‘Idol’ finalist to visit area

“American Idol’’ Top 3 finalist Adam Lambert is expected in San Diego Friday for radio and TV appearances and a homecoming parade in his honor.

The 26-year-old Lambert, a graduate of Mount Carmel High School in Rancho Penasquitos, will be in the Star 94.1 radio studios in Kearny Mesa around 8 a.m. for a live interview, immediately followed by a second radio interview at Channel 93.3, according to the Jeff and Jer Showgram and A.J.’s Playhouse.

At 9:30 a.m., Lambert is expected to make a quick stop by an AT&T store at 8225 Mira Mesa Blvd. to receive a customized cell phone.

A police escort will then take the rocker to his alma mater at 9550 Carmel Mountain Road for a 10 a.m. parade at Bassmore Drive and Sundevil Way, immediately followed by an assembly in his honor, according to a school official.

At 4:30 p.m., Marines, sailors and their families will get a chance to meet Lambert at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

Lambert was also expected to stop by the Fox 5 San Diego studios prior to his radio appearances to promote the reality show, which airs on the Fox network Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Lambert, who now lives in Hollywood, is vying to become the next American Idol against Danny Gokey, 28, of Milwaukee, Wis., and Kris Allen, 23, of Conway, Ark.

Footage from his homecoming is expected to air at 8 p.m. Tuesday.