Sixteen acts took part Tuesday in the first night of the Be a Star Teen Showcase, but only seven acts were chosen to advance in the competition sponsored by Franklin County Children Services.

 

One finalist played the flute, but most of the artists sang or danced during the tryouts at the South Side Settlement House, 310 E. Innis Ave.

 

A second group of finalists will be chosen from competition on Wednesday, May 27, at St. Stephen's Community House, 1500 E. 17th Ave.

 

The talent search is open to children 12 to 18 years old and is intended to raise awareness about foster and adoptive parenting, mentoring and volunteering at Children Services. Each child was required to have an adult present because the agency wanted to spread the word about needs for adoptive parents and foster parents.

 

A video about the agency was shown and information on how to adopt children, especially those overy eight years old, was distributed.

 

The loss of her daughter and circumstances that led to Sharon Roberts' taking care of her 16-year-old granddaughter, also led to her becoming a foster parent to the granddaughter's best friend.

 

"I think it takes a special person to nurture," she said.

 

Two grown sons help, she said.

 

Tuesday's program included drawings for door prizes, music by adult entertainers and commentary from child-welfare officials.

 

"At Franklin County Children Services, we think every child is a winner," said Troy Lindsey of Children Services, emcee of the event.

 

Several judges of the competition urged the children to stay committed to their dreams regardless of where they finished in the showcase.

 

Those who will advance to the finals on June 11 at East High School are: Elliott Bingham, Austin Coats, Gamma Psi Phi, DeMeeshia Marshall, Alexis Pannell, Nila Richards and Craig Sealey. The ultimate winner will receive prizes valued at $1.000, including cash and a computer.