Friday, March 27, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
THE MOST PICTURES EVER ON THE INSITE OF THA BOSS OF ALL BOSSES!
THE PARTY KING COVERS SLIM THUG!
By: Kalele 'Party King' Thumbutu - It seemed as if all of Houston came out to support Slim Thug tha Boss at his album release party. It was held Tuesday night at club Level (412 Main) in the heart of downtown. Promoter Russ Corely packed Club Level wall to wall with celebrities, rappers and fans alike. They were all there to give their congratulations and well wishes to Slim Thug on his latest endeavor and album. It's called Boss of all Bosses. Some faces in the crowd included a host of Who's who in Houston Hip Hop which included: Chamillionaire, Lil Keke , lil O , Big E, Internatioal Red,Devin the Dude, Mistah Fab, Killa Kyleon, Boss Hogg Outlawz, Trae, Zero, Jas Prince, J Prince Jr, and Young B to name a few! The party went on until the wee hours of the morning and during the last hour a legendary freestyle session commenced. Nearly every rapper in the building took the microphone and created and improvised lyrics on the spot. The energy level the whole night was incredible and the Party King has not been to seen or even heard of an album release party that was on this level. This event was truly fit for the Slim Thug the Boss of all Bosses! The Party King is looking forward to Tuesday night where UGK's album release party will be held at the Bam Bou in Rice Village Yeeeeeeee!!!!
BREAKING NEWS: KTRK REPORTS THE MURDER THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN!
WE MEANT MERGER AND NOT MURDER!As many of you know the race in the news business is to get the information on first before the competition. Sometimes when workers behind the scenes rush to get it on there are some errors. It happens in all the newsrooms. That mistake was quite evident for KTRK Thursday. The station wanted to be first in getting word out to their text message subscribers that Rice was close to a merger with BCM. Instead, the author sent a completely different breaking news text. That person wrote there was a murder between the two schools instead of a possible merger. About 5 minutes later another text was issued apologizing for the error. It was a simple mistake but quite funny!
The messages from KTRK TV 13:
#1
Breaking News from KTRK BCM, Rice take first step towards possible murder
#2
Breaking News from KTRK We regret a mistake in our previous text mentioning a possible 'murder' between BCM and Rice. We meant 'merger.'
PRESIDENT OBAMA USING HIS GRASSROOTS BASE TO SWAY CONGRESS!
SHOULD HE COUNTER THE TEA PARTIES WITH HIS BASE AROUND THE COUNTRY?Here's the latest mailer from the Obama campaign. They're sending out this email to the supporters who helped him win the Presidency to help him get his budget passed. Do you think the President should use his base to also counter the Tea Parties around the country scheduled for April 15th? The Insite would like to hear your opinion!
Supporter --
Members of Congress will begin debating President Obama's budget this week, with a vote likely set for next week. What you do now will decide what kind of debate they have -- one that's dominated by special interests and partisan voices intent on keeping the status quo, or one that reflects the priorities of citizens like you. According to our records, you live in zip code 77381, Texas's 8th congressional district. Can you pick up the phone and let Rep. Kevin Brady, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, and Sen. John Cornyn know where you stand on President Obama's budget? Rep. Kevin Brady (R-TX-08) CALL: 202-225-4901 Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) CALL: 202-224-5922 Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) CALL: 202-224-2934 Click here when you're done calling. Last week, thousands canvassed their communities to talk with neighbors about the need for a new direction. Now, it's time to take that message to Washington. We can't afford to ignore the long-term threats to our prosperity. Now is the time to build the foundation for a recovery that lasts. Your representatives need to know you support:
- Renewable energy to reduce our dependence on foreign sources of oil
- Making health care more affordable for every American by cutting costs
- Improving education so our children are prepared for the jobs of the 21st Century
DO YOU KNOW WHO THIS MAN IS?
Food Store at 9803 Kirkwood
Stop-N-Carry at 6300 Dumfries
The suspect is described only as a Hispanic male in his mid 20s, 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds. He has a stocky build and short hair. In all five robberies he was seen wearing shorts and a black jacket with a hood. Surveillance photos of the suspect are attached to this news release.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
REDUCING THAT LOUD NOISE OUT IN THE COUNTY!
THE ATTEMPT TO LEGISLATE QUIET!
State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) filed House Bill 1115, which would create a noise ordinance for unincorporated areas of Harris County. Yesterday House Bill 1115 was considered by Chairman Garnet Coleman and the House Committee on County Affairs. House Bill 1115 has broad, bipartisan support with nine Harris County authors and the support of the Harris County Commissioners Court and Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia.
