“The Green Hornet” opens in theaters today

The new film version of “The Green Hornet” is going to try to make a killing over the long Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. “The Green Hornet” has appeared in a number of different media including, a radio program, a television series, and comic books.

The 3D film hits domestic theaters today and stars, Seth Rogen as the wealthy playboy, Britt Reid, turned superhero/crime fighter who teams up with trusty sidekick/martial arts expert, Kato, played by Jay Chou. Cameron Diaz stars as Lenore “Casey” Case, Reid’s secretary and love interest.

 ”The Green Hornet” will be trying to topple the number one film, “True Grit.”

The western remake won last weekend’s domestic Box Office race with a tally of $14.6 million. Throughout the week, “True Grit” continue to out pace the competition and to hold on to the title of number one movie in the country.

The comedy “Little Fockers,” got bumped from the top spot to second place with earnings of $13.4 million, last weekend. The new horror flick, “Season of the Witch,” landed in third with $10.6 million. It stars Nicolas Cage and Ron Perlman. The plot revolves around a woman accused of being a witch and causing the Black Plague.

The fantasy, “Tron Legacy,” took four with $10 million and rounding out the top five, the psychological thriller  flick, “Black Swan” with $8.1 million. It’s about to dancers fighting for the top role in a ballet. Natalie Portman, Winona Ryder, Vincent Cassel, and Mila Kunis are in the cast.

Catching up on other entertainment news…

Michael Jackson’s personal physician, Conrad Murray, has been ordered to stand trial in connection with the pop superstar’s death in June of 2009. Last Wednesday, after a six-day hearing, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge ruled there was sufficient enough evidence to try Dr. Murray for manslaughter. An arraignment has been set for January 25.

Also, the judge revoked Dr. Murray’s license to practice in California. Murray could lose his medical licenses in two other states as well. Details here.

DGA feature film nominations for 2010

Earlier this week, the Directors Guild of America released the names of the five nominees for outstanding directorial achievement in feature films for 2010. No real surprises on the list. All of the directors and their films have been getting a lot of awards buzz lately.  

Here are the nominees:

• Darren Aronofsky  “Black Swan”
• David Fincher “The Social Network”
• Tom Hooper “The King’s Speech”
• Christopher Nolan “Inception”
• David O. Russell “The Fighter”

The winner will be announced on Saturday, January 29 at a ceremony and dinner in Hollywood. For more on the nominees, the DGA Awards, and the ceremony go here.

Judge dismisses charges against Anna Nicole Smith’s boyfriend

Photo: www.theinsider.com --Actress Anna Nicole Smith and her attorney Howard K. Stern in 2007

In a surprise decision, a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge today threw out the charges against Anna Nicole Smith’s long-time boyfriend/attorney, Howard K. Stern. Last October, a jury found Stern guilty of two conspiracy felony charges in connection with drugs prescribed for Smith — who died of an accidental overdose February 7, 2007.

Also, the judge reduced from four to one — the charges against one of Smith’s doctors — saying the evidence did not support the charges. More on the judge’s decision and the prosecution’s reaction on the People website.

Day three of Michael Jackson’s doctor’s hearing

More dramatic revelations today in the Los Angeles hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for Dr.Conrad Murray to stand trial in the death of Michael Jackson. Murray was apparently engaged in phone conversations and texting when he should have been paying attention to the medicated superstar according to records presented in court.

On June 25, 2009, paramedics rushed the singer from his rented Holmby Hills mansion to the UCLA Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Later, the Los Angeles Coroner’s office ruled the entertainer’s death a homicide — the result of an overdose of the powerful anesthetic, propofol, which was being given to him as a sleeping aid.

A report on the hearing and the testimony on the Los Angeles Times website site.

2011 People’s choice Awards

The movie blockbuster, “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” snatched four top awards at the People’s Choice Awards last night at the Nokia Theatre Live L.A. in downtown Los Angeles. Among the People’s Choice awards for this “Twilight” sequel, favorite movie and favorite movie drama.

These award winners for film, television and music are selected by the fans.  A list of the winners, the nominees, photos and videos and more on the People’s Choice website.

Photo credit: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Dept./L.A. Times -- Mug shot of Bell Mayor Oscar Hernandez September 21, 2010

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is cracking down on corruption in the city of Bell. Yesterday the mayor, Oscar Hernandez, and seven other current and former Bell officials were arrested by police and D.A. investigators.

The Los Angeles Times, which broke the story, reported “…a battering ram” had to be used to break into the home of Mayor Hernandez, in order to arrest him.  Hernandez was taken into custody Tuesday morning along with city council members Teresa Jacobo, Luis Artiga and George Mirabal as well as ex-council members George Cole and Victor Bello, and ex-Assistant City Manager Angela Spaccia and ex-City Manager Robert Rizzo.

The eight defendants are charged with ripping off more than $5.5 million from the city of Bell and its citizens. They are due to appear in court later today. At a news conference yesterday, Los Angeles County District Attorney, Steve Cooley, gave a harsh assessment of their alleged crimes: ”They used the tax dollars collected from the hard-working citizens of Bell as their own piggy bank, which they then looted at will.” The Times has more on the arrests, reaction from Bell residents, and additional photos here.

