The trust handling James Brown's estate owes more than $70,000 for his elaborate funeral and care of his body for nearly three months before it was laid to rest in March, according to the funeral director who handled the soul singer's arrangements.
"I'm just waiting on them to get some of this mess straightened out," said Charles Reid, manager of the C.A. Reid Funeral Home in Augusta, Ga., which handled Brown's funeral. "I really haven't pushed the issue, even though I'd like to have my money."
Some of the funeral costs have already been paid and trustees have mailed a check to Reid this week covering the outstanding balance, Brown's longtime adviser and trustee Buddy Dallas said Wednesday.
"It was the children that ran up a funeral bill of over $150,000, not the trustees," Dallas said. "We've done our very best to do what we could to accommodate the creditors. There's no great big pile of money or surplus of money just lying around."
Louis Levenson, an attorney for Brown's six adult children, said Wednesday it is the trust's responsibility to pay for the funeral costs, which he considers a "reasonable" amount.
Brown's children filed a motion this week asking a judge to provide accounting records of Brown's trust and estate before and after the singer's death, Levenson said.
Brown's children also filed two other motions Tuesday. One claims Brown's trustees have been trying to sell off some of their father's assets against court orders and the second motion asks a judge to modify his previous order that appointed two special administrators to help Brown's trustees settle his estate, giving them more control.
Dallas called the allegations in the motion "bogus and baseless."
"The trustees and the personal representatives are certainly not going to do anything — as much scrutiny as this has been given — improper, inappropriate and certainly not illegal," Dallas said.
A hearing is scheduled for later this month on the motions filed by Brown's children and a motion filed on behalf of the singer's partner, Tomi Rae Hynie. She is asking a judge to appoint a special guardian for her son, the first step toward determining the child's paternity.
An e-mail and a message left for Robert Rosen, Hynie's attorney, was not immediately returned Wednesday.
Brown died Dec. 25 in an Atlanta hospital and his body was placed in a crypt at the Beech Island home of one of his daughters March 10.
The crypt might not be Brown's final resting place. Brown's family has said a public mausoleum will be built and its location will be announced once it is completed.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Some Prospective Jurors: Spector Did It
Music producer Phil Spector was confronted Tuesday with prospective jurors who declared they had already decided he was guilty of the murder of actress Lana Clarkson.
"Honestly, I think he did it," a young aspiring actress said during jury selection. "I think I'm a fair person but it would be very difficult to forget what I read."
She said she believed celebrities often have things handed to them and as a result they "just act inappropriately."
"I moved out here to be an actress and I have strong morals," she said. "But it's easy to see how you start to think the world is just about you."
Clarkson was shot through the mouth in the foyer of Spector's suburban Alhambra home on Feb. 3, 2003, after going home with him from her job as a hostess at the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip. Spector, a top record producer in the 1960s and '70s has pleaded not guilty to murder.
About 100 people are being questioned for jury service after filling out wide-ranging questionnaires a month ago. As of late Tuesday morning none had been removed from the panel.
The next prospect questioned, also a woman, said she also concluded that Spector was guilty. But she said she had served on juries before and thought she could separate her opinions from evaluation of the evidence.
She had written on her questionnaire: "In my opinion Phillip is at fault for her death."
Asked by defense attorney Roger Rosen to elaborate, she said, "If she hadn't gone there she would be alive."
Rosen moved on to a young woman who wrote on her questionnaire: "I think he's guilty, just like O.J. Simpson."
Under questioning the woman said she followed the Simpson case very closely, thought there was a lot of evidence to support his guilt and thought prosecutors did a bad job of presenting the evidence.
As a result, she said, she thought jurors did the right thing in finding there was a reasonable doubt, but she added that she still thought Simpson was guilty.
"In this case, do you equate Phillip with O.J. Simpson?" asked Rosen.
"Yeah, I guess that's right," said the woman.
Simpson was acquitted of the 1994 murders of ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.
"Honestly, I think he did it," a young aspiring actress said during jury selection. "I think I'm a fair person but it would be very difficult to forget what I read."
She said she believed celebrities often have things handed to them and as a result they "just act inappropriately."
"I moved out here to be an actress and I have strong morals," she said. "But it's easy to see how you start to think the world is just about you."
Clarkson was shot through the mouth in the foyer of Spector's suburban Alhambra home on Feb. 3, 2003, after going home with him from her job as a hostess at the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip. Spector, a top record producer in the 1960s and '70s has pleaded not guilty to murder.
About 100 people are being questioned for jury service after filling out wide-ranging questionnaires a month ago. As of late Tuesday morning none had been removed from the panel.
The next prospect questioned, also a woman, said she also concluded that Spector was guilty. But she said she had served on juries before and thought she could separate her opinions from evaluation of the evidence.
She had written on her questionnaire: "In my opinion Phillip is at fault for her death."
Asked by defense attorney Roger Rosen to elaborate, she said, "If she hadn't gone there she would be alive."
Rosen moved on to a young woman who wrote on her questionnaire: "I think he's guilty, just like O.J. Simpson."
Under questioning the woman said she followed the Simpson case very closely, thought there was a lot of evidence to support his guilt and thought prosecutors did a bad job of presenting the evidence.
As a result, she said, she thought jurors did the right thing in finding there was a reasonable doubt, but she added that she still thought Simpson was guilty.
"In this case, do you equate Phillip with O.J. Simpson?" asked Rosen.
"Yeah, I guess that's right," said the woman.
Simpson was acquitted of the 1994 murders of ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.
The Associated Press
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Lopez, Anthony to Sue National Enquirer
DUBLIN, Ireland -- Jennifer Lopez and her husband, Marc Anthony, are suing the National Enquirer in European courts over the tabloid's claims they were linked to a drug scandal, their Belfast lawyer said Monday.
Paul Tweed, who specializes in bringing U.S.-based celebrities' libel cases to British and Irish courts, told The Associated Press that actress-singer Lopez, 38, and singer Anthony, 37, were seeking "a six-figure settlement" from the Enquirer, based in Boca Raton, Fla., and its parent company, American Media Inc.
Tweed said the lawsuit would be filed Tuesday in a Belfast court, and in subsequent days in courts in Dublin, London and Paris.
A telephone message left at the National Enquirer wasn't immediately returned Monday. A spokesman for AMI, Richard Balvo, said he had no comment.
"It would be our policy to not comment on it at this time, Balvo said.
The lawsuit also seeks an apology and retraction for an article that appeared in different versions of the Enquirer's U.S. and international editions.
The version published March 12 in British and Irish editions alleged the couple were "caught up in a heroin scandal" — and reprinted a 2004 picture of Anthony standing beside photographer Michael Star, who is facing charges of heroin possession and child pornography in the U.S.
The article quoted an alleged friend of Star as saying Star and Anthony were friends.
Tweed told the AP this was untrue and that Anthony didn't know Star even as an acquaintance. Anthony posed for the 2004 photograph, Tweed said, in keeping with his usual hospitality toward backstage concert fans.
There has been a growing trend in international libel suits brought by U.S.-based celebrities in European courts, where libel laws favor the celebrity, not the publication.
"The First Amendment restrictions in U.S. libel law make it virtually impossible for international celebrities or other high-profile individuals to sue successfully," Tweed said. "But with the advance of the Internet, and with U.S. publications now extending their distribution network into Europe, they must subject themselves to libel laws in these jurisdictions."
Tweed said he received approval Monday from Lopez's Los Angeles law firm, Lavely & Singer, to proceed with the lawsuit.
It will be Tweed's second lawsuit against the Enquirer. In July 2006, he secured a published apology in the European edition of the Enquirer for an article that claimed pop singer Britney Spears was about to divorce Kevin Federline.
Paul Tweed, who specializes in bringing U.S.-based celebrities' libel cases to British and Irish courts, told The Associated Press that actress-singer Lopez, 38, and singer Anthony, 37, were seeking "a six-figure settlement" from the Enquirer, based in Boca Raton, Fla., and its parent company, American Media Inc.
Tweed said the lawsuit would be filed Tuesday in a Belfast court, and in subsequent days in courts in Dublin, London and Paris.
A telephone message left at the National Enquirer wasn't immediately returned Monday. A spokesman for AMI, Richard Balvo, said he had no comment.
"It would be our policy to not comment on it at this time, Balvo said.
The lawsuit also seeks an apology and retraction for an article that appeared in different versions of the Enquirer's U.S. and international editions.
The version published March 12 in British and Irish editions alleged the couple were "caught up in a heroin scandal" — and reprinted a 2004 picture of Anthony standing beside photographer Michael Star, who is facing charges of heroin possession and child pornography in the U.S.
The article quoted an alleged friend of Star as saying Star and Anthony were friends.
Tweed told the AP this was untrue and that Anthony didn't know Star even as an acquaintance. Anthony posed for the 2004 photograph, Tweed said, in keeping with his usual hospitality toward backstage concert fans.
There has been a growing trend in international libel suits brought by U.S.-based celebrities in European courts, where libel laws favor the celebrity, not the publication.
"The First Amendment restrictions in U.S. libel law make it virtually impossible for international celebrities or other high-profile individuals to sue successfully," Tweed said. "But with the advance of the Internet, and with U.S. publications now extending their distribution network into Europe, they must subject themselves to libel laws in these jurisdictions."
Tweed said he received approval Monday from Lopez's Los Angeles law firm, Lavely & Singer, to proceed with the lawsuit.
It will be Tweed's second lawsuit against the Enquirer. In July 2006, he secured a published apology in the European edition of the Enquirer for an article that claimed pop singer Britney Spears was about to divorce Kevin Federline.
The Associated Press
'Tiny Bubbles' Singer Don Ho Dies at 76
HONOLULU -- Legendary crooner Don Ho, known for his raspberry-tinted sunglasses and catchy signature tune "Tiny Bubbles," has died, his publicist said. He was 76.
Publicist Donna Jung said the singer died Saturday morning of heart failure. He had suffered with heart problems for the past several years, and had a pacemaker installed last fall. In 2005, he underwent an experimental stem cell procedure on his ailing heart in Thailand in 2005.
Ho entertained Hollywood's biggest stars and thousands of tourists for four decades. For many, no trip to Hawaii was complete without seeing his Waikiki show — a mix of songs, jokes, double entendres, Hawaii history and audience participation.
Shows usually started and ended with the same song, "Tiny Bubbles," which Ho mostly hummed as the audience enthusiastically took over.
"I hate that song," he often joked to the crowd, adding that he saved it for the end because "people my age can't remember if we did it or not."
Donald Tai Loy Ho, who is Hawaiian, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and German, was born Aug. 13, 1930, in Honolulu and grew up in the then-rural countryside of Kaneohe.
Publicist Donna Jung said the singer died Saturday morning of heart failure. He had suffered with heart problems for the past several years, and had a pacemaker installed last fall. In 2005, he underwent an experimental stem cell procedure on his ailing heart in Thailand in 2005.
Ho entertained Hollywood's biggest stars and thousands of tourists for four decades. For many, no trip to Hawaii was complete without seeing his Waikiki show — a mix of songs, jokes, double entendres, Hawaii history and audience participation.
Shows usually started and ended with the same song, "Tiny Bubbles," which Ho mostly hummed as the audience enthusiastically took over.
"I hate that song," he often joked to the crowd, adding that he saved it for the end because "people my age can't remember if we did it or not."
Donald Tai Loy Ho, who is Hawaiian, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and German, was born Aug. 13, 1930, in Honolulu and grew up in the then-rural countryside of Kaneohe.
The Associated Press
Friday, April 13, 2007
Evans' Husband Sues Her Divorce Lawyer
The husband of country singer Sara Evans is suing one of his wife's divorce attorneys and his firm, alleging the attorney slandered and libeled him with untrue allegations of adultery.
Craig Schelske filed the $20 million lawsuit against Nashville lawyer John Hollins Sr. on Wednesday in Davidson County Circuit Court.
He contends that Hollins made false statements to the media.
"He (Schelske) was quoted in the press as saying he hadn't done anything wrong and he wanted everybody to pray for Sara," the lawsuit says Hollins told People magazine. "Let me tell you what, everything we allege, we've got photographs to back up the allegations of the complaint."
The lawsuit states that Hollins knew the statement was false and "knew that no photographs existed which depicted the plaintiff engaged in any type of illicit or adulterous activity," Schelske said in the court filing.
Schelske is asking that Hollins pay $10 million in compensatory and punitive damages. He also wants the firm of Hollins, Wagster, Yarbrough, Weatherly & Raybin to pay $10 million, as well.
Both Hollins and Schelske's attorney, Brad Lampley, declined comment Thursday, citing a gag order for both parties in the case.
The lawsuit is the latest development in the bitter divorce between Evans and Schelske.
The singer's former nanny, Alison Clinton Lee, filed a $3 million lawsuit on Tuesday against Evans, Hollins, John Hollins Jr. and their law firm claiming she was a victim of "slanderous and libelous" statements in Evans' October 2006 divorce filing.
In the filing, Evans claimed that the nanny had an affair with her husband, which both the nanny and Schelske deny. Schelske later responded that Evans filed for divorce the same day he discovered she was having an extramarital affair.
Schelske, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination for the U.S. House in Oregon's 5th District in 2002, has denied the allegations.
Craig Schelske filed the $20 million lawsuit against Nashville lawyer John Hollins Sr. on Wednesday in Davidson County Circuit Court.
He contends that Hollins made false statements to the media.
"He (Schelske) was quoted in the press as saying he hadn't done anything wrong and he wanted everybody to pray for Sara," the lawsuit says Hollins told People magazine. "Let me tell you what, everything we allege, we've got photographs to back up the allegations of the complaint."
The lawsuit states that Hollins knew the statement was false and "knew that no photographs existed which depicted the plaintiff engaged in any type of illicit or adulterous activity," Schelske said in the court filing.
Schelske is asking that Hollins pay $10 million in compensatory and punitive damages. He also wants the firm of Hollins, Wagster, Yarbrough, Weatherly & Raybin to pay $10 million, as well.
Both Hollins and Schelske's attorney, Brad Lampley, declined comment Thursday, citing a gag order for both parties in the case.
The lawsuit is the latest development in the bitter divorce between Evans and Schelske.
The singer's former nanny, Alison Clinton Lee, filed a $3 million lawsuit on Tuesday against Evans, Hollins, John Hollins Jr. and their law firm claiming she was a victim of "slanderous and libelous" statements in Evans' October 2006 divorce filing.
In the filing, Evans claimed that the nanny had an affair with her husband, which both the nanny and Schelske deny. Schelske later responded that Evans filed for divorce the same day he discovered she was having an extramarital affair.
Schelske, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination for the U.S. House in Oregon's 5th District in 2002, has denied the allegations.
Mel B. Names Murphy on Birth Certificate
NEW YORK -- Former Spice Girl Melanie Brown has listed Eddie Murphy's name on the birth certificate of her infant daughter, her publicist said Friday.
The 31-year-old Brown, known as Scary Spice when she was in the megahit group of the '90s, gave birth to the child April 3 in Santa Monica, Calif.
Brown's publicist, Nadine Bibi, didn't immediately respond Friday to an e-mail from The Associated Press asking for details.
Arnold Robinson, a spokesman for Murphy, declined comment.
Brown has said ex-boyfriend Murphy is the father. The 46-year-old "Dreamgirls" star has said he isn't sure, while Brown has said there is "absolutely no question that Eddie is the father."
Brown has an 8-year-old daughter, Phoenix Chi, from her marriage to Jimmy Gulzar.
Murphy has five children from his marriage to Nicole Mitchell Murphy.
The 31-year-old Brown, known as Scary Spice when she was in the megahit group of the '90s, gave birth to the child April 3 in Santa Monica, Calif.
Brown's publicist, Nadine Bibi, didn't immediately respond Friday to an e-mail from The Associated Press asking for details.
Arnold Robinson, a spokesman for Murphy, declined comment.
Brown has said ex-boyfriend Murphy is the father. The 46-year-old "Dreamgirls" star has said he isn't sure, while Brown has said there is "absolutely no question that Eddie is the father."
Brown has an 8-year-old daughter, Phoenix Chi, from her marriage to Jimmy Gulzar.
Murphy has five children from his marriage to Nicole Mitchell Murphy.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
TV Producer Wants Jim Morrison Pardoned
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Gov. Charlie Crist is being asked to pardon the late Jim Morrison, lead singer of The Doors, 38 years after he was convicted of exposing himself during a Miami concert.
Dave Diamond, a cable TV producer from Dayton, Ohio, wrote to Crist last month asking for the pardon. Diamond said the goal is to remember the Melbourne, Fla., native as an artist, not a rock 'n' roll bad boy with a rap sheet.
Crist is an alumnus of Florida State, which Morrison had attended.
"Well, given that fact, I'm certainly willing to review it," said Crist.
Morrison was charged days after a concert at Dinner Key Auditorium in Coconut Grove in 1969. He allegedly exposed himself and simulated a sex act, which he denied doing.
He was acquitted on a felony charge for lewd and lascivious behavior, but was convicted of indecent exposure and profanity.
Many feel the Miami arrest put Morrison and the band in a downward spiral, which led to promoters canceling concerts and earned the band a stream of negative publicity.
Diamond and other fans say Morrison wouldn't have been charged if the same situation occurred today.
"We'd just like to see where we get to a point to let Morrison be judged because of the music and poetry and not be judged because of this Miami case," said Diamond.
The hard-living Morrison died of heart failure in a Paris bathtub in 1971, while his case was still on appeal. He was 27.
Morrison's father, retired U.S. Adm. George S. Morrison, 87, who lives in California, said he would support a pardon.
Crist, however, cannot pardon someone by himself. He needs two of the three other members of the Florida Cabinet, which acts as the state clemency board. In addition, there are no procedures for posthumous pardons.
In his letter to Crist, Diamond noted the former New York Gov. George Pataki pardoned the late comedian Lenny Bruce on an obscenity conviction.
"It's not about Jim Morrison's image as the Lizard King or The Doors music. It's about a citizen of Florida who was convicted in a case where the law was not applied," said Diamond, 34.
Dave Diamond, a cable TV producer from Dayton, Ohio, wrote to Crist last month asking for the pardon. Diamond said the goal is to remember the Melbourne, Fla., native as an artist, not a rock 'n' roll bad boy with a rap sheet.
Crist is an alumnus of Florida State, which Morrison had attended.
"Well, given that fact, I'm certainly willing to review it," said Crist.
Morrison was charged days after a concert at Dinner Key Auditorium in Coconut Grove in 1969. He allegedly exposed himself and simulated a sex act, which he denied doing.
He was acquitted on a felony charge for lewd and lascivious behavior, but was convicted of indecent exposure and profanity.
Many feel the Miami arrest put Morrison and the band in a downward spiral, which led to promoters canceling concerts and earned the band a stream of negative publicity.
Diamond and other fans say Morrison wouldn't have been charged if the same situation occurred today.
"We'd just like to see where we get to a point to let Morrison be judged because of the music and poetry and not be judged because of this Miami case," said Diamond.
The hard-living Morrison died of heart failure in a Paris bathtub in 1971, while his case was still on appeal. He was 27.
Morrison's father, retired U.S. Adm. George S. Morrison, 87, who lives in California, said he would support a pardon.
Crist, however, cannot pardon someone by himself. He needs two of the three other members of the Florida Cabinet, which acts as the state clemency board. In addition, there are no procedures for posthumous pardons.
In his letter to Crist, Diamond noted the former New York Gov. George Pataki pardoned the late comedian Lenny Bruce on an obscenity conviction.
"It's not about Jim Morrison's image as the Lizard King or The Doors music. It's about a citizen of Florida who was convicted in a case where the law was not applied," said Diamond, 34.
The Associated Press
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Bench Warrants Issued for Rapper DMX
NEW YORK -- Judges in two cities issued bench warrants Wednesday for the arrest of rapper DMX, who failed to show up in court for either of his pending traffic cases.
"In truth, I do not know where he is," said Murray Richman, lawyer for the 36-year-old rapper (whose real name is Earl Simmons). "Why would he be hiding out from a damn traffic infraction?"
He said the rapper, whose albums include "It's Dark and Hell is Hot" and "Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood," was in Arizona on Tuesday but had promised to appear Wednesday in White Plains and Yonkers, both north of New York City.
"He said he missed a flight," Richman said. "He's always missing flights."
DMX, who has a long record of driving violations, was already a day late for White Plains City Court, but on Tuesday Judge Brian Hansbury had given him until 2 p.m. Wednesday to face charges stemming from a downtown pullover on June 2. Police officers said DMX was speeding, changing lanes dangerously, driving without a seat belt and using a suspended license.
Court Clerk Jennifer Ruggiero said the judge issued the warrant, which means Simmons "can be picked up anytime, and if he's brought here he can be jailed."
