[house this week as part of an upcoming program called] Where Are They Now: Performance Stars of Reality TV. ... Nashville Star.

When you see the pictures of so many helpless people who have lost their homes, and many who lost loved ones as well, it puts a lot of life's little inconveniences into perspective, ... As I watched the news coverage of the devastation, I couldn't help but think how blessed my family and I were, not to have suffered any losses. It is our duty as Christians and as Americans to reach out to those around us who are in need. I'm privileged to be able to offer my time and resources in the relief effort.

I've had deep fried Oreos and deep fried twinkies, but I've never had one of these giant things.

I had been in Nashville for a decade writing songs. Nashville Star landed me a record deal and gave me the opportunity to perform my own songs on the show in front of millions of Americans each week--with fan reactions via email and through my website. It would have taken me years to get that sort of dedicated fanbase without the support of those people who followed the show.

Just as we did for our fellow countrymen in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, ... I encourage everyone in this great nation to roll up their sleeves and contribute as best you can to help our brothers and sisters along the Gulf Coast. It is in times like these that we as Americans have the opportunity to show the world one of the things that makes our country great...our compassion.

We were pleased with our defensive effort and rebounding tonight.