When fashion gives back, it's always a good thing. And tonight, from 7 to 9:30 p.m., a show titled "Fashion for Autism Charity Show" should be a great event.

Hosted by local designer Michael Lopez, it will be held at the 1801 L (street) Lofts in midtown.

Who will be showing? Among others, M. Lopez Designs, Martini Kisses, Pretty Trashy, Emily Rose, Paola Hernandez and Porkchop.

In an e-mail, Michael says, "We are putting this event together because we feel that fashion needs to be brought into the midtown atmosphere, but most of all, autism needs to be recognized and looked at as something that needs help."

Tickets for the show are available today for $4 at Bows and Arrows boutique, 1712 L St.. Or you can pay $6 at the door tonight. Food will be provided by Urban Kitchen, Buckhorn Grill and Old Soul Coffee Co.

After just a year and pocket change on the job, Matt Coker has been fired as managing editor over at the Sacramento News & Review.

SNR president and CEO Jeff von Kaenel confirms that Coker, who came here from the OC Weekly in April 2007, was dismissed May 7.

von Kaenel also confirms that the paper's arts editor, Jonathan Kiefer, has resigned.

von Kaenel declined to offer additional info, other than to say that longtime SNR editor Melinda Welsh will serve as managing editor until a permanent replacement is found.

"(Melinda and I) have worked together for 20 years and we'll continue to make sure we're putting out a great paper," von Kaenel says.

News10 (KXTV) is laying off eight newsroom employees, Russell Postell, the station's president and general manager, has just confirmed.

Actually, that's not quite how he put it.

"It's a realignment of resources - I don't call these layoffs," Postell says.

Whatever you call it, eight people will be "transitioned" - Postell's words - out of their jobs between now and November.

All of those positions will in the master control and graphics departments, and no on-air talent, reporters or producers are affected, Postell says.

Reason? In a move that echoes Channel 13's layoffs in March, new technology is being blamed.

"We'll be installing new technologies that allow us to produce more efficient newscasts," Postell says. "It's not about finances - it's about the development of technologies that (allow us) to continue to provide quality content."

More specifically, some of News10's graphics will be outsourced to a Denver-based hub that also will provide art for other Gannett-owned stations.

Viewers won't notice any changes, Postell says, other than "except maybe higher-quality graphics."

He declines to discuss severance packages or if the station is planning any future layoffs. Or, for that matter, realigned resources.

Due to illness, the Etta James show scheduled for Friday evening at the Radission Hotel has been canceled.

Ticket refunds are available at the place of purchase.

For more information, go to the Radisson Web site or Ticketmaster.com, or call (916) 920-7310.

Fox

Finishing third on "American Idol" is nothing to feel bad about. It just depends on how a contestant handles the offers - because there will be a horde of producers, record execs, etc., eager to pounce once the summer tour ends. Maybe even before.

For Syesha Mercado, she's not going to let any grass grow. Not this gal! She did take time out today, though, to do a phone conference with reporters about what's ahead. Here's some of what she had to say:

Q: Maybe more than anybody, you’ve symbolized the real "Idol" journey. How did that work for you?
A: I consider myself a hard worker. I'm always rehearsing, trying to improve. I was in a little shell at first, thinking nobody sees who I am. That was harming my performance. So I got my mind right again, like at the audition. And I got comfortable with performing and the stage. I just enjoyed myself more every week. The goal was to feel satisfied after every show.

Q: Judge Paula Abdul said on Tuesday that you sang songs that didn’t define you. Your thoughts?
A: Everyone says I'm a mix of a lot of things. "Oh, she’s Broadway. A black Christina Aguilera." I love pop, R&B. I'm growing as an artist. People can see the transition I went through. You just learn so much. Everyone will know who I am when I put out an album.

Q: A follow-up question to Tuesday night: Were you puzzled by the producers' choice of song for you, "Hit Me Up?"
A: I knew that song. My nieces and nephews love "Happy Feet." They watch it over and over. I couldn’t change it. When something comes that’s a challenge, I try to turn it into a positive. It wasn't a singer's song. Most of it is back-up singing. It was weird.

Q: What did you learn on "Idol," and what was the best piece of advice you received?
A: A lot! That there’s a fine line between over-rehearsing and just doing what you need to do. Sometimes I worked so hard, I couldn’t enjoy myself. I learned to relax, read and deal with stress. Of the mentors, Andrew Lloyd Webber encouraged me to perform my song the way I wanted. To be animated. That helped me break out of my shell even more.

Q: Was it a roller coaster being in the bottom three or bottom two so often?
A: Every week is new. I never packed my bags. They ("Idol" brass) told us to, but I didn’t. If you want to be Top 3, you’ll be Top 3. (Now), whichever David is most passionate will win.

Q: Speaking of the two "Davids," what do you think is special about each of them?
A: They’re (each) really unique. David Archuleta has that beautiful smile and good connection with the younger audience. Girls go crazy over David Cook. Even older women love him. I've been both little sister and big sister, with just the three of us. We just had fun. The competition could go either way. I wish them both luck.

Q: It's come up a bit, from other departing female contestants, that this season there seems to be a preference among voters for the male singers. Any merit to that?
A: I never focused on the voting. It will be obvious at the end. It is what it is. Whoever wins is supposed to win. Being the last girl standing is an honor.

