Idol Chatter & Voice Views

The Contra Costa Times is reporting this evening that American Idol has decided to let James Durbin has his celebratory homecoming in Santa Cruz Saturday, even though he was ousted from Idol Thursday night.

The homecoming celebrations are typically reserved for the final three contestants. In fact, this is the first time one will be held for a fourth-place finisher.

According to the newspaper, James is scheduled to attend a kids’ rally from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.; then perform a 5 p.m. show at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Here’s a link to the story, which warns the schedule could change.

As for the final three.

* Wheeling, Ill., will hold a homecoming parade in Haley Reinhart’s honor at 4:30 p.m., followed by a live performance by Haley at Arlington Park at 6:30 p.m.

* Rossville, Ga.,  is holding a homecoming celebration for Lauren Alaina at noon at Coolidge Park, where she will perform. The celebration will be preceded by a parade in Lauren’s honor.

* Garner, N.C.,  will host a parade in Scotty McCreery’s honor at 2 p.m., followed by a concert at 3 p.m. Mayor Ronnie Williams expects a crowd of 30,000. “It’s the biggest thing that’s ever happened to Garner,” he said.

Check back in with Idol Chatter on Saturday. I’ll be posting photos from the homecomings. And, hopefully, news about what the Idols will be singing for the judges’ choice selections on Wednesday.