A similar city government scandal is festering in Media City. I’ve been covering the scandal, on this blog, for more than a year. Elements of the scandal have been picked up by the national media as well. Right now, millions of taxpayer dollars are being used to defend the city and its police department against lawsuits and a long list of alleged crimes and misdeeds. However, the city council and some powerful city hall insiders are refusing to give the public an accounting of this money.

On last night’s city council written agenda, there was a listing of the cases discussed in the secret closed door session by council members and the city attorney. The agenda stated 8 cases involved “existing litigation” and  7 cases “anticipated litigation.” Also, the FBI and the U.S. Justice Department are conducting investigations here in Burbank.

Despite claims of fiscal responsibility and the need for budget cutbacks, the city council is approving big raises for a “select group” of employees – many already bank  six-figure salaries. Recently, the council voted to jack up utility rates, even though, Burbank Water and Power officials admit residents have reached a 20 percent reduction goal several years ahead of schedule. Something is seriously wrong in Burbank.

Paris Hilton’s guilty plea in Vegas

Photo: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun -- Paris Hilton and her attorney David Chesnoff in a Las Vegas courtroom today, September 20, 2010

 Hotel Heiress Paris Hilton pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor cocaine charges in a Las Vegas court today.  Hilton got a plea deal: one year probation, $2,000 fine, 200 hours of community service, and she must complete a drug abuse program.  Also, if  Hilton violates her probation she risks going to jail for a year!

The drug charges followed the socialite’s arrest at the Wynn Las Vegas last month. At first, Hilton denied ownership of the cocaine and the purse it was found in. However, today the judge made her admit she’d lied.

More on Hilton’s case and what she had to say in court in this Las Vegas Sun report. Also, on the newspaper website, some nice photos of Hilton looking more like she was attending a fashion show rather than a court sentencing.

Jamie McCourt testifies in court

Some pretty amazing testimony in Frank and Jamie McCourt’s nasty divorce and legal battle over the Los Angeles Dodgers today.  Jamie McCourt took the stand and claimed she didn’t read nor really understand the document she signed in 2004 giving her estranged husband sole ownership of the Dodgers.

 However, Steve Susman, Frank McCourt’s attorney, pointed out in court  – Jamie McCourt practiced law at one time. Hmm, interesting. More on Jamie McCourt’s testimony on the Los Angeles website.

Ben Affleck’s film tops the Box Office

The final numbers came out today and the crime drama,  ”The Town,” easily won the domestic weekend Box Office. Ben Affleck wrote, directed, and starred in “The Town,” which debuted with 23.8 million, to become the new number one film in the country.

The new teen comedy, “Easy A,” racked up $17.7 million, good enough for second place. It was followed by the new horror flick, “Devil,” which managed only $12.2 million, despite being the creation of M. Night Shyamalan. 

Last week’s top film, “Resident Evil: Afterlife 3D” came in fourth with $10 million, and in fifth place, the new animation “Alpha and Omega” with $9 million.

Uh-oh! Lindsay Lohan failed a court-ordered drug test

Instead of calling a news conference when they’re in deep, deep, whatever, a lot of celebs turn to Twitter to tell their side of the story. The latest to do so, the troubled Lindsay Lohan. Late Friday reports were all over the Internet about Lohan possibly testing positive for drugs.

Early Saturday morning, Lohan went online and copped to failing a recent drug test on her Twitter page. Here’s a sampling of what she wrote: “Regrettably, I did in fact fail my most recent drug test and if I am asked, I am prepared to appear before judge Fox next week as a result.” 

The 24-year-old actress has more than a million fans and friends following here on Twitter. So she got some support — but it’s not going to help her much when she goes before the judge. Lohan just got out of rehab on August 24. Before that, the actress did about two-weeks of jail time for violating probation on a couple of DUI convictions.

 The judge warned Lohan that if she violates her probation again – she’ll do 30 days in Los Angeles County Jail. Lohan definitely has a serious problem — and one that is probably best dealt with in a lock-down treatment facility. For more of Lohan’s tweets click here.

Man drives through gate at Warner Bros.

A New York man is facing a court hearing this week, after police say he crashed through a barrier at Warner Bros. in Burbank, last Friday. It happened at the VIP entrance, Gate 5, at Warner Boulevard and Avon Street.

 The suspect, 43-year-old  Michael Rodriquez-Cintron, drove around the studio lot for several minutes before he was stopped by security personnel, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The Times report says a fake gun and several bottles of an unidentified flammable material were discovered inside the suspect’s vehicle. Cintron was arrested and is due in court for an arraignment on Tuesday.

Controversial Elle magazine cover

A lot of buzzing on the Internet and elsewhere about Actress Gabourey Sidibe’s photo on the cover of Elle magazine’s 25th anniversary issue. First, let me say I like this picture of Gabby. She looks like a vibrant, fresh faced 25-year-old woman. In other photos, Gabby has looked much older because her face was caked with tons of make up. However, that’s not what the controversy is about.

