Haley a true suburban ‘Idol’

Last year, we had Lee DeWyze and the Blackhawks. This year, Haley Reinhart and the Bulls. Let’s hope for a repeat double championship.

But even if that doesn’t happen, it’s a good time to be from Chicago’s suburbs.

Say what you will about “American Idol,” it’s still one of the most popular shows in America, 10 seasons in. And there’s nothing wrong with showcasing the suburbs and the talent we can produce to millions on Fox.

So we encourage all to watch on Wednesday night and Thursday to see what thousands participated in on Saturday. Haley Reinhart Day, like Lee DeWyze Day a year ago, was a big success.

For those not paying attention, Haley, from Wheeling, is in the top three on “Idol.” The 20-year-old will compete on Wednesday for a chance to get to the finale. DeWyze, from Mount Prospect, won the competition last year. Both had hometown visits that culminated in a concert at Arlington Park. And while they took different academic and musical paths, both are products of Northwest Suburban High School District 214.

The pride Mount Prospect had for DeWyze a year ago was evident as he ascended to the “Idol” throne, just as the pride Wheeling showed for Reinhart this past weekend was palpable. It’s pride the entire suburban area can feel — she also was standout at Harper College — and hopefully translate into votes for Haley, just as it did for Lee.

“People remember how everyone really came together and bonded over one of our own residents,” said Maura El Metennani, a spokeswoman for Mount Prospect. “That feeling of pride still lingers.”

It fills the air in Wheeling today.

“We are all so proud of Haley, and so impressed with her talents,” said Wheeling Village President Judy Abruscato. “Her achievements on ‘American Idol’ have been an outstanding opportunity for the whole Wheeling community to come together to support her, and also to show the world all the great things that are happening here in our village.”

We’re not sure what the odds are of having two national talent champions in two years crowned from virtually the same place, but we are sure that it showcases how two typical suburban kids working hard can make their dreams come true. We are launching a new column this week called Suburban Standouts that focuses on suburbanites who amaze and impress. Reinhart and DeWyze are excellent role models for those we will profile in the months to come.

“I hope this inspires you to do whatever you want to do in life,” Haley told the crowd gathered at Wheeling High School, where she graduated from in 2009. “Hopefully, I’ll win this thing for you guys.”

We hope so too, Haley.