Three locals make "Idol" cut

NEW YORK -- The judges from "American Idol" may have dissed Seattle in their visit here last year, but now they're singing a different tune.

Three of the remaining 24 semifinalists -- chosen Wednesday night -- are from the Northwest: Amy Krebs and Sanjaya Malakar, both of Federal Way, and Blake Lewis of Bothell.

Twelve men and 12 women remain to vie for the "Idol" title and a record contract. Next Tuesday, the top 12 male singers are in the hot seat, and, on Wednesday, the women follow.

The decision-making finale will be held in May.

Seattle Times staff and The Associated Press