The 2016 Minnesota Sings State Final Competition took place on Sunday, in St. Paul with 54 contestants hoping to impress three professional judges. The daylong event, was the culmination of months of local Sings events, that chose students to represent each city. Hastings singers Bailey Alter and runner up Maria Ramos, attended with Ramos advancing to the Grand Finale Sweet 16, that evening. Emcee Jon Benson announced the top six singers, beginning with sixth place Talia Wendlant of South St. Paul, 5th Place David Timm of West St. Paul, and 4th Place Elijah Hager of Wabasha. Then it was time for the drum roll and the giant checks. Third place was announced with Lauren Senden, a 16year old from Mankato who sang a classical aria.
She received 500 dollars, with another check for 125 dollars that will be given to her sponsor. Second Place was then announced, with 1,000 in cash awarded to Diwan Smith, of Bloomington, who is pursuing a career as a singer and songwriter.
He will also receive 250 dollars that will be awarded to the Bloomington Optimist Club, his contest sponsor. Then it was time to award the top prize-2,500 written on that giant check as well as 1,000 more that will be awarded to the winners favorite local charity, and a bonus check of 500 dollars that will be presented to her sponsor. A very excited Bella Huerta, who sang for Burnsville, and was a favorite of judges and the audience alike. After the win, she told KDWA what charity she would present with the bonus 1000 check she will also receive.
Minnesota Sings originated in Hastings seven years ago and has provided more than 25,000 dollars in prize money to talented singers all over the state. Next year’s event will be held the last Sunday in September. Photos of the event can be found on the Minnesota Sings Facebook page.
