Garden City Teens Finalists in 'Reach for the Stars' Talent Contest

Two Garden City teens will perform in the county's "Reach for the Stars" teen talent show finals Friday at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre at Eisenhower Park.

Kara McNelis, 16, and Mary Kate Patsky, 13, both from Garden City, are amongst the 21 finalists chosen from an auditon pool of 64 contestants.

McNelis, a finalist for the third consecutive year, is a classically trained vocalist and pianist.

The annual competition is a showcase of the county’s most talented young stars between the ages of 13 and 19, according to county executive Ed Mangano. Previous winners of the competition include participants who moved on to American Idol fame; Kevin Covais in 2003, and Robbie Rosen in 2009.  This year, Linda Mangano will act as mistress of ceremonies. 

Admission is free to the event, which kicks off at 7:30 p.m.

The Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre is located near parking fields 6 and 6A in Eisenhower Park. The venue offers no formal seating so concertgoers are urged to bring folding chairs or blankets. For further information, contact the Parks Public Information Office at (516) 572-0200 or visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks.