TAMPA--At first Talent Quest FLorida staff was wondering if anyone was going to show up for the local finals at Crowbar. But they did, and they brought some really strong talent. The Crowbar finals kicked off at 9:30 p.m., the latest Talent Quest Florida local final of the year and some singers didn't even arrive until after 10. But fortunately, those singers were in categories that were held later that night. "Those performers were worth the wait," said Phil Garris, head judge and Talent Quest Florida co-owner. "The pop categories were really the highlight of the night. Not because the other categoreis weren't good, but because of the number of singers in that particular division." The Crowbar is in the heart of Ybor City, just a few blocks away from The Ritz Ybor, where the Talent Quest Florida regional finals will be held in July. The crowd of locals consisted of several new performers but several returning contestants as well. "Again it's like a homecoming," said Steve Blanchard, emcee and contest co-owner. "My favorite thing about this competition is reconnecting with people we've met in previous years. It was a blast!" The Talent Quest Florida 2009 Regional Finals are once again at The Ritz Ybor in Tampa July 10, 11, and 12. Contestants advance to the regionals for free. Tickets to the finals are available on our Tickets Page.