Q: What are your plans after the tour?
A: I tell people I want to do everything. I'm very goal-oriented. I want to make an album, star in a film, go on Broadway, open an organic restaurant! I write all my goals down. I'll look for the best opportunity and just live in the now.

I'm not surprised by the outcome, and neither should "American Idol" fans: For those of you who predicted that "David" will win, you're right!

But the question remains, which one?

After more than 56 million votes were cast Tuesday night, David Archuleta and David Cook are left to face off in a "Battle of the Davids" (which may or may not include David A's father, Jeff - just sayin') on Tuesday in the Season 7 finale.

That means a guy vs. guy for the first time since Season 2, when Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard sung it out for the title.

It also means we say goodbye to Syesha Mercado - well, until at least the "Idol" tour hits the road - who truly gave it her all in the last couple weeks. No regrets from her, just a simple "Thanks!"

(Don't forget: Tickets for the tour, which is set to hit Arco Arena on July 9, go on sale Saturday.)

Judge Simon Cowell said if it turns out the way he thinks, the finale will be a "real humdinger." Never heard him use that word before.

Tonight's show featured the annual sojourns back to the Top 3's hometowns. I don't recall as much crying in past seasons, but, what the heck. A baby thrown in your arms and a mayor with a handlebar moustache will do that to you.

David A. went to Murray, Utah, Syesha to Sarasota, Fla., and David C. to Blue Springs, Mo. (and Kansas City). There were cheerleaders, screaming teens, basic screaming, parades, appearances on "Good Day, (fill in the blank)," helicopter rides and one really sweet surprise as David C. brought flowers to his elementary school music teacher.

Low moment of the night?

A really, really raunchy - yes, I said raunchy - performance by Season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino, who hit the stage with newly dyed, bright red hair and three back-up singers who might or might not have been sporting Under Armour.

Fantasia, clearly winded after the performance, should be grateful Simon wasn't offering a critique because he was shaking his head (and not in a good way) at the end of her "act."

Hope everyone stuck around for Syesha's encore performance of "If I Ain't Got You." It's one to remember.

Moving on, Tuesday's finale will feature the winning song from the songwriter's contest. Cross your fingers it won't be anything like last season's sappy, no-one-would-ever-actually-say-this "This Is My Now."

Also, rumors were running amok today that David A's father was not happy that "Idol" producers seemed more taken with rival David's performances Tuesday night.

Guy needs a new hat - and a new attitude. OK, I don't like him.

May the stronger David prevail.

Sactown magazine nabbed three Western Publication Awards - a.k.a. the Maggies - last week, besting some impressive competition, including Mother Jones and Sunset magazines.

The honors: Best Series of Editorial Photographs/Consumer for Max Whittaker's Afghanistan photo essay in the June/July issue; Best Overall Design - Consumer, for the April/May issue, and City & Metropolitan/Consumer for the August/September issue.

Whittaker's winning photo essay, by the way, also has been chosen to appear in the upcoming "Photography Annual for the Communication Arts." The book also will feature photos from the likes of Time, Newsweek and Rolling Stone magazines.

Hybrid autos, solar panels and other things "green" aside, I'm glad I wrote about eco-friendly fashions back in April. (To see the story that appeared in the Scene section, click here.)

It's becoming a super-hot topic.

Right after the story ran, I got word from UC Davis that an exhibit titled "Fashion Conscious" was set to open Thursday at the school's design museum. Curators Susan Taber Avila and Julia Schwartz have put together an amazing look at sustainable fashions, including garments and textiles.

To coincide with the exhibit's opening, there will be a free symposium from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday titled "Designing With Conscious". It will be held in the UC Davis Technocultural Studies Building (just south of the Art Building).

Target audience? Design students and professionals, retailers and consumers who want to know more about sustainable fashion beyond hemp. The overall goal: to find alternatives to commercial cotton and all the pesticides associated with producing it.

The symposium will feature at least seven speakers, including a designer who works with recycled cashmere and an environmental analyst at Patagonia in Ventura.

To register for this free event or for more info on the exhibit, which runs through July 13, click here.

For a while on Tuesday night (well, only after one song), it looked like the last girl standing on "American Idol" might give the two "Davids" a run for the finale.

But then Syesha Mercado's own song choice and the one picked for her by the show's producers fell flat, likely setting up next week's season ender with David Archuleta singing against David Cook for the confetti drop and Season 7 "Idol" title.

No great shocks, right?

Well, at least song selectiion was not entirely the fault of the contestants. They performed three songs - each judge picked one, the three contestants each picked one, and then those pesky producers got involved with certainly two of the worst choices this season.

Here's how it broke down:

* David A. got his judge's pick from Paula Abdul, who chose Billy Joel's " And So It Goes" for the teen. It always gets a little tricky when the other judges do their critiques. Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell thought it was very good. "Predictable, no surprises," Simon said.

* Syesha's song came from Randy - Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You." Great choice and definitely her best performance of the night, though Simon wished the "Dawg" had chosen "something so you wouldn't sound like the original."

* David C. received a text message from Simon with his song, which was a stunner: Roberta Flack's "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." And, as usual, David's arrangement, especially the high note at the end, was amazing. Round 1? Cook and Cowell take it.

The contestants' own choices were odd at best, leaving the middle round "just OK" in Simon's opinion.

