Wyclef arrested

Ten people, including singer Wyclef Jean, were arrested as thousands of teachers and students turned out Tuesday for a rally to hear hip-hop stars and politicians denounce proposed cuts in New York school funding. Jean was arrested for disorderly conduct after he attempted to perform. The event’s permit barred performances.

The rally, which police say attracted some 20,000 school children, was organized by the United Federation of Teachers and the Hip Hop Summit Action Network, a group organized by rap impresario Russell Simmons.

Entertainers including Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu, Jay-Z and Sean “P. Diddy” Combs told the crowd that Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s budget cuts are unfair to students. “You’ve got a mayor who’s a billionaire who wants to take the opportunity away from you to become the same kind of person,” rapper Chuck D told the crowd.

KISS `wraps up’ condom deal

Kiss has inked with specialty retailer Condomania to produce a line of “tongue lubricated” Kiss Kondoms. The packaging of the bright red latex prophylactics features a picture of the group’s Gene Simmons in full make-up with his famous tongue extended. A second product, Studded Paul Kondoms, will be introduced in the fall featuring a picture of vocalist/guitarist Paul Stanley; shortly after, an extra-strength Love Gun Protection Kondom will hit stores adorned with an image of the whole group on its package.

-News gathered by Trevor Fisher from billboard.com