Richman said the judge agreed that if Simmons were produced within two weeks, he would "listen to his reasons" before ordering the rapper's $25,000 bond forfeited.
The bond was set when the rapper, who lives in Mount Kisco, missed two earlier court dates and spent a night in jail.
He has declined plea bargain offers from prosecutors.
Simmons was also due in City Court in Yonkers, where he was raised, on a charge of driving last October with a suspended license. Judge Charles Wood issued a bench warrant there.
"In truth, I do not know where he is," said Murray Richman, lawyer for the 36-year-old rapper (whose real name is Earl Simmons). "Why would he be hiding out from a damn traffic infraction?"
He said the rapper, whose albums include "It's Dark and Hell is Hot" and "Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood," was in Arizona on Tuesday but had promised to appear Wednesday in White Plains and Yonkers, both north of New York City.
"He said he missed a flight," Richman said. "He's always missing flights."
DMX, who has a long record of driving violations, was already a day late for White Plains City Court, but on Tuesday Judge Brian Hansbury had given him until 2 p.m. Wednesday to face charges stemming from a downtown pullover on June 2. Police officers said DMX was speeding, changing lanes dangerously, driving without a seat belt and using a suspended license.
Court Clerk Jennifer Ruggiero said the judge issued the warrant, which means Simmons "can be picked up anytime, and if he's brought here he can be jailed."
Richman said the judge agreed that if Simmons were produced within two weeks, he would "listen to his reasons" before ordering the rapper's $25,000 bond forfeited.
The bond was set when the rapper, who lives in Mount Kisco, missed two earlier court dates and spent a night in jail.
He has declined plea bargain offers from prosecutors.
Simmons was also due in City Court in Yonkers, where he was raised, on a charge of driving last October with a suspended license. Judge Charles Wood issued a bench warrant there.
The Associated Press
Snoop Pleads No Contest in Gun, Pot Case
LOS ANGELES -- A stone-faced Snoop Dogg pleaded no contest to felony gun and drug charges Wednesday and avoided what could have been a year-long prison sentence.
The 35-year-old rapper, born Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr., agreed to five years' probation and 800 hours of community service. He faced charges of gun possession by a felon and sale or transportation of marijuana.
He said little other than "no contest" when the charges were read.
Snoop Dogg's recent arrests marked the end of a relatively long trouble-free stretch for the rapper. He has burnished his image in recent years with appearances in mainstream movies and by starting a youth football league.
He was arrested at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank Oct. 26 on suspicion of transporting marijuana. Police later found a gun at his home. If convicted at trial he could have faced up to four years in prison.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Terry Smerling placed conditions on the probation, including that only 400 hours of the community service could involve the youth football league.
The judge also ruled that Snoop Dogg could not have any gang members in his entourage and must notify the probation department before leaving the state. The rapper must also provide authorities a DNA sample and he must have a medical permit if he uses marijuana.
The rapper caused a sensation when he arrived in a fur-collared black leather jacket, T-shirt and sequined jeans.
Teenagers screeched when the music star strutted down a hallway to the courtroom. Court security ordered them to stop taking pictures.
Defense attorney Donald Etra said outside court that Snoop Dogg smokes marijuana because he has migraines and has a medical permit under state law.
Etra said Snoop Dogg's security staff and drivers are all currently licensed by the state and they and his entourage do not include gang members.
"Snoop's position is he wants to give children and teenagers an example to follow," Etra said of the football league.
Etra said that Snoop Dogg "recognizes he got a great deal" given his prior convictions.
If he violates probation he will be sentenced to three years in state prison. The two charges to which he pleaded do not count as strikes under the three-strikes law because they did not involve violence, said district attorney's spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons.
Snoop Dogg also faces separate felony charges stemming from the Sept. 27 discovery of a collapsible baton in his computer bag by a security screener at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.
Authorities allege the baton was a dangerous weapon. Snoop Dogg has said it was a prop for a video he was filming in New York and pleaded not guilty.
Etra called those charges "bogus."
"We intend to vigorously defend them," the attorney said.
Snoop Dogg was convicted in 1990 of cocaine possession and charged with gun possession after a 1993 traffic stop. He pleaded guilty in exchange for three years' probation and a promise to make public-service announcements against violence.
He was acquitted of a murder charge in 1996 after the death of an alleged street-gang member killed by gunfire from the vehicle in which Snoop Dogg was traveling.
The 35-year-old rapper, born Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr., agreed to five years' probation and 800 hours of community service. He faced charges of gun possession by a felon and sale or transportation of marijuana.
He said little other than "no contest" when the charges were read.
Snoop Dogg's recent arrests marked the end of a relatively long trouble-free stretch for the rapper. He has burnished his image in recent years with appearances in mainstream movies and by starting a youth football league.
He was arrested at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank Oct. 26 on suspicion of transporting marijuana. Police later found a gun at his home. If convicted at trial he could have faced up to four years in prison.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Terry Smerling placed conditions on the probation, including that only 400 hours of the community service could involve the youth football league.
The judge also ruled that Snoop Dogg could not have any gang members in his entourage and must notify the probation department before leaving the state. The rapper must also provide authorities a DNA sample and he must have a medical permit if he uses marijuana.
The rapper caused a sensation when he arrived in a fur-collared black leather jacket, T-shirt and sequined jeans.
Teenagers screeched when the music star strutted down a hallway to the courtroom. Court security ordered them to stop taking pictures.
Defense attorney Donald Etra said outside court that Snoop Dogg smokes marijuana because he has migraines and has a medical permit under state law.
Etra said Snoop Dogg's security staff and drivers are all currently licensed by the state and they and his entourage do not include gang members.
"Snoop's position is he wants to give children and teenagers an example to follow," Etra said of the football league.
Etra said that Snoop Dogg "recognizes he got a great deal" given his prior convictions.
If he violates probation he will be sentenced to three years in state prison. The two charges to which he pleaded do not count as strikes under the three-strikes law because they did not involve violence, said district attorney's spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons.
Snoop Dogg also faces separate felony charges stemming from the Sept. 27 discovery of a collapsible baton in his computer bag by a security screener at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.
Authorities allege the baton was a dangerous weapon. Snoop Dogg has said it was a prop for a video he was filming in New York and pleaded not guilty.
Etra called those charges "bogus."
"We intend to vigorously defend them," the attorney said.
Snoop Dogg was convicted in 1990 of cocaine possession and charged with gun possession after a 1993 traffic stop. He pleaded guilty in exchange for three years' probation and a promise to make public-service announcements against violence.
He was acquitted of a murder charge in 1996 after the death of an alleged street-gang member killed by gunfire from the vehicle in which Snoop Dogg was traveling.
The Associated Press
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Snoop Dogg Hit With Gun and Drug Charges
LOS ANGELES -- Snoop Dogg was charged Tuesday with felony gun and drug counts, Los Angeles County prosecutors said.
The 35-year-old rap star was scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday in Pasadena, prosecutors said in a statement.
Snoop Dogg faces charges of gun possession by a felon and sale or transportation of marijuana.