David A. sang Chris Brown's "With You." Syesha did a chair dance to Peggy Lee's "Fever," and David C. rocked "Dare You To Move" by Switchfoot.

But the final round - the producers' picks - was, in my opinion, a big, fat flop.

David A. sang a wishy-washy version of Dan Fogelberg's wishy-washy "Longer." I didn't like that song 20 years ago. (No disrespect to Dan.) Simon agreed, calling the performance "gooey."

Syesha got stuck with "Hit Me Up" from the "Happy Feet" soundtrack. She would have been better off with penguins as back-up singers. And it was sweet Paula who delivered the bad news: "I'm not sure it's good enough to get you into the finals."

David C. closed it out with Aerosmith's "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing," an uber-predictable performance that likely will get him into the finals. Simon declared he definitely had "won the night."

Dialidol.com put the red-light prediction on Syesha. Of the two Davids, Archuleta certainly would be the most vulnerable. But don't count on it.

Fox

The Top 3 perform tonight (at 8 on Fox40) on "American Idol": three songs for three finalists seeking a shot at next week's Top 2 finale.

And let's hope young David Archuleta has found some semblance of a backbone hidden behind that big voice of his and has told his father (for lack of better words), "Butt out!"

Sounds disrespectful? Well, if you've been a fan of Season 7, you have to have picked up on David's vulnerability to his old man. Jeff Archuleta has been dubiously dubbed the worst stage parent of all time, reportedly badgering his son and bullying his way into rehearsals and other places a guardian isn't needed.

According to a variety of reports - from the Associated Press to TMZ - the elder Archuleta has officially gotten the boot as far as attending "Idol" rehearsals, where, unless he's a music teacher, he has no business.

No one at "Idol" will go on the record but apparently Jeff talked David into changing a lyric on last week's "Stand By Me", one of two songs David performed from the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame.

Reports say Jeff was duly warned to stay out of the rehearsal, but David ended up performing the song by adding a verse from Sean Kingston's "Beautiful Girls," , clearly a violation because the Hall doesn't allow lyric changes. "Idol" apparently incurred the wrath of Cleveland (Hall's home) and a nice, fat fine.

You're probably wondering why it was OK for Brooke White to change a word on her version of Neil Diamond's "I Am, I Said" two weeks ago. Well, he wrote it, he was the mentor and he told her to do it!

Just a thought, but maybe "Idol" should up the age requirement to 18 and rid themselves of overzealous parents.

Geez, what a headache this guy has been!

Given all the hoopla, it will be interesting to see how David handles the pressure tonight. If (and it's a long shot) he gets the boot on Wednesday, it will be a long drive back to Utah.

Fine. You win, "Good Day Sacramento," you win.

We tried - tried hard - to avoid blogging about Mark S. Allen's run-in with a cow at the Dixon May Fair - and this, despite a prediction that the cow-patty clip would end up on this here blog. It all just seemed too, well, easy.

But then the rest of the world caught wind - sorry - of Allen's smelly bovine encounter (Lucky us that "GDS" is not Smell-O-Vision equipped - yet) and, well, here's to the 15 minutes of fame that Allen's long-ago Comedy Central stint didn't earn him.

Seriously, TMZ (I know, right?!) and Dave Barry blogged about the clip.

Gives new meaning to the term "viral video."

The Northern California Area Emmy Awards were handed out in San Francisco Saturday, with several of the shiny statues going home with Sacramento winners.

KUVS Univision 19 was the big local winner, taking home 38 statues in 13 categories, including Feature News Report - Light series; Continuing Coverage, and Public/Current/Community Affairs - Feature Segment.

Perhaps even more impressive, reporter Santiago Lucero (pictured in a photo courtesy of KUVS) snagged five awards, including a nod for Specialty Assignment Report, to make him the most-honored individual overall.

Other Sacramento area winners include Channel 13 (KOVR) for Informational/Instructional Feature Segment, and Channel 6 (KVIE) in the Writer/Program category.

For a complete list of winners, visit EmmySF.tv.

Associated Press/The White House/Shealah Craighead

Well, first daughter Jenna Bush tied the knot Saturday at her family's 1,600-acre Prairie Chapel Ranch, just as the sun dipped around 7:30 p.m.

And, while few details about the ceremony have eeked out, I did find out via Vogue magazine and other news services that Jenna, 26, wore what she described as a “very structured” Oscar de la Renta organza gown when she wed longtime beau Henry Hager.

So, for those wedding fashionistas expecting a mile-long train, a la Princess Diana, it didn't happen.

However, having seen the pics, I think Jenna made a lovely choice. Heck, you simply can't go wrong with a de la Renta gown. Even with a simple one, the attention to detail - the lace, the beading - is exquisite. And no giant veil to obscure the groom's view!

This is certainly not the first time the Bush family has called on de la Renta for fashion advice. As you may recall, all the Bush women - Jenna, mom Laura and twin sister Barbara - all wore "Oscars" for the second inaugural ceremonies in January 2005.

The day after his daughter's big day, President Bush told the AP, “The wedding was spectacular. It’s just - it’s all we could have hoped for.”

Barbara Bush served as her twin's maid of honor and the other 14 "house party" members (that's Texan for bridesmaids) were attired in pastel-colored, short chiffon dresses by designer Lela Rose.

