I've said to every "American Idol" fan who asks: If - and when - Brooke White is eliminated from the singing competition, would she have a meltdown? (Read: Tears!)

YES!

It wasn't as bad tonight as I expected (though there were plenty of water works), but I credit that in large part to the show narrowing the bottom two to Brooke and Syesha Mercado with a half hour left before the elimination. Plenty of time to think, plenty of time to get weepy.

The three guys - Jason Castro, David Archuleta and David Cook - breezed to the next round in the first 20-24 minutes.

Still, there were several notable on-air moments beyond the elimination:

Host Ryan Seacrest addressed the whole Paula Abdul critique clunker from Tuesday night. (Note to "The View" hosts: When you toss out conspiracy theories and notions of sleep aids, be careful, especially when you don't have any cred to back them up. Ditto for MSNBC.)

Ryan defended Paula, saying: "Before we move on, the judges were thrown a curve ball last night, which happens on live TV. Today, it sparked rumors on-air and online about Paula. The rumors are not true. She's part of our family, and we love her."

In my opinion, "American Idol" - the show - doesn't need to resort to judging trickery to win ratings. What other show is even coming close? Let it go.

Anyway. There were performances by Natasha Bedingfield, who seems to have a fondness for David A. And there was this week's mentor, Neil Diamond, who sang "Pretty Amazing Grace," a cut off his upcoming CD. And hey, I'm not a big N.D. fan, but I actually liked this single.

Finally, there was a great on-air call from a woman named Tara Miller, 46, from Petaluma, whose question - in a noticeable Brit accent - was directed at Simon Cowell: "I kissed you in the garden when you were 9. Was it better kissing Paula?"

Simon, once convinced it truly was Tara from his childhood, admitted she was his "first kiss, his first crush," but was totally taken by surprise. Up until now, these questions were an excuse for me to start a load of laundry, but this one was worth holding off on gym clothes.

In case you're wondering, next Tuesday, the Final 4 will tackle the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. David C. must be salivating over that one. And rightly so.

My next challenge? Hoping Brooke holds it together for Thursday morning's Q&A/phone conference with "Idol" writers. Check back to 21Q for the interview after noon.

Well, this just in on the Paula Abdul/"American Idol" speak-before-you've-actually-heard-him-sing saga:

According to the New York Times, Paula (pictured in an Associated Press picture) admitted today what some "Idol” viewers have long suspected (and I knew but couldn't say after conversations with judge Simon Cowell and producer Nigel Lythgoe - so there):

"The show’s judges sometimes see portions of the dress rehearsal for the show and use that to help formulate their comments on the evening’s 'live' performance.

"The issue came to light on Wednesday as Abdul ... tried to explain comments
she made during Tuesday evening’s live broadcast, where she offered
a critique of a performance (by Jason Castro) that had not yet taken place."

The show's producers changed the normal competition format, asking the judges to wait to make final comments until after the Final 5 had performed both of their Neil Diamond songs.

What I believe threw Paula is that host Ryan Seacrest did jump in after the contestants had sung one song and asked the judges for an initial mini-critique - a first impression, if you will.

Paula obviously had already seen both of Jason's dress rehearsal performances and was prepared to comment on both. Think what you want, but I know for a fact it's usually just water in those "Coke" glasses. (Simon says.)

Check out my earlier blog.

Got room on your fashion calendar to squeeze in yet another show this Friday?

Well, if it helps, you've actually got two chances to check out the seventh annual American River College spring fashion show, titled "Lights...Camera...Fashion." It's produced as a joint effort by the ARC Fashion Collection and Fashion Promotion classes.

The collection class creates all of the fashions; the promotion class produces the show. About 15 designers will debut their pieces, some for the first time. One of those students is Jesus Medrano, who will show his "GEE!SUS LOVE" collection.

Local salons will help with hair and makeup.

Show times are 11 a.m. (free) and 7 p.m. ($5) at the ARC cafeteria, 4700 College Oak Drive. For more information: (916) 484-8011.

Fox

Well, there's an hour I'll never get back, though I did get a couple loads of laundry done. Tuesday night's "American Idol" competition featured the Final 5 singing the Neil Diamond songbook.

Ugh!

With the exception of a couple of croonings, I would have preferred another week of Andrew Lloyd Webber. And no one warned viewers ahead of time that the five contestants would sing two songs.

In fact, even judge Paula Abdul was so befuddled by the format - sing two songs, with a quick critique in between, before being judged - that she gave feedback on poor Jason Castro's two songs when he had only performed one.

In case you've been in a cave somewhere and haven't heard or seen all the other blogs, Paula said she was confused with her stack of notes and that changes to the judging process had been made at the last moment. After muttering something about having to "write things down so fast," Paula still went on to talk about Jason's two songs, saying "you're not fighting hard enough to get into the top four."

That's when judge Randy Jackson leaned over and whispered only one song had been song so far by the five contestants. It was basically an on-air bungle that left judge Simon Cowell uttering - at the hour's end - "This was officially the strangest show we've ever done!"

Anyway, back to the show: Diamond, who just so happens to have an album coming out next Tuesday, said "for me, to turn my music over to someone else, I like it."

Wonder if he feels the same after Tuesday night's performances?

* Jason Castro: He sang "Forever in Blue Jeans" and "September Morn," both of which sounded exactly the same. No change in tempo - or temperament. Yes, he looks good on camera, but it's almost like he wants to go home and take a nap.

Simon was, as usual, the harshest, saying: "We don't recognize you. There was no intent to make the arrangements your own. You'll look back at tonight and say 'I don't know who this person is.' "

* David Cook: He sang "I'm Alive" and "All I Really Need is You," two Diamond songs that probably were the least recognizable. No matter. David did his own thing - again - with the arrangements and his vocals.

Paula said he pulled it off. "I feel like I'm looking at the 'American Idol.' " Simon called the second song "brilliant," adding that it felt like it could have been written this year.

* Brooke White: She sang "I'm a Believer" (with guitar) and "I Am, I Said" (with piano). I'm sure everyone, especially me, loathed the first song. I would have rather heard the version from "Shrek" - or even the one by the Monkees.

Randy thought Brooke was vulnerable - not as in being eliminated, but he definitely prefered the second song. Simon really "hated" "I'm a Believer," calling it girls' night out at karaoke. "Your second song is the Brooke we like, at the piano."

* David Archuleta (pictured): He sang "Sweet Caroline" (which Carly Smithson said she would have sung had she not been eliminated last week) and "America" (which I assumed would have been the group offering tonight). Sorry fans, I was a little bored, but the judges can't get enough of this teen heartthrob.

Paula thought the second song was the perfect choice. Simon said it was a clever choice. "You ticked all the right boxes - check, check, check!"

* Syesha Mercado: She sang "Hello Again" and "Thank the Lord for the Night Time." With each week that Syesha survives, it's more evident this finalist is definitely Broadway bound.

Randy agrees with me about the play/theater thing. And Simon added she had the actress/singer thing down. However, he didn't think she had a memorable second song. "You may be in trouble tonight," he uttered.

I know I sound like a big David Cook fan. But, hey, I am! In fact, when all is said and done, I plan to download all his songs and put them on a CD.

Anyway, predictions: Dialidol.com disagrees with Simon, with Syesha and David C. safe and Brooke and Jason in the bottom two, with David A. in the middle. Most viewers I talk to - every week - say Jason will go and yet he's safe. Can you say strong fan base?

The live results show is at 9 tonight (on Fox40).