He was arrested Oct. 26 by Burbank police at Bob Hope Airport on suspicion of transportation of a controlled substance. Burbank police later discovered a gun at his home.
If convicted, he faces up to four years in state prison.
"These were changes we fully expected," said Snoop Dogg's attorney, Donald Etra. "They will be dealt with in court tomorrow. The matter will be resolved tomorrow."
The rapper was convicted in 1990 of cocaine possession and charged with gun possession after a 1993 traffic stop. He pleaded guilty in exchange for three years' probation and a promise to make public-service announcements against violence.
The rapper's manager, Constance Schwartz, said there would be no comment Tuesday but a written statement would be issued Wednesday.
The 35-year-old rap star was scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday in Pasadena, prosecutors said in a statement.
Snoop Dogg faces charges of gun possession by a felon and sale or transportation of marijuana.
He was arrested Oct. 26 by Burbank police at Bob Hope Airport on suspicion of transportation of a controlled substance. Burbank police later discovered a gun at his home.
If convicted, he faces up to four years in state prison.
"These were changes we fully expected," said Snoop Dogg's attorney, Donald Etra. "They will be dealt with in court tomorrow. The matter will be resolved tomorrow."
The rapper was convicted in 1990 of cocaine possession and charged with gun possession after a 1993 traffic stop. He pleaded guilty in exchange for three years' probation and a promise to make public-service announcements against violence.
The rapper's manager, Constance Schwartz, said there would be no comment Tuesday but a written statement would be issued Wednesday.
The Associated Press
Fire Destroys Johnny Cash Home
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. -- Firefighters were battling flames Tuesday afternoon in a major fire at the home of the late country singer Johnny Cash.
Dispatchers said all but one of the city's engines had responded to the fire in the suburb northeast of Nashville.
No injuries were reported.
Hendersonville Fire Department officials said construction crews were working at the house when the fire started. The cause is unknown.
Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash, lived at the house until their deaths in 2003.
The property was purchased by Barry Gibb, a member of the Bee Gees, in January 2006. Gibb and his wife, Linda, had said they planned to restore the home on Old Hickory Lake and hoped to write songs there.
Gibb's spokesman, Paul Bloch, said the 60-year-old singer and his family are "both saddened and devastated by the news."
Bloch declined to release further details about the house or the fire.
While the Cashes lived there, the 13,880-square-foot house, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Nashville, was visited by everyone from U.S. presidents to ordinary fans.
Johnny Cash's musical career began in the 1950s and spanned rock 'n' roll, folk and country. His hits included "Ring of Fire," "Folsom Prison Blues" and "I Walk the Line."
The Bee Gees are best known for their disco hits of the late 1970s such as "Night Fever" and "Jive Talkin'."
The Associated Press
Dispatchers said all but one of the city's engines had responded to the fire in the suburb northeast of Nashville.
No injuries were reported.
Hendersonville Fire Department officials said construction crews were working at the house when the fire started. The cause is unknown.
Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash, lived at the house until their deaths in 2003.
The property was purchased by Barry Gibb, a member of the Bee Gees, in January 2006. Gibb and his wife, Linda, had said they planned to restore the home on Old Hickory Lake and hoped to write songs there.
Gibb's spokesman, Paul Bloch, said the 60-year-old singer and his family are "both saddened and devastated by the news."
Bloch declined to release further details about the house or the fire.
While the Cashes lived there, the 13,880-square-foot house, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Nashville, was visited by everyone from U.S. presidents to ordinary fans.
Johnny Cash's musical career began in the 1950s and spanned rock 'n' roll, folk and country. His hits included "Ring of Fire," "Folsom Prison Blues" and "I Walk the Line."
The Bee Gees are best known for their disco hits of the late 1970s such as "Night Fever" and "Jive Talkin'."
The Associated Press
Live Earth Concert Lineups Revealed
LONDON -- Live Earth concerts will be held July 7 in cities around the world, including London, aimed at raising climate change awareness.
Madonna, the Beastie Boys and Black Eyed Peas will headline the concert at Wembley stadium in London. They will be joined by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Keane, Foo Fighters and others.
Headliners for the U.S. concert at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., include Bon Jovi, Dave Matthews Band, Kanye West, Rihanna, John Mayer, Smashing Pumpkins and Fall Out Boy, it was announced Tuesday.
Other shows will take place in Shanghai, China; Johannesburg, South Africa; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Organizers have also promised an event in Antarctica.
The concerts mark the start of a new campaign called Save Our Selves, The Campaign for a Climate in Crisis.
"This monster lineup will ensure Live Earth meets our goal of bringing together people from around the world to combat the climate crisis," Live Earth Founder and Executive Producer Kevin Wall said in a statement Tuesday. "Musicians who have answered our call span multiple genres and generations."
The concerts will be broadcast in the U.S. by General Electric Co.'s NBC network and on more than 120 networks around the world, and streamed live online.
Promoters hope the concerts will reach an audience of 2 billion people. Proceeds will create a foundation to combat climate change led by The Alliance for Climate Protection, which is chaired by former Vice President Al Gore.
Madonna, the Beastie Boys and Black Eyed Peas will headline the concert at Wembley stadium in London. They will be joined by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Keane, Foo Fighters and others.
Headliners for the U.S. concert at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., include Bon Jovi, Dave Matthews Band, Kanye West, Rihanna, John Mayer, Smashing Pumpkins and Fall Out Boy, it was announced Tuesday.
Other shows will take place in Shanghai, China; Johannesburg, South Africa; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Organizers have also promised an event in Antarctica.
The concerts mark the start of a new campaign called Save Our Selves, The Campaign for a Climate in Crisis.
"This monster lineup will ensure Live Earth meets our goal of bringing together people from around the world to combat the climate crisis," Live Earth Founder and Executive Producer Kevin Wall said in a statement Tuesday. "Musicians who have answered our call span multiple genres and generations."
The concerts will be broadcast in the U.S. by General Electric Co.'s NBC network and on more than 120 networks around the world, and streamed live online.
Promoters hope the concerts will reach an audience of 2 billion people. Proceeds will create a foundation to combat climate change led by The Alliance for Climate Protection, which is chaired by former Vice President Al Gore.
The Associated Press
Monday, April 9, 2007
Imus Under Fire After On-Air Racial Slur
NEW YORK -- The radio station that produces Don Imus' talk show pledged to keep tabs on its content after he apologized for calling the players on Rutgers University women's basketball team "nappy headed hos."
"We are disappointed by Imus' actions earlier this week which we find completely inappropriate," WFAN-AM said in a statement Friday. "We fully agree that a sincere apology was called for and will continue to monitor the program's content going forward."
Imus apologized Friday for the comments made earlier this week on his nationally syndicated program.
The National Association of Black Journalists demanded the immediate firing of the "Imus in the Morning" host. Imus questioned the players' looks, describing them as tattooed "rough girls." His producer compared the team — which has eight black members — to the NBA's Toronto Raptors.
Near the start of Friday's show, Imus said he wanted to "apologize for an insensitive and ill-conceived remark we made the other morning referring to the Rutgers women's basketball team."