Gabby is a dark skinned, African American woman. In the Elle cover photo, her skin appears to be lighter. You say, big deal? Well, it is to some folks who read negative messages in things like this.

Elle magazine is being accused of lightening Gabby’s skin. Photoshop Instructor, Ron Marsh, disagrees: “They didn’t lighten her phyical skin.” Marsh says the typical airbrushing tools found in Photoshop were probably used.  The kinds of tools, he insists, are used in the retouching and airbrushing photos all the time. Last week,  I attended Marsh’s two-day advanced Photoshop class in Burbank.

In a story on the E! Online website, Elle Editor-in-Chief, Robbie Meyers, dismissed the controversy: “At a photo shoot, in a studio, that is a fashion shoot, that’s glamorous, the lighting is different. The photography is different than a red carpet shot from a paparazzi.” She emphasized, “We absolutely did not lighten her skin.”

Oh, and some others criticized Gabby’s cover photo because it was cropped mid-chest.   The actresses on the other three Elle anniversary issues, Megan Fox, Amanda  Seyfried, and Lauren Conrad, are shown in full-length shots. Meyers blows off that  criticism as well describing Gabby’s cover photo as “incredible.” I think Elle magazine deserves kudos for the photos it published of Gabby. See more of them on Elle’s website.

Booking photo courtesy Burbank Police Dept. -- 35-year-old Manuel Retana

 Two suspects. Both accused of sexually victimizing a child.  The Burbank Police Department chose to release the mug shot of one suspect — while refusing to do so in the second case. Did the BPD apply its policy fairly?  I don’t think so.

Here are the details. The male suspect is 35-year-old Manuel Retana. He was arrested last Tuesday, September 7,  and accused of  “using his forearm” to brush up against the breast of an 11-year-old girl on a bus.

In a Burbank court last Thursday, Retana pleaded not guilty to committing a lewd act on a child. Retana had been held on $100,00 bail, but was released on his own recognizance, according to an article on the Burbank Leader website.

Retana’s mug shot has been given out to the media, along with a request for more information on the suspect and for any other alleged victims to contact the BPD.

Now the second case involves a female suspect and former teacher at David Starr Jordan Middle School in Burbank. Oh, and the wife of a Los Angeles Police officer.

Photo: Scott Smeltzer/Glendale News-Press/Los Angeles Times --Amy Beck, a former Burbank middle school teacher, shown here at an event in April of 2009.

Last March, Amy Beck shocked a lot of folks when she turned herself into Burbank Police, admitting to having a sexual affair over several months, with a 14-year-old student. Beck and her attorney claimed the 33-year-old mother of three was overcome with guilt and decided to fess-up to the crime.

I requested Beck’s booking photo and was turned down by the BPD at least twice. I first reported this in a blog post on March 11. The reason: the BPD did not consider Beck “… a danger to the community.”  Hmm. You might remember, Beck was originally charged with four counts of unlawful sex with a minor and one count of oral copulation. Beck reportedly volunteered to stay behind bars rather than attempt to post the $175,000 bail.

Thanks to a special deal, Beck was allowed to plead no contest to charges of unlawful sex with a minor and committing a lewd act on a child.  In May, the former Burbank teacher was sentenced to two years in state prison. Also, Beck is required to register as a sex offender. Despite the seriousness of this crime, BPD did not put out a public request for more information on the Beck case nor ask for any other possible victims to come forward.

This is a strange policy being carried out by the BPD. On the surface, it appears to be a double standard, or discriminatory, or worse, racist.  Since both cases occurred on Police Chief Scott LaChasse’s watch, he can’t blame the administration of his predecessor. LaChasse has some explaining to do.

Photo: Jill Weisleder/Los Angeles Dodgers --Manny Ramirez hits a home run in a game against the San Diego Padres back on April 30, 2009

It’s official, Manny Ramirez is no longer wearing Dodger blue. In a curt press release today that amounted to about 7 lines, the Dodger organization finally put the seal of truth on all those rumors about Ramirez heading to the Windy City: “The Los Angeles Dodgers announced today that outfielder Manny Ramirez was assigned on a waiver claim to the Chicago White Sox and right-handed pitcher Ramon Troncoso was recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque to take his spot on the active roster.”

After all the hoopla about Mannywood, those Manny Bobbleheads, and just last month, the P.R. splash from the Dodgers about the slugger donating his red Porsche to charity, it comes down to this. So much for building a relationship between Ramirez and the Dodger fans.

The news of Manny’s departure came on the same day as team owners,  Frank and Jamie McCourt, went to court in their bitter divorce and fight over the Dodgers. Maybe by getting rid of Manny, who has been struggling this season, they now have more money to spend on divorce lawyers. He walked into a Los Angeles court with six; she arrived with five. Oh yeah, this divorce and legal battle over the team is costing millions. They reportedly saved $3.8 million by unloading Ramirez at this time.

The McCourts court battle will be great fodder for the media, but how much damage will it do to the  team, the players, and the fan base? If Ramirez has lost his batting mojo then perhaps getting rid of him before the end of the season will be viewed later as a skillful bit of management. However, if  the slugger gets a second wind and begins to hit home runs for his new team, a whole lot of Dodger fans are going to be very unhappy with this decision.

