Your Hometown Idols Lyon Township

New “Your Hometown Idols” sing to victory in Lyon Township

Left to right: Winners Cayla Stus, Sophia Acevedo, Emma Guzman, Lisa Mary, Noah Bizer, Bernadette Kathryn, Bret Goley, Randy Bizer and Ryan Talaga. Photo Courtesy of Jane Purslow. 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to the Oakland Press

POSTED: 07/30/14, 1:28 PM EDT |

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Your Hometown Idols

Juniors Division

1. Emma Guzman age 12, Mt. Clemens

2. Sophia Acevedo age 9, Pinckney

3. Cayla Stus age 11, South Lyon

Teen Division

1. Lisa Mary age 17, Sterling Heights

2. Bernadette Kathryn age 14, Sterling Height

3. Noah Bizer age 19, South Lyon

Adult Division

1. Ryan Talaga, Lyon Township

2. Randy Bizer, South Lyon

3. Bret Goley, Brighton

Lyon Township’s version of the “American Idol” singing competition has named one Oakland County and two Macomb County performers, “Your Hometown Idols.”

After a Sunday afternoon of performances at the sixth annual Lyon Township Kite Festival Extravaganza, Emma Guzman of Mt. Clemens, Sterling Heights’ Lisa Mary and Ryan Talaga from Lyon Township took first place in their respective age divisions. In addition to the title, each first place winner took home a trophy, cash and spa treatment services from Tamara Spa and Wellness of Farmington Hills.

New to the festival this year, the “Your Hometown Idols” event drew 20 singing-hopefuls from throughout Southeastern Michigan. Show producer Robin Wojta of Berkley explained that there were multiple winners because performers competed in three age divisions: Juniors, (ages 12 and younger), Teens, (ages 13-19) and Adults, (age 20 and older). First place winners in each division received a $100 cash prize, with $50 for second place “Idols” and $25 for the third place winners.

According to Wojta, local singing-star, Jena Irene of Farmington Hills, took second place in the “American Idol” competition, and the excitement still lingers.

“Other talented people want to follow in her footsteps and this competition is a chance to stand out,” said Wojta.

With a sky filled with kites of every size and color at New Hudson’s James Atchison Memorial Park, visitors celebrated summertime. Relaxing in bleachers and lawn chairs the audience cheered the singing hopefuls. In true “American Idol” tradition, the contestants bravely took the stage to perform, but only 14 survived the festival judges, earning a chance to compete in the mid-afternoon final round.

Among the finalists, 20-year-old Ryan Talaga of Lyon Township channeled Elvis, the youngest contestant Pinckney’s Sophia Acevedo, age 9, captivated the crowd accompanying herself on her guitar and 86-year-old Tom Logan of Livonia crooned Frank Sinatra.

Charlene and Marty Temple of White Lake were impressed with the level of talent.

“This could be the beginning for some of them,” said Charlene Temple. “Some could really hold the stage.”

The new “Idols” liked the sound of that. Ryan Talaga who plays football and is majoring in After Market Management at Northwood University says a singing career would be great fun, and says winning the competition could help.

In addition to the “Hometown Idols” competition, visitors to the four-day Lyon Township Kite Festival Extravaganza enjoyed radio controlled car races, a laser light show, live entertainment, amusement rides, refreshments, along with kite making and flying workshops.

New “Your Hometown Idols” sing to victory in Lyon Township

Left to right: Winners Cayla Stus, Sophia Acevedo, Emma Guzman, Lisa Mary, Noah Bizer, Bernadette Kathryn, Bret Goley, Randy Bizer and Ryan Talaga. Photo Courtesy of Jane Purslow. 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to the Oakland Press

POSTED: 07/21/14, 10:30 AM EDT |

0 COMMENTS

Your Hometown Idols

Juniors Division

1. Emma Guzman age 12, Mt. Clemens

2. Sophia Acevedo age 9, Pinckney

3. Cayla Stus age 11, South Lyon

Teen Division

1. Lisa Mary age 17, Sterling Heights

2. Bernadette Kathryn age 14, Sterling Height

3. Noah Bizer age 19, South Lyon

Adult Division

1. Ryan Talaga, Lyon Township

2. Randy Bizer, South Lyon

3. Bret Goley, Brighton

Lyon Township’s version of the “American Idol” singing competition has named one Oakland County and two Macomb County performers, “Your Hometown Idols.”