"It was completely inappropriate, and we can understand why people were offended. Our characterization was thoughtless and stupid, and we are sorry."
Gregory Lee, an NABJ officer and senior assistant sports editor at The Boston Globe, said the mea culpa did little to atone for the comments.
"You can apologize, but what does that mean when you have a history of making disparaging remarks about people?" Lee asked about the acid-tongued Imus. "This kind of behavior must be punished. I hope the company and sponsors he has take some sort of action ... to educate him."
NABJ President Bryan Monroe asked Thursday if Imus had "lost his mind" and called for the veteran radio host's dismissal. Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer was also incensed by the comments about her team.
"I am deeply saddened and angered by Mr. Imus' statements," said Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer. "To serve as a joke of Mr. Imus in such an insensitive manner creates a wedge and makes light of these classy individuals, both as women and as women of color."
Imus was speaking with producer Bernard McGurk when the NCAA title game between Rutgers and Tennessee came up.
"That's some rough girls from Rutgers," Imus said. "Man, they got tattoos ..."
"Some hardcore hos," said McGurk.
"That's some nappy headed hos there, I'm going to tell you that," Imus said.
Imus, a member of the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame and one of the nation's best-known radio voices, is renowned for his caustic style and politically incorrect verbal broadsides. His show is syndicated to millions of listeners at more than 70 stations around the country.
At MSNBC, where the radio program is simulcast on television, officials offered Imus no support.
"'Imus in the Morning' is not a production of the cable network and is produced by WFAN Radio," said a statement from the network. "As Imus makes clear every day, his views are not those of MSNBC. We regret that his remarks were aired on MSNBC and apologize for these offensive comments."
In a joint statement, NCAA President Myles Brand and Rutgers President Richard McCormick condemned Imus' slur.
"It is unconscionable that anyone would use the airways to utter such disregard for the dignity of human beings who have accomplished much and deserve great credit," their statement read.
"We are disappointed by Imus' actions earlier this week which we find completely inappropriate," WFAN-AM said in a statement Friday. "We fully agree that a sincere apology was called for and will continue to monitor the program's content going forward."
Imus apologized Friday for the comments made earlier this week on his nationally syndicated program.
The National Association of Black Journalists demanded the immediate firing of the "Imus in the Morning" host. Imus questioned the players' looks, describing them as tattooed "rough girls." His producer compared the team — which has eight black members — to the NBA's Toronto Raptors.
Near the start of Friday's show, Imus said he wanted to "apologize for an insensitive and ill-conceived remark we made the other morning referring to the Rutgers women's basketball team."
"It was completely inappropriate, and we can understand why people were offended. Our characterization was thoughtless and stupid, and we are sorry."
Gregory Lee, an NABJ officer and senior assistant sports editor at The Boston Globe, said the mea culpa did little to atone for the comments.
"You can apologize, but what does that mean when you have a history of making disparaging remarks about people?" Lee asked about the acid-tongued Imus. "This kind of behavior must be punished. I hope the company and sponsors he has take some sort of action ... to educate him."
NABJ President Bryan Monroe asked Thursday if Imus had "lost his mind" and called for the veteran radio host's dismissal. Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer was also incensed by the comments about her team.
"I am deeply saddened and angered by Mr. Imus' statements," said Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer. "To serve as a joke of Mr. Imus in such an insensitive manner creates a wedge and makes light of these classy individuals, both as women and as women of color."
Imus was speaking with producer Bernard McGurk when the NCAA title game between Rutgers and Tennessee came up.
"That's some rough girls from Rutgers," Imus said. "Man, they got tattoos ..."
"Some hardcore hos," said McGurk.
"That's some nappy headed hos there, I'm going to tell you that," Imus said.
Imus, a member of the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame and one of the nation's best-known radio voices, is renowned for his caustic style and politically incorrect verbal broadsides. His show is syndicated to millions of listeners at more than 70 stations around the country.
At MSNBC, where the radio program is simulcast on television, officials offered Imus no support.
"'Imus in the Morning' is not a production of the cable network and is produced by WFAN Radio," said a statement from the network. "As Imus makes clear every day, his views are not those of MSNBC. We regret that his remarks were aired on MSNBC and apologize for these offensive comments."
In a joint statement, NCAA President Myles Brand and Rutgers President Richard McCormick condemned Imus' slur.
"It is unconscionable that anyone would use the airways to utter such disregard for the dignity of human beings who have accomplished much and deserve great credit," their statement read.
The Associated Press
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Whitney Houston Gets Child Custody
ORANGE, Calif. -- Whitney Houston's 14-year marriage to Bobby Brown will officially end this month, and she will get custody of their teenage daughter, a judge ruled Wednesday. The singer dabbed her eyes with a tissue as Orange County Superior Court Judge Franz E. Miller ruled that the divorce will become final April 24. Brown did not attend the hearing.
In court, Houston testified that she did not need spousal or child support and that the couple's 14-year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina, could not depend on Brown.
"He's unreliable," Houston told the judge. "If he says he's going to come, sometimes he does. Usually he doesn't."
Houston declined to comment to reporters after the hearing.
Brown's attorney, Ram Cogan, said he will seek to overturn the judge's decision.
Houston filed for divorce in October, citing irreconcilable differences. She was granted a default judgment in December to speed up the divorce. Miller's ruling Wednesday upheld the terms of that judgment.
Houston and Brown wed in 1992, when she was at the height of her fame as a Grammy-winning superstar known for such hits as "I Will Always Love You."
During their tumultuous marriage, Brown was arrested on drug and alcohol charges, and Houston twice entered drug rehabilitation programs.
In court, Houston testified that she did not need spousal or child support and that the couple's 14-year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina, could not depend on Brown.
"He's unreliable," Houston told the judge. "If he says he's going to come, sometimes he does. Usually he doesn't."
Houston declined to comment to reporters after the hearing.
Brown's attorney, Ram Cogan, said he will seek to overturn the judge's decision.
Houston filed for divorce in October, citing irreconcilable differences. She was granted a default judgment in December to speed up the divorce. Miller's ruling Wednesday upheld the terms of that judgment.
Houston and Brown wed in 1992, when she was at the height of her fame as a Grammy-winning superstar known for such hits as "I Will Always Love You."
During their tumultuous marriage, Brown was arrested on drug and alcohol charges, and Houston twice entered drug rehabilitation programs.
The Associated Press
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Usher Engaged to Longtime Girlfriend
NEW YORK -- Usher is engaged to his longtime girlfriend, stylist Tameka Foster, the R&B singer's spokeswoman said Friday.
Publicist Simone Smalls didn't provide further details.
Usher, a five-time Grammy winner, confirmed the engagement Wednesday to MTV News, ending speculation that he had popped the question.
Foster has been photographed recently with a diamond ring on her finger.
Usher, 28, said he could be walking down the aisle before the end of the year.
His hits include "Confessions," "Burn," "You Make Me Wanna" and "Yeah!"
Publicist Simone Smalls didn't provide further details.
Usher, a five-time Grammy winner, confirmed the engagement Wednesday to MTV News, ending speculation that he had popped the question.
