Schilling searches for next hot talent Published Aug. 7, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Christopher Marasky 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AB, Japan -- The 18th Wing and Schilling Community Center will host the 2008 Family and Teen Talent Competition Sept. 20 at the Schilling. The talent competition is open to all individuals who wish to participate from Kadena and the local area, with the top rated Air Force members and dependents in 15 categories submitted for Air Force -level awards and a chance to participate with "Tops in Blue." "This talent show is for Kadena and Okinawa talent," said Ms. Amelia Lockamy-Keller, director of the Schilling. "It doesn't have to be just Air Force personnel that come out to participate." The Air Force Family & Teen Talent Program provides opportunities for families to participate jointly in a recreational and educational activity while recognizing the most talented members Air Force-wide. The categories for the Air Force-level competition are: solo and group acts in various age groups between three and 18, as well as husband and wife acts, parent and child performances and family performances. The top winners in each category at the Air Force-level will be awarded a chance to participate with "Tops in Blue" the next time the group performs at the winner's base. "This is a great opportunity for those who are interested in working with 'Tops in Blue' to get a starting point for their career," said Ms. Lockamy-Keller. "Winners from this competition get to sing or participate if they are the overall Air Force winner in their category." For any individual wishing to participate in this year's talent contest, the Schilling will open registration Aug. 25. After registration, performers will need to participate in a rehearsal before the competition. "I'm working on dates for rehearsals to go over the acts," said Daniel Aflleje, assistant director at the Schilling. "We want to review the acts to ensure that they're appropriate for our audience. We also want to give people some feedback there and to let them know that this is a professional show." Participants are reminded as they begin to select their routines for the show that the venue is a family affair and all acts must remain appropriate for all ages. "Come out to participate and show your talents," said Ms. Lockamy-Keller. "And even if you don't participate, still come on out, it's going to be a lot of fun." For more information about the 2008 Family and Teen Talent Competition contact the Schilling Community Center at 634-1387.