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Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008
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Fair 'survivors' continue quest for trip (w/video)
By Bethany Lee, Herald staff writer
There are no alliances yet, but it's only the second day of Gesa Island Survivor.
In a scaled-back version of the popular reality TV show Survivor, six Tri-Citians are competing this week on an "island" set up at the Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo.
The winner doesn't win $1 million, but will land a trip for two to Hawaii.
Dawn Thompson, 41, of Kennewick, won immunity at the first tribal meeting to keep from being voted off the island Tuesday night.
And Kennewick's Charles Groesbeck, 32, won a radio in the first prize challenge in the weeklong event being co-sponsored by Power 99.1 radio station.
Armed with only a pillow and a sleeping bag, each contestant was allowed to bring one luxury item. Some chose a toothbrush.
The "island" -- adorned with tiki torches, pink plastic flamingos and a large water fountain -- seems more like a big slumber party in someone's backyard.
"That's what's crazy about this whole thing," said Jamie Jones, 27, of Richland. "They picked six random people, we're squished in this little tent and we're still all just cool with each other. It's just kinda nice."
The six contestants were given three minutes to describe why they deserved to be picked.
"I said because I want to represent all the redheads out there because I've never seen any redheads in any competitions," said Jennifer Neal, 19, of West Richland. "And for all the petite girls that they think are small, can't lift weight, can't beat the boys -- 'cause we can. So hey, I'm here to beat the boys."
Evan Ironbear, 19, of Kennewick, said his likeability will get him the grand prize.
"Everyone gets along with me," he said. "Pretty easy-going. No conflict."
The youngest of the group is Jordan Enwezoh, 18, of Kennewick, who said he is athletic and a good competitor.
AJ, Power 99.1's program director, said they searched for people who came from different backgrounds.
"People that weren't all the same, different ages, different sexes ..." he said. "Just try to get a really good, even mix of people. And I think we got 'em."
The contestants raced on Segways and ate worms on Tuesday before the first tribal meeting, where Groesbeck was voted off the island.
Later this week, just two competitors will be left to face off in the final challenge. And everyone who was voted off will return for the last tribal meeting to decide who wins the trip.
There also will be a $500 prize for the fan favorite as chosen by fair attendees, who can vote at the Gesa cabana.
Visitors can talk to the contestants and see the island behind the Fiesta Foods stage at the fairgrounds.
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