Time for another installment of "Where in the World is...?" A reader e-mailed inquiring on the whereabouts of Fox40 Morning News reporter Kye Martin.

Seems like Martin's been MIA for a few months now, although a Google search of her name still turns up a bio on Fox40's Web site.

In actuality, Martin left Fox40 (KTXL) earlier this year, but someone forgot to tell the Internet.

Fox40 news director Tom Burke, for one, was surprised that the reporter's bio page was still on the station's site.

"That's still on there?" Burke says of the errant page. "It lives!"

While the IT guys scurry to fix that little detail, here's the dish: Martin left the station in January to move to Chicago to be with her fiance.

"We were disappointed that she left - we thought the world of her," Burke says. "She was exactly the kind of reporter you wanted for a morning show - quick turnaround and quick energy."

Speaking of Fox40 (and we were - stay with me now), tonight, the station is launching a new six-part series examining the complexity of mother-daughter relationships.

"Mothers and Daughters: The Joys and Tears" will air Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 10:15 p.m. through May 14.

Topics include body image, boys, teen privacy and my personal favorite: "I'm turning into my mother!"

"We'll be looking at these issues and conflicts, talking to local moms and daughters," Burke says.

It's just in time, of course, to capitalize on Mother's Day (May 11, FYI), and the latest Miley Cyrus scandal.

Actually, Burke says, the series is a natural fit with Fox40's regular Tuesday/ Wednesday night programming, which, of course, includes "American Idol."

"We have a phenomenal amount of viewers - women and teen (girls) - watching Fox40 on those nights," Burke says. "(During those time slots), our share on the 18-49 female demographic is through the roof."

I missed Week One, but now I'm up to speed on The Park Ultra Lounge's Thursday night fashion shows, titled Spring Fashion Series. The shows pair fashion collections from local boutiques with fab hairdos from local salons.

The inaugual show last Thursday featured Krazy Mary's and Sugar Shack boutiques paired with Spanish Fly salon.

This Thursday? It's the "Wear Your Jeans Out" event starring the best in denim from Dara Denim boutique and amazing hairstyles from Mosaic Salon, both in midtown. Each show selects its own DJ and theme music, by the way, where necessary.

I spoke with Mosaic owner J.C. Allen last week and she promises the boutique, owned by Jessica Horton, and the salon will "work it" Thursday night.

"Jessica and I are really looking to make this a memorable, fun night," she says in a subsequent e-mail. The rock 'n' roll feel of the jeans will be emphasized with a live performance by Sin City Angels . J.C. adds that models from Cast Images will first walk out with "a more controlled, daytime look, and then be transformed for that wild night out - while still sporting their daytime denim."

The Spring Fashion Series will continue through June 5. Other shows will include Six Degrees Boutique/Salon 701 and Serendipity Boutique/Sassy Salon.

For a complete list and other details, click here. FYI: Doors open at 9 p.m. for attendees 21 and over. The shows usually get under way around 10. The Park Ultra Lounge is at 15th and L streets.

Even though I wasn't in love with the movie, it warmed my heart to hear "Baby Mama" won the box-office battle over the weekend. It's nice to see a Hollywood film headlined by two ladies succeed.

This means Tina Fey and Amy Poehler , exceptional comic talents apart or together, get to make more movies. And Hollywood in general will be more receptive to women-headlined films.

The box office take for "Baby Mama" also bodes well for the May 30 opening of "Sex and the City," the closest thing to a blockbuster for women in the summer movie season. Women filmgoers obviously are hungry for entertaining movies aimed at them, and they're coming out on opening weekend to show it.

Another thing: Finally, the box office victory for "Baby Mama" over "Harold & Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay" proves this theory of mine: Stoners can't be counted on to support a movie on opening weekend. They like it better on the couch, which is why the first "Harold & Kumar" didn't become a hit until it reached DVD.

Sacramento's Univision affiliate today expanded its weekday morning news show, boosting "A Primera Hora" from one hour to two. Here's how it'll work: Previously, "Primera" aired from 6 to 7 a.m. on Channel 19 (KUVS); now viewers can tune in for an extra hour - from 7 to 8 a.m. - on sister station TeleFutura 64 (KTFK).

The second hour features "Primera" anchors Maribel Lopez, Gustavo Ortiz and Viviana Paez.

"This is a way for Univision to get local news on KTFK," says
Univision spokeswoman Kristie Gong.

In addition, Univision is rebroadcasting "Voz y Voto" - a locally produced political-topics show that airs at 11 a.m. Saturdays on Channel 19 - at 7:30 a.m. Sundays on TeleFutura 64.

Lucio Montana

The inaugural Sacramento Fashion Week, presented by Magnum Opus, concluded Friday night at the Tsakopoulos Library Galleria downtown with the full see-and-be-seen parade.

From my floor-level vantage point, the place was certainly packed, with quite a few folks watching from the library's balcony. No doubt the whole event owes a huge "thank you" to Grace Ballesteros for pretty much organizing the entire thing - much of it on her own time.

And, as with any first-time endeavor, there are always a few missteps: signs that won't stay put, microphones that crackle and, for lack of a better term, the occasional "performance" that seemed, well, out of place.

For example, I'm still trying to figure out why the fashion show featured a beauty pageant parade, which showcased Miss India America. Honestly, and with no disrespect, I've never heard of such a title. Fashion shows should first and foremost be about the local designers and their collections. Killing time before the first model hits the runway usually results in people sitting around talking to each other - or digging through goody bags.

Overall, however, the event was yet another big step in showcasing local designers whose efforts definitely should be recognized and appreciated.

Eight collections, broken into two parts, were featured. Of the first four designers, Preston Doh's Lucio Montana menswear (pictured) was a huge hit. Hands down. Why? Because you can always get lovely women's clothing. It's the rare show that features an entire men's collection that works from the first casual outfit to the show-ending tux.

Doh, originally from Malaysia, studied fashion design in Florence, Italy, and his impeccable tailoring was evident in every piece, especially the detailing on his men's pants and jackets. A flawless show.

I also mentally pulled out designer Nancy Wong's long-sleeve, full-length dove gray hoodie dress. Wong designs several collections, all under the Pegasus Maiden label. And, certainly Dee Aguilar's stretchy fitted dresses with multi-colored insets were comfy and cute. (Most folks would probably be able to pull off the look with about four inches of fabric added to the hemline.)

The show's finale featured the work of husband/wife team Michael and Sanea Sommerfield, who own Miosa Couture on Sacramento's J Street. They can add the word "couture," which defines a garment that goes above and beyond in terms of detail, fabric, hand-sewing, etc. Their gowns are red-carpet-ready, but most likely area residents know the Sommerfields for their exquisite wedding gowns, which closed their show.

My favorite? (And I'm not sure it's for a wedding): the white Swiss dot fitted dress that reminded me of Audrey Hepburn's wedding dress in "Funny Face." The model did the numerous layers of filmy fabric justice by twirling as she reached the end of the runway. What set the dress off was a beautiful fuschia bow at the waist.

Meanwhile, the other runway presentations were a mix of spring/summer looks that ranged from whimsical to practical.

My biggest gripe? The shoes! There's no getting around not looking at a model's feet when she hits the runway. And it appeared quite a few of the models Friday night were wearing their own version of a black something: pump, sandal, etc. Some were scuffed up. Others just didn't work with the outfits.

There are so many local shoe boutiques that probably would be willing to donate pairs that could be shared. I know going barefoot defeats the whole runway "walk" thing, but don't let mismatched shoes ruin a great outfit.

