"We love you, Bucky!"

A news sweep for the first day of this new phase in Bucky's blossoming career:

The Richmond County Daily Journal has the hometown reaction to yesterday's events, along with messages of love and support from around the country and some kind words from Bucky's gracious family:

Theresa “Mama Tee” Dunn, who is Rocky’s mother-in-law and the woman behind Bucky Covington Online, posted a message to all of Bucky’s fans on the “American Idol” chat boards.

“I want to thank each and everyone of you who have dedicated these past few months to supporting our ‘Idol’ and for dialing those digits every week,” she wrote. “Our journey is not over, it is just beginning. Yes, there is the tour and the next year with ‘American Idol,’ but then I think a bigger success is in store for Bucky Covington.

“His dream will be realized in a much bigger way. There is the CD for the twins to make — ‘Sweet Tea & Biscuits’ and ‘Double Vision.’ You have not heard the last of him. We look forward to meeting everyone at the tour this year.

“Well, I guess my Hollywood trip for next week is canceled. I am saddened at the moment and I know good things await on the horizon, but just for the moment I am going to give in to my emotions. The love you have shown all of us has been very heartfelt and we are humbled by the generosity bestowed upon us all.

“We hope you will continue to e-mail us at the Web site and we look forward to hearing from you. I hope you will understand if we take a day or two to answer.

“Again, a very personal thank you to everyone here who have been a part of our ‘Bucky Family.’”

Bucky's mother Debbie has posted a message at the official boards, too--be sure to head over there and join the chorus of appreciation.

And here's an important thread to bookmark--the fans at the Fox boards are keeping track of Bucky's post Idol TV appearances, which will probably include the Jimmy Kimmel, Regis & Kelly (on Monday) and Ellen shows, among others. (One fan mentioned that Bucky was on this morning's Fox News--read this, and get ready to smile.) As news comes in about where Bucky will be appearing, we'll post it here as well. (Edited to add a list from IDF: "American Idol Extra [FOX Reality Channel 6:30PM] , Jay Leno [NBC 11:35PM]".) We'll keep up with this all day today.

As for Bucky's musical future? Well, the shouts on the message boards are loud and clear and unmistakable--we want a CD. We're not sure about the contractual time frames and limits for a contestant who finishes in Bucky's spot, but we think this very informative article on Idol contestant turned successful recording artist Josh Gracin could hold some excellent clues as to how Bucky will make the transition. (Notice, too, the involvement of Rascal Flatts, who gave Bucky a great shout-out on The View a little while back. )

We're thinking positive over here. It really is just the beginning.

Back later today with as much news as we can find...