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In the news
By Times staff writer Mason says he didn't ask for Palestinian comic to be cutJewish comic Jackie Mason denied Wednesday that he ordered a comedian scheduled to open for him off the schedule because he was of Palestinian descent -- contradicting an earlier account by his manager and wife. Zanie's said Wednesday that it canceled an appearance by fledgling comic Ray Hanania after receiving several calls of protest -- some of a threatening nature -- about a Jew and Arab-American sharing the stage. The Chicago club said on Tuesday that Mason was uncomfortable having Hanania perform before him because he was an unknown. Hanania was supposed to open for Mason on Tuesday night, but said the club phoned him a few hours before to tell him his act was canceled. Hanania said it was his impression he was not allowed to open for Mason because he is Arab-American. "It makes no difference to me if he was a Jew or a Palestinian," Mason said at a news conference Wednesday. "They don't involve me in these types of decisions." That contradicted what his manager and wife, Jyll Rosenfeld, said on Tuesday. "Jackie does not feel comfortable having a Palestinian open for him. Right now it's a very sensitive thing, it's just not a good idea," Rosenfeld said. Mason is an ardent supporter of Israel and has received at least one award from the Israeli government. Miss Wisconsin wins Miss Teen USAMiss Wisconsin, Vanessa Semrow, was crowned Miss Teen USA 2002 on Wednesday night. 'N Sync's Chris Kirkpatrick and singer Willa Ford co-hosted the pageant, held in South Padre Island, Texas. Contestants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia participated in three categories, including swimsuit, evening gown and interview. On 'American Idol' ...Viewers voted Nikki McKibbin, 23, of Grand Prairie, Texas, out of American Idol on Wednesday night, leaving Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini as the final two competing in Tuesday's performance finale. The winner, based on voting by viewers, will be announced Wednesday. The top two finishers get record contracts.
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From the wire |
