
A somewhat mellow crowd packed the popular restaurant on US 1 on what was the last stop of
the contest's east coast competitions. Three more local finals are scheduled in the state
before the Talent Quest Florida regional finals at the DoubleTree Westshore Hotel in Tampa
July 8-11.
"I think these contestants really did earn the right to compete on the regional level," said Steve
Blanchard, emcee and contest co-owner. "We heard some amazing vocals in Port St. Lucie and
even encountered a few pleasant surprises. But I think that the contestants need to remember
that at the regional level we're looking for the full package-not just tbe best singer. Hopefully
the contestants will utilize the judges' critique sheets and take that advice to heart."
In all, Talent Quest Florida expects nearly 400 singers at this year's regional finals.
Port St. Lucie brings out big voices