Bangor events give Mainers chance to bask in TV spotlight

Reality television isn’t all about finding your perfect mate, facing your fears, or trading spouses. Despite the argument I’ve heard many times that reality shows are all rubbish, I’ve found a perfect example to prove otherwise.

The real estate business is quickly becoming today’s stock market as people begin to realize just how much money can be made through property.

TLC’s “Property Ladder” host and veteran real estate investor Kirsten Kemp shows viewers how to “flip” properties and make a pretty penny. Flipping is the trendy term for purchasing a property, making renovations, and re-selling for a sometimes hefty profit.

“Property Ladder” follows flippers through the trials, tribulations, triumphs and tragedies of investing while Kemp gives advice and recommendations for a profitable outcome.

The show can be seen at 10 p.m. Saturdays on TLC.

And if you get hooked on that one, check out TLC’s other real estate production “Moving Up” with host Doug Wilson, best known for his design work on “Trading Spaces.” The show follows three families for six months as they move into a new home and begin making renovations.

“Moving Up” is on TLC on Saturdays at 8 p.m.

Want to become a reality star? I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t let you know about two upcoming reality TV events happening locally.

ABC’s “The Bachelor” is coming to the Sea Dog Banquet and Conference Center at 26 Front St. in Bangor for a casting event this weekend.

To audition for the part of America’s next bachelor or to become one of his eligible bachelorettes, stop by the Sea Dog between 2 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14.

You must be 21 or older to enter, and need to bring two recent photos of yourself – a full body and a head shot.

Contestants will be given one minute to say on video why they should be selected for Season 8 of “The Bachelor.”

Contestants also will have to complete a questionnaire, which can be found at www.wvii.com by clicking on “contest.”

Also, don’t miss Eastern Maine Idol 3 today at the J.C. Penney Court at the Bangor Mall hosted by Z107.3 and Fox 22 and sponsored by Burger King.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. with auditions running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. After the celebrity judge’s scores have been tallied, 10 finalists will return at 2 p.m. to compete in the finals.

One winner will be chosen from the judges’ assessment of the crowd’s reaction. The winner will receive round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations in Chicago, where they can try out for “American Idol” on Friday, Sept. 16. Travel arrangements will be provided by All About Travel of Bangor.

Official rules and entry forms can be found at www.wbzn-fm.com.