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"Heartland Idol" Contest to Raise Funds for Mascot
In the spirit of the American Idol phenomenon, Heartland Community College will host its own version of the popular contest this spring.
"Heartland Idol" will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, April 9 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 1700 N. Towanda Ave. in Normal. Those interested in participating can sign up as individual or ensemble performers to compete for the "Critics' Choice" and "Crowd Favorite" awards. Winners also will earn the opportunity to sing the national anthem in front of thousands at a future Normal CornBelters professional baseball game at the Corn Crib stadium at Heartland Community College. The stadium is currently being constructed on the east side of the College's Raab Road campus in Normal.
The contest is open to anyone who lives within Heartland Community College District 540, and proceeds from the event will help bring Heartland's Hawk mascot to life. "Hunter" has appeared on printed materials at the College but has yet to make a lifelike public appearance. The goal of Heartland Idol is to get Hunter up and flying by June 1--in time for him to share the field with CornBelter's mascot "Corny" at the franchise home opener.
Event organizers are excited to see what hidden singing talents the community has to offer.
"We know there are a lot of talented performers out there and we want to showcase that talent at this event," said Colleen Reynolds, associate director of Alumni Relations and Outreach at the College. "It will be a fun contest, featuring music-related raffles and silent auction items. Most importantly, though, it will help Heartland to develop a recognized community symbol that represents the College--to allow people to soar toward their full potential with access to affordable education."
The deadline to submit the necessary application materials for Heartland Idol is March 1. Those materials are a completed application and a performance demonstration, including CD, DVD or MP3 of the song to be performed. Each finalist for the competition will receive an exclusive Heartland Idol t-shirt featuring the Hunter Hawk design. Materials can be turned in to the Cashier/Business Office, located in Suite 2100 on the first floor of the Community Commons Building on Normal campus. For more details or contest rules, visit Heartland's Alumni Web page, email the Alumni Association, or call (309) 268-8187.
