At the Chase Likens Homecoming Celebration...

So since all of the “Idol”-related news is so negative today, let me tell you about something positive…

Saturday, I was privileged to attend the Chase Likens Homecoming Celebration in Chase’s hometown of Point Pleasant. Over 300 people came to Point Pleasant High School to see Chase receive honors from his high school principal, Point Pleasant’s mayor, the County Commissioners and the Governor’s Office.

They also waited over two hours to meet Chase and get pictures and autographs. It was a pretty special occasion.

For those of you wondering what Stevie Wonder song Chase would have done if he made the Top 13, he revealed it at the celebration—“I Just Called to Say I Love You.” Chase was only able to sing a short chorus since he is still under contract to the show, but it was pitch perfect and would have no doubt made women swoon everywhere if he had been able to perform it on the show.

Chase shares a laugh with Mason County Commissioner Rick Handley. March 10th was declared Chase Likens Day in Mason County and in Point Pleasant.

Celebration Host Brandy Barkey-Sweeney reads a proclamation from W.Va. Governor Earl Ray Tomblin as Chase looks on.

Chase sings "I Just Called to Say I Love You" to the gathered audience.

It was my pleasure to cover Chase's journey, but it no doubt has changed my perspective on "American Idol" forever. But I'll share more of that in the coming days...