Foster has been photographed recently with a diamond ring on her finger.
Usher, 28, said he could be walking down the aisle before the end of the year.
His hits include "Confessions," "Burn," "You Make Me Wanna" and "Yeah!"
The Associated Press
Friday, March 30, 2007
Ricky Martin Defends Gay Musicians
MEXICO CITY -- Ricky Martin defended the right of pop stars to come out of the closet, saying he felt solidarity with Christian Chavez of Mexican band RBD, who recently said publicly that he is gay.
"Life is too short to live closed up, guarding what you say," said Martin — whose sexual orientation has been the subject of speculation — in an interview with The Associated Press. Christian "has to be free in many aspects. I wish him much strength."
Martin, who was named person of the year in 2006 by the Latin Recording Academy, has hits including "Livin' la Vida Loca" and "Shake Your Bon-Bon."
He said his nonprofit Ricky Martin Foundation inspires him in his songwriting. One of the foundation's programs, People for Children, works toward the elimination of human trafficking, especially trafficking of children.
"When you start to work with social problems, it gets the attention of the media and people think it's a farce," the 35-year-old singer said. "It's a spiritual search. The philanthropic work helps me write music and the music helps me in the philanthropic work."
Martin said it was great that more celebrities are working with charities.
"If this is a fashion, then I hope a lot more fashions like this come along."
He will tour the U.S. in April and May.
RBD, which spun off Mexico's wildly popular soap opera, "Rebelde," has achieved success throughout Latin America and among Spanish speakers in the United States.
"Life is too short to live closed up, guarding what you say," said Martin — whose sexual orientation has been the subject of speculation — in an interview with The Associated Press. Christian "has to be free in many aspects. I wish him much strength."
Martin, who was named person of the year in 2006 by the Latin Recording Academy, has hits including "Livin' la Vida Loca" and "Shake Your Bon-Bon."
He said his nonprofit Ricky Martin Foundation inspires him in his songwriting. One of the foundation's programs, People for Children, works toward the elimination of human trafficking, especially trafficking of children.
"When you start to work with social problems, it gets the attention of the media and people think it's a farce," the 35-year-old singer said. "It's a spiritual search. The philanthropic work helps me write music and the music helps me in the philanthropic work."
Martin said it was great that more celebrities are working with charities.
"If this is a fashion, then I hope a lot more fashions like this come along."
He will tour the U.S. in April and May.
RBD, which spun off Mexico's wildly popular soap opera, "Rebelde," has achieved success throughout Latin America and among Spanish speakers in the United States.
The Associated Press
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Eminem, Ex-Wife, Agree to Be Agreeable
MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. -- Eminem and Kim Mathers agreed Monday not to criticize each other in public for the sake of their daughter. The decision was made following a court hearing in which the 34-year-old rap superstar and his ex-wife agreed that insulting each other could prove harmful to their 11-year-old daughter, Hailie.
Eminem filed a motion in Macomb County Circuit Court earlier this month that sought to prevent Mathers from making "derogatory, disparaging, inflammatory and otherwise negative comments" about him in the media.
Mathers, who has twice married and divorced the rapper, blasted Eminem in recent TV and radio interviews, including one on a Detroit radio station in which she said he was unfaithful and uncaring — and disparaged his sexual prowess.
She attended the hearing and a closed-door meeting beforehand in the chambers of Friend of the Court Referee David Elias. Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III, wasn't in court, but spoke by telephone in Elias' chambers.
The two sides agreed to the deal, which was announced at the court hearing.
"We're happy the court was able to bring this matter to a just and equitable resolution," Eminem's lawyer, Harvey Hauer, said outside the courtroom.
Michael J. Smith, Mathers' attorney, said the decision was reached "for the full benefit of the child."
Smith said Eminem and Mathers have "to attempt to promote a good relationship" and "can't talk bad about each other to the child."
However, Smith said the order doesn't prohibit Eminem from performing songs in which he is critical of his former wife.
Eminem has assailed Mathers with his lyrics.
The couple married in 1999, divorced in 2001, remarried in January 2006 and separated three months later. Their second divorce was finalized in December.
Their daughter, Hailie, was born in 1996.
Eminem has won nine Grammy Awards, including best rap album for "The Slim Shady LP," "The Marshall Mathers LP" and "The Eminem Show." He won an Oscar for the song "Lose Yourself" from the hit 2002 film "8 Mile."
Eminem filed a motion in Macomb County Circuit Court earlier this month that sought to prevent Mathers from making "derogatory, disparaging, inflammatory and otherwise negative comments" about him in the media.
Mathers, who has twice married and divorced the rapper, blasted Eminem in recent TV and radio interviews, including one on a Detroit radio station in which she said he was unfaithful and uncaring — and disparaged his sexual prowess.
She attended the hearing and a closed-door meeting beforehand in the chambers of Friend of the Court Referee David Elias. Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III, wasn't in court, but spoke by telephone in Elias' chambers.
The two sides agreed to the deal, which was announced at the court hearing.
"We're happy the court was able to bring this matter to a just and equitable resolution," Eminem's lawyer, Harvey Hauer, said outside the courtroom.
Michael J. Smith, Mathers' attorney, said the decision was reached "for the full benefit of the child."
Smith said Eminem and Mathers have "to attempt to promote a good relationship" and "can't talk bad about each other to the child."
However, Smith said the order doesn't prohibit Eminem from performing songs in which he is critical of his former wife.
Eminem has assailed Mathers with his lyrics.
The couple married in 1999, divorced in 2001, remarried in January 2006 and separated three months later. Their second divorce was finalized in December.
Their daughter, Hailie, was born in 1996.
Eminem has won nine Grammy Awards, including best rap album for "The Slim Shady LP," "The Marshall Mathers LP" and "The Eminem Show." He won an Oscar for the song "Lose Yourself" from the hit 2002 film "8 Mile."
The Associated Press
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Jessica Simpson Visits Mexican Orphanage
NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico -- Jessica Simpson showed up in person on Tuesday to donate a new minivan to an orphanage in this Mexican border city. Simpson was greeted by dozens of cheering children as she arrived at the Elim orphanage in Nuevo Laredo, just across the border from Laredo, Texas, in a white 2007 Chrysler minivan that she had won at the MTV Video Music Awards.
The singer-actress, who was accompanied by her mother and father-manager, gave the keys to Guadalupe Carmona, the orphanage's founder and director, and stayed for about 40 minutes, posing for photos with the children and signing autographs.
"We're really happy," said Carmona, known as Mama Lupita. "This is the second time she has visited us."
Last fall, Simpson won a Chrysler Crossfire sports car at the MTV awards, but exchanged the $50,000 luxury car for a minivan so she could help the orphanage, Carmona said.
Carmona said Simpson first visited the orphanage in 1996 and last month announced she would donate a car. But few expected Simpson to deliver it in person.
Simpson, whose songs include "I Wanna Love You Forever" and "Irresistible," also has appeared in the MTV reality show "Newlyweds" with now-estranged husband Nick Lachey and in the movie "The Dukes of Hazzard."
