BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. -- Blue Springs native David Cook, one of three finalists on "American Idol" this season, will return home to the Kansas City area for a weekend full of events.

Cook was asked to sing of the national anthem at the Royals' baseball game on Friday, but declined when he heard the invitation had caused a stir.

A group of 25 students at Southwood Elementary School in Raytown was originally supposed to sing the anthem, but they were told last week they would be bumped if Cook made the finals.

When the singer heard of the controversy caused by the rescheduling, plans were rearranged. The students will now sing the national anthem as they were promised. Cook will throw out the first pitch and sing "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" in the seventh inning stretch.

Cook's visit will also include a performance at KC Live in the Power & Light District Friday morning, a rally and parade in Blue Springs and several radio appearances.