Wondering what to see this weekend?

In today's Weekend Ticket, I review movies opening this week. But if you're interested in other options, here are my recommendations for recently released films:

Forgetting Sarah Marshall
3 stars
Jason Segel, featured on Judd Apatow''s TV show "Freaks & Geeks" and on the current "How I Met Your Mother," isn't a gorgeous guy. But compared with other actors from the Apatow gang who've been paired with beautiful women, he's freakin' Cary Grant. (Geekin' Cary Grant?) And a smidge Diane Keaton, as well. As a bumbling dumpee who bursts out crying and replays sweet moments with Sarah in his head, Segel seems so vulnerable that anyone with a heart will identify.
Rated R

Shine a Light
3 stars
Mick Jagger dominates this Rolling Stones concert film, of course. Whatever creak might have entered his strut hardly matters when his enthusiasm remains so fervent and his body so fit at age 63 (when the movie was shot). The guy rarely stops moving. Or emoting. So much of his performance is about his movements and expressions when he's not singing.
Rated PG-13

Under the Same Moon
3 stars
Adrian Alonso, who played Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones' son in "The Legend of Zorro," is an exceptional young talent. He brings a mature presence to Carlitos, a boy who crosses the Mexican border into the United States in search of his mother. Plus, he's as cute as all get-out.
Rated PG-13

Fox

Here's a big shoutout to my friend "Just Jules" of another great blog, "Just Jules and Your Average Joe."

Jules - or Julie - is a fashion fiend like me, and she beat me to the punch on a great bit of news. (Gotta give credit where credit is due.)

Seems the dress that ousted "American Idol" contestant Carly Smithson (pictured) wore during last week's competition can be purchased locally at Blush Boutique, 2317 J St.

(I agreed with judge Randy Jackson that the dress was great, by the say. In a conference call Thursday, Carly said she bought it at Century City Mall, but couldn't remember the designer.)

So, good job hunting, Julie!

It's a paisley print dress by designer Phillip Lim, made of 100 percent silk with beading and embroidery. The price? A mere $675. (That tells me the shopping budget for "Idol" clothes is bigger - a lot bigger - than my own!)

For those who don't live near midtown, the dress can be ordered online. Just click here.

On Thursday night, the elegant Elks Tower in downtown Sacramento was the setting for WEAVE's inaugural Jeans for Justice fashion show, which wowed a packed crowd of more than 300, who enjoyed great food, drink - and multiple runway events.

The first show featured models showing off great spring/summer fashions from local boutiques, including Blush Boutique, Sugar Shack, Felicia Strati, Olipom, DV8 Boutique and Krazy Mary's Boutique.

Another show - and my personal fave - featured "Community Couture Models," and, man oh man, did they strut their stuff! There was Judge Morrison England, a member of the U.S. District Court, who walked the walk minus his robe. We saw State Assemblywoman Nicole Parra and Dennis Mangers of the California Cable & Telecommunications Association.

And, with her major theatrical expertise put to the runway, Anne-Marie Petrie - wife of Geoff - was a major hit.

I had the honor of being one of the four judges for the Student Designer's Scholarship portion of the show. Fashion design students from throughout the region submitted sketches and an essay to take part, and finalists were chosen based on their fashionable integration of denim.

The finalists were Elise Richleri and Dana Smith, both design students at UC Davis.

The winner, after the student runway show?

Elise, whose "Shock and Question" collection (sketches pictured) connected the history of denim to breaking the cycle of abuse against women. For her efforts, she received a $5,000 scholarship from Wells Fargo.

(Both designers were terrific, and, in my humble opinion, created collections that could have walked off the runway and out on to J Street.)

I caught up with WEAVE spokesperson Angela D'Arcy today, and she gave me the good news that, with proceeds from tickets, a live auction (hosted by actor Jason Hervey - "The Wonder Years"), a raffle and corporate sponsorships, WEAVE raised more than $80,000.

Several alert local news watchers have e-mailed me in the last week to inquire on the whereabouts of Channel 3's John Hamilton.

Seems that KCRA's veteran LiveCopter pilot has been MIA recently, away from his usual gig alongside Dann Shively.

And unlike the also-absent KCRA meteorologist Eileen Javora, currently at home recuperating from a broken arm, it doesn't sound like he's coming back.

That's because Channel 3 news director Anzio Williams confirms that Hamilton left KCRA two weeks ago. Williams declined to give a reason, instead directing questions to Hamilton, who also runs his own helicopter service.

Calls to Hamilton by 21Q, however, have so far gone unanswered.

So there's your answer - kind of. Stay tuned.

Fox

In the three+ seasons I've covered "American Idol," I've yet to hear anyone so elated to leave at No. 6 as contestant Carly Smithson (pictured with Syesha Mercado) apparently is.

Certainly, while most of the contestants have either been stunned, are still in shock or plain old sleep-deprived, Carly was euphoric - excited about having a couple of weeks off to be with her husband, go to the beach, hang out in the kitchen, and, for once, not having to sing something themed - during a phone conference today with reporters.

Here's some of what she had to say:

Q: Last night, it looked like you took being voted off quite well. Were you surprised to be in the bottom 2 and then leave?
A: I think at this stage, everybody was thinking they could go home. But I'm not that sad I’m leaving. I'll be back in two weeks to prepare for the tour and the finale. Being anywhere after Top 10 is a bonus. I believe I made enough of an impact to reach a fan base and make a cool record.

Q: You made a reference after last night's performance of "Jesus Christ Superstar" that you remembered the words. Did you forget them on Tuesday?
A: That song was last-minute. I had already learned "All I Ask of You" and then I changed the song choice after meeting Andrew Lloyd Webber. Yes, I fumbled on some of the lyrics. But, last night, I got them all right!

Q: How did you feel about the mentors you worked with on "American Idol"?
A: Andrew Lloyd Webber is so incredible. Actually, I'm not sure Broadway was challenging to any of us. There's such a vast amount of music from the Lloyd Webber catalog. Mariah Carey - it was a hard week for everybody. But she was so cool, normal and nice. I come from a bar. I didn’t know how a star was supposed to act.

Dolly Parton has such a positive outlook on everything. The room just lights up when she walks in. The whole experience was really cool. But, honestly, I'll be glad when I can sing my own songs.

Q: What did you feel about the notion that this season is becoming a popularity contest?
A: I agree a little bit. Contestants accumulate a fan base...Women really vote for this show, they vote for the boys. Why not? They’re charming and adorable! The girls had more of a struggle trying to get the popular vote.

Q: What about David (Archuleta) vs. David (Cook) in the finale?
A: It's anyone’s game. People have their favorites already. (Jason) Castro could look into the camera, bat his eyelids and go into his amazing falsetto; Brooke (White) could melt your heart. Nobody saw Michael (Johns) or Amanda (Overmyer) going home. There still could be another shocker.

Q: Of all the contestants, you seem to have the most unique fashion sense, even though Simon Cowell came after you on your style. Your thoughts?
A: I loved my dress last night, which I got at Century City Mall. I'm tattooed, so dainty wear doesn't exactly work for me. Every week, I wanted to stand out more. I know what Simon thought, but I wouldn't change anything I wore. I loved the blue dress for "Come Together."

I do need to clarify the tattoo on my arm. It's a geisha, not Amy Winehouse! I had it before she even came out. It's not not colored in because I haven't had the time. It bothered me (on the show) that it wasn't finished.