After a Sunday afternoon of performances at the sixth annual Lyon Township Kite Festival Extravaganza, Emma Guzman of Mt. Clemens, Sterling Height’s Lisa Mary and Ryan Talaga from Lyon Township took first place in their respective age divisions. In addition to the title, each first place winner took home a trophy, cash and spa treatment services from Tamara Spa and Wellness of Farmington Hills.

New to the festival this year, the “Your Hometown Idols” event drew 20 singing-hopefuls from throughout Southeastern Michigan. Show producer, Robin Wojta of Berkley explained that there were multiple winners because performers competed in three age divisions: Juniors, (ages 12 and younger), Teens, (ages 13-19) and Adults, (age 20 and older). First place winners in each division received a $100 cash prize, with $50 for second place “Idols” and $25 for the third place winners.

According to Wojta, local singing-star, Jena Irene of Farmington Hills, took second place in the “American Idol” competition, and the excitement still lingers.

“Other talented people want to follow in her footsteps,”and this competition is a chance to stand out,” said Wojta.

With a sky filled with kites of every size and color at New Hudson’s James Atchison Memorial Park, visitors celebrated summertime. Relaxing in bleachers and lawn chairs the audience cheered the singing hopefuls. In true “American Idol” tradition, the contestants bravely took the stage to perform, but only 14 survived the festival judges, earning a chance to compete in the mid-afternoon final round.

Among the finalists, 20-year-old Ryan Talaga of South Lyon channeled Elvis, the youngest contestant Pinckney’s Sophia Acevedo, age 9, captivated the crowd accompanying herself on her guitar and 86-year-old Tom Logan of Livonia crooned Frank Sinatra.

Charlene and Marty Temple of White Lake were impressed with the level of talent.

“This could be the beginning for some of them,” said Charlene Temple. “Some could really hold the stage.”

The new “Idols” liked the sound of that. Ryan Talaga who plays football and is majoring in After Market Management at Northwood University says a singing career would be great fun, and says winning the competition could help.

In addition to the “Hometown Idols” competition, visitors to the four day Lyon Township Kite Festival Extravaganza enjoyed radio controlled car races, a laser light show, live entertainment, amusement rides, refreshments, along with kite making and flying workshops.

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Oakland teens shine as “American Idol” tour stops in Windsor

Malaya Watson, MK Nobilette, CJ Harris, Jessica Meuse perform in the American Idol Live! tour at Caesars Windsor. Photo by Matt Senechal ó Caesars Windsor 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 06/28/14, 8:08 AM EDT | UPDATED: 53 SECS AGO

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Jena Irene and Caleb Johnson perform in the American Idol Live! tour at Caesars Windsor. Photo by Matt Senechal ó Caesars Windsor 

The lights began dancing and the American Idol theme rumbled through the The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor in Ontario on Friday night, as the top 10 “American Idol” finalists appeared on stage.

It was a sold-out homecoming performance for “Idol” finalists and Oakland County teens Jena Irene, Malaya Watson and Sam Woolf. Fans, family and friends greeted the performers with a thunderous welcome, and they were rewarded with two hours of rock, folk and country songs, beginning with “Counting Stars,” by OneRepublic.

Irene of Farmington Hills, Southfield’s Watson and Woolf, who was born in West Bloomfield, were joined by Caleb Johnson, Alex Preston, Jessica Meuse, CJ Harris, Dexter Roberts, Majesty Rose and MK Nobilette. The top 10 finalists performed “Idol” fan favorites they sang during Season 13 of the Fox competition show. Posters with supportive messages were sprinkled through the audience.

Twins Madison and Brooke Odum of Howell sang along to every song. As loyal “American Idol” fans, the 12-year-olds were thrilled to see the singers in person.

“This is awesome,” said Madison Odum. “Sam is so cute, and we love Jena. I wish we could meet her.”

Irene, who came in second in the competition, chose as one of her solos the Elvis Presley hit “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” which brought her great acclaim on the “Idol” program. Irene’s version of “My Body” by Young the Giant included a lively drum-battle with Alex Preston. Irene said she was excited to learn how to play a kettle drum and was surprised by the energy it requires.