Another Hollywood celebrity faced a judge in court, today.  Actor Charlie Sheen pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault in a deal that resulted in more serious charges being dropped. Sheen got a break from the Aspen, Colorado judge who suspended a 30-day jail sentence as well.

The assault charge came out of a nasty Christmas Day altercation Sheen had with his wife, Brook Mueller. Also, Sheen was sentenced to 30-days in rehab, but he may not have to do that time either. The Wrap has more on Sheen’s day in court.

Meanwhile, Actress Lindsay Lohan began a 90-day rehab at UCLA Medical Center today. Lohan finished 13 days of a 90 day jail sentence and was immediately carted off to the medical center. Lohan was sentenced to jail and rehab for violating probation in a DUI  case. People magazine has more on the troubled actress’ latest ordeal.

SoCal congresswoman’s husband buys Newsweek Magazine

It’s a done deal. Wealthy Businessman and Philanthropist, Sidney Harman, is the new owner of Newsweek magazine. Harman, a 91-year-old stereo equipment magnate, is the spouse of California Congresswoman, Jane Harman, who represents the 36th District out in the South Bay.

Sidney Harman met with the staff of the struggling news magazine today. The full story on the Newsweek website.  

Summer movies still hot

Despite rising theater ticket prices, folks are continuing to go to the movies. Over the weekend, the dreamscape thriller “Inception” held onto the number one spot at the  Box Office with a take of  $27.4 million — bringing its three-week domestic total to $193.3 million.

The new screwball comedy, “Dinner for Schmucks,” debuted in second with $23.5 million. This is a remake of a French film, “The Dinner Game” (1998),  about an executive who finds just the right guy to take to his boss’ dinner for dummies. The movie stars Steve Carell and Paul Rudd.

The Angelina Jolie spy thriller, “Salt” raked in $19.4 million good enough for third.  The animated flick, “Despicable Me” took fourth with $15.5 million. And rounding out the top five, the new romantic-fantasy starring Zac Efron called “Charlie St. Cloud” with $12.3 million.

 Conan O’Brien gets four Emmy nominations

Late night talk show host, Conan O’Brien, has plenty to joke about after receiving four Emmy nominations today, for his short-lived version of “The Tonight Show,” including nods for outstanding variety music or comedy series, for writing, directing, and art direction. How many nominations did his rivals Jay Leno and David Letterman get? Nada! Zilch!  

That recent odd-ball Emmy ad campaign by the TBS Network for the comedian just might have paid off. Or maybe O’Brien got a lot of sympathy votes because of the shabby way NBC treated him in “The Tonight Show” debacle last winter, which led to Leno returning to the legendary late night talker as host. O’Brien is now prepping his new late night show for this fall on TBS.

The 62nd Primetime Emmy nominations were announced this morning.  HBO got the most nominations, followed by ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and PBS. Several posts about the Emmy nominations on deadline.com/Hollywood

Disney plans to appeal $200 million-plus court decision

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Disney Studios in Burbank

Investors are watching the Mouse Kingdom’s stock for signs of erosion after a federal jury in Riverside yesterday awarded the creator of the “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”  television game show nearly $269.2 million in damages.

U.K.-based Celador International sued Disney in 2004 claiming it did not receive a fair share of profits from the show.  More on the legal battle here.

 ”Eclipse” still making serious money

“The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” continued its winning ways this week. Over the Fourth of July weekend, the vampire/fantasy/love story easily won the Box Office race with a haul of $83.6 million.

In its first six days of release, the third installment of the “Twilight” film series made a huge $176.3 million at the domestic Box Office. As of yesterday,  the film had earned nearly $20 million more — meaning it will probably leap the $200 million mark before the weekend.  At the center of the plot is a love triangle involving main characters Bella Swan, Edward Cullen, and Jacob Black played by Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner.

In second place, another new fantasy flick, “The Last Airbender” with $52 million.  Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, the movie is about a young adventurer,  portrayed by Noah Ringer, who has the power to manipulate the four main elements of nature : water, fire, Earth, and air.

“Toy Story 3″ came in third with $43 million, and rounding out the top five, the comedies “Grown Ups” $26 million and “Knight and Day” $14 million.

A quake rattles Burbank and other parts of SoCal

Some rocking, rolling, and shaking in the Southland late today. I was sitting in my car waiting for the red light to change at Glenoaks Boulevard and Olive Avenue, in front of the Burbank Central Library, when a 5.4 quake hit at 4:53 p.m. 

My cruiser rocked so much, I thought for a moment one of those cell phone/texting distracted drivers had bumped into the ride.  Not this time. It was a natural occurrence, a reminder, that we live in earthquake country.

The quake was centered 28 miles south of Palm Springs. It frayed nerves of workers in some Los Angeles high-rise buildings and even put the brakes on the rides at Disneyland for a while.  Our local earthquake expert, Dr. Kate Hutton, a Caltech seismologist, says there have been at least  two dozen aftershocks since the quake struck.  So far, no local reports of damage or injuries.