Q: What have you learned?
A: The show is amazing. It's such a huge platform to launch yourself off of. I might have been a little more upset had I been eliminated earlier. But now, I get a gift of two weeks to spend with my family. I'm excited to start writing songs. I'm looking forward to going home.

As for me, I won't change as a person. I'll go to the beach. Hey, I miss my pots and pans. I'm a kitchen gadget nut.

Note to you: The sked for this summer's "American Idols Live" tour has been set. It kicks off July 1 in Glendale, Ariz., and reaches Sacramento's Arco Arena on July 9. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m May 17. For more, click here, or check out my fellow 21Q blogger, Rachel Leibrock's, item below.

Poor Carly Smithson (pictured, photo courtesy of Fox) got the boot Wednesday night on "American Idol," but at least the Irish rocker can take comfort knowing she'll be part of this summer's American Idols Live tour.

Which, by the way, is scheduled to hit July 9 at Arco Arena.

In addition to Smithson, this year's talent show lineup features current contestants Brooke White, David Archuleta, David Cook, Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado.

Also on the bill: Ousted singers Chikezie, Kristy Lee Cook, Michael Johns and Ramiele Malubay.

Tickets go on sale May 17 - stay tuned for more details or visit tour.americanidol.com.

OK, so are the more than 38 million fans who voted this week picking a prom king/queen or the next "American Idol?"

If it's all the same to you, I'd like to see a contestant win who actually can cut an album, win awards and WOW a year later. (Read: Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.)

And I'm not saying Irish lass Carly Smithson isn't all that. But, geez, I don't think she deserved to be eliminated this week - with pseudo-suited Jason Castro and lyrically lost Brooke White still left standing.

Tonight's results show shrunk the bottom from three to two (Carly and Syesha Mercado - are you kidding me?)

They performed their respective Andrew Lloyd Webber songs from Tuesday night's competition. And, actually, Carly seemed more resolved to her elimination than, say, Brooke might have been.

"I've had doors closed in my face before," she said during her exit video. "But I feel like I've won already."

The two "Davids" (Cook and Archuleta) were the first to be declared safe. And I loved what David C. had to say about his rendition of "Music of the Night:"

"What's more unpredictable than doing a song the way it was written?"

Brooke likely earned the "human" vote because her lapse in lyrics Tuesday night was, well, human. That, according to judge Simon Cowell. (Said Lloyd Webber, who accompanied the six finalists Wednesday on a group version of "All I Ask of You" ("Phantom of the Opera"), of Brooke's bumble:
"Losing your way, it happens to the best people. ... She's a very talented girl. In her dress rehearsal, she was flawless.")

Lloyd Webber even offered his poignant thoughts on a possible parting song for Paula and Simon (if ever the day comes): "Time To Say Goodbye" or "How Can I Say I Miss You If You Won't Go Away."

Now, here's one Brit with a sense of humor!

Next week, mentor Neil Diamond will set the stage for the Final 5 "Idol" contestants.

OK, so I admit I won't allow Neil anywhere near my iPod. That doesn't preclude Jason from tackling "Holly Holy."

Heaven help us!

FYI: Check back to 21Q on Thursday for a Q&A that I take part in with Carly, plus details about this summer's "American Idol" tour. Sacramento's a usual stop!

While timing is key in most endeavors, having talent and a positive attitude doesn’t hurt.

Maurice Whitfield had it all going for him when he caught Scott Eckern’s eye at a California Musical Theatre audition. Eckern is the CMT artistic director, and when looking for Music Circus actors, he auditions over a thousand performers every year at calls in New York, Los Angeles and Sacramento.

Anyway, Whitfield is from Durham, N.C., but he’s been spending the past year in Sacramento as an intern at the B Street Theatre. He's the first B Street intern to move directly from its professional training program to the Music Circus.

Eckern says he was looking for a bass and liked what he heard from Whitfield. Whitfield’s audition piece was a contemporary song from composer-lyricist Michael John LaChiusa’s “The Wild Party.”

Eckern asked if the 23-year-old actor had anything with a more classic sound, so Whitfield then came back with “Ol' Man River,” which is about as classic as it gets. Though Eckern was looking primarily for a singer, he also asked Whitfield to try a couple of dance combinations.

“He was very game for every thing I threw at him,” Eckern says. “Plus, he’s a fine singer in the range I needed so I hired him.”

Eckern will have 16 ensemble members on hand this summer - eight men and eight women. Whitfield will work in “Sweeney Todd” and “Evita.”

This past year for B Street, he's also appeared in “Gold Country Tales” for B Street Theatre School Tours, and on the main stage, the world premiere of Buck Busfield’s “Make Someone Happy” (pictured).

He’ll also be seen in the upcoming intern showcase, “Seven Ten Split,” which will encompass seven 10-minute plays specifically written for the seven graduating interns. The show will run May 17–June 1.

Are you good at cleaning up messes?

Well, Tangles Aveda Salon Spa in Davis is on the lookout for sponsors for its Clean Team, which will take part in a beach cleanup May 4 at Folsom Lake.

Consider the project a mini-extension of Earth Day - call it Earth Month. So says Tangles owner John Hausler.

Tangles is joining forces with the Surfrider Foundation to clean up the beach with other Aveda salons in the area. Hausler writes via e-mail that he hopes Tangles alone will raise $2,000 at the event.

(Meanwhile, Tangles will donate all proceeds from sales of Aveda Earth Month candles to water-related projects of Global Greengrants, which I mentioned earlier this month in an article
in Scene.)

For more info on the cleanup: (530) 759- 0795.

Here's some real, er, breaking news:

If you're wondering why Channel 3's Eileen Javora's gone missing, rest assured - the KCRA meteorologist is still with the station. Javora (pictured, courtesy of KCRA) is just enjoying the cool spring weather from the comfort of her home.

Reason: Javora broke her arm.

Ouch.

No, it wasn't an on-the-job injury. Reporting on the weather can be dangerous, but not usually in that way - unless, of course, you're Anderson Cooper.

"She was playing around with some friends and broke her arm - now she's in recovery," explains Channel 3 news director Anzio Williams.

"We're not really sure when she'll be back, but she will be back."

Money's tight these days, but if you have a couple of bucks to spare, consider sending them to Davis.

More specifically, to UC Davis' college radio station KDVS 90.3, which is hosting its annual on-air fundraiser through Sunday. Monies raised will go toward station costs and operations.

You can pledge as little or as much as you like and, in return, snag cool goodies such as T-shirts and music. A $100 pledge will get you the chance to host your own hour-long radio show - finally, the chance to subject the world to show off your awesome music knowledge and tastes.

Tune into 90.3 on the FM dial for more info, call (530) 754-5387 or (888) 654-6294. Or kick it new school by clicking here.

Fox

The way I sum up Tuesday night's "American Idol" competition is like this: It was like a great pair of bookends - strong at the beginning and at the end of the show. But the books fell off the shelf in between.

The Final 6 contestants performed songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber (who was in the audience) - a difficult assignment because it was set to take most of them out of their comfort zone. (It was easy to tell that judge Simon Cowell has as much interest in Broadway in New York as Broadway in Sacramento.)

But, I digress. In my opinion, the show's best two performances started with Syesha Mercado (pictured) and ended with David Cook. Period. The other four were, with all due respect to Christian Siriano ("Project Runway"), a "hot mess."

Lloyd Webber met with the contestants at the Venetian hotel in Las Vegas, where he's overseeing yet another production of "Phantom of the Opera." Earlier stories making the rounds had it that the composer was wiped out after working with the Final 6, but he gave them great pointers, even urging Carly Smithson to change her song choice.

