Orland Township Announces Senior American Idol Winner

Fourteen talented seniors showcased their vocal skills before a live audience as they vied for the title of 2018 Orland Township Senior American Idol, according to the office of Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady.

After three rounds of singing their favorite tunes, five-time competitor Phil Orsi of Orland Hills was crowned 2018 Orland Township Senior American Idol.

Orsi started off the night with Frank Sinatra’s “Chicago,” continuing in the second round with “Georgia” by Ray Charles. In the final round, Orsi impressed the audience and judges with “Feeling Good” by Michael Bublé.

Contestants for the finals were chosen from a group of more than 25 people who sang a cappella during auditions in February.

2017 Miss Illinois Abby Foster, radio host Rich Renik from WCCQ, and entertainer James Libera participated as the celebrity judge panel. Author and motivational speaker Amy Logan served as emcee for the event.

“We really appreciate these talented seniors entertaining us for the evening with their renditions of some popular songs,” said Supervisor O’Grady. “The proceeds from this competition benefit the Orland Township Scholarship Foundation and we will be awarding 22 very deserving high school seniors with scholarship funds next month. I want to thank everyone who came out and supported their favorite singer and the scholarship foundation.”

The Orland Township Senior American Idol competition was held Thursday, May 3, 2018 at Georgios Banquets in Orland Hills.

Photo Caption

Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady (right) congratulates 2018 Orland Township Senior American Idol winner Phil Orsi. Also pictured is Orsi’s sister Sharon Nagy.