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LOS ANGELES -- "Family Feud" and host John O'Hurley have upped the ante in the game show's new season, with a faster-paced opening, a new look and new prizes. But the sour economy has also boosted interest in the syndicated series as it marks its 30th anniversary, said executive producer Gaby Johnston. At packed tryouts held recently in five U.S. cities, families were candid about their need for help with mortgages, college and Christmas expenses and more, even in front of a crowd of other would-be contestants, she said. "They weren't afraid to tell me. And everybody started clapping when they said that," Johnston recalled, adding that the rooms were filled. In Phoenix, for example, more than 1,500 people were on hand. They said potential winnings, including the car that's been added as a prize, would be welcome, Johnston said. Some talked about being jobless. In the new, fast-paced "bull's-eye round" that opens the show, contestants have a chance to bank up to $30,000 before the main round of play begins.

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