The Event Foundation in Sacramento is looking for talent - good talent, they say - so that cuts me out of the hunt. Anyway, the group is hosting a mega fundraiser, "From Film to Fashion," on Oct. 4 at Raley Field.

The auditions run the gamut. That's because the event will feature everything from theatrical acts to dance performances and lots and lots of music.

So, here's what they're looking for:

* Dancers: A ballet performance will be performed during dinner.

* Orchestra: Musicans are needed for an orchestra that will perform several movie scores during the runway fashion show.

* Theater/drama: Performers are needed to reenact scenes from several movies, including "Indiana Jones" (male lead and five to eight extras).

* Vocals: Vocalists are needed to perform "Summertime" (female), "The Music of the Night" (male), and the theme song from "The Phantom of the Opera" (one male, one female).

There are two ways to audition. You can submit a performance DVD or schedule a live tryout. With either option, you'll also need to submit an application - deadline is Friday. Click here to print an application form out.

Address:
The Event Foundation
930 Alhambra Blvd., Suite 80A
Sacramento, CA 95816

or call (916) 440-9703 for more information.

No, you probably don't need Michael Crawford's voice, but as close as possible wouldn't hurt!

And remember: You have to be available Oct. 4, the night of the event. Duh.

Wondering what to see this weekend?

In today's Weekend Ticket, I review movies opening this week. (Check out what I have to say about "Speed Racer.") But if you're interested in other options, here are my recommendations for recently released films:

Iron Man
3 star
Industrialist Tony Stark's (Robert Downey Jr.) plan to halt weapons
production encounters resistance from Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), No. 2 man at Stark Industries. Sporting a beard and a shaved head and a
manner alternately soothing and menacing, Bridges is perfection as the
ambitious guy behind the guy, comic-book edition. He's a combination of
Karl Rove and Dick Cheney as filtered through the WWE.
Rated PG-13

The Visitor
4 stars
Richard Jenkins ' poker face starts to crack when his emotionally
stagnant character, Walter, sees new acquaintance Tarek (Haaz Sleiman) practicing his African drum. Frankly, even the Sphinx would have trouble suppressing a goofy grin with Tarek around. Lent a winning ebullience by
Sleiman, Tarek is a generous guy who encourages Walter to try the drum
himself. Director Tom McCarthy is generous as well, allowing his
lead actors to shine in this beautifully observed tale of unlikely
friendships.
Rated PG-13

Forgetting Sarah Marshall
3 stars
Heartbroken Peter (Jason Segel) finds pals in a sympathetic bartender (Da'Vone McDonald), a pothead surf instructor (Paul Rudd) and a newlywed (Jack McBrayer, from "30 Rock") seeking escape from the sexual demands of his honeymoon. The bit players add to the overall fun, but the main attraction at this Hawaiian resort is front-desk employee Rachel (Mila Kunis). Assessing sad sack Peter's situation upon his arrival, Rachel installs him in an expensive suite, gratis.
Rated R

Can a film bring the world together? Probably not, if we're talking about "What Happens in Vegas."

But a bunch of well-made films chosen for their their educational and/or inspirational value, shown all over the world at the same time, actually might make a dent.

That's the goal of Pangea Day, an event that on Saturday will offer 24 short films over the course of four hours via television, computer and cell phone. And at least one of the short films -- India's "Dancing Queen," pictured above -- actually was shot on a cell phone.

Conceived as a way to promote cultural understanding through the medium of film, the event, starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, will include live gatherings in several cities and talks by CNN's Christine Amanpour and Queen Noor of Jordan.

The event will be streamed live on the Pangea Day Web site and broadcast on Current TV.

OK, so you're down to that last-minute Mother's Day gift. Well, you can't go wrong with a beautiful bauble.

Why not make a stop either today or Saturday at Arareity Jewelry & Art Glass Gallery, 1021 R St. The store is hosting trunk shows both days featuring the Masriera collection, which has been around a loooong time, first produced in 1839 in Barcelona, Spain.

What will you find? Lovely pieces - including earrings, brooches, rings - in 18 karat gold and enamel, very reminiscent of the Lalique line. In fact, the Masriera collection has been featured in New York's Museum of Modern Art and will be heading to an upcoming exhibit in Amsterdam.

Arareity's show today ends at 5:30 p.m.; Saturday's is from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information: (916) 446-1535.

After shopping, stroll down the street a bit and enjoy some fine dining and a cold beverage at Fox & Goose, 1001 R St.

OK, so I've kinda been avoiding posting about all things Armstrong & Getty lately, and I already wrote about the folks over at "Good Day Sacramento" once this week....

But....

Honestly, this really feels kind of cheap and easy - like shooting talking fish in a barrel.

But, again....

What the heck? I'm not going to editorialize, I'm just going to set up the premise and then let you draw your own conclusions (or make your own jokes).

The deal: On Wednesday, KSTE (650 AM)'s Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty were doing their radio show and also watching Channel 31's "Good Day Sacramento" (with the sound off) when one of them made a comment along the lines of "I don't know who freaking watches that mindless crap."

After professing love for "GDS' " Mark S. Allen, Nick Toma and Chris Burrous, the pair went on to speculate that people who willingly watch early TV shows much be a) fat, b) somehow physically limited, or c) stupid.

OK, so the "GDS" folks - alerted by a loyal watcher - weren't too happy by the characterization, obviously. And after much harumphing about how Jack & Joe used to have a morning TV show, but obviously that didn't work out and blah blah blah, they challenged A&G to a paintball battle.