The quake got Southlanders wondering about the “big one” that’s supposed to really shake-up SoCal one day. At a news conference, carried live by KNX 1070  newsradio, Dr. Hutton called this one “a drill” and said folks should get prepared because there’s no way to tell when the big  jolt will rock our region.

 Suspected Burbank cop shooter arraignment delayed

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

An Oregon transient, Jamie Willard, appeared in Burbank Superior Court today in connection with that bizarre shooting of two Burbank cops last Friday. Willard’s arraignment reportedly was postponed until July 22.

Yesterday’s weekly crime log, from Burbank Police Spokesman Sgt. Robert Quesada, gave a more detailed description of what happened outside of Kmart when two officers attempted to take Willard into custody. Willard, a shoplifting suspect, was handed over to the BPD cops by Kmart security on July 2 around noon.

Crime Log: The suspect had been handcuffed and was being escorted toward the police car parked outside when a struggle began.  During the struggle, the suspect was able to use one of his hands to grab and remove the officer’s handgun.  Multiple shots were fired with both officers being hit.  One of the officers was able to wrestle the suspect to the ground and take the handgun away.  The suspect was finally placed under control until additional officers arrived at the scene and assisted in controlling the suspect.  Both officers were transported to the local hospital where they were treated.

Here’s an update on the officers condition. Derek Green was shot in the hand and suffered a leg injury. Green had surgery on the hand, but has been admitted to the hospital for another operation on it.

Officer Alex Gutierrez was lucky to be wearing a life saving bulletproof vest. Gutierrez was hit in the chest by gunfire several times and wounded in the leg. He has been treated at the hospital and released.

At last night’s Burbank City Council meeting, Interim Police Chief Scott LaChasse gave a report on the shooting incident and tried to marginalize the fact that the gun involved belonged to one of the police officers. The chief gave the council the “ongoing investigation” line and even asked witnesses and/or people with video of the incident to contact the BPD.

The basic fact that the weapon was snatched from one of the BPD cops by the suspect has been known since Friday afternoon. There are photos of the gun at the scene in newspapers and on the Internet.  There is no really good reason it should have taken this long for the BPD to put out a report including  that fact. It’s foot-dragging and smacks of some of the problems and archaic policies that fed the Burbank police scandal mess and still dog the BPD.

 Frequently at Burbank Police Commission meetings, Chief LaChasse talks up a storm about building confidence in the community with a new “transparency” about the BPD. Yet, it seems LaChasse is finding it very hard to do more than just give lip service to this new ”transparency.”

UPDATE, Thursday, July 8, 2010:  Some reported details, that the chief didn’t mention, about the Kmart shooting and the investigation being discussed over on the Semichorus blog.

Burbank Water and Power top brass get big raises

During the recent budget debate, the public was told the Burbank Water and Power has to jack up water rates 13.5 % and electrical fees 2.9% to balance its books. No way could there be a possible freeze of those rates or even a reduction, despite the recession and the financial struggles of many Burbank residents. The four council members who voted for that budget and those rate hikes claimed at the time, they were being “fiscally responsible.” Dr. David Gordon was the only one to vote against that budget.

 Last night, the same four council members, Dave Golonski, Jess Talamantes, Gary Bric, and Anja Reinke voted to hand raises of 7-to-11% to the top honchos at Burbank Water and Power, including General Manager Ron Davis — who already makes well-over $200,000 a year. Dr. Gordon was the lone council member to vote against those raises.

Councilman Talamantes, who almost broke from the pack,  brought up the idea of getting outside surveys on the going salaries for utility executives and a report on how hard is it really to recruit them to come work and live in sunny California. But in the end, Talamantes caved and voted with the pack.

The City Council wants to keep Davis and his team at the helm of the Burbank Water and Power. Even though, Dr. Gordon pointed out, “money doesn’t buy loyalty.”  No matter, four other council members voted  to give hefty pay raises to Davis and the utility’s senior executives.  By the way, Burbank Water and Power is owned by the taxpayers and so it’s their money that pays the salaries at the utility.

After the vote, I passed Davis outside the city council chamber. He looked pleased with himself. Yeah, the kind of  sweet deal he got puts him in the league with the greedy, self-serving Wall Street sharks and those notorious studio bosses who plunder companies, even in hard economic times.

“The A-Team” movie and the dish on its development

“The A-Team” film re-do of the popular 1980s TV series reportedly has been in the works since the mid 1990s. No wonder there’s a long list of writers on the project. Nikki Finke over at Deadline.com/Hollywood has the dish on the behind the scenes dealings on the film and who got the best writer credit on it.

“The A-Team” and the remake of “The Karate Kid” are the two major movies opening in theaters tomorrow, Friday, June 11. Moviegoers have been cool to sequels and remakes lately –but you never know, these two flicks just might kick-start the Box Office into the hot zone. Then again, maybe not.

Ex-Disney employee remains free on bail after second court appearance

Bonnie Hoxie is no longer punching a clock at Disney, instead she’s in a heap of trouble with the Mouse and the law. The 33-year-old former assistant to a high-ranking Disney corporate executive appeared in a New York Federal Court yesterday.