The audience erupted with cheers and screams during The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter,” her duet with “Idol” winner and new best friend, Johnson, who ultimately won the TV competition.

“Being on stage without the stress of the competition and the cameras is such an awesome feeling,” Irene said in an off-stage interview. “I am completely OK with being my complete self and having everyone rage with me.”

The youngest contestant in “Idol” history to make it to the final top 10, Watson, accompanied herself on the piano for her solo, “When I Was Your Man,” by Bruno Mars. Watson later joined Rose and Nobilette to perform “Wake Me Up,” by Avicci, and sang back-up in several numbers. The 16-year-old earlier described the tour experience as, “Like a dream in the making.”

Woolf’s solos included “Sail Away,” by David Gray and “Lego House” by Ed Sheeran. Screams from young girls declaring their love for Woolf erupted as Woolf performed “Let Her Go” by Passenger, with Preston. Woolf and Preston played acoustic guitars, but switched to drums as they were joined by Harris for “Pompeii” by Bastille. The trio was joined by the other Idols and drove home the first act with a rendition of Pharrell’s “Happy” that had the crowd on their feet and dancing.

Rocker Johnson owned the second act, performing four solos and bringing his trademark energy to Led Zepplin’s “Dazed and Confused,” which ignited the crowd. Johnson also sang Backstreet Boys’ “As Long as You Love Me,” “Family Tree” by Kings of Leon and Paul McCartney’s “Maybe I’m Amazed.”

The “Idol” singers’ strong talent and energy impressed the audience, but the pace was slowed by long pauses between songs while the technical crew changed equipment.

After multiple costume changes, Irene introduced her new single “We Are One,” co-written by season eight “American Idol” contestant Felicia Barton. Glow sticks appeared in the audience, in salute to Irene.

Then the “Idols” closed the concert with “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons, which left the audience standing, crowding the stage and applauding for more.

Windsor was the second stop on the American Idol Live! summer tour, which kicked off June 24 in Binghamton, N.Y. It’s scheduled to stop in 40 cities across the country, including The Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mount Pleasant, on Aug. 7. The Wednesday show scheduled for Albany, N.Y. was canceled, according to Ticketmaster, but no official reason was given for the cancellation.

American Idol tour comes to Windsor

The top 10 finalists of “American Idol XIII” include runner-up Jena Irene of Farmington Hills (third from left, on stairs) and Malaya Watson of Southfield (top). Photo by Brian Bowen Smith

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 06/26/14, 7:31 AM EDT |

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If you go

• American Idol Live

• 8 p.m. Friday, June 27

• The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor

• 377 Riverside Drive E., Windsor, Ontario, 519-258-7878

• Tickets $35-$95

• www.americanidol.com/tour

Recent “American Idol” contestants Jena Irene and Malaya Watson oozed with excitement this week about their first performance on the “Idol Live” tour in Binghamton, N.Y.

“The show is very fresh and modern, and showcases everybody in the top 10,” Irene says. “Each artist shows their originality.

“I am doing some crazy electronic stuff and one of my three solos is a song I chose to sing, ‘Falling in Love.’ We are having so much fun.”

The “American Idol Live” summer tour kicked off Tuesday, and one of the early stops is today (Friday, June 27), across the Detroit River at The Colosseum at Caesars in Windsor, Canada.

The concert features all top 10 of the latest “Idol” finalists. Three have Michigan ties, Jena Irene of Farmington Hills, who won second place, Southfield’s Malaya Watson and Sam Woolf, who was born in West Bloomfield Township.

The performers rehearsed in New York for nearly two weeks before kicking off the tour in New York. They will perform in 41 cities across the country, including at The Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mount Pleasant on Aug. 7.

While in New York, the group was treated to an afternoon off.

“We went to a Mets baseball game,” Watson said in an interview with The Oakland Press. “We sang the National Anthem and threw out the first pitch. It was a little weird because they lined up the catchers and we threw the ball in groups of four. It was great, and the Mets won.”

Both Irene and Watson say the tour experience continues to shape them as young artists because they are stretching their comfort zones and learning new skills. Irene will play the drums along with fellow “Idol” finalist Alex Preston, who incorporated a large kettle drum in an “American Idol” performance. They are also singing back-up for the other performers as well as joining in duets, trios and group songs. Watson says the opening number of the concert is guaranteed to pull the audience to its feet.

