SHAMOKIN - "Anthracite Idol" is back and better than ever, according to organizers.
Some of the area's best talent will grace the stage of the Northumberland County Career and Arts Center auditorium Saturday for the second annual singing competition.
"We were amazed about the talent that we had last year and this year will be no exception with some new acts and some returning performers," said talent organizer Meagan Baumgartner. "We are really going to work to make the show move quicker than last year, and hope that everyone has a great time."
The event, beginning at 6 p.m., will raise funds for the Lower Anthracite Regional Recreation Committee (LARRC), a group dedicated to bringing recreational opportunities to the area.
Last year's event raised $3,000 to help the organization coordinate efforts after Northumberland County donated 5.9 acres of land in the western end of Coal Township. LARRC is currently working on constructing soccer fields for AYSO games, a playground and a baseball field.
Last year, Cole Supsic won "Idol's" top prize of $200 with his rendition of "Baby, Baby," giving the audience a case of "Bieber Fever."
Supsic donated half of his prize winnings back to LARRC.
This year, two $200 prizes will be presented: one for young performers and another for adults. Second- and third-place winners in each category will receive gift card prizes.
This year, four judges will critique the acts from the stage, up from three last year. Added to the panel is Marla Kane, who wowed the crowd at last year's event with her group, "Marla and the Juniper St. Band" and Kathy Jeremiah, grants manager for Northumberland County Planning Department, project coordinator for Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area. They will be joined by returning judges Mount Carmel Borough Mayor J. Kevin Jones, and News-Item staff writer Rob Wheary.
Ned Sodrick also returns to host the event.
Just like on "American Idol," the audience will ultimately pick the winner. Each paid admission will receive one ticket to vote for their favorite act. To stuff the ballot box a little bit, an additional three votes can be purchased for $5.
As the votes are counted, the audience will be treated to a performance by vocalist Michi.
Doors for the show will open at 5 p.m. Ticket prices are $6 for adults and $3 for students.