By B.J. Drye, News Editor
Thursday, January 18, 2007 — A rumor about Albemarle’s own “American Idol” star Kellie Pickler returning to Albemarle this weekend turned about to be just that — a rumor.
John Eric, a disc jockey for Charlotte radio station 96.9 Kat Country, reported Tuesday afternoon Pickler would return to her hometown Saturday and be greeted with a parade emceed by radio personality Paul Schadt.
When contacted by The Stanly News & Press Tuesday afternoon, Summer Miller, a local friend of Pickler, denied the claims, adding she had been in touch with Pickler and she had no plans to return home this weekend.
“I called her and she confirmed that she will not be in a parade this weekend,” Miller said.
On Wednesday morning, Kat Country apologized to listeners, saying the report had occurred due to a computer glitch. Instead of the parade piece, another promo was to have aired regarding a promotion involving Pickler’s involvement at the Daytona 500, sources said.
Pickler’s plans for the remainder of the week include guest hosting on ABC’s “The View” today and Friday.
In other Pickler news, someone recently made off with the second “Home of Kellie Pickler,” sign erected by the city of Albemarle.
B.J. Drye can be contacted by email at snaponline25@yahoo.com.