“We will touch every emotion from happy to moving you to tears,” said Watson. “You will hear some of the favorite songs from the competition, like ‘Radioactive.’”

Caleb Johnson, who won the competition, will perform four solos and each of the other finalists will sing at least one solo. Irene describes the experience as very much like an “Idol” show, but with less pressure. Watson agrees.

“Thursday nights during the live show were so hard,” Watson says. “You would sing and just wonder while you were singing, if you are going home. Now, we just get to enjoy the music, being together and we won’t get voted off.”

Although Irene admits she still feels pressure, she agrees the tour is more fun for the 10 performers, who she describes as “friends who have taken a unique journey together.” She says she will take inspiration from each tour performance for future songs she will write, but the Windsor and Mount Pleasant performances will be special because they are close to home.

As the tour begins, “American Idol” is having auditions for season 14. Ryan Seacrest has signed up to host the program once again, and just in time to participate in the auditions, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. have agreed to return as judges.

Auditions are scheduled to visit New Orleans, La., on June 25; Uniondale, NY., July 23; Nashville, Tenn., July 30; and San Francisco, Calif. Sept 29. This year a bicoastal bus tour will stop at Portland, Ore., Portland, Maine, Reno, Nev., Columbus, Ohio, Richmond, Va., Albuquerque, N.M., Amarillo, Texas, Myrtle Beach, S.C., Branson Mo., Tallahassee, Fla. and Kansas City, Mo., beginning July 9. Hopefuls can also submit auditions online through social media using #TheNextIdol. For additional information visit www.americanidol.com/news.

Also new this season, “American Idol” has created a $50,000 “True Believers” award for people who encourage singers to audition. Each contestant ail have the option to designate a “True Believer,” making them eligible to win a cash prize at the end of the season, if that contestant wins the competition. Check http://idol.ly/true-believer-rules for details.

Life after “American Idol” remains hectic for Jena Irene

“American Idol” runner-up Jena Irene of Farmington Hills, 17, performed on ABC’s morning show “Live! With Kelly & Michael” May 28, 2014, singing “We Are One.” Screen capture by Nicole Robertson - ABC 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to the Oakland Press

POSTED: 06/02/14, 4:02 PM EDT |

# COMMENTS

Farmington Hills >> Since the season finale of “American Idol” May 21, Jena Irene has been traveling the country on a whirlwind publicity tour.

“The morning after the finale, they had both Caleb and me ready to start talking to press at 4:30 a.m.,” said Irene, who finished second to Caleb Johnson of Asheville, N.C. “We talked to reporters for 12 hours that day, then headed to Disney for an appearance at the “American Idol Experience.”

From Florida, Irene and Johnson headed to New York for appearances on nationally broadcast programs including “Live with Kelly & Michael,” with interviews for radio, newspapers and magazines tossed in.

“I talked to Teen Vogue and Seventeen magazine, but really enjoyed visiting Children’s Hospital in New York,” she said. “We went to say hello to the children who could not get out of their beds. It was very special.”

Irene and her mother, Julie Ascuitto, arrived back home Wednesday with just enough time for Irene to get ready and attend her North Farmington High School prom with Johnson as her date. Irene says she enjoyed seeing all her friends, and sharing the experience with Johnson, who she describes as a very good friend, but not a boyfriend. After meeting with the media, Irene says they posed for photos with her friends, but could not perform at the event. The duo remains under contract with “American Idol” production company 19 Entertainment until the “Idol” summer tour is completed in September, which means they cannot sing publicly without approval.

Back home in Farmington Hills, Irene is trying to relax and rebuild her energy for the “American Idol Tour,” which begins June 24 In Binghamton, N.Y. She says being home is wonderful, but she continually has a nagging feeling that she should be somewhere else. For months, every moment of her day was filled with song and show rehearsals, working with vocal and staging coaches, costuming, media interviews and studying her school lessons.

“I feel like I should be doing something,” Irene said. “It feels weird not having someone telling me I have something to do. I am going to a movie, and I can drive like normal. My friends and I are going to see Godzilla.”