Syesha's sexy (Simon's words), fast-paced "One Rock & Roll Too Many" ("Starlight Express") was great. Judge Randy Jackson thought Syesha definitely could be "a Broadway star." For sure, she's picked up her game, gaining confidence with every week.

That's in sharp contrast to Brooke White, who was supposed to evoke utter sadness with her "You Must Love Me" (from "Evita"). I was stunned when Brooke "lost the lyric" at the beginning of the song and asked to start over.

From that point on, it was only a matter of a few bars before Brooke completely fell apart. Again, indicative of how much her confidence has failed her as the competition continues.

Perpetually sunny judge Paula Abdul actually chastised Brooke, saying you "must never start and stop. You just have to pick up the pieces."

Moving on - I loved Lloyd Webber's comment that "I never thought I'd see a man singing 'Memory' with dreadlocks." Working with Jason Castro, you could tell the composer was uncertain what he would hear Tuesday night. (Jason admitted he didn't know "Cats" actually featured "cats" on stage.) Anyway, it was just OK, really. Simon said it had to be the longest two minutes of both their lives. "It was like a young guy being forced by his mom and dad to sing that song at a wedding. It was miserable throughout. Not your style of music."

David Archuleta probably had his weakest performance of the season, singing "Think of Me" (from "Phantom of the Opera"). For "Idol" fans, remember when David had the habit of licking his lips when he sang? He broke that one, and Lloyd Webber got him to break another habit: closing his eyes during a performance.

Randy said he thought David A. (at this point in the evening) was the "boy to beat."

Not so fast, dawg!

Next to last was Carly with a very shrilly rendition of "Jesus Christ Superstar" (from the show of the same name). Yes, she still has that big voice and, yes, it held up better than some of the others, i.e., Brooke and Jason. Simon said it was one his favorite performances of the night, to which Carly grabbed a T-shirt that read: "Simon Loves Me (this week)." Cute.

The finale was David Cook singing "Music of the Night" (also from "Phantom of the Opera"). I had chills from the first couple notes. As with every song he's performed, David put his own spin on this bold choice. From Randy: "I've said it before, dude - that was an amazing vocal performance." Simon still prefers David C.'s "gritty" side, but clearly, he's pulling away from the other contestants, even from David A. - with the "Idol" finale a scant four weeks from tonight.

That brings up another important note: Today is the last day to vote in the "American Idol" songwriting contest. Don't forget, we have a local guy - Ryan Gilmoor - who definitely has a shot at winning and having his song, "In This Moment," performed by the "Idol" winner.

To hear Ryan's song, click here and go to the "Show Guide" pull-down menu. The songs aren't listed by artist, but as you go through them, the titles will pop up.

Predictiions for tonight's live results show (at 9 on Fox40): Carly, Brooke and Jason in the bottom 3 (if they even have a "three").

Just in case today's Coming Distractions column wasn't jam-packed enough for your sonic likings, here are a few more shows that just hit my desk this morning:

First up, the California State Fair folks have announced this summer's concert line-up. The fair runs Aug. 15-Sept. 1 and those set to take the stage include Weird Al Yankovic (Aug. 18), "High School Musical" star Vanessa Hudgens (pictured, Aug. 22), and Grand Funk Railroad (Aug. 29).

Concert admission is free with the price of State Fair admission. You can, however, also snap up special reserved "Gold Circle" seats. All tickets (including general admission tix) go on sale May 1 through Tickets.com.

For more details, check out my colleague Bruce Dancis' story.

Then, when summer's over (well, in the datebook at least, if not in regards to temperature), mark your calendar for the big Music Builds concert, Sept. 28 at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre.

The Christian rock show features Jars of Clay, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Switchfoot and Third Day. Stay tuned for ticket info.

So, I was listening to my new BFFs, Armstrong & Getty, this morning and the duo was talking up politics (yeah, that's right - politics) in regard to the Obama-Clinton race.

Specifically, they were discussing the way the rival Democrats have been courting the "regular guy" vote by quaffing regional drinks of choice. You know, Clinton and the now-infamous Crown Royal shot-heard-round-the-world, for example.

Anyway, Armstrong brings up Obama's March 28 trip to Johnston, Pa., during which Obama took a swig of the local drink of choice.

"There was a widely distributed picture of Barack Obama chugging a Yuengling brew?" Armstrong says, sounding mystified by the, uh, exotic-sounding beer. "Is that like a local Pennsylvania microbrew - Y-E-U-N-G-L-I-N-G? Yeungling? Or is that a Muslim thing?"

Although Armstrong's remark elicited an appreciative cackle from Getty, all I can say is:

Dude.

C'mon guys, we all know you pride yourselves on just how low you rank on the political correctness meter (I've long learned to just roll my eyes at all your anti-feminist remarks), but, seriously, "Or is that a Muslim thing?" Stupid, offensive, immature and definitely not cool.

Listen for yourself here.

Just as we're all taken over by growing concerns of a recession, the NPD Group, which tracks consumer spending (and is one of my most reliable fashion sources), has released its second "Fast Checks Study."

The bad news, according to NPD is: In just two months, consumers who said we're heading toward a recession or economic slowdown grew from 79 percent to 84 percent.

As a result, "they're beginning to throttle back (on spending)" Marshal Cohen, the chief industry analyst, says in an e-mail.

The industries most likely to feel the spending pinch? Dining out, home entertainment and - oh no! - apparel. (Does that mean those new Kenneth Cole shoes I just bought have to go back?)

However, I want my retail friends to take heart: Even though 42 percent of the survey folks say they'll use their government-rebate checks to pay down bills, Cohen has an afterthought.

"Again, this could be good news," he says. "If consumers pay off their debts right when they get their checks, the next month they will be out shopping again."

Meanwhile, what are consumers not putting the spending brakes on? Toys, video games and home improvement. (Can't let Johnny go without that latest version of "Guitar Hero"!)

There’s good news and bad news coming out of SHN regarding its 2008-09 Best of Broadway season in San Francisco. The company has announced a “sit-down, open-ended engagement” of “Wicked” beginning in late January 2009 at the Orpheum Theatre. Meaning the uber-hit musical will be just 90 minutes down the road for the forseeable future.

That’s the good news - but also the bad for Sacramento. Because it probably pushes any potential Sacramento dates for the phenomenally successful show back to 2010, according to Richard Lewis, executive producer of California Musical Theatre and Broadway Sacramento.

Lewis was hoping to get “Wicked” in 2009 and still could - but now, he’s not as hopeful.

“Wicked” had its world premeire in San Francisco at the Curran Theatre on May 28, 2003, before moving to Broadway and opening at the Gershwin Theatre on Oct. 30, 2003. It has been virtually sold out since, reigning as Broadway’s highest-grossing show.

The musical recently set records for the highest one-week box office take in each of its four North American markets: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and the National Tour.

And early next year, you, too, can check out how the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch got to be that way. You’ll just have to do it in San Francisco.

Wondering what to see this weekend?