And then, this morning, to reiterate their points (and the challenge), they lugged their cameras into the A&G studio to "confront" the duo.

All of which kind of makes me think this is just sort of in-cahoots sweeps stunt.

But hey, I said I wasn't going to judge....

Watch the "Good Day Sacramento" clip and decide for yourself.

You also can listen to the original A&G remarks here, or today's comments here.

Like I said, cheap and easy. I feel so dirty now.

Hector Amezcua/hamezcua@sacbee.com

Let's put politics aside for the moment in the race for Sacramento mayor, and talk about the really important stuff. Like style. Or lack thereof.

After Wednesday night's debate, the seven candidates seem strong enough to take pot shots from each other - and from the voters - so I thought I'd lob a few fashion salvos their way, as well.

I watched the debate in between catching the live results on "American Idol." And I was stunned. This was TV. A live broadcast. Do or die.

And I'm talking about the clothes worn by the candidates, not the "Idol" contestants. (The latter whom were appropriately dressed.)

Bottom line: If you're campaigning to be the mayor of the capital city of one of the largest states in the country, you can't, can't, dress as if you were dumpster diving at the nearest thrift store. Or appear like you'd rather be a back-up singer for ZZ Top or Lynyrd Skynyrd. Or wear black (with a bad tie) because you think you're channeling your inner Charles Bronson.

Yeah, it makes you a standout, but not in a good way.

To candidate Adam Daniel, I'll leave you alone because you dropped out of the race during the debate.

To everyone else, when you're trying to represent us, especially outside the city limits, i.e., during confabs with the likes of Michael Bloomberg (mayor of New York) or Shirley Franklin (mayor of Atlanta), you can get away with talking the talk (even if it is about chickens) but, if you dress inappropriately, that just solidifies the notion that California is, indeed, the land of fruits and nuts.

Trust me on this one: Appearance does impact your credibility. So, call me if you need someone to help you shop.

And, by the way, a trim here and there wouldn't be a bad idea, either.

Legendary singer Tina Turner's hitting the road again with those fabulous gams of hers (and, of course, vocal pipes).

The show, scheduled to arrive Oct. 22 at Arco Arena, will showcase the highlights of Turner's enduring, influential career and will include a full band with flashy choreography and lights.

Awesome.

Tickets ($57.75-$150) go on sale at 10 a.m. May 19 through TicketMaster.com.

And, speaking of awesome, another enduring diva is packing her road trunk.

Yes, the one-and-only Madonna is launching her globe-trotting Sticky & Sweet tour this summer.

But you're gonna have to make the 90ish mile drive for that one, cos she'll be in Oakland, Nov. 1 at the Oracle Arena. Tickets ($55-$350) go on sale at 10 a.m. June 1 through LiveNation.com and TicketMaster.com.

Don't know about you, but I actually really like her new album "Hard Candy" - especially the title track and the "4 Minutes" single.

Oops, now that song's going to be totally stuck in my head again.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go hyperventilate into a paper bag at the diva awesomeness of it all.

Fox

Jason Castro really is Jason Castro.

What do I mean by that? Dude is just as laid-back over the phone as he was during his incredible ride on "American Idol."

In a conference call with reporters today, Jason says his busiest days are ahead of him. And the thought of singing three songs next week, had he stayed? He's happy that it's not happening.

Here's some more of what he had to say about his experience on the show:

Q: You seemed utterly relieved when you were eliminated last night. Is that accurate?
A: I was as happy last night as when I made the Top 24. It's just really been hard. I had been thinking ahead to next week and three songs. I couldn't even do two! There was some freaking out about all the work. But the pressure is off, even though I loved my time on the show.

Q:After the results show, there were rumors flying that Simon Cowell thought you deliberately forgot the words to "Mr Tambourine Man" because you wanted to get the boot. Any truth to that?
A: No, I didn't do it on purpose. That's such a popular line that's written on your soul. When I got on stage, I was really rushed, my mind was in a blur. I just forgot where I was in the chorus.

Q: At one point, the judges said you weren't the same Jason they brought into the competition. Do you think your lack of experience, which you mentioned, hindered you?
A: The lack of experience really showed when we doubled up on songs. I was not connecting to the songs, I couldn't fall in love with them. But it also has everything to do with song selection and then finding time to rehearse. As the show progressed, there was less and less of that.

Q: Do you feel like the show portrayed you as you really are - super mellow?
A: I think it (the show) very much did. I am a goofy person. I'm an awkward conversationalist, as you guys can probably tell. But I am kind of grounded. What you see is what you get.

Q: Quite a few of the other contestants have professional backgrounds. Did you see yourself as the guy who just wandered in and was having a good time?
A: Hey, I made it farther than I ever imagined. And I did just kind of wander in. But, then I thought, "Hey, I'm here. I might as well be in it to win it." Every week I wanted to give it my best.

Q: There's no doubt you were very popular with the female viewers. You even got kissed in Las Vegas! Are you uncomfortable with the fame?
A: I don't really get it yet. I've never been starstruck, but I think it's cool because it means they like you. Actually, we (the contestants) don't go out at all. I had dinner once a week with my parents and tried to be inconspicuous.