What’s next for Irene? Once the tour is completed, she plans to attend Western Michigan University. She says she’s excited about starting college, but will take online classes to begin, because she will also be working on her first album. The album will include her “Idol” single, “We Are One,” which she performed on the program.

“I haven’t signed with the 19 Entertainment label yet, but I hope to soon,” she said. “We are looking at a couple of offers that have come in, and I hope to write songs for my album with other people.”

As the pieces fall in place for Irene’s professional career, the 17-year-old knows one thing for certain. She will walk with her class at graduation on June 8.

And, at some point, Irene plans to send thank-you notes and flowers to “Idol” judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., because she credits their advice for her success in the competition.

Farmington Hills’ Jena Irene falls in last round of ‘American Idol’

1/9

Jena Irene hugs winner Caleb Johnson in the finale of "American Idol" on May 22, 2014. Screen capture - Fox

‹›

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 05/21/14, 10:28 PM EDT | UPDATED: 23 SECS AGO

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Jena Irene hugs winner Caleb Johnson in the finale of “American Idol” on May 22. Screen capture — Fox

It was a nail-biter for Jena Irene of Farmington Hills and her millions of dedicated fans Wednesday, but in the end, viewers chose rocker Caleb Johnson of Asheville, N.C., as the 2014 “American Idol.”

Months of dedication boosted her to the top of the competition, but in Wednesday night’s extended results show, voters gave Johnson the edge. “The American Idol” website reported that Las Vegas odd-makers called the race a very close one, and “Idol” Judges Keith Urban, Harry Connick Jr. and Jennifer Lopez agreed they couldn’t predict who would win.

In addition to a congratulatory hug from Irene, Johnson receives a recording contract with 19 Entertainment, which is affiliated with “American Idol.”

Performing three times during finale night, Irene opened the Tuesday performance show with “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence and the Machine. The judges raved about her performance, calling the song a great choice by “Idol” producer Simon Fuller, but gave round one to Johnson for his strong performance of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.”

The 17-year-old Irene won the judges’ favor in round two with her favorite song of the competition, Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love.” Finally, both contestants sang the song they’d record for their first single if they won the competition. Irene chose “We are One,” co-written by season-eight “Idol” contestant Felicia Barton, while Johnson chose “As Long as You Love Me,” by Justin Hawkins.

Irene still will be featured on the 41-city summer “Idol” tour among the top 10 finalists, including Malaya Watson of Southfield and Sam Woolf, who was born in West Bloomfield Township. Only one Michigan stop is planned, Aug. 7 at Soaring Eagle Casino Resort in Mount Pleasant.

Irene’s “Idol” journey began in October when she and Watson auditioned at Ford Field in Detroit, where they were awarded Golden Tickets to Hollywood, joining 210 other hopefuls from across the country who were quickly pared down to the most talented few.

Irene found herself in the dreaded position of bottom vote-getter — in danger of being sent home — only once, in February. But she charmed the “Idol” judges, accompanying herself on piano, to earn their only wild-card save, and continued in the competition. Working hard on her stage presence, she became the first wild card in the program’s history to make it to the finale.

In the last few weeks of the season, Irene asked Johnson to accompany her to prom at North Farmington High School. It remains to be seen if Irene will attend her prom on May 28, before the national “Idol” tour begins June 24, and whether she arrives on the arm of the newest “American Idol.”

Farmington Hills ‘Idol’ contestant Jena Irene in top two

Jena Irene of Farmington Hills performs on “American Idol,” which aired Wednesday, May 14. Photo courtesy of Fox Broadcasting 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 05/16/14, 6:16 AM EDT | UPDATED: 1 MIN AGO

1 COMMENT

The scene has been set for a showdown between Jena Irene of Farmington Hills and Caleb Johnson of Asheville, N.C., after “American Idol” viewers voted finalist Alex Preston of Nashville, Tenn., off the show.

Preston said Wednesday he believed it could be his last performance on “Idol.” He worked the crowd like never before and even played the drums while singing.

Irene and Johnson will give their final performances Tuesday to determine the winner.

The songs for the three remaining finalists were chosen by vocal coach Randy Jackson, judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., and the contestants’ hometown fans. Irene grew stronger with each of her three performances Wednesday night. She closed the two-hour performance show with “Creep” by Radiohead, chosen by students at North Farmington High School. Accompanying herself on piano, Irene earned a standing ovation from Lopez and Urban, and clear endorsement from all three.

