The 32nd annual Texaco Country Showdown local competition concluded on June 22, naming Kellie Lawless, Cannon Falls, as the winner. America’s largest country music talent search and radio promotion was held at the Paramount Theatre in Austin. There were 13 acts competing for first place.

Lawless’s combination of talent, stage presence, charisma, musicianship and originality caught the attention of judges, Mike Woitas, Neil Lang, Merle Krause and Mrs. International – Sarah Bazey.

On Aug. 24 at the Northern Lights Casino in Walker, Lawless will advance to the state final of the Texaco Country Showdown vying for $1,000 and the opportunity to perform at one of five regional competitions in the fall. Regional winners receive an all-expense paid trip to the national final, exuding talent and energy in their performances to compete for the $100,000 grand prize and the national title.

The Texaco Country Showdown also featured Wayne Nordstrom, Amanda Corey, Jennifer Ordalen, J.T. Thompson, Dunnell Lenort, Angel Niemeyer, Ashley Willett, Devyn Nicholson, All BS, Larissa Lundstrom, Charley Fleek and Adam Wayne.

Larissa Lundstrom was named the second place winner, and Angel Niemeyer took third place.

All contestants and judges were awarded with a KQAQ & Texaco Country T-shirt along with a variety of tickets to Noah’s Ark Water Park, Adventureland, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, MOA Family Fun packs and Minnesota Zoo all compliments of KQAQ.