Q: Do you have a girlfriend?
A: I do. She just finished school and is headed back to Texas.

Q: Are you looking forward to getting back to the Lone Star State?
A: I wish I was there now. But I hear I'm not going home. Instead, I'm headed to New York and then I come back here (L.A.) for the finale and rehearsing for the tour.

Q: What have you learned about yourself from your experience? And what do you think about the remaining three contestants?
A: I've learned I can do a lot more than I thought. And I did it for a few months straight - on TV! Everybody left is strong, especially the "Davids." And Syesha has been really working hard. Every week you're on there are more chances, but no guarantees.

Jason Castro had every dread locked into place tonight - even after being eliminated on "American Idol."

His thoughts? "Three songs next week? I don't know what I would have done!"

So, that leaves "Idol" viewers with their Top 3: David Archuleta, David Cook and Syesha Mercado. This, after close to 51 million votes were cast after Tuesday night's competition, the highest this season.

This week's Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame selections - a virtual vault of the best music ever performed - didn't impress the three judges. Simon Cowell said tonight that he "was surprised at the disastrous song choices."

But the Final 4 contestants didn't have much time to worry about Simon's musings. They received a private 737 plane ride to Las Vegas as guests of honor at a Cirque du Soleil performance of the Beatles' sold-out "Love."

They got gussied up (David C. got his first manicure), and Jason was ambushed by girls and a dolphin in the hotel pool.

Tonight, viewers also were treated to performances by Season 4 runner-up Bo Bice and one of my favorite groups, Maroon 5, set to launch a worldwide tour.

* Worst moment of the night? The Final 4 Ford video featuring Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" and the contestants in uber-tight matador pants. UGH!

* Best moment of the night? Before the elimination, Jason was asked his thoughts on Tuesday's performances:

"Somebody told me yesterday that I shot the tambourine man. I screwed up."

This in reference to his two song choices: Bob Marley's "I Shot the Sheriff" and Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man."

Next weeK? Three songs, like Jason said. And trips to the Top 3's hometowns.

Check back here at 21Q Thursday for a Q&A with Jason.

(And, if I'm in a particularly sporty mood, I'll offer a fashion assessment of our fair city's mayoral candidates. This, after tonight's televised debate. You won't want to miss this.)

Hey, with another nice forecast this weekend, there's no reason not to take advantage of all the shopping options in midtown and thereabouts.

Oh, and OK, and to check out some of the galleries, too, during the popular monthly Second Saturday artwalk.

Of course, Mother's Day is Sunday. So this also could be your chance to pick up that last-minute gift for mom, your partner's mom, your wife the mom, a mom-to-be - or, heck, for yourself if you're a mom!

Here are some ideas:

* Lululemon Athletica, a yoga-inspired apparel company based in Vancouver, B.C., is having a special Sacramento grand opening from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; the store, at 2310 J St. in midtown, will feature complimentary yoga classes and demos.

The store's manager, Lorena Beightler, e-mailed that she's looking forward to the store becoming sort of midtown yoga hub, with, according to press materials, "yoga and fitness classes."

"Yoga as a fitness activity is growing stronger in Sacramento and is taking its place alongside other popular outdoor activities, like running and cycling," she writes.

The Lululemon store will officially open May 16, and will only be open from 2 to 7 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. On Wednesday evenings - from 7 to 8 - Lululemon will offer a free yoga class at McKinley Park.

To get a sneak peak at the apparel for both women and men, or to get more more information, click here.

* Felicia Strati boutique will host a fashion show Saturday featuring spring/summer European collections. The event will begin at 7 p.m. at the shop's Capitol Avenue and 19th Street location; Apartment 19 will be styling the models' hair, so you can anticipate "fierceness."

* Madam Butterfly boutique in Pavilions (off Fair Oaks Boulevard) is hosting a trunk show Thursday through Sunday featuring Junior Drake handbags. But don't stop there. If you find the perfect gift, Madam Butterfly will wrap it for free while you nibble on canapes.

Note to you: One special mom I know just asks for the chance to sleep in this Mother's Day. Keep the breakfast warm!

Fox

If "American Idol" voters even come close to listening to judge Simon Cowell's opinions Tuesday night, there will be no big shocker on tonight's results show (at 9 on Fox40).

Jason Castro may have dreaded (no pun intended) hearing it but, after his second song, Simon threw down the gauntlet: "I'd pack your suitcase."

Yow!

The Final 4 performed two songs each from the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. However, after last week's flub with Paula Abdul, host Ryan Seacrest told the three judges they would critique after each song.
"Everybody got it right?" he asked. (Camera pans to Paula.)

David Cook surprised me (and apparently the judges) with both his songs: Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" and The Who's "Baba O'Riley." (Most folks might remember this song as "Teenage Wasteland.")

The judges definitely preferred the latter song. Randy Jackson said "Hungry" was an "OK choice," but "Baba" was great.

Syesha Mercado went all Tina Turner on us with "Proud Mary" first: shiny, short dress, hips swaying, working the band.

Randy said, "It was the third week in a row Syesha was in the zone!" However, Simon put a damper on the performance, saying it was a "shrieky version."

Her second song? A heartfelt rendition of Sam Cooke's 1964 "A Change is Gonna Come." Randy, however, said Syesha was trying for "things" that weren't there. "It was disconnected and fell flat."

