The chamber is calling the event "Texas Top Star", and it will be the first in a "series of positive events to offset some of the negative perceptions that people have of this wonderful area," chamber operations coordinator Kiyundra Armstrong tells me. "I figure by bringing people here from all over the Metroplex, they’ll see why so many residents have fallen in love with it."

Armstrong was inspired by attending another Idol-esque at event at her daughter’s high school, and "decided that we should do something of the sort for Oak Cliff, just on a larger scale." The grand prize will be a studio package, valued at roughly $1,200, that includes 10 hours of studio time, mentoring and tutoring, 100 etched and encased CDs, and the creation of a logo and brand name. The winner will record at Sound Guy Studios here in Oak Cliff.

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The chamber is now accepting registrants online — it costs $25, must be submitted by March 12, and only the first 90 (16 and older) will be allowed to participate. The two-night contest at the Texas Theatre will include a 30 to 60 second a capella performance by each of the 90 contestants on Friday, March 19. A panel of judges — including Celena Rae of "American Idol" season four and Grammy-winning artists Yarbrough and Peoples — will select the top 20, who will perform again on Saturday evening, March 20. Anyone can attend the performances; admission costs $6 per night or $10 for both.