By CHARLENE DEAN

PVT

Karaoke contest singers can take advantage of all the local bar competitions and get into top form, because the Idol contest is back as a part of the festival activities.

The rules are different. The competition, a local takeoff on the hit TV program, “American Idol,” began as a part of the Pahrump Fall Festival in 2006.

The competition was open to everyone and a singer from Las Vegas took the top prize of $1,000, angering some Pahrump residents who thought since the festival was named after the town the competition should have only been open to competitors here.

This year, the competition is only open to those living in Nye County — and proof of residence is a requirement to register.

Here are the rules:

• The contest is open to Nye County residents only.

• Competitors must have proof of age and residence.

• No professionals — all status must be amateur.

• CDs must contain music and backup vocals only. Nothing with lyrics on the CD will be allowed.

• All songs must be under three minutes.

There will be three categories: Youth, ages 1 to 12; Young Adult, ages 13 to 25; and Adults, age 25 and up. The competition is open to anyone who would like to participate.

The preliminary round will take place Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 25 and 26, on the small stage in the rear of Petrack Park, during the Pahrump Fair & Festival.

Registration only will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 24, and from noon to 1:30 p.m. Sept 25.

Youth and Young Adult categories will perform for the judges on Sept. 25. The Adult competitors sing Sept. 26.

The finals, however, will not take place until Oct. 16, and will be held during the Wild West Extravaganza.

Competitors must go through the preliminary competition in order to advance to the finals.

Prize money will be $100 for first place; $50 for second place; and $25 for third place.

Teri Rogers, the IDOL competition organizer, is still looking for qualified judges.

Call Rogers at 764-0006 for more information.