Hoxie and her 29-year-old boyfriend, Yonni Sebbag, are facing insider trading charges.  They were arrested late last month in the Los Angeles area, allegedly for trying to sell inside information about Disney. The two are being prosecuted in New York–rather than L.A. — because they reportedly attempted to shop the stolen data to several investment firms in N.Y, according to Reuters.  

Yesterday, the judge allowed Hoxie to remain free on $50,000 bail. The boyfriend has been denied bail on the grounds he’s a flight risk. More here.

Wacky Emmy campaign for Conan O’Brien

Comedian Conan O’Brien’s new TV show doesn’t debut on TBS until the fall — but the network has still launched an Emmy campaign for the late night host. The campaign touts the NBC-O’Brien-hosted “Tonight Show.” 

Clearly, the campaign is geared toward stirring up buzz for O’Brien’s TBS late night talker, which debuts November 8 and it will be produced right here in Media City. More on The Wrap and Hollywood Insider.

New comedy club opening in Burbank

The Burbank City Council has cleared the way for the city’s first comedy club. You would think it was a no-brainer with entertainment being the number one industry in B-town, but it wasn’t. Last night, the city council approved a business assistance loan of $190,000 for The Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant by a 4-to-1 vote. Dr. David Gordon was the lone dissenter.  

The loan will be used to remodel the old Macaroni Grill site at the corner of East Magnolia Boulevard and North 1st Street, in the downtown area. Even though co-owner Barbara Holliday will secure the loan by putting up her Burbank home and other assets, Gordon was concerned about repayment should the business go under. On the flip side, the other council members saw the potential as being well worth the risk.

Councilman Dave Golonski admitted the site had certain challenges, but liked the passion and enthusiasm he heard and saw in Holliday and her partner Dave Reinitz, and their supporters, including a number of comedians who spoke at the meeting. Golonski said it was a “great use” for the site, the business plan “made sense,” and the project had the “right chemistry, ” so he voted “yes”.

While critics point to the city’s support of failed restaurants like Bombay Bicycle Club, Golonski cited successes like Fry’s Electronics and the hugely popular, Porto’s Bakery & Cafe. Holliday and Reinitz together have more than 20 years experience in comedy production and event planning. I think they have a good chance of making “Flappers” ah, fly. 

During his time in front of the council, showing support for the club, comic Michael Rayner pulled off a very funny trick; spinning a cheeseburger on an umbrella. After the vote, I asked Rayner where else had he performed that trick? He said all over the place, from the “Late Show with David Letterman” to the Burbank library. I’m looking forward to seeing Rayner do that trick again when The Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant opens in late summer.

Also, the revised and much debated plan for a 24 Hour Fitness gym near the Burbank Empire Center won approval from the city council, too. The vote was 3-to-2, with Gordon and Mayor Anja Reinke opposing.

Councilman David Gordon’s bio up on Burbank city website

BTW, Burbank Councilman David Gordon’s bio is now up on the city website. Now you can read about the backgrounds, interests, and achievements of the entire Burbank City Council. Click here for Gordon’s bio. On the left side of that page, there are buttons to click on for the bios of the other four members as well.  

Baseball coach Jose Sandoval speaks out 

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove –Coach Jose Sandoval outside the Burbank courts building, on November 5, 2009

A lot of chatter about the dismissal of the criminal case, on Monday, against long-time Burbank baseball coach, Jose Sandoval. Yesterday, I e-mailed the volunteer coach for the Burbank Park and Recreation Department and got his reaction. Below are Sandoval’s answers to my questions.

1.  How do you feel about the dismissal of the case against you?

 I feel relieved that this case is finally over and it was dismissed. I know for a fact if it was any other coach this would have never of gone this far. I used all of my vacation days in court and ran out of time last year so it was all on my time.

 2. Your court appearances on this matter started last July?  How many times have you had to go to court?

 I went to court 12 or 13 times before yesterday (Monday) I believe I went twice in a couple of months.

3. After that controversial altercation at the baseball game, you were suspended for a year, right?  When did that end? 

I was able to start coaching in mid April.

4. Are you coaching the same kids or a new team?

Some final words.

I want to thank all that stood with me and by my side through all of this. THANK YOU from the bottom of my HEART.  I want to thank you and your bloggers for all of the kind words and support. if you guys get a chance come check out some of our games we play every day of the week. 

Bob Kramer on the prowl

Photo:  FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Community Assistance Coordinator Bob Kramer’s get-around-town vehicle promotes the city’s water conservation campaign

Have you seen Bob?  Bob Kramer, the Burbank Community Assistance Coordinator. For the past six months, Kramer has been cruising the city, looking for problems to solve, in the Burbank Water and Power “conserve water” promotion van. Last month, I saw Kramer zipping up the hill on Olive Avenue above Bel Aire Drive, one Monday and a week later, spotted him driving through another hillside neighborhood.

