DOWNEY - Allison Iraheta is only 16, but she's already an idol in the eyes of millions of Americans.Allison, who lives in Downey, is among the 10 remaining contestants on FOX's hit show, "American Idol." Allison has been singing since age 3. Although she's a resident of Downey, she currently attends school at Animo Ralph Bunche Charter High School in Los Angeles. The school held an "American Idol" viewing party Wednesday, where friends, family and students phoned in to vote for Allison. "The voting last week was very scary. When they announced Allison was in the bottom three we all thought, 'this is it.' I was relieved when they finally said she was safe," said Sarah Iraheta, Allison's sister and a teacher at Animo Ralph Bunche. "That is why this viewing party [was] so important to us, we need to make sure Allison doesn't land in the bottom three again." Allison has also made a fan of Mayor Mario Guerra, who attended the viewing party. "The city of Downey is very proud of Allison," Guerra said. "She has demonstrated exceptional talent and sportsmanship in the competition. She has been a great example to our young adults and teens about achieving your dreams through hard work and effort. "We are always happy to see one of our youth make a positive impact on others."

********** Published: March 27, 2009 - Volume 7 - Issue 49