“You are going to be so hard to beat,” Lopez said. While Connick Jr. called her “brilliant.”

With family and friends cheering, Irene unleashed her characteristic vocals in the first song of the night, “Titanium” by David Guetta, selected by Jackson. He complemented the 17-year-old on her journey to be a polished performer.

“From boot camp until now, dude, I love it, my hat’s off to you. You’re ready,” Jackson said.

Rocker Caleb Johnson, who struggled with voice problems Wednesday night, was a fan favorite until the last few weeks. As Irene’s confidence and stage presence grew, Johnson lost support for using an objectionable word to fans on social media for blasting him with too many song choices. He apologized for the comments, but the controversy continued.

Thursday’s show included clips of Irene’s visit home to Farmington Hills over the weekend. She visited Hercules Coney Island, where she worked as a waitress, and was greeted by thousands of fans at a concert. Irene, 17, hopes to be attend her graduation from Farmington North High School on June 8, and is looking forward to her prom. The senior prom is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, less than a week after the “Idol” finale. She said she hopes to bring fellow finalist Johnson as her date, calling him “one of my very best friends.”

“Idol” host Ryan Seacrest announced just before the results were given Thursday night that Johnson was asked to perform with Kiss.

Also this week, “Idol” celebrated its 500th show in its 13 seasons. The landmark included a huge cake and the return of the top 13 contestants, including Sam Woolfe, who was born in West Bloomfield Township, and Southfield’s Malaya Watson, who traded her braces for a retainer.

The final performance show will be aired live at 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, with the new “American Idol” crowned on Wednesday May 21.

An ‘Idol’ welcome home for Jena Irene

John Branstetter -- for the oakland press Jena Irene poses for a photo with fans after a parade in her honor in Farmington Hills Saturday. 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter

POSTED: 05/11/14, 8:35 AM EDT |

# COMMENTS

Thousands celebrated the homecoming of “American Idol” finalist, Jena Irene (Asciutto) of Farmington Hills on Saturday. As one of the three remaining contestants, the show arranged a special day for the 17-year-old which included a parade down 13 Mile Rd. to her high school, North Farmington, followed by a concert. After three months in Hollywood, Irene returned home a contender to become the next “American Idol,” complete with an “Idol” camera crews and producers in tow. Each of the remaining finalists were also given what the show called a homecoming reunion.

Irene’s day began with a raucus visit to “Hercules Coney Island” at 12 Mile Rd and Farmington Rd, where she once worked as a waitress. Every hug, kiss and cheer was recorded by the “Idol” team to be presented to America on the program next week. Irene put on an apron, lit a flaming cheese with ease, and chatted with old friends and customers.

“I’m overwhelmed,” said Irene. “I’m trying to take it all in and it’s impossible. It’s not even noon yet and this is the best day of my life.”

Also handing out hugs at the restaurant, were Irene’s brother, Nick Asciutto and mother, Julie Asciutto, who have shared Irene’s “Idol” experience. Since Irene is a minor, the program required her mother to stay with her in Hollywood, while her brother flew back and forth between Michigan and California. With her eyes filled tears, Julie Asciutto summed up her daughter’s rise to stardom as “a dream. I’m so proud.” Her brother adding that they all knew Irene would do something big, and are thrilled to watch her dream come true. Standing with the family, Dr. Sheri Jaffurs, Irene’s high school choir teacher, said she knew Jena Irene had something special.

“Jena used to sit at the piano and sing after class. The kids were drawn to her and were quiet, just listening.” said Jaffurs. “There was a quiet energy about her.” Irene later surprised Jaffurs with tickets to the season finale.

As the crowd cheered, Jena, Jena, Jena, Irene hugged everyone within reach and flashed her signature, huge, warm smile. Before heading out, Irene savored a bowl of Lemon Chicken Rice Soup heavy on the Tabasco sauce she added, like a real teenager.

Swelling crowds greeted Irene’s white limousine as she waved to the screeching crowd along 13 mile road. The paraded ended at North Farmington HIgh School. Long-time Jena Irene fans Kaitlyn Bashford and Sandi Spires drove from Riverview to join the celebration.

