For immediate release June 13, 2006

Contact: Jacquie Lucy 410-780-6742

Jason Jackson captures 2006 'Dundalk Idol' title
Project Millennium, Inc., fundraiser nets almost $3500 to support arts-based community programs

Baltimore County, Md. - Jason Jackson's rendition of two Righteous Brothers hits, "Unchained Melody" and "You've Lost that Lovin’ Feelin’," brought the house down at the Hollywood Red Carpet 2006 Dundalk Idol Final Competition Saturday, June 3 and earned him the title. The Fort Howard resident was one of seven finalists out of the initial 31contestants vying for this honor. Ray Kabia of Edgemere took second place.

According to Jackson, his victory has been sweet. ABC2 (WMAR-TV) morning news anchor Jamie Costello interviewed him live from his business - JJ and Mina's Cookie Cafe. Costello has asked him to serve as guest WMAR commentator for next year's American Idol. Jackson has submitted a tape to the Baltimore Orioles organization in hopes of performing the National Anthem before a home game. He also is taping a performance at Maryland Public Television for future airing. He plans to release a new CD in he near future.

Project Millennium, Inc., an arts-based community organization, produced the Dundalk Idol competition for the second year. According to Carla Crisp, PMI’s executive director, “We are extremely pleased with the response of the community to this fundraiser. In addition to helping us raise almost $3,500 for our projects, the event served to showcase the wonderful talented people in the area.”

This year, The Community College of Baltimore County served as the title sponsor for the Dundalk Idol competition. According to CCBC Chancellor Sandra L. Kurtinitis, “This was a wonderful opportunity for CCBC to expand and share its vision of community, not just with Dundalk, but with all of Baltimore County. Supporting community programs such as the Dundalk Idol allows CCBC to foster existing community relationships, while building new ones. Since the Dundalk Idol was such a great success, CCBC hopes to be a sponsor for next year’s event.”

CCBC not only was one of the sponsors for the event but it was also an active participant. F. Scott Black, chairman, CCBC department of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts, Julie Lewis, Theatre instructor and David Barney, marketing coordinator, served as judges. Dr. Carol Sullivan, Dundalk campus administrator and dean of Learning and Student Development, awarded Jackson with the Dundalk Idol Trophy. Director of Admission, Records and Registration at CCBC Dundalk, Theresa Carr, staffed a CCBC information table during the event. PMI’s Crisp wears a CCBC hat, too. She is a CCBC Dundalk Welcome Center receptionist.