In today's Weekend Ticket, I review movies opening this week. But if you're interested in other options, here are my recommendations for recently released films:

Leatherheads
2 1/2 stars
The pacing is too sluggish in general, but George Clooney and Renee Zellweger are delightful. They sparkle and banter and achieve, at moments, the screwball quality that Clooney (also the director) is reaching for.
Rated PG-13

Nim's Island
3 stars
The sight of Jodie Foster fussing and flummoxing keeps things interesting. She also shares nice chemistry with Gerard Butler in scenes where her author character squares off with the fictional adventurer she created. This alter ego/subconscious pushes the author to get past her fears and help a kid (Abigail Breslin) in trouble.
Rated PG

Shine a Light
3 stars
Directed with a light artistic hand by Martin Scorsese, this Rolling Stones concert film juxtaposes Mick Jagger's perfectionist tendencies with Keith Richards's perpetual and irresistible juvenile delinquency. Adding backstage snippets and archival footage to the mix, Scorsese underscores how the Jagger-Richards merger of professionalism and rock 'n' roll lawlessness continues to fuel one of the world's greatest bands.
Rated PG-13

The reviews are in. Following up on the item I posted Monday about Faith Prince, the lapsed Broadway star moonlighting as a “Sacramento stay-at-home mom,” reviews of her latest New York outing in "A Catered Affair," were published this morning. And as they often are, the opinions are mixed.

Actually, the opinions are fairly consistent from the two writers I trust and read the most consistently, Ben Brantley of the New York Times and Linda Winer of Newsday.

The show itself is mixed, which is how it usually goes. A show is rarely just one thing (as in all good or all bad) - there are levels of what works and what doesn’t.

For the most part, the performers (including our Faith) are thought to have done well - it’s the dour story and lack of engaging songs that disappointed the critics. Hopefully, they can still get a nice run for the show, especially considering it has additional Sacramento roots.

The associate director of “A Catered Affair” is Adam John Hunter, a Sac native who went through the Sac High VAPAC program and attended UC Davis. Hunter has been working professionally since 2005 with the acclaimed British director John Doyle, and recently he was bumped up from stage manager on “Sweeney Todd” to the associate director position for “Company” and now “A Catered Affair.”
Adam also writes to say that Geoff Vaughn, the scenic automation programmer on the show was the technical director at Sac High when he was there.
There are photos of both Hunter and Prince on Harvey Fierstien’s blog about the production; click here.

By the way, the reason the reviews come out the day after the show opens is that critics have been seeing press previews for the last couple of weeks and they hold the story until the day after the opening.

It's hard to believe CBS is toting out a 10th season of its can-we-all-get-along? reality show "Big Brother."

The real question is, do you think you have what it takes to be manipulative, back-stabbing, sweet, honorable, evil and wear the same T-shirt over and over and over - for as long as a month - until you get evicted or win $500,000?

Oh yeah - all the while, locked up in a house with people you might feel major disdain for?

If so, and you're 21 or older, the show, in conjunction with CBS13, will be holding a casting call from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Jackson Rancheria Hotel's Grand Oak Ballroom in Jackson.

Hey, great opportunity to jump into a hot tub with a buncha perfect strangers!

The casting call does require you to bring two forms of ID. For more information and directions to the casino, click here.

Fox

Kristy Lee Cook (pictured), 24, doesn't want to go home to Selma, Ore. And, no, she won't get her horse back - see my posting below. (The buyer has grown too attached to him.)

But, life will go on for the sixth (of the Top 12) eliminated finalist. But, don't cry for her. The "Idol" tour awaits Kristy Lee - and some very exciting personal news.

In a conference call with "Idol" writers this morning, she talks about her experiences on the show and what's ahead. Here's some of what she said:

Q: It felt like you were getting used to being in the bottom three (not last week). How tough was that, especially with the twists last night?
A: I thought about being there all the time! But I built up a stamina for it. I learned to control the emotions, especially this last time because it was so nerve-wracking. We didn’t know how they were doing it. I was standing with David Cook at one point, but I didn’t know if we were safe. David Archuleta was still in the back. It was definitely a shock to go home so soon. I wanted to make the Top 5. Brooke (White) is still in the competition, and I'm really happy for her.

Q: Do you think you proved Simon wrong by lasting as long as you did?
A: I was struggling the first three weeks from being sick. I outlasted (the criticism) because I was getting into a comfort zone - getting stronger and singing songs I was comfortable with. He saw that.

Q: You were making improvements. Does that make it tougher to leave?
A: Yes. I was kind of upset because I went at this stage of the competition. I thought "Forever" was my best performance, especially the vocals. The band loved it. I think I really connected with the song. And I definitely thought I had another week in me.

Q: Who are your Top 3 at this point on the show?
A: I don’t have three contestants in mind. The show proved to me it’s anybody’s playing field, especially with Michael Johns leaving last week. All of them have a unique sound and tons of talent.

Q: Next week the mentor will be Andrew Lloyd Webber. Had you picked out your song should you have stayed?
A: "Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina." It was going to be a good one.

Q: We understand you received an incredibly romantic gesture from your fiance last night. Can you tell us about him and your plans?
A: His name is Andy. And yes, he proposed to me - again! - last night after the show. The first time he proposed was March 15 - in the sauna - at the apartment where we (the contestants) stay. It was the only place where there were no other people! We downplayed it because we didn't want our engagement to interfere with the show. We haven't set a date yet - maybe next June.

Q: Were there any backstage romances?
A: That’s a good question. If so, I was totally blind. Most of us had boyfriends, girlfriends or spouses. They already were taken, though David (Cook) told America last night that he was single.

Q: Last night, you said Simon can be kind of a “butt." Do you think saying that would have made a difference if you had stayed on the show?
A: He’s got his own little remarks, and sometimes he's not very nice to people. After time, it builds up, like what he said to Brooke about the hamburger (on Tuesday). I was debating between brat and butt.

Q: What can you take away from your "Idol" experience? And, obviously, you built a fan base. What do you tell them?
A: It's been an amazing experience. I learned about all the different kinds of stress levels I hadn't known before. I learned to make friends and what singers go through to perform every week in front of so many people. And, there's the workload. But it's fun - stuff you wouldn't get to do if you weren't on the show.

To the fans, thanks for voting for me and keeping me on. I’ll put on a terrific show for the tour. Music that’s good for my voice.

OK, so the biggest issue I have with tonight's results show on "American Idol" is that some guy, somewhere, who bought Kristy Lee Cook's horse so she could pay to audition for the show, won't sell her horse back!

But, Kristy Lee will have time to persuade him otherwise because she got the boot.

Guess nothing should shock "Idol" fans anymore, even Kristy Lee calling judge Simon Cowell a "butt" tonight. Thing is, fans got a major wake-up call last week with contestant Michael Johns' departure. I'm guessing fans of, say, Carly Smithson, Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado probably text-messaged and called for the full two hours of voting Tuesday night.

FYI: More than 36 million votes were cast.

Tonight's show took the usual "Idol" twist (you can only do this with an odd number of singers) with host Ryan Seacrest separating the contestants into groups of three: Jason, Carly and Syesha against David Cook, Kristy Lee and Brooke White. Teener David Archuleta was left backstage to bite his lower lip for almost an hour.

In between? Season 5 finalist Elliott Yamin, who recently returned from an "Idol Gives Back" stint in Africa, sang "Free." It was great. And, if "Idol" fans will recall, Elliott's mom was battling cancer two years ago while he was on the show. We found out tonight she recently passed (he had "We Miss You Mom" written on his right palm).

Mentor Mariah Carey powered through "Bye Bye," a single off her new CD, "E=MC2."

Question: Is there no depths to which her attachment to judge Randy Jackson will be exploited? Just curious.

But, I digress. Back to the groupings. Ryan swapped Syesha and David C's spots, which, DUH, set up the bottom three: Syesha, Brooke and Kristy Lee. (I'm losing track of who has been in these spots the most.)

