All,

After years of making fun of the show, I suggest that you consider watching Crystal Bowersox on American Idol Tuesday night, if you haven't already. Not only is she an Ohio girl, but her home-base has been here in the Toledo area, where I'm at. I know her, not well, but I do know her. I hired her for an event when she was 14. I worked with her again professionally a few years ago, when she was living in Chicago. The last time I saw her perform was last September at a small patio gig, and she was totally making love to a Patsy Cline song. All I'm saying is that she's conquering this thing one week at a time with her dreadlocks, acoustic guitar and a heavy dose of Midwest rock 'n roll soul. Don't let any preconceived (and probably well-deserved) notion about the American Idol franchise discourage you from catching a great live performance. If you care to vote, you have a chance to support one of our own!