In Haley's words
Haley Reinhart saved her singing voice for an evening concert at Arlington Park, but the #8220;American Idol#8221; top-three finalist had plenty to say during a Hometown Celebration Saturday that included stops at all her old haunts and a proclamation of #8220;Haley Reinhart Day#8221; by Wheeling Village President Judy Abruscato. Here are a few of the moments:Upon taking the stage at Arlington Park: #8220;Haley Reinhart Day #8212; is that insanity, or what? I'm almost at a loss for words except that I need to tell you all how much I appreciate you.#8221; To a crowd at Wheeling High School, where she graduated in 2009: #8220;For me, it started here. I hope this inspires you to do whatever you want to do in life. Hopefully, I'll win this thing for you guys.#8221;Before getting high-fived by a little boy in a karate uniform: #8220;Are you going to karate chop me?#8221;
Seeing the crowd at Deer Park's ATT store, her first stop: #8220;This is the first gathering where there have been people waiting. It's mind-blowing. It's only the ATT store and already I'm tearing up.#8221;About critical comments from #8220;Idol#8221; judges: #8220;It's harsh, but Steven (Tyler) has always got my back. They want to push me. They say that's when I'm at my best.#8221;
On her immediate plans: #8220;I'm going to be getting on a plane tonight and learning three new songs.#8221;