Free Republic

PALMDALE - City officials say the poor economy might, ironically, help attendance at this year's Starlight Concert Series, even as they charge an admission fee for the first time in the event's history. The $5 gate fee, instituted beginning tonight for "American Idol" finalist Bucky Covington at 8 p.m., is expected to help mitigate the cost of the series. "It's cheaper than going to a movie and it's great entertainment," Mlynar said. Tickets for Covington's show went on sale July 6 and will be available again beginning at 2 p.m. today at the Palmdale Amphitheater at Marie Kerr Park, 2723...

always for Tammy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Bucky Covington, the latest contestant voted off "America Idol," says the comments of judge Simon Cowell are no longer helpful. "It seems like he used to give advice, but now he doesn't give advice as he does try to put you down," said Covington, 28, a country singer from Rockingham. On Tuesday, Covington sang a version of rock band Queen's "Fat Bottomed Girls." Cowell called his performance "mediocre." The following night, Covington was booted off the Fox network show. Covington said Cowell will never like singers like himself or contestant Taylor Hicks. "For him to like someone...