Paula and Simon took sides against Randy, both loving it. Syesha was brought to tears by their praise - and also by the emotion of the song and its connection to the Civil Rights movement. While she cried, the judges bickered among themselves, to the point that Ryan warned that "Hell's Kitchen," which follows "Idol," was going to start any minute.

And then there was Jason, strummin' and chillin' to two "Bobs:" Bob Marley's "I Shot the Sheriff" and Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man."

Dreadlocks notwithstanding, Jason wasn't the bomb. He just bombed. He dropped the lyrics on the Dylan song and was told by Simon that the Marley song was one "you don't touch!"

"Stand back. That was utterly atrocious!" he said.

That left young David Archuleta (pictured), who seemed to have put a lot of thought into his selectiions, starting with Ben E. King's "Stand by Me," on which Paula said he delivered. Randy said he thought David A. was trying to win the whole thing. (Simon took another swing at Jason, who had just sung, saying, "David, you could have whistled better than the last song." Ouch!)

David's last song was Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender," one of the best arrangements I've ever heard. Randy said he "caressed each word." Paula said it was one of her favorite performances. And then, this from Simon: "You didn't beat the competition tonight, you crushed it!"

In the end, Ryan warned voters/viewers to not let down their favorite contestant by not voting.

"Remember, Tamyra Gray (Season 1) and Chris Daughtry (Season 5) both went home in the fourth spot," he said.

Predictions: Dialidol.com wasted no time putting the "red light" on Jason, polling him as definitely headed home. I won't argue with that. But, his lock on the female vote could be a stunner for, say, Syesha.

I'm sticking with my two "Davids" for the finale. What do you think?

So "Good Day Sacramento's" Mark S. Allen was in Davis this morning, shooting a hard-hitting piece about a kid trying to catapult a Curious George doll through the city's Slide Hill Park.

Aside from the burning questions as to why someone would want to do this and why the heck you'd even send a reporter out to cover it, that's not what caught our attention.

Here's the deal: Park supervisors weren't too keen on the kid's plan and apparently called in police for backup. The police, however, weren't really sure if it's a crime to catapult a stuffed monkey, admitting that the action fell into a legal "gray area."

So, as the police tried to figure out the ins-and-outs of the doll-launching laws, Allen decided it was time to hurry up with the show and just shoot the damn thing already.

Not so fast. Turns out the park supervisors really didn't like the idea and decided to stand in the direct path of the unlucky plushie.

So, Allen, not wanting to invite a possible lawsuit, trotted off to ask them to move.

And, get this - they refused. The nerve! Seriously folks, Allen is peeved, protesting "We're on live TV right now!" Meanwhile, back at the "Good Day Sac" ranch, things go from stupid to embarrassing when anchor Nick Toma gets really put out by the whole affair, going as far as to fake-snore (because park supervisors bore him?) and even boo loudly.

A few other Toma gems:

"Is there any wonder why people make fun of Davis?"

and:

"Kinda makes me want to hit (the park supervisor)." (C'mon, Toma - even Mark S. Allen didn't think that was a good idea.)

and:

"I'm looking up another word for 'Jerky McJerkestein.' "

Huh?

Watch the clip and decide who the real Jerky McJerkestein is.

Here's a show that slipped in past the deadline for today's Coming Distractions column: Teddy Geiger and Hilary McRae, June 13 at the Empire (1417 R St.).

Geiger is a 20-year-old pop phenom (and occasional actor: TV's "Love Monkey" and the upcoming flick "The Rocker") - he reminds me of a young Rufus Wainwright.

McRae (pictured, photo by Henry Diltz) is an up-and-coming pop-jazz vocalist - and the first new, developing artist to be signed to Starbucks' Hear Music label. Yes, that's her debut album "Through These Walls" that you see every time you order that double-whip, half-caf frappucino.

Tickets ($10 advance, $12 door) for the all-ages show go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday through the Beat, R5 Records, Dimple Records, Armadillo Music, all Tickets.com outlets (inside select Raley's and Bel Air Supermarkets) and Tickets.com.

Fox

Tonight's version of "American Idol" will feature the Final 4 (pictured) - one competition away from the Top 3. (Notice how we go from Final to Top?)

Yes, there are major perks to advancing.

The last three standing traditionally get a private plane ride to their hometowns, maybe a parade, a mall appearance, a key to the city, a street named after them.

And then it's back to L.A.

But, I'm jumping the gun a bit. We've got a show tonight (at 8 on Fox40). Syesha Mercado, David Archuleta, Jason Castro and David Cook don't have many more opportunities to woo fans away from each other. Forget what the judges say - or mumble! (Let's just hope Paula Abdul didn't attend dress rehearsal.)

They'll perform two songs from the vaunted collection that is the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame. What does that mean? Anything from Madonna to Mick Jagger.

Yes, the judges harp ad nauseum on song selection, but I seriously can't think of a week when it will count as much. David C. could go mellow and then rock it, or rock it twice. David A. could just go mellow/mellow. With Brooke White's mellowness gone, Jason can't count on those dreads if he, too, goes mellow/mellow. For me, Syesha is the one to watch because she can mix it up with the best of them.

If not, find a spot for her in "Dreamgirls."

Movie trailers can be aggravating, giving away key moments and plot twists. The trailers for "Baby Mama" and "Made of Honor," for instance, revealed their respective films' funniest moments (and in the case of "Made of Honor," only funny moments).

