‘American Idol’ auditions at Eastwood Mall

NILES — With season 8 of “American Idol” in the books, it’s time to get ready for next year.

The popular Fox-TV singing competition will begin its annual nationwide search for contestants with local auditions in many cities.

In the Mahoning Valley, auditions will be at 3 p.m. June 25 at Eastwood Mall, according to John K. Amann, director of promotion for Youngstown’s Fox affiliate.

Registration will begin at 2 p.m. that day at the mall, and the order of auditions will be determined by a drawing of names. Contestants must be between age 16 and 28, and must bring a photo ID. For a complete list of rules, go to foxyoungstown.com and click on station events.

The winner will go to Orlando, Fla., on July 9 to audition for an “Idol” producer, and will also receive $400 for travel expenses.