"Residents of unincorporated Harris County have been dealing with noise nuisances for far too long," said Rep. Walle. "I am proud to have the support of the Harris County Commissioners Court, Commissioner Sylvia Garcia and Sheriff Adrian Garcia on this important measure that will greatly improve my constituents' quality of life."
House Bill 1115 would prohibit the production of sound from an automobile, loud speaker or sound amplifier that exceeds 85 decibels at a distance of 50 feet in unincorporated areas of Harris County. This legislation would grant the Harris County Commissioners Court the ability to provide permits for special events to exceed the sound level. An offense would result in a criminal penalty. Under current law, unincorporated areas of Harris County have no noise ordinance.
"I will continue to work hard to push House Bill 1115 through the legislative process," said Rep. Walle. "I am committed to fighting for my constituents' needs, especially on an issue so important to our community."
Harris County Representatives Debbie Riddle, Joe Crabb, Senfronia Thompson, Ana Hernandez, Hubert Vo, Allen Fletcher, Patricia Harless and Dwayne Bohac have signed on to support House Bill 1115. Other supporters include the Harris County Commissioners Court, Sheriff Adrian Garcia, the City of Houston, the Greenspoint Management District, the East Aldine Management District, the Bellmar Civic Club and the Northline Terrace Civic Club.
SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF IN HOUSTON!
WAY TO GO JACK YATES HIGH BASKETBALL TEAM!While the rest of HISD was on Spring Break, the Jack Yates High School basketball team was busy winning its first ever State Basketball Championship. The Yates Lions are now the University Interscholastic League (UIL) 4A champions and on Friday, March 27, the Yates community will celebrate the momentous victory at 2:00 p.m. at a rally in the Jack Yates High School Auditorium (3703 Sampson, 77004)
Those expected to join the celebration include Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, HISD Superintendent Abe Saavedra, HISD Board Member Paula Harris and HISD Central Region Superintendent Adriana Tamez.
Dr. Saavedra said, “These fine young men truly have the hearts of lions. They have demonstrated that determination is the key to achieving goals whether it’s on a basketball court or in the classroom. I am proud of the students and their coaches, but also of the entire school and the dedicated Yates community for their loyal support of this team and the teams of the past that paved the way to this championship.”
“It is great to see the Jack Yates Lions roar being heard across the country again, said District IV Trustee Paula Harris. “There is so much work being done in athletics, academics, discipline and building repair at Yates it is exciting to see returns on our investments so soon. Congratulations to the talented team, the dedicated staff and the entire community as we celebrate our success and commit to our future for Yates!”
Harris’ comments were echoed by Central Region Superintendent, Adriana Tamez who said, “This championship represents so much more than the victory of a single title game. It represents a journey of dedication, discipline, teamwork, pride and passion by a phenomenal group of young men and their coaches. It celebrates the great things happening at Jack Yates High School, the pride of the Third Ward.” Both Harris and Tamez offered congratulations and praise to Lions Coach, Greg Wise, and Yates Principal, Ron “Coach” Mumphery who have demonstrated tremendous leadership to encourage the Lions on their journey to the championship.
The celebration continues on Tuesday, March 31, as the championship team is honored by Houston City Council at 1:30 p.m.
The victory was 83 years in the making. Jack Yates first opened as the second black high school in the city of Houston on February 8, 1926 with 17 teachers and 600 students. Now the school, named after the highly respected Reverend Jack Yates, has more than 80 staff members, more than 1300 students and a state basketball championship. There’s an old saying that March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. This year March is also going out like a lion. A Yates Lion!
SOURCE: THE ROYKO AND WHY SOCIALISM WON'T WORK IN AMERICA!
WHAT IS SOCIALISM DEFINED BELOW!Royko
The article: When I was teaching economics I would simply draw a wagon on the chalk board with people riding in the wagon and people pulling the wagon and I would ask the students what happens when there is more riding than pulling? The answer is obvious, the wagon stops. It is the same with an economic system. Someone has to pull the wagon.
All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A. After the first test the grades were averaged and everyone got a B. The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy. But, as the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too; so they studied little.. The second test average was a D! No one was happy. When the 3rd test rolled around the average was an F.
The scores never increased as bickering, blame, name calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else. All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great; but when government takes all the reward away; no one will try or want to succeed.
Could not be any simpler than that....
Definition of Socialism:Socialismmeans of production and distribution of goods, and a society characterized by equality for all individuals, with a fair or egalitarian method of compensation.[1][2] Modern socialism originated in the late 19th-century intellectual and working class political movement that criticized the effects of industrialization and private ownership on society. Karl Marx posited that socialism would be achieved via class struggle and a proletarian revolution, and would represent a transitional stage between the capitalist and communist modes of production. refers to a broad set of economic theories of social organization advocating public or state ownership and administration of the
COULD PETER BROWN'S MOMENTUM CUT INTO GENE LOCKE'S BASE?