Anyway, Syesha is safe. Brooke professes nothing has been settled yet. And, then, Kristy Lee goes home.

So, here's what's going down: Brooke needs to zip her yapper about the criticism she's getting, especially from Simon. She had been one of my faves. But the pouty lip? Her "Hero" rendition was a bust on Tuesday, and we all know it.

Next week? Andrew Lloyd Webber is the mentor, so I'm hoping Brooke tackles "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina."

Can you say swan song?

Bryan Patrick/Sacramento Bee file

So, apparently, Tuesday's cover story in Scene on talk radio - and the demise of locally produced, politically oriented shows - touched a nerve.

Specifically, many readers were shocked - shocked! - that I (along with my Bee writing partners Sam McManis and Dan Vierra) didn't include KSTE's Armstrong & Getty in the round-up.

Their exclusion is proof positive, many a reader posited, that I am (take your pick) showing my liberal bias, a terrible journalist, and/or the living incarnation of the devil. OK, that last one's not a direct quote - but, terrible journalist that I may be, I can kinda read between the e-mail lines.

Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty were also outraged at being left out and, on their show this morning, pointed out that "we're the No. 1 freaking show."

Of course, from there, they go on to draw the same conclusion that I - along with my editor - made when deciding to not include them:

"We're not a political show, we talk about everything."

And that is, precisely, why they weren't included.

Certainly, you could debate the validity of their exclusion six ways to Sunday and, you know what?, I'm willing to go out on a limb here and say, hey, yeah, perhaps, they could have merited a footnote.

Or, at the very least, a whole blog entry!

Seriously guys, the exclusion wasn't personal. Or a sign that I didn't know you guys existed - I did, I do.

You can listen to A&G argue their point here.

Just a head's up: There are several days left in the Carlisle Summer Show, a local trunk show that features fashions from the upscale women's clothing line.

Not familiar with the Carlisle Collection? The line isn't sold in stores but through consultants throughout the country. They hold trunk shows in various venues and invite customers to peruse their items as they come out based on seasons.

Right now, Marcia Goldmark, along with several other local Carlisle consultants, are showing the summer 2008 collection through Saturday in Carmichael- by appointment only. That way, you're assured of getting one-on-one assistance as you peruse the apparel.

I checked the Carlisle Web site here and was impressed with both the fabrics and the attention to detail. The outfits cover pretty much every wearable need: workplace, weekend, formal.

If you're interested in seeing the summer offerings, contact Marcia at (916) 600-8900. They're booking appointments from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Saturday.

Time to mark your ballots - and your summer calendar, KWOD 106.5 just announced the line-up for its Rock the Vote concert, scheduled for June 6 at the UC Davis Pavilion at the A.R.C. On the ticket: Pennywise (pictured), Alkaline Trio, Anti-Flag, MGMT, The Whigs and local band MC Rut (aka Middle Class Rut).

And, while that's one hard-rockin' bill, the purpose of the show isn't just music - it's about getting people registered to vote (Republican, Democrat, whatever). Tickets ($20 UCD students, $25 general) go on sale Friday through R5, the Beat, Dimple Records, Armadillo Music, Tickets.com outlets (inside select Raley's and Bel Air supermarkets) and online at Tickets.com.

Motley Crue, on the other ear, are apparently only out to rock your eardrums. The vintage heavy metal four-piece just announced Crue Fest 2008 - and they're billing it as "the loudest show on earth."

Buy your earplugs now, the festival, also featuring the likes of Buck Cherry, Trapt, Sixx:A.M. and Vacaville's Papa Roach, will play Aug. 5 at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre. There's a pre-sale April 24, stay tuned for further ticket info.

Fox

I'm not a huge Mariah Carey fan - certainly not to the degree "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson is. Heck, I only recognized three of the songs the Final 7 (pictured with Mariah) sang Tuesday night!

Right off, I was glad host Ryan Seacrest asked the judges how they would rate the contestants since Mariah's songs typically would be discouraged at any other stage of the competition.

(Oh, did I mention Mariah has a CD coming out, titled "E=MC2"?)

Randy spoke for all three: "We'll judge it fairly. I'm looking for identity."

He initially was worried about "boys singing girls' songs." David Archuleta was up first with "When You Believe" and, even though it had sort of an "anthem" feel to it, he's definitely safe.

Oddly, all four remaining gals sang one after another. Carly Smithson took on "Without You." Interestingly, my "Idol"-watching companions and I actually prefer the Harry Nilsson version over the Mariah version - and certainly over the Carly rendition.

Syesha Mercado's "Vanishing" was, according to Paula Abdul, a song "not many people know." Simon Cowell thought it was technically very good. No surprise, Brooke White took on "Hero." Paula liked the "unplugged" version, i.e., Brooke on the piano. Loved Simon's theory:

"It was like ordering a hamburger and only getting the bun. The vital ingredient was missing."

Of course, the where's the beef? reference deteriorated into a lack of condiments, etc., leaving Brooke confused - or hungry - and Ryan telliing viewers, "If you'd like to order take-out, call ...."

I liked Kristy Lee Cook's version of "Forever." She's starting to remind me of a young Lynn Anderson. Paula loved the arrangement; Simon thought it was "whiny at times."

The performance of the night? No question, it was David Cook's bluesy/R&B version of "Always Be My Baby." Randy gave him a standing "O." Paula thought it could be turned into a movie soundtrack. Simon delivered a bit of a scare, saying, "We are coming out of karaoke hell - into a breath of fresh air."

"It was original, daring and the sign of a great potential artist."

Tuesday was definitely an emotional night for David C. He got choked up. And, with good reason. His brother, who is battliing cancer, was in the audience.

Closing things out was Jason Castro, with "I Don't Wanna Cry." The arrangement certainly fit Jason's laid-back style. But Randy compared it to being at "a weird beach luau, with music playing in the distance." Paula and Simon liked it.

But, no matter. Simon was spot on at the end of the show when he said the remaining three guys "completely won the night."

Predictions on who gets the boot tonight (at 9 on Fox40)? I've got Carly, Brooke and Syesha in the bottom 3 with either Carly or Syesha headed home.

Photograph/Charr Crail

I did a little digging - with a giant shovel - and found out that one of the Top 20 finalists in the "American Idol" songwriting contest is from right here in our midst!

His name is Ryan Gillmor (pictured), he's 24 and he lives in the Pollock Pines/Placerville area. His band, Gillmor, has made the rounds in Sacramento and throughout Northern California and also is a musical splash in SoCal, where most of the band members reside.

His "Idol" entry? A song titled "In This Moment."

"I'm a songwriter first and foremost," he tells me by phone today. (FYI: Ryan also wrote the theme song for the Fox TV show "Unhitched.")

Ryan, who is an "Idol" fan, missed the deadline to enter the contest last year. But there was no fooling around for Season 7.

"I thought last year's song was good, and I really feel strongly about my song," he says. "I get butterflies thinking about it. It's such a huge opportunity for the winner. It's something that comes around once in a lifetime."

Ryan got the good news last week (while at Disneyland, no less) that his song made the cut - out of tens of thousands of entries.

Now it's Sactown's chance to give back to this talented musician.

To hear Ryan's song (and the other finalists, but we're voting for Ryan, right?), click here and go to the "Show Guide" pull-down menu. The songs aren't listed by artist, but as you go through them, the titles will pop up. Voting ends April 23, so get cracking.

