City Manager Wayne Cauthen said this afternoon he hopes that American Idol champ David Cook can work into his busy schedule a reprise of his successful appearance at the Power and Light District two weeks ago.

"I think it's important we do something to recognize his achievement," Cauthen said.

He said Sprint Center and Power and Light officials are reaching out to American Idol officials in hopes of making a victory party possible in the near future.

Cauthen was present for the beginning of last night's finale when it aired live from downtown with a crowd that Cordish officials estimated at 2,500 people. Cauthen said he was dining at the Bristol and heard the huge cheer when it was announced Cook had won.

Two weeks ago, Cauthen had told Cook, "No pressure, but we really hope you win."

Cauthen said he was thrilled Cook came through on such a big stage.

"He delivered," he said.

Cauthen's also was thrilled that Kansas City's new downtown entertainment district got international exposure last night.

Before last night, Cauthen said his highest hopes had been for the entertainment district to get its initial national television exposure through the Big 12 and NCAA basketball tournaments.

"Now 86 million people internationally know there is a Power and Light District in Kansas City," he said. "It's great exposure."

Also Thursday, Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt and wife Melanie issued a statement congratulating Cook on his win and praised his "amazing talent and skill."

"David’s tremendous vocal talents, performance skills and the momentum of this victory will serve him well as he continues his music career. On behalf of all Missourians I offer our congratulations to David and wish him the best," the statement said.

Mayor Mark Funkhouser is out of town today and his office did not plan to release its own statement. Funkhouser was also out of town when the American Idol came to Kansas City two weeks ago and Councilwoman Jan Marcason represented the mayor's office.

Marcason said this afternoon she hopes the city can pull off a victory party and Funkhouser again hands off the duties to her.

"I wish I could have been in LA last night," Marcason said. "I was there in spirit. He deserved it. This is great for the whole metro area."

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I really hope KC Metropolitan area can throw a big victory party for David. It'd be awesome.

I heard in Blue Springs they are going to put up a sign saying it's the home of David Cook and they were wanting to do a ceremony with him in attendance for it.

If they have him come back and do all this I think this will be twice as big as the homecoming festivities. I just hope they don't try doing that the week of Rockfest cause then I probably wouldn't be able to make it to any of it.

In Blue Springs here, we are hearing that the city is wanting to do something for him. A lot of ideas are being thrown out there. Blue Springs is a VERY proud City. Thank you David

I would love to attend a giant David Cook Congratulations Party...that would be awesome!! I'd make the drive...it's only 15 and a half hours from where I am now!