“I’m going to tattoo “I am my own person” on my arm. It’s line from a song she wrote called “Unbreakable Me.”,” said Bashford “We love her in Riverview and there are signs up everywhere to vote for her.”

Inside the school football stadium the “Idol” producers energized the crowd with a Jena chant. Oakland County Executive Brooks Patterson predicted Irene will be the next American Idol, calling it a “slam dunk.”

A massive scream erupted and Jena appeared on stage, asking “What’s going on? Before I start my set, I want to thank you so, so much. I’m going to try and win this for you.”

North Farmington HIgh School voted on what song she perform and Irene cut loose with “Creep” by Radiohead. In the front row Katelyn Perrett cheered her former band-member from the teen group “Infinity Hour.”

“The girl I wrote songs with in my basement and made fortune cookies with is now on national TV. It’s insane. I’m so excited for her.” said Perrett.

Irene performed “I can’t help falling in love with you,” by Elvis,” Decode” by Paramore and an original song, “Unbreakable Me.” A sea of cell phone recorded the concert.

Irene left the stage with thunderous applause, a key to the City of Farmington Hills and an official day declared in her honor.

A viewing party will be held at the Maple Theater in Birmingham on Wednesday, May 14. Supporters gathered that night will hope to see another incredible performance that will move Irene into the final two, leading into the season finale May 21.

Oakland County’s Jena Irene makes the “Idol” top three

AMERICAN IDOL XIII: Top Three: L-R: Alex Preston, Jena Irene and Caleb Johnson. CR: Michael Becker / FOX. Copyright 2014 / FOX. 

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 05/09/14, 8:31 AM EDT | UPDATED: 47 SECS AGO

# COMMENTS

Jena Irene of Farmington Hills is one giant leap closer to her dream of becoming the next “American Idol.” After three strong performances this week, viewers voted Irene into the elite final three of the competition.

The honor comes with a homecoming flight on a private jet, a parade and concert.

Jessica Meuse of Slapout, Ala., received the fewest number of votes from viewers of the Fox show, and left the competition Thursday night.

This week’s theme, break-ups and make-ups, allowed Irene to select two songs she performed as lead singer of her teen band, Infinity Hour.

Before unleashing her deep, powerful vocals on Pat Benatar’s “Heartbreaker,” Irene shared the story of her first heartbreak at age 14. Confiding in a video played on Wednesday’s performance night, Irene, who turns 18 in July, said she thought she “would never get over” a boy who dumped her after returning from camp. The judges gave high marks for her performance, but urged her to find a way to move on stage to support the energy she unleashes with her voice.

She came back with a second break-up song, Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance,” with green laser lights shooting across the stage.

“You are a force to be reckoned with,” judge Jennifer Lopez said. “You and Caleb (Johnson) go toe to toe with the big songs.” Saying the words Irene hoped to hear, Lopez added, “You can take it.”

Dedicating her final performance to her mother for Mother’s Day, Irene chose Elvis’ “I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You.” Accompanying herself on the piano, she made the song her own, earning a standing ovation from Lopez and judge Keith Urban, followed by a kiss from Lopez — a first for any contestant this season.

“I was so moved, and I am so glad I was here to witness this moment,” said Lopez. Urban and Connick Jr. called the performance “incredible’ and “spell binding.”

Irene’s “Idol” survival philosophy has been to concentrate on the moment and her week to week performances. Now, with the finale less than two weeks away, she is allowing herself to imagine the season finale, May 21.

“I would be so incredibly happy to be competing on that show,” she said in an interview with The Oakland Press.

You may see Irene around the area as she makes a special trip home on Saturday, May 10, to introduce “Idol” viewers to her hometown. She will visit Hercules Coney Island at 12 Mile and Farmington roads, where Irene worked as a waitress, enjoy a parade in her honor and a concert at North Farmington High School. She is also looking forward to seeing her friends, especially former “Idol”contestant Malaya Watson of Southfield, who was previously eliminated but will tour with the other members of the Top 13 in this year’s competition.

