By Liz McBreen
The competition is based on the popular television show "American Idol," where now-unknown artists strut their stuff each week at a chance for a record contract. WBLI's morning show hosts Steve and Maria kicked it off the Long Island version on March 29. Sarantis entered the contest for the fun of it, not expecting to be named as one of the ten finalists the following Monday. She recorded her 30-second audition tape at Sunrise Mall and since then she has been sailing through weekly eliminations. Now she is less than a week away from the announcement of the grand prize winner.
The contestant's status is based on the weekly votes they receive through the WBLI website, where voters can read their profiles, listen to recordings of their auditions and additional songs that were recorded in the WBLI studios. Unlike the votes of pervious weeks, the website will not be posting updated results, leaving the mystery intact until the end.
The winner will enjoy a day at a spa, and a package including a professional photo shoot and casting opportunities, but it is the possibility of ending up on the Jones Beach stage during the 2003 Summer Jam that really interests Sarantis. "It's the reason I entered the contest," said Sarantis. "If I win, I am going to sing the longest song you have ever heard."
Sarantis has always felt at home on stage, and has dazzled family and friends through the years with her singing abilities at school performances. She plans to attend Adephi in the fall, but has not yet chosen a major. She does know that she will always want to sing.
To cast your vote for the sixth and final round of the "Island Idol" contest, go to www.wbli.com. The results will be announced Monday, May 5 at 7 a.m.