Despite the “conserve water” message on his vehicle, Kramer is not the water police. Kramer says ”every week” he checks all the alleys for junk like dumped couches and graffiti. He reports his findings to city departments for action.

Kramer is considered the “go-to-guy” for all sorts of problems residents might have with trash, parking, sidewalks, trees, or even the well being of a neighbor. Go here for information on how to contact Kramer. 

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Coach Jose Sandoval outside the Burbank courts building last fall.

After almost a year, the controversial criminal case against a Burbank baseball coach was dropped today. Attorney David D. Diamond says his client,  Jose Sandoval , appeared in a Burbank court before Judge Dorothy B. Reyes and agreed to attend 12 counseling sessions; in exchange for the Burbank City Attorney’s Office dismissing the case, including the misdemeanor charge of battery against him.

This questionable case began with a heated altercation between Sandoval and an umpire during a baseball game at McCambridge Park, on May 18, 2009.  Sandoval got suspended for the rest of the season, and later that suspension was extended to May of 2010. At the time, Sandoval was coaching five teams of about 80 kids in the sports program sponsored by the Burbank Park and Recreation Department. Many of the players on Sandoval’s teams are from low income and single parent homes.  Sandoval has been coaching for more than 15 years.

The Burbank City Attorney’s Office dumped more grief on Sandoval by filing a charge of misdemeanor battery against the veteran coach. Starting on July 2, 2009, Sandoval has made numerous court appearances as this case dragged on for months. Finally today, some justice: “The umpire did not want to press charges and we provided dozens of witnesses who said my client did nothing wrong.” said Attorney David Diamond in a prepared statement. “Why was this case ever filed?  Mr. Jose Sandoval is an icon in the volunteer community.  The Parks and Recreation Department and the Burbank Athletic Foundation left dozens of kids without a coach because of their inability to be fair and objective.  Our investigation has further yielded that a staff member of Parks and Recreation lied about witnessing the incident.  He was not even near the field. ”

 As for the counseling requirement, Diamond explains, “The counseling sessions will benefit my client in that he will be better able to deal with umpires who are predetermined to decide the outcome of a game based on factors that have nothing to do with the performance of the kids.”  Hmm, sounds like the Burbank Park & Recreation Department needs to do a little investigating of this sports program.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove

Most visitors to cemeteries come bearing flowers and mementos not rakes, shovels, and cleaning supplies. At Grand View Memorial Park in Glendale, there is a hardy group of visitors who regularly arrive at the struggling cemetery ready to put in several hours of serious work; from clearing weeds and debris to cleaning tombstones and grave markers.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove

Grand View will be open tomorrow, Sunday, September 6, from noon to 4 p.m., and if you drop by you’ll probably see some of these dedicated visitors hard at work, no matter how hot and dry the weather conditions. Grand View, a landmark in the local Burbank/Glendale community, has been in legal limbo for several years. Most of the problems for the 125-year-old cemetery began in 2005 when a state investigator discovered thousands of human remains that had been mishandled.

The cemetery is no longer a lush green resting place with rose gardens and an abundance of shady trees. It is in desperate need of care, therefore, a crew of visitors/volunteers pitch in when and where they can.

Grand View is open only on certain days by order of Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Anthony Mohr. Later this month, Grand View will be open on September 20, and next month, on October 4 and 18. Grand View is located at 1341 Glenwood Road in Glendale.

Photo courtesy Jose Sandoval — some of the players and coaching staff

Burbank Volunteer Coach Jose Sandoval probably would have preferred to spend this morning out at a sunny park, teaching some local kids how to swing a bat or throw a baseball. Instead, Coach Sandoval was in Burbank Superior Court at 8:30 a.m. today, to face a charge of misdemeanor battery arising from an altercation during a game at McCambridge Park on May 18, 2009.

After a heated exchange over a disputed call, Sandoval says he headed for the dugout followed close on his heels by an umpire. When Sandoval turned around to face the ump, apparently the two men brushed up against each other. In most places, and with most folks, that would have been ignored. Not in this case. Sandoval got thrown out of the game and suspended from coaching for a year. Also, the Burbank City Attorney’s Office hit Sandoval with a criminal case.

I dropped by the Burbank Superior Court this morning and was surprised to find more than 50 other citizens along with Coach Sandoval, his wife Nancy and their two girls. Also, George Garcia and his two kids were there to show support for Sandoval. Folks with traffic violations got their cases heard first. As the clock ticked away, more and more defendants arrived in the courtroom to present their cases before Commissioner Dennis L. Shanklin. I was not able to stay for Coach Sandoval’s case, but he updated me this afternoon.

With a public defender representing him, Sandoval pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor battery charge and was ordered back to court on August 18, 2009 for a preliminary hearing. Sandoval is now collecting evidence and the names of witnesses to build his case and prepare for that hearing.

To say that Sandoval loves baseball is an understatement. For the past 16 years, he has been a volunteer coach for the Burbank Parks & Recreation Department. He speaks with affection about the five teams and 80 kids he coaches, or was coaching, until that controversial incident on a park field this spring. While he probably would rather be thinking about or playing baseball this evening, Sandoval is gearing up to defend himself in a criminal case.