Milford theater performs ‘Charlie Brown’ play

Students and adults in the Huron Valley Community Theater in Milford will perform "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" during Mother's Day weekend. Photo by Ken Jacobsen Nature Photos Online 

POSTED: 05/02/14, 12:53 PM EDT | UPDATED: 1 DAY AGO

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IF YOU GO

The adult cast will perform “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown” at 7 p.m. May 9 and 3 p.m. May 10. The student cast will perform at 7 p.m. May 10 and 3 p.m. May 11. Milford High School Little Theatre is located at 2380 S. Milford Road. Visit hvcommunitytheater.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

Huron Valley Community Theater will present “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” on Mother’s Day weekend.

The Peanuts Gang will bring their famous humor and music to the Little Theater at Milford High School. Through brief vignettes, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Sally, Pig Pen, Snoopy and the others will take the audience inside the shy, anxious world of the beloved Charlie Brown. Co-directors Nancy McCauley Branstetter and Linda Foran have a twist for audiences.

“There will be not one, but two casts for this production,” said Foran. “We will have an adult and a children’s cast and they will alternate performances. We hope the community will join us as we relive some wonder moments created by Charles Schultz.”

The show is a collection of some of the Peanuts Gang’s favorite songs and moments. The character Lucy will share her wisdom, Schroeder his musical genius and Charlie Brown will attempt to fly a kite, win a baseball game and even speak to his dream date, the Little Red-Haired Girl.

—Submitted by Nancy Branstetter

West Bloomfield ‘Idol’ reflects on experience and the future

By Nancy McCauley Branstetter, Special to The Oakland Press

POSTED: 05/03/14, 12:31 PM EDT |

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Sam Woolf has become a well-known name and brand among American Idol fans. His all-American good looks earned him the title of the ‘Cutest Idol Ever’ and his fans declared themselves the ‘Woolfpack’. The producers at “American Idol” took note of the echoing screams Woolf received each time he stepped on the stage, knowing thousands and thousands of teen girls were glued to the TV screen when their heartthrob performed. Thursday night the Oakland County native received the fewest number of votes and left the show, for now.

Sam Woolf was born in West Bloomfield into a musical family, stretching back several generations. He was a student at the Scotch Elementary School in West Bloomfield, and says he has great memories of Michigan. He moved to Florida in 2006 at the age of nine, and currently lives with his grandparents in Bradenton, Fla. Woolf is a senior at Bradenton River High School, where students have been actively supporting his campaign to become the next “American Idol”. In an exit interview on Thursday, Woolf said he hopes to attend his high school graduation, but will miss the prom on May 17 because he will be California rehearsing for the program finale, May 21.

The folks at “American Idol” did everything possible to keep Sam Woolf on the show. A few weeks ago, Woof received the lowest number of votes, but the judges used their one “save” of the season, to keep him in the competition. Last night in an “Idol” first, the five finalists were presented with what would have been another lifeline, although they did now know who was destined to go home. The finalists had to all agree to keep everyone on the program this week, but two contestants would leave after the results show next Thursday. The vote was split, 3-yes and 2-no.

“We all huddled to talk it over,” said Woolf. “At first we all said, let’s do this, but then some said it was best to keep things as they are, because two people leaving next week would be hard. We didn’t know who would be going home this week, but it is probably better not having it like that.”

He says he doesn’t know how the other contestants voted, but confided that he thought he might be the low vote-getter this week because of his performance Wednesday night of a song chosen for him by “Idol” fans. The song “It’s Time” called for a falsetto, which he didn’t attempt.

Reflecting on his “idol” experience, Woolf was clear that he is not comfortable with the “heartthrob” title he was given.

“I would not place myself in the category, and it made me uncomfortable sometimes,” said Woolf. “It is not who I really am. I am not a heartthrob. I was just a singer/songwriter when I came on and didn’t really think I fell into the heartthrob category until later, when they placed me in it. I was accepted to Berklee (College of Music in Boston) and will attend in September.”

When asked if Woolf thought he could win the competition, he said that he kept his focus week to week, and when he was almost voted off the show it was a wake up call for him. He is grateful that the judges “save” kept him on the program for another few weeks.

Woolf raved about the “American Idol” experience, saying the best part was becoming close friends with the other contestant, especially Alex Preston, Caleb Johnson and Jena Irene. He is headed to Florida for a few days, but will be back soon to prepare for the show’s finale, and is looking forward to the “Idol” tour this summer.