American Idol's Jessica Sanchez to Have Hometown Celebration

"American Idol" teen singing sensation Jessica Sanchez will be honored Saturday with a "homecoming celebration" at Eastlake High School, the city of Chula Vista announced Friday.

The event, sponsored by the city, San Diego Gas & Electric and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, will begin about 10:15 a.m. when Jessica, 16, will be escorted by the school's marching band and color guard down Eastlake Parkway from Otay Lakes Road to the campus, where the event will be held at the football stadium.

Sanchez, among the final contestants on the Fox television program, is scheduled to sing. The event is being recorded for air on next week's program.

"Our community is thrilled to welcome home Jessica -- she is already Chula Vista's idol," Mayor Cheryl Cox said. "Her amazing talent and accomplishments are deserving of this grand celebration."

Eastlake Parkway will be closed in the area from 8:30 a.m. until noon because of the celebration, according to city officials. They encourage homemade signs, but food, beverages other than water, coolers, backpacks, umbrellas and lawn chairs will not be permitted.

-City News Service