Phillip Phillips performing during a hometown concert in Leesburg, Georgia.
/ Kevin Mcleod
ALBANY, GA. --
Lee County is now the home of three superstars, one of whom may be the next American Idol.
The city of Leesburg is proud to display the names of country star, Luke Bryan, and baseball player, Buster Posey, at the gates of the city but someone taped the name of Phillip Phillips at the bottom of that sign.
Officials say having three superstars from the area is almost unreal.
“Just having one of these individuals come from your hometown is quite amazing but to say that you have all three it does make you wonder is there something in the water,” say Lisa Davis, Vice President for the Lee County Chamber of Commerce.
Davis says these stars, especially Phillip Phillips, have put Leesburg, Georgia on the map.
“When Ryan Seacrest mentions Leesburg, Georgia you know you kind of well up inside. It's a pretty proud moment, no doubt,” says Lisa Davis.
Not only is Phillip Phillips star status building pride within the city but the economy is also on the rise. His recent homecoming celebration is the proof.
“It was a mad house people from everywhere. People parked everywhere people walking and buying cokes and water,” says Jim Quinn, Mayor of Leesburg, Georgia.
Quinn says everyone was having a good time, all while spending money.
“I heard the number was $550,000 of just one day of him being in town,” says Jim Quinn.
And the bucks are still rolling in.
“We had a lady come in this morning and was visiting family but wanted to get her some Phillip Phillips gear and wanted to get some of her family some memorabilia to take back as well,” says Lisa Davis.
She says people are flocking to the area thanks to the singer. As Phillip Phillips mania continues, she says the economic impact will only grow.
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