American Idol Star Is Celebrity Judge At Chamber St. Fair

Kevin Covais Kevin Covais, the 11th finalist in the 2006 "American Idol" television show, will serve as celebrity judge in the "Garden City Idol" singing competition at the Garden City Chamber of Commerce's 28th annual Fall Festival Street Fair on September 29, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The staging area will be in the driveway between the former Food Basket property at 140 Seventh Street and Joseph & Joseph Men's Shop.

Kevin, a native of Levittown began singing at the age of 10. For the past two years, he was selected to sing with New York's All-State Chorus. Kevin has entered and won several local talent competitions, including " "Reach for the Stars" in 2003.

In 2006, Kevin appeared on live television for five weeks before leaving "American Idol" as number finalist number 11. Subsequently, he appeared on "Live with Regis & Kelly," the "Today Show" as well as "The Ellen Show."

Kevin maintains a full schedule, making appearances and performing with past Idol finalists. He will star in the upcoming Lion's Gate Films: "College."

Kevin was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes at age 11 and devotes much of his time to raising the level of awareness of diabetes and support groups all over the country.

The "Garden City Idol" singing contest will begin at 9:30 a.m. and end just before the Garden City High School Homecoming Day Parade to step off at 12:30 p.m. Registration forms are available on line at www.gardencitychamber.org, at the Chamber office, 230 Seventh St., or the Recreation Department at Village Hall. Contestants must bring their own musical accompaniment to the competition; instrument, CD with vocal track removed, or karaoke disc. (Karaoke machine with video monitor will be provided by Powerhouse Entertainment.) Chamber past president, Bert Donley will serve as event chairman and musical MC. Contest registrants must submit song title and written lyrics with registration form to be returned to the Chamber office by September 17. (Inappropriate material/lyrics will not be accepted.) The "Garden City Idol" contest is for Garden City residents, ages 12-18. It is limited to the first 25 applicants. Prizes will include: Winner: Ipod & Place of Honor in the Homecoming Parade; No. 2: Movie Tickets; No 3: Starbucks Gift Certificate.

For further information, please call the Chamber at (516) 746-7724, ext. 10; or consult www.gardencitychamber.org.