Convicted swindler Bernard Madoff will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Today a New York Judge sentenced 71-year-old Madoff to the maximum term, 150 years. Many of Madoff’s victims, who were in court, broke out in applause when the sentence was announced.

Earlier in the proceedings, Madoff apologized to his victims for what is estimated to be at least a $50 billion fraud. Madoff was convicted of running the largest Ponzi scheme ever. In court today, some of his victims spoke bitterly of how the scheme had wiped out their finances and damaged their lives.

Last Friday, in a $170 billion legal judgment against Madoff, the government reportedly seized all of his property, which will now be liquidated and used to pay back some of the money owed to more than a thousand investors.

A Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge threw the book at convicted murderer and music legend, Phil Spector, today. Judge Larry Paul Fidler sentenced the 69-year-old Spector to 19 years-to-life, the maximum term. Last month, a jury convicted the eccentric music producer of second-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Lana Clarkson.

The B-Movie actress of such films as “Barbarian Queen” (1985) was found shot to death in the foyer of Spector’s Alhambra mansion in 2003. Spector’s first trial ended in a mistrial when the jurors were not able to reach a verdict, after deadlocking 10-to-2 in favor of conviction.

Spector will not be eligible for parole until age 88. During today’s hearing, Spector’s lawyers reportedly gave Clarkson’s mother a check for $17,000 to pay for the actress’ funeral, which was part of the sentence. A sad end for all concerned. Clarkson’s life was cut short by an act of senseless violence; Spector’s fame and image forever tarnished by the crime.

Back in the 1960s, Spector created the landmark recording technique of layering multi-instrumental tracks to produce what has come to be known as the ”wall of sound” effect. Spector used it on such rock hits as “Be My Baby” by the Ronettes and “You’ve Lost that Loving Feelin’” by the Righteous Brothers. Spector was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank

The battle over same-sex marriage has been long and contentious in California. Today the state supreme court ruled the ban on gay marriage, Proposition 8, is constitutional, but that doesn’t appear to settle the debate. That’s because the high court’s ruling allows 18,000 gay marriages, that occurred before the proposition was approved by the voters, to stand. It’s a partial victory for both sides, but not a clear cut ruling on the issue.

Last November, the controversial ban on gay marriage passed on a 52 percent vote. Proposition 8 amends the state constitution to allow marriage only between a man and a woman. The ballot measure overturned a ruling by the state supreme court last spring, which legalized same-sex marriage.

Several states have wrangled with this issue. Massachusetts, Iowa, Vermont, and Maine have legalized same-sex marriage. More than likely, voters in California will be faced with a new ballot measure on gay rights and the definition of marriage very soon. 

The way I see it, the issue could easily be settled if those who believe in traditional marriage exchange wedding vows with someone of the opposite sex; and those who believe in same-sex marriages, well, they should tie-the-knot with someone of their own gender. That’s a live and let live solution, which would resolve all this controversy. Too bad it’s not that easy.  So get ready for more protests, election campaigns, and probably court cases involving the issue.

Photo:  starstories.astrology.com

Howard K. Stern, Anna Nicole Smith’s lawyer and companion, and two of the actress’ physicians were arraigned in a Downtown Los Angeles court today. The three defendants pleaded not guilty to charges they were involved in a conspiracy to provide the late actress with thousands of prescription pills and other drugs during the final years of her life.

Smith died in Florida in February of 2007, after being discovered unresponsive in a hotel room. Later, it was determined the 39-year-old former Playboy model died from a fatal drug overdose. The other two defendants in the case are 40-year-old Sandeep Kapoor and 61-year-old Khristine Eroshevich. State Attorney General Jerry Brown has accused 40-year-old Stern of being “the principal enabler” in an alleged scheme that involved prescriptions written using phony names.

Today, Commissioner Kristi Lousteau ordered Stern and the two doctors to give handwriting samples to investigators. Each defendant is free on $20,000 bond. The trio is due back in court on June 8, 2009 to set a date for a preliminary hearing.

The second time around turned out to be a real downer for legendary music producer Phil Spector. Today, the Los Angeles jury in Spector’s retrial found him guilty of second degree murder for the shooting death of actress Lana Clarkson at his Alhambra mansion in 2003. The first trial in 2007 ended in a mistrial because the jury was unable to reach a verdict. That jury deadlocked 10-2 for conviction.

The retrial began last October. This time Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Larry Paul Fidler gave jurors the option of second degree murder or a lesser charge, involuntary manslaughter. The jury, six men and six women, began deliberations on March 26 and took about 30 hours to reach a verdict. Also, the panel found the eccentric producer guilty of using a firearm to commit a crime. Due to the seriousness of the charges, the judge ordered Spector taken into custody immediately.

Spector became famous back in the 1960s when he created a dense layered instrumental sound on recordings called the “wall of sound.” Spector produced such rock hits as “Be My Baby” by the Ronettes, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” by the Righteous Brothers, and “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “He’s A Rebel” by The Crystals. The 69-year-old music whiz has won two Grammys and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Spector is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26, 2009. He’s could get 18 years-to-life.