The singer-actress, who was accompanied by her mother and father-manager, gave the keys to Guadalupe Carmona, the orphanage's founder and director, and stayed for about 40 minutes, posing for photos with the children and signing autographs.
"We're really happy," said Carmona, known as Mama Lupita. "This is the second time she has visited us."
Last fall, Simpson won a Chrysler Crossfire sports car at the MTV awards, but exchanged the $50,000 luxury car for a minivan so she could help the orphanage, Carmona said.
Carmona said Simpson first visited the orphanage in 1996 and last month announced she would donate a car. But few expected Simpson to deliver it in person.
Simpson, whose songs include "I Wanna Love You Forever" and "Irresistible," also has appeared in the MTV reality show "Newlyweds" with now-estranged husband Nick Lachey and in the movie "The Dukes of Hazzard."
The Associated Press
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Rhymes to Go on Trial on Assault Charges
NEW YORK -- Busta Rhymes will face trial on two assault charges after a judge withdrew a plea offer Monday that would have let the rapper remain free.
Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Tanya Kennedy withdrew the offer that included probation, community service and a series of lectures to troubled youth. She cited his recent arrest for driving with a suspended license as the reason.
"The court's offer is off the table," Kennedy told Rhymes.
His attorneys declined to comment as they left court.
Rhymes' attorney, Robert Kalina, has said previously that Rhymes had been prepared to accept the deal.
After the judge withdrew her plea offer, the 34-year-old rapper rejected a follow-up offer by the prosecution of one year in jail for each of two counts of assault — to run concurrently — and a $500 fine for the suspended license charge, and will go to trial instead.
Kennedy tentatively set the trial to begin May 8.
In February, Rhymes rejected a prosecutor's offer of six months in jail on the two assault charges, but said he would consider the judge's deal that would have allowed him to plead guilty to misdemeanor assault and remain free.
Rhymes, whose real name is Trevor Smith, is accused in a complaint with beating Edward Hatchett, 39, his former driver, "with a closed fist about the head and neck" and kicking him in the ribs and torso during a dispute over back pay. The attack on Dec. 26 outside Rhymes' lower Manhattan office left Hatchett with cuts, bruises and substantial pain, according to the complaint.
In the other case, Rhymes is charged with assaulting a fan, allegedly for spitting on the rapper's car, after an Aug. 12 performance at the AmsterJam Music Festival on Randalls Island.
In February, the rap star was jailed briefly after police stopped his car for running a red light and discovered he was driving with a suspended license.
Police also have tried to question Rhymes as a potential witness in the February 2006 shooting death of his bodyguard, Israel Ramirez.
Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Tanya Kennedy withdrew the offer that included probation, community service and a series of lectures to troubled youth. She cited his recent arrest for driving with a suspended license as the reason.
"The court's offer is off the table," Kennedy told Rhymes.
His attorneys declined to comment as they left court.
Rhymes' attorney, Robert Kalina, has said previously that Rhymes had been prepared to accept the deal.
After the judge withdrew her plea offer, the 34-year-old rapper rejected a follow-up offer by the prosecution of one year in jail for each of two counts of assault — to run concurrently — and a $500 fine for the suspended license charge, and will go to trial instead.
Kennedy tentatively set the trial to begin May 8.
In February, Rhymes rejected a prosecutor's offer of six months in jail on the two assault charges, but said he would consider the judge's deal that would have allowed him to plead guilty to misdemeanor assault and remain free.
Rhymes, whose real name is Trevor Smith, is accused in a complaint with beating Edward Hatchett, 39, his former driver, "with a closed fist about the head and neck" and kicking him in the ribs and torso during a dispute over back pay. The attack on Dec. 26 outside Rhymes' lower Manhattan office left Hatchett with cuts, bruises and substantial pain, according to the complaint.
In the other case, Rhymes is charged with assaulting a fan, allegedly for spitting on the rapper's car, after an Aug. 12 performance at the AmsterJam Music Festival on Randalls Island.
In February, the rap star was jailed briefly after police stopped his car for running a red light and discovered he was driving with a suspended license.
Police also have tried to question Rhymes as a potential witness in the February 2006 shooting death of his bodyguard, Israel Ramirez.
Police say Rhymes so far has refused to cooperate with their investigation.
Rhymes, known for wild outfits and an antic performance style, has hits that include, "Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See," "Dangerous" and "Touch It." He also has appeared in movies, including "Shaft" and "Finding Forrester."
Rhymes, known for wild outfits and an antic performance style, has hits that include, "Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See," "Dangerous" and "Touch It." He also has appeared in movies, including "Shaft" and "Finding Forrester."
The Associated Press
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Snoop Dogg Denied Visa for U.K. Concerts
LONDON -- British authorities denied rapper Snoop Dogg a visa for a series of planned concerts, publicists for his tour said in a statement Saturday.
Snoop Dogg, co-headlining a European tour with fellow star P Diddy, had been expected to play five dates in Britain.
"Snoop and his team are mystified at the decision and are hoping that the British government will reconsider this decision," spokeswoman Celena Aponte said in a statement. "He has asked how he can help rectify the situation and would happily talk to and give assurances to the officials."
Whatever the outcome, a planned concert at London's Wembley Arena on Tuesday will go ahead with P Diddy and the rest of the show, she said.
A spokeswoman for the Home Office said she couldn't comment on an individual case, but did point out that foreign citizens could be barred from entering the country if there were concerns about their presence.
"The Home Secretary has the power to refuse entry clearance to non-U.K. citizens if he considers that their presence here would not be conducive to the public good," said the spokeswoman, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with department policy.
In April 2006, the rapper, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, and five other men were arrested on charges of violent disorder and starting a brawl, and spent the night in jail after trouble flared when some in his party were denied entry to British Airways' first class lounge at Heathrow Airport.
Seven officers received minor injuries — mainly cuts and bruises — and one suffered a fracture to the hand.
Snoop Dogg was previously barred from entering Britain in May 2006.
Snoop Dogg, co-headlining a European tour with fellow star P Diddy, had been expected to play five dates in Britain.
"Snoop and his team are mystified at the decision and are hoping that the British government will reconsider this decision," spokeswoman Celena Aponte said in a statement. "He has asked how he can help rectify the situation and would happily talk to and give assurances to the officials."
Whatever the outcome, a planned concert at London's Wembley Arena on Tuesday will go ahead with P Diddy and the rest of the show, she said.
A spokeswoman for the Home Office said she couldn't comment on an individual case, but did point out that foreign citizens could be barred from entering the country if there were concerns about their presence.
"The Home Secretary has the power to refuse entry clearance to non-U.K. citizens if he considers that their presence here would not be conducive to the public good," said the spokeswoman, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with department policy.
In April 2006, the rapper, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, and five other men were arrested on charges of violent disorder and starting a brawl, and spent the night in jail after trouble flared when some in his party were denied entry to British Airways' first class lounge at Heathrow Airport.
Seven officers received minor injuries — mainly cuts and bruises — and one suffered a fracture to the hand.
Snoop Dogg was previously barred from entering Britain in May 2006.
The Associated Press
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