THE BATTLE FOR THE AFRICAN AMERICAN VOTE IN HOUSTON AND HOW BROWN MAY GET A SIGNIFICANT SHARE!
The Insite is warning readers out there not to sleep on Houston City Councilman Peter Brown. The architect has been very busy on the campaign trail with fundraiser from the Third Ward to River Oaks. Brown, who is running for Mayor of Houston, is everywhere and possibly gaining support from a very diverse group of voters in the city. His latest effort is meeting with a group of young African American professionals Tuesday evening. Brown has even been seen chatting it up with prominent rappers who have publicly endorsed him. The Insite hears Brown has a war chest larger than any of the political big wigs running for the Mayor's post. I've even heard the specific amount at his disposal in that war chest but I don't want to be a complete snitch. Anyway, here's the latest pics of Brown meeting with those potential young African American supporters at Momentum Political Action Committee this week. Do you think Brown can put a dent in Gene Locke's (Mayoral Candidate) base with his efforts? The Insite would like to hear your opinion on this issue!
IS CONSERVATISM LIKE BEING IN THE THIRD GRADE?
ARE THEY LIKE ANGRY CHILDREN CALLING THEIR ENEMIES NAMES ON A PLAYGROUND?
Some friends and I had a discussion about politics over the weekend. One brought up a very interesting point. One of my associates said while Democrats and Liberals control Congress and now occupy the White House, Republicans and Conservatives seem to be winning the political battle. Someone else in the group disagreed saying Conservatives are not actually winning the battle, they're just more vocal (AM Radio) and childish.
I wondered exactly what he meant by childish. He explained in the simplest form possible to the group. That friend said, "who comes up with the name calling, the clever phrases, and the silly events like a Tea Party?" He said the Conservatives. He likened them to children in a classroom or on a playground. He said when they don't get their way or win an argument (political debates) they then call people names.
That friend pointed out how Obama is called a Marxist, a Socialist, and the Messiah by members of the Republican party. He also talked about the smart idea of a Tea Party and how they come up with what he calls clever but childish phrases like Nobama. That unnamed friend says then they all get on one page with their talking points and repeat the same phrase over and over again until people think it's true.
I only thought about this conversation after posting the Tammy Bruce controversial comment below. She called Michelle Obama trash. I also saw a recent interview where Senator John McCain's daughter, who's Republican, was called fat (childish to the Insite) by another Conservative radio talk show host because she doesn't agree with all of her political views.
I personally have to wonder if all of these personal attacks are warranted and is it childish or the game of politics? The Insite would love to hear your opinion of this issue!
RADIO SHOW FILL IN TAMMY BRUCE CALLS THE FIRST LADY TRASH!
DID SHE GO TOO FAR ON NATIONAL RADIO?Tammy Bruce, guest host for Laura Ingram's radio show, had some harsh words for First Lady Michelle Obama.
Discussing the first lady's visit to a Washington D.C. classroom last week, Bruce incredulously recalled Obama's story about wanting to get A's in school and called out her use of a "weird, fake accent."
"That's what he's married to," Bruce said. "...You know what we've got? We've got trash in the White House. Trash is a thing that is colorblind, it can cross all eco-socionomic...categories. You can work on Wall Street, or you can work at the Wal-Mart. Trash, are people who use other people to get things, who patronize others, who consider you bitter and clingy..."
Note: I'm sorry Insite readers but the Insite had no clue who this woman was until she made her comment. I was able to get this information for all of you who may be in the same predicament. Just who is Tammy Bruce:
Tammy Bruce is an openly gay, pro-choice, gun owning, pro-death penalty, voted-for-President Bush authentic feminist. A lifelong Democrat, in the 1990s she worked to help elect Senators Feinstein and Boxer, and aided the Clinton for President campaign. Before we knew he was a sexual compulsive and "did not have sexual relations with that woman."
She was drawn into feminist activism in the late 1980's to contribute to the ongoing effort to ensure safe and legal abortion for all women, and with a special focus on violence against women and ending international subjugation of women. Just two years after joining the National Organization for Women, with a brand of feminism that places her somewhere between Donna Reed and Thelma and Louise, Ms. Bruce was elected president of the Los Angeles chapter of NOW at the age of 27.
The youngest ever to achieve that position, she doubled the chapter's membership from 2,000 to 4,000 within a year with issue campaigns that introduced a fresh view of feminist activism. In her seven years as president (1990-1996, the longest continuous tenure in the chapter's 30 year history) she mobilized activists locally and nationally on a whole range of issues, including women's image in media, child care, health care, violence against women, economics, and domestic violence. Ms. Bruce also served two years as a member of the National NOW Board of Directors. Her political organizing in the intervening years included working with the Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) senatorial campaigns.