I listened to "In This Moment" for the first time this afternoon. Props to him for not going all "inspirational" on me. It's certainly an appropriate song for the "Idol" winner. Sort of like when someone wins something big and realizes, hey, "I'm getting confetti poured down on me, and I'm singing this really cool song!"

In addition to having the winning song performed on the show's finale, the winning songwriter will earn a publishing deal - and the song will be released by this year’s winner.

I definitely could hear David Cook releasing Ryan's song.

As far as tonight's "Idol" competition (8 on Fox40), the Final 7 will perform under the mentorship of none other than Mariah Carey. Because they were instructed to sing her songs, none of the judges can complain about taking on Mariah. Right?

Perhaps you read the story on the front of Sunday's New York Times arts section about the Sacramento stay-at-home mom who’s starring in a new Broadway show.

I’m referring to the great Faith Prince, who was, of course, a Broadway-starring (“Bells Are Ringing” and “Noises Off,” to name a couple), Tony Award-winning (1992 best actress in a musical for “Guys and Dolls") actress before she moved to Sacramento a couple of years ago.

Prince came here with her husband, trumpeter Larry Lunetta, and their son, Henry, to be closer to Larry’s parents, Stan and Sharon. Stan is now principal timpanist for the Sacramento Philharmonic, the Sacramento Opera and the Sacramento Choral Society Orchestra. He’s also the percussionist and music contractor with the Music Circus, which is where Faith and Larry met in 1987. (Larry was playing in the pit orchestra, and Faith was performing in “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever.” Stan claims their eyes met across the stage and things developed as they sometimes do.)

Larry and Faith have lived in New York and Los Angeles, but they felt Sacramento would be a solid place for Henry to spend time - where they could also spend time with him.

Recently, Faith has been doing some television work in L.A. and has made an album (pictured) while looking for just the right Broadway project to come along. It seems that's happened with the opportunity to play Aggie in the new John Doyle (“Sweeney Todd” and “Company”)-directed musical, “A Catered Affair,” which opens Thursday night.

The musical has a pretty distinguished lineage, with its book by Harvey Fierstein (who also stars in the show) and music and lyrics by John Bucchino, based on a film written by Gore Vidal and original teleplay by Paddy Chayefsky.

Larry and Henry are flying out for the opening, and we hope Sacramento’s own Faith Prince breaks a leg.

Nominations for the 37th annual Northern California Emmy Awards were announced Thursday, with Sacramento-area media outlets nabbing 42 nods.

At the head of the pack: Channel 19 (KUVS) with 17 nominations, including outstanding achievement in General Assignment Report, Continuing Coverage, Feature News Report (Serious Series), and Public Affairs (Segment Program).

Channel 3 (KCRA) came in with an also-impressive 12 nominations, including Outstanding Achievement in Station Excellence, News Excellence, Newcast - Daytime (Larger market), and General Assignment Report.

Cbannel 6 (KVIE), Channel 13 (KOVR), Fox40 (KTXL) and Channel 10 (KXTV) also earned nominations.

Winners will be announced May 10 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. For a complete list of nominations, visit EmmySF.com.

OK, so don't count me among the many fans who love the “American Idol” finale song. You know, the uber-syrupy, ballad-like tearjerker that the winner sings after being crowned.

Last season, Jordin Sparks proclaimed “This Is My Now.” I know, more than 2 million online votes were cast for “This,” written by Jeff Peabody and Scott Krippayne. (If I remember correctly, the duo penned the song while sitting in the dark in Seattle during the rainy season. Just kidding.)

The song did become the first hit single off Jordin's self-titled debut album.
So that sparked thousands of wannabe songwriters to submit offerings for this year's Season 7 finale. “Idol” has narrowed it to the Top 20 finalists. Fans can listen to each submission and cast their votes here. Voting continues through April 23.

Here are the offerings. You’ll have to listen on your own:

“Align,” “All You Will Need,” “Believe,” “Dream Big,” “Faith,” “Fly Me Away,” “Here I Am,” “In This Moment,” “No Turning Back,” “Only Love,” “Overcome,” “Something Like Heaven,” “Stronger,” “Thank You Whatever Comes,” “The Time of My Life” (no, not from “Dirty Dancing”), “We’re Gonna Make It,” “When You Come From Nothing,” “You Believe in Me,” “You Believed in Me” (not a misprint) and “You Can Do Anything.”

Flying and believing seem to be major themes.

Associated Press

You don't have to live in the Big Apple to pay big bucks for the wedding gown of your dreams. And because "Bridal Week" is in full swing in New York fashion circles, I couldn't resist letting folks in on the doings of one of the most influential designers of all things clothing: Oscar de la Renta.

De la Renta has dressed more brides than he probably wants to admit. But exquisite doesn't even begin to describe how gorgeous his gowns are. Take a look at the one pictured, especially the detail to lace.

Of course, with the height on that headpiece, the bride probably needs a 7-foot groom!

Also presenting a wedding gown collection was designer Carolina Herrera.

And, get this, you can even have a storybook wedding gown. No joke. Designer Kirstie Kelly for Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings collection includes everything from a "Cinderella" gown to an "Ariel" ("Little Mermaid") gown. And don't forget "Sleeping Beauty" and "Snow White."

As for bridesmaids? Just grab the closest wicked stepsister!

So, I was hanging out at the Channel 13/31 mothership on Thursday, when morning anchor Chris Burrous wanted to show me a news clip of which he was especially proud.

Now, the clip in question hints at something somewhat publicity stunt-esque but, I've got to admit, it's one a fellow media drone can appreciate.

The deal: Mayoral candidate Kevin Johnson agreed to sit down with Channel 13 for a March 31 interview - under a few conditions, Burrous says: No Heather Fargo, no questions about those sexual abuse allegations, and absolutely no live calls from viewers.

Well, OK. Now, normally, most media outlets (newspapers, included) balk at such pre-interview rules. Generally to ask such as thing is considered rather - take your pick - diva-like, rude or naive.

In any case, Channel 13 really wanted that interview and, to their credit, deftly found a way to get around Johnson's stipulations, all the while maintaining a tiny shred of integrity: They posted the rules for all their viewers to see and explained just why the upcoming interview "might look a little different than what we usually do."

By far, the best moment of this whole set-up is what happens when Channel 13 cuts away from said "rules" back to Johnson's face. The mayoral candidate's slightly horrified, slightly confused expression is, well, priceless.

Watch the clip here - Johnson's reaction is at at the 39-second mark.

Fox

Michael Johns' Aussie accent - and true feelings - came through loud and clear Friday during an interview with "American Idol" reporters. Yes, he's still in shock over last night's elimination, but geez what a positive guy. Michael, 29, already has gotten phone calls from musical stars none of us will ever hear from, and he's ready to move ahead.

Here's what he had to say about his experiences on the show.

Q: Your parting performance was great last night - maybe even better than during Tuesday night's competition. Your thoughts?
A: "Actually, I wasn’t thinking at all. But, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t shocked, too. I believe the last two weeks were my strongest. Stuff happens, and it did."

Q: This week, with its inspirational theme, do you think picking a rock song was an advantage or a disadvantage, especially considering what the other contestants were singing?
A: "I never chose a song based on what the competition was doing. I chose songs based on their lyrical content and emotion. The Aerosmith song was amazing. I’m living my own dream. The song is about struggle and overcoming it. Living in America is my dream. I have no regrets on the song choice at all."

Q: Dolly Parton was the first mentor. How did you handle country, considering your're rock and soul/R&B?
A: "Dolly week, of course! I sang 'It’s