Published: May 14, 2008 09:27 am         

Local stars hope to shine in ‘Idol’

Special to the Index

MINERAL WELLS – Some have graced local stages for years. At least one has recorded his own album. Others are doing it just for fun.

But nonetheless 10 brave and talented acts will perform in the Third Mineral Wells Idol, set for 6 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Double J Hacienda and Art Ranch and sponsored by the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce.

Performers represent a variety of ages and walks of life, but all have come together to support the chamber and subject themselves to the criticism of the infamous panel of judges. Performing in this year’s Idol are: Willy Coe, Helen Bull, Stan Crawford, Eddie and Linda Gilley, Ida Nickerson and Michelle Robinson, Teri Richardson, Patty Clark, Aurora Garcia and Jessica Dudley, Amanda Gore and Sam Waddy.

Attendees will also witness a must-see act by 2007 Mineral Wells Idol winner, Dr. Patrick Hisel.

“We truly believe that Mineral Wells Idol showcases what’s best about Mineral Wells,” chamber Executive Director Beth Henary Watson said. “We’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Double J Ranch, which overlooks the Brazos River, listen to some good music and just have a lot of fun.”

The Double J Hacienda and Art Ranch is located at 133 Seybold Road, west of Mineral Wells. Visit their Web site at www.djartranch.com.

Serving as local “Ryan Seacrest”(emcee) for the event is Ric Holly of Mineral Wells, advertising manager for the Weatherford Democrat. Judges are Rhett Warren as “Simon,” Megan Horton as “Paula” and Karium Carter as “Randy.”

Unlike “American Idol,” where viewers vote via text message, Mineral Wells Idol attendees vote with dollar bills. The performer with the most dollar votes at the end of the evening is declared the winner, taking home what has come to be known as the “Bling Bling” microphone, $300 cash, a recording package with Ancient Tone Studio and Productions and, perhaps most importantly, bragging rights for the whole year.

Interspersed throughout the evening is the chamber board members’ “People Auction,” where board members present specially prepared items and packages to be awarded to the highest bidder. Cole’s House of Flowers proprietor Dwain Eaton will be the auctioneer.

Auction items include a sports-fan package, an equestrian package, getaways and more.

Attendees will dine on a delicious barbecue dinner catered by Dunbar Neighborhood Council.

Tickets to Mineral Wells Idol are $25 in advance, available at the chamber office, 511 E. Hubbard St., and $30 at the door, with all proceeds benefiting the advancement of chamber programs.

Contributors to Mineral Wells Idol to date include O’Neal Distributing, Perri Leavelle Design, Ancient Tone Studio and Productions and Brian Shoemaker.

For more information, call the chamber at (940) 325-2557.