But, just as I was growing melancholy over the state of trailers, along comes this one for August's "Hamlet 2" (above, via YouTube), a comedy about a high school drama teacher (Steve Coogan) who launches an un-PC sequel to the Shakespeare play.

I hadn't heard of "Hamlet 2" until I started researching my summer movie preview, which runs this Sunday in The Bee's Ticket+ section. But after watching the trailer several times, I now count "Hamlet 2," along with "Sex and the City" and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull," among the films I most look forward to.

Check it out and see if you agree. (And by the way, the version above is the cleaned-up one. There's also a "red band" trailer).

Autumn Cruz/acruz@sacbee.com

It's been just a little more than a month, but there's been a lot of change since I wrote about local handbag designer Ada Komorniczak-Deferrari (pictured) and her incredible accessories. (To see the article that ran in Scene, click here.)

Anyway, over calamari and cool drinks on Friday, Ada filled me in on her recent trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where her handbags, belts and wallets are designed andl handmade.

"After people saw the bags, especially the croco one in The Bee, I had to increase orders from once to twice a month, and I've extended that croco line to include new shapes and sizes and new fabrics, such as metallics," she says.

Ahh, sweet success!

Ada, whose collection is, well, simply called "Ada," traveled to Argentina in
April with her husband, Gaston, who's also her business partner and a native of that country. (I asked if they had spotted the "Today" show's Matt Lauer, who was there last Monday on the first leg of his "Where in the World" tour. "No, but I'm sure he had a good time with the dancing and the dining," she says.)

Anyway, what's in the works for Ada's upcoming collections?

Well, her portfolio of fabrics tells an interesting story. Customers will see textures like anaconda, and the fall collection will focus on deep plums with reptile and a mixture of patent leathers.

This summer, Ada is also putting together a tote-bag collection to benefit a women's shelter in Buenos Aires. She found out about the shelter on the recent trip, where she met women who were making beautiful heart keychains to raise awareness about abuse. Now, Ada is creating a signature tote (in multiple colors) that will include the keychain, with a percentage of the sales to go to the shelter.

"They're earning a living to support their families, so I see it as a chance to contribute to their well-being," she says.

To find out more, check out Ada's Web site here.

Besides Argentina, Ada and Gaston traveled to Dallas and Chicago, where they found the markets mixed.

"Chicago is more conservative in terms of fashion," she says. "Dallas tended to embrace my suede bags in purple and green, and white is big for summer."

Another thing Ada is learning? Fashion trends definitely enter from the two coasts and then move inland. And, there's always a demand for both classic and trendy looks.

For those of you who gotta-have-an-Ada, here are some local boutiques that carry her line:
* Morgan Lain, 613 Munroe St. in Sacramento
* Five, 2580 Fair Oaks Blvd. Sacramento
* The Pink House, 1462 33rd St. in Sacramento
* Sandra D's Fashions, 3941 Park Drive, Suite 60, in El Dorado Hills

Wondering what to see this weekend?

In today's Weekend Ticket, I review movies opening this week. (Check out what I have to say about "Iron Man.") But if you're interested in other options, here are my recommendations for recently released films:

Forgetting Sarah Marshall
3 stars
Mila Kunis is so different from her whiny character on "That '70s Show" that she's almost unrecognizable. Part of it's the tan and heavy eye makeup evoking a 1960s-era Elizabeth Taylor. The rest is good acting. Self-assured yet down-to-earth, Kunis' character, Rachel, seems like a grown-up compared with most other characters. A front-desk employee at a luxury hotel, Rachel is exceptionally nice to sad-sack guest Peter (Jason Segel), but he can't tell if her interest is professional or personal.
Rated R

Nim's Island
3 stars
The adorable Abigail Breslin taps the same game spirit she displayed in "Little Miss Sunshine" but in a more physically demanding context. When island dweller Nim investigates a volcano, Breslin really appears to be climbing jagged rocks.
Rated PG

Shine a Light
3 stars
Martin Scorsese, who has used Rolling Stones songs prominently in his movies, brings an obvious fondness for the group to this concert film. He also seems to recognize that the Stones' history is by this time well-known. The group's longevity, as manifested through its still-electrifying performances, is the story now – one that captivates a boomer audience who can see, through the Stones, that it's possible to get older and still maintain an edge. Or, more specifically, that it's possible to be Keith Richards and continue to stand up.
Rated PG-13

ALSO: "Monster From Bikini Beach," a film that touched hearts and changed lives when it premiered in January, returns to the Crest Theatre tonight, Saturday, May 9 and May 10. Made locally by Trash Film Orgy Productions, "Bikini" will titillate and terrify mature audiences at 10:30 p.m.each night.

May is sweeps month - that time when broadcasters try to grab your attention (and, thus, more advertisers).

Sometimes, this can be a good thing, with stations adding interesting content. And, sometimes, well, not so much.

Which is where you come in. If, during your daily channel surfing, you come across anything particularly weird, outrageous or just plain stupid in local broadcasting, send me an e-mail (and please include your name and city of residence).

But, please, local stuff only - there's no way I can even try to keep up with the Heidis, Paulas and Dr. Phils of the world.

Your suggestions may or may not end up as part of a future 21Q post - but just think if you do - finally, a chance to be Internet Famous.

Thanks in advance!