An important contributor to the author's position on the relevance of free speech comes from her experience as a radio talk show host. Flagshipped at KABC Radio and nationally syndicated with 153 affiliates, The "Tammy Bruce Show" premiered in 1993 in Los Angeles. Additionally, her editorials and commentaries on significant social issues have been published nationally and internationally in a wide variety of magazines, newspapers, and on television and radio programming. Ms. Bruce is also a Fox News Channel Political Analyst, and served on California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Transition Team.
TOM JOYNER GIVEN THE BOOT IN CHICAGO FOR STEVE HARVEY!
WHO DO YOU LIKE THE BEST ON RADIO?
Clear Channel Chicago is bouncing Tom Joyner's syndicated morning show after 13 years on WVAZ-FM 102.7, moving "The Steve Harvey Morning Show" from WGCI-FM 107.5 to replace it beginning Tuesday.
Harvey will simulcast on both stations until March 31. Clear Channel did not say Monday what its plans are after that for WGCI-FM. Any change occurring on April 1 risks being interpreted as an April Fool's Day prank.
"Tom Joyner has been a great partner with V103 for the past 13 years, making it difficult to part ways," WVAZ-FM program director Derrick Brown said. "We appreciate all Tom's hard work and wish him continued success."
WGCI-FM has aired this incarnation of Harvey's syndicated show since 2007. But he has deep roots in the Chicago market, beginning his radio career in 1996 at WGCI-FM as a replacement for Joyner, whose decades-long connection began when legendary local radio executive Marv Dyson hired him at Johnson Publishing's WJPC.
MEET RANDOLPH STURRUP IN THE BAYOU CITY THIS WEEKEND: THE HOUSTONIAN WHO CREATED HIT B-E-T SHOW!
HE'S THE FEATURED GUEST AT HOUSTON AREA URBAN YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MIXER!Harlem Heights, television’s newest edition to the docu-drama circuit is taking off with great acclaim, and popularity. This exciting show features eight upwardly mobile 20-somethings and is the brain child of Houston’s own, Randolph Sturrup.
Sturrup, before making his mark in entertainment, appeared to be on a path towards medicine – the family business. Everything changed when the Debakey High School graduate had the opportunity to pursue entertainment in New York. His career has been moving at lightning speed ever since – credited with top programming for HBO, MTV, VH1, Nickelodeon, and now BET.
Meet Randolf Sturrup this weekend at the Houston Area Urban Young Professionals' Lounging with the League Mixer (http://www.haul.org/yp/), and Trend Fridays @ BOND (http://click.713vip-email.
Each person joins the series at a defining moment in his or her life. From the beautiful, bewitching ex-girlfriend of an international music superstar who is trying to carve out her own identity; to a budding magazine lifestyle editor who seeks to make it on his own; the struggling actress trying to balance her social life with her career ambitions; a young man with a troubled family past attempts to find success and give back to his community while overcoming his fear of failure; to a native Harlem-ite who HAS turned his life around to make a way for his young daughter; to the hard partying son of a prominent Harlem political leader who struggles to live up to his father’s clean cut reputation and explores a future in politics; an aspiring lawyer with big ambitions and even bigger opinions to the driven fashionista seeking to maintain her A-list aspirations.
Every cast member moved to the big city with dreams of living the good life. But in New York, dreams can easily turn into nightmares if you lose your focus and your way.
HARLEM HEIGHTS is a production of MC Filmworks, Minna Mae Productions, KurtWurks Inc. and BET. Randolph Sturrup and Kurt Williamson are series creators and executive producers, Michael McNamara and Sheri Maroufkani executive producer for MCFilmworks, and Connie Orlando serves as the executive in charge of production for BET.
For more on HARLEM HEIGHTS please visit www.bet.com/harlemheightsTuesday, March 24, 2009
ARE YOU PLANNING ONE OF THOSE PROTEST EVENTS!
HAS THE REVOLT AGAINST OBAMA BEGUN?By Frances Rice
National Black Republican Association
Like the wily Wizard of Oz, President Barack Obama hides his socialist agenda behind a rhetorical curtain, telling Americans one thing, while doing another. The silver-tongued Obama promised transparency and prosperity. But once in office, Obama appointed tax cheats and lobbyists to his cabinet, while using fear mongering as a cover for his massive social spending and wealth-destroying taxes that will collapse our economy and push our nation over the failed Socialist Clift.
It took less than two months for Obama's deceit and toxic socialist shock wave to hit Americans squarely in the face. Mad as hell describes the anger fueling protests around this country.
Join your fellow Americans and express your outrage on National Tea Party Day, April 15, 2009, the day taxes are due. The momentum is growing! Take the initiative if no one else is arranging your "Taxed Enough Already" (TEA) protest.
Register your rally at: http://www.teapartyday.com/DISTUBRING BEHAVIOR ALLEGEDLY BY A HOUSTON POLICE OFFICER!
MALE POLICE OFFICER ALLEGEDLY SEXUALLY ASSAULTS MALE VICTIM!The Insite has learned a veteran Houston police officer is at the center of an alleged sexual assault investigation. We've learned the male police officer is accused of sexually assaulting another male in southwest Houston. We hear that male victim may have been a transvestite or transsexual. Sources also tell The Insite the officers gun may have been involved in the incident that has left the 20+ year veteran of the force relieved of duty pending the outcome of a criminal and internal investigation. The attack or encounter allegedly took place behind an apartment complex at 10555 Fondren. The officers vehicle was reportedly seized along with some bed sheets that may have been found in the city vehicle. We're told the victim has already submitted to a rape kit and it has been turned over to a lab. (Don't know how that works with a male...also here a condom was allegedly used) I'm not releasing the officers name because he has not been charged criminally...I called HPD late Tuesday afternoon and a spokesperson would only confirm the officers name and that he is the target of an internal investigation. The department wouldn't go any further!
WHAT THE FEDS HAVE PLANNED FOR THE VIOLENCE IN MEXICO!
WILL IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE:
Today Deputy Attorney General David Ogden announced increased efforts and reallocation of DOJ personnel to combat Mexican drug cartels in the United States and to help Mexican law enforcement battle cartels in their own country. Deputy Attorney General Ogden was joined in announcing a comprehensive response to the situation on the Southwest border by Department of Homeland Secretary Janet Napolitano and Deputy Secretary of State Jim Steinberg.
"For more than a quarter century, U.S. law enforcement agencies have recognized that the best way to fight the most sophisticated and powerful criminal organizations is through intelligence-based investigations to target the greatest threats," said Deputy Attorney General David Ogden. "The Department’s Mexican Cartel Strategy confronts those cartels as criminal organizations. As we’ve found with other large criminal groups, if you take their money and lock up their leaders, you can loosen their grips on the vast organizations they use to carry out their criminal enterprises. The Department of Justice is committed to taking advantage of all available resources to target the Mexican cartels and to help our Mexican counterparts in their courageous effort to take on these criminal organizations."
Today the United States announced it will be investing $700 million this year in enhancing Mexican law enforcement and judicial capacity and working closely to coordinate efforts against the cartels. The Department of Justice, through the FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), the Criminal Division and the Office of Justice Programs, will work to investigate and prosecute cartel members for their illegal activities in the United State and with law enforcement colleagues to disrupt illegal flows of weapons and bulk cash to Mexico.
The Mexican Cartel Strategy, led by the Deputy Attorney General, uses federal prosecutor-led task forces that bring together all law enforcement components to identify, disrupt and dismantle the Mexican drug cartels through investigation, prosecution and extradition of their key leaders and facilitators, and seizure and forfeiture of their assets. The Department is increasing its focus on investigations and prosecutions of the southbound smuggling of guns and cash that fuel the violence and corruption and attacking the cartels in Mexico itself, in partnership with the Mexican Attorney General’s Office (PGR) and the Secretariat of Public Security (SSP).
DEA, already the largest U.S. drug enforcement presence in Mexico with 11 offices in that country, is placing 16 new positions in its Southwest border field divisions. With this increase, 29 percent of DEA’s domestic agent positions (1,180 agents) are now allocated to its Southwest border field divisions. DEA is also forming four additional Mobile Enforcement Teams (METs) to specifically target Mexican methamphetamine trafficking operations and associated violence, both along the border and in U.S. cities impacted by the cartels.
ATF is increasing its efforts by relocating 100 personnel to the Houston Field Division in the next 45 days as part of a new ATF intelligence-driven effort, known as Gunrunner Impact Teams (GRITs). The teams will focus ATF’s violent crime-fighting and firearms trafficking expertise, along with its regulatory authority and strategic partnerships to combat violence along the U.S.-Mexico border.
As part of the Recovery Act funding, ATF received $10 million for Project Gunrunner efforts, aimed at disrupting arms trafficking between the U.S. and Mexico, to include hiring 25 new special agents, six industry operations investigators, three intelligence research specialists and three investigative analysts. The funding will establish three permanent field offices, dedicated to firearms trafficking investigations, in McAllen, Texas; El Centro, Calif.; and Las Cruces, N.M (including a satellite office in Roswell, N.M.). Project Gunrunner has resulted in ATF referring more than 1,500 defendants for prosecution involving more than 12,000 weapons.
ATF will also continue its eTrace initiative with Mexican officials, which allows law enforcement agencies to identify trafficking trends of drug trafficking organizations and other criminal organizations funneling guns into Mexico from the United States, as well as to develop investigative leads in order to stop firearms traffickers and straw purchasers (people who knowingly purchase guns for prohibited persons) before they cross the border. In FY08, Mexico submitted more than 7,500 recovered guns for tracing, showing that most originated in Texas, Arizona and California.
The FBI is stepping up its efforts along the Southwest border by creating a Southwest Intelligence Group (SWIG), which will serve as a clearinghouse of all FBI activities involving Mexico. The FBI will also increase its focus on public corruption, kidnappings and extortion relating to Southwest border issues.
Already, the FBI has undertaken successful initiatives in Mexico and Central America, including the Central American Fingerprint Exchange (CAFÉ) initiative. The FBI will continue this initiative, which was developed to collect, store, and integrate biometric data from El Salvador, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and the Mexican state of Chiapas into a central database accessible to U.S. law enforcement, as well as the Transnational Anti-Gang initiative, which coordinates the sharing of gang intelligence between the U.S. and El Salvador.
USMS has stepped-up its efforts along the Southwest border, deploying 94 additional Deputy U.S. Marshals during the last eight months and sending four additional deputies to Mexico City to assist the Marshals Service Mexico City Foreign Field Office.
USMS is increasing its efforts in the Southwest border region under the Mexico Investigative Liaison Program, a cross-border violent fugitive apprehension initiative where USMS personnel, through daily contact with Mexican law enforcement, provide a rapid international response to law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border in the apprehension of fugitives who commit crimes and flee across the international border.
Twenty-five new Criminal Investigators-Asset Forfeiture Specialists have been placed in USMS asset forfeiture units in the field. The new positions are unique in that they will be solely dedicated to the USMS Asset Forfeiture Division and will support U.S. Attorneys Offices and investigative agencies in investigations of cartels and other large-scale investigations.
In addition, DOJ’s Organized Drug Enforcement Task Forces Program (OCDETF) is adding analyst personnel to its strike force capacity along the Southwest border and the Office of Justice Programs will be investing $30 million in stimulus funding to assist with state and local law enforcement to combat narcotics activity coming through the southern border and in high intensity drug trafficking areas. State and local law enforcement organizations along the border can apply for COPS and Byrne Justice Assistance grants from the $3 billion provided for those programs in the stimulus package.
MAKE SURE YOUR CAR ISN'T CLONED!
A WARNING FROM THE FBI!It’s a serious crime problem that’s being aggressively investigated by law enforcement. For example: today in Tampa, we joined with our partners in announcing that 17 major players in a long-running car cloning criminal enterprise have been indicted by a federal grand jury.
The good news is that in the not-too-distance future, a new national database may help make car cloning a thing of the past.
How does car cloning work? Like the Tampa case, it begins with a stolen vehicle—usually a luxury car or fully-loaded SUV.
Then, the vehicle is “cloned”—its manufacturer-installed Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate is pried off and replaced with another one. This second VIN plate actually holds a legitimate number that came from a vehicle of a similar make and model in a different state. Other phony ownership documents complete the cloning. At that point it can be easily registered with a motor vehicle agency in another state.
Once the stolen vehicle is registered anew, it can be sold. In the Tampa case, more than 1,000 cloned cars were sold to witting and unwitting buyers in 20 states and several countries, with estimated losses of more than $25 million to consumers, auto insurers, and other victims.
So how big is the possible impact of cloning on consumers? Huge. If you buy a cloned vehicle and its true pedigree is discovered, the car will be confiscated, and you’ll still be responsible for any outstanding loans. If your vehicle is the victim of car cloning, you could be accused of a variety of offenses—from parking tickets or cutting somebody off in traffic...to serious criminal activity like organized crime. And you could spend a great deal of time and money trying to prove that it wasn’t you or your car after all.
Enter NMVTIS, or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System. This Department of Justice database, operated by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, is an electronic system that links state motor vehicle departments together…and once fully operational should go a long way towards shutting down car cloning activities. If a car is titled in one state, a criminal should not be able to steal its VIN and use it on another vehicle in another state—the database will spit out a hit showing that the number is already in use.
So far, 37 states participate or are in the process of participating in the system. A federal law mandated the creation of the database and the participation of all 50 states by next year.
Tips on how to steer clear of car cloning:
- If you think your car was cloned (for instance, you receive notice of unpaid parking tickets that aren't yours), contact your local police.
- If you’re car shopping, beware of a car being sold for substantially less than comparable makes and models.
- Get a copy of the car’s vehicle history report.
- Check out the VIN plate on the dashboard for any evidence of tampering (scratches, etc.).
- Look for incorrect spellings on paperwork, like vehicle titles.
- Trust your intuition—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
CONROE POLICE OFFICER ACCUSED OF BEING BANK ROBBER!
ARE YOU SHOCKED AT THIS?Conroe residents are speechless after learning one of their police officers is charged with robbing a bank.
On Tuesday, F.B.I. agents arrested Conroe Police Sgt. Mike Tindall. Tindall is accused of robbing the First Bank of Conroe of more than $28,000 back in August. Tellers did not see a weapon.
"It's not just the betrayl of the trust of the public, it's the betrayl of the trust of hard working, honest law enforcement officers across the country," said Conroe Police Chief Charlie Ray.
Conroe Police cooperated with the F.B.I. during a seven month investigation that involved surveillance video, interviews with bank employees and grand jury subpoenas for Tindall's bank account records and a rental car company.
The robber captured on surveillance video is wearing gloves, a motorcycle helmet and sunglasses. A bank employee told investigators he recognized the person beneath the disguise as Tindall.
Tindall worked a second job as a security officer at the bank, and public records show he was also a frequent customer. The employee reported the robber's voice sounded like that of Sgt. Tindall.
According to court documents the robber yelled at the tellers to put the cash from the bottom drawers into his bag.
Court documents also reveal Tindall's police radio was turned on during the time frame of the robbery, even though Tindall was off duty.
Witnesses saw the robber leave in a late model, silver Chevrolet Malibu, which investigators later determined was a rental car. Tindall's bank records show he deposited a large amount of cash into another bank about an hour after the robbery.
THE EDUCATORS ARE RALLYING IN AUSTIN!
THEY WANT MORE PUMPED INTO EDUCATION!Teachers head to Capitol to rally support for public education
1,200 school employees expected for Texas AFT Lobby Day
Note: Alief- American Federation of Teachers and School Employees, Local 6346 will be leaving for Austin to caravan by bus at 8:00am from 11222 Richmond Ave, suite 105.
What: Texas AFT Lobby Day 2009 to lobby on issues such as accountability/testing reform, investment in schools and teachers, and safe schools.
When: Monday, March 16th. Rally at 1 p.m. (Meetings with legislators scheduled throughout the day.)
Where: Meetings and Briefings at First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 13th and Lavaca, Austin, TX 78701
Rally on South Steps of the Capitol, 1 p.m.
THE VIOLENCE FROM MEXICO IS SPILLING INTO AMERICA!
THE LATEST FROM THE DEA!VICTOR ABILES GOMEZ, 20, OMAR MENDOZA-VILLEGAS, 19, and GERARDO SOLORIO REYES, a/k/a “Gera,” 23, all illegal immigrants from Mexico, pleaded guilty late yesterday to federal hostage-taking and related charges, arising from the week-long kidnapping and torture of a drug dealer.
Rodney G. Benson, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the DEA Atlanta Field Division (AFD) said of the guilty pleas, “DEA and its law enforcement counterparts are committed to protecting our citizens from the scourge of drug abuse. The swift actions taken by law enforcement personnel that day clearly saved this man's life. These guilty pleas should serve as a reminder that drug trafficking and the associated violence that it spawns will not be tolerated.”
United States Attorney David E. Nahmias said of the case, “The methods employed by Mexican drug dealers to collect money are becoming increasingly violent, threatening not only the well-being of those directly involved but also innocent bystanders living in neighborhoods being infiltrated by participants in the drug trade. This case should send a clear signal that drug-related violence will not be tolerated in our community. And the captive drug dealer’s guilty plea also demonstrates that we will not tolerate the drug trafficking that leads to this violence.”
According to U. S. Attorney Nahmias and the information presented in court: On the afternoon of July 11, 2008, acting on information about a possible hostage taking, federal and local authorities established surveillance of a house located at 755 East Fork Shady Drive, Lilburn, Georgia. Three individuals inside the house apparently saw the police presence and began to flee. DEA Strike Force and FBI SWAT agents, working in conjunction with Gwinnett County authorities, quickly and successfully extricated the victim, later identified as OSCAR REYNOSO, 31, who is originally from the Dominican Republic but more recently from Rhode Island. At the time of his rescue, REYNOSO was bound and gagged and appeared to be severely de-hydrated and badly beaten. Agents found him chained to a mattress in the unfinished basement of the home, which is described as a middle-class neighborhood residence in Gwinnett County. Also found in the basement were flex cuffs and firearms, including an assault rifle. When authorities found REYNOSO inside the basement, he appeared to be hyperventilating. Agents immediately removed his gag and provided him with fluids and medical attention.
Talking to REYNOSO, as well as one of his captors, agents learned that REYNOSO had been lured to Atlanta from Rhode Island, purportedly to complete a vehicle purchase transaction with an individual identified as “Tio.” REYNOSO had met Tio at a nearby fast food restaurant, from where the two then rode to the 755 East Shady Fork Drive residence. Upon entering the garage, REYNOSO was ambushed and assaulted by eight men carrying firearms. After being beaten, he was imprisoned in the basement where the agents ultimately found him. While holding REYNOSO, his captors, including Tio, contacted REYNOSO’s friends and relatives in Rhode Island in an effort to collect the drug debt of $300,000. REYNOSO was constantly threatened and beaten during the ordeal.
REYNOSO pleaded guilty on March 10, 2009, to conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute at least 5 kilograms of cocaine. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
The kidnappers appeared in federal court late yesterday, where they pleaded guilty to federal hostage-taking, drug trafficking, and firearm charges before United States District Court Judge Jack T. Camp. They face a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. Sentencings for the kidnappers will be held on July 7, 2009, at 10 a.m. before Judge Camp.
The DEA says the investigation of this incident is continuing, and is still looking for REYNOSO’s other captors. Anyone with information is asked to call the DEA-Atlanta Field Division at 404-893-7100.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the DEA-Atlanta, with assistance from the FBI’s SWAT Team, the Gwinnett County Police Department, and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Scott Hulsey and Cassandra Schansman are prosecuting the case.
Monday, March 23, 2009
THE MINISTERS WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO FREDDIE LEE BELL!
THE FAMILY OF THE DEAD INMATE WANTS ANSWERS!
The Houston Ministers Against Crime (HMAC) will hold a Press Conference at the Marcie L. Keys Activity Center, located at 8302 Colonial Lane, 77051 (Greater Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church), in Sunnyside, on Tuesday, 3/23/09, at 2 p.m. to address the family’s concerns of the autopsy photos received of their family member: Inmate Freddie Lee Bell. Bell was taken into custody on February 5, 2009, sentenced on March 10, and died on March 14 – and no one has an explanation as to why this could or would happen.
The Houston Ministers Against Crime was created in 1979 and represents more than 300 Pastors, Lay Ministers, and Chaplains; with a progressive interests in Criminal Justice, their Vision is to remain as an innovative statewide collaborative campaign to include Texas’ incarceration policies and drug policies from several perspectives, and promote the creation of systems of public health and social supports that will protect the public’s safety more effectively, especially for individuals effected by such practices.
THE PRINCE COMPLEX CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH MAJOR EVENT!
JAMES AND MARY PRINCE: A DECADE OF COMMUNITY SERVICE AND GIVING BACK!
Houston based record labels unite for Hip Hop Hope Family Fun Day & Prince Complex 10 year celebration of service in the 5th Ward Community.
In an effort to offer hope, exemplify love and to serve people that may be discouraged by our current economic situation, Much Luvv Records and Rap-A-Lot Records would like to invite you to join us for Hip Hop Hope Family Fun Day on April 11th from 12pm-5pm at the Prince Complex 3000 Jensen Dr. in the heart of 5th Ward.
This event will include fun for the whole family with positive hip hop performances, inflatable
moonwalks, face painting, games, a three point & slam dunk basketball competition, celebrity
guests, health screening, free food and much more! "Being in the hip hop culture, you just don't
see enough positive things being done by the artists to give back to the community. With today's
news being so discouraging, we decided it was a perfect time to bring this hip hop hope event to
lift the people's spirit," says Much Luvv Records CEO Bobby "Tre9" Herring.
Partnerships for this event include Much Luvv Records, Rap-A-Lot Records, The Prince
Complex, Street Life Worldwide Outreach, Copperfield Church, URGEWORKS, Southern
Exposure Entertainment, DaSouth.com, HZM Ministries, ARTreach, & Gospel Truth News
Galveston County.
Date: Saturday, April 11th, 2009
Time: 12pm-5pm
Location: Prince Complex 3000 Jenson Dr. Houston, TX 77026
SABRA GILL DIES!
MEMORIAL SERVICES HAVE BEEN SET!Sabra has been active on the Scholarship Committee and was one of the founders of the Public Relations Foundation of Houston to which she dedicated innumerable volunteer hours and once served as its President and and as its Treasurer. She also was one of the founders of Corporate Relations Roundtable, a group of public relations practitioners founded in 1982 that meets monthly.
Memorial services will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the University of Houston's A.D. Bruce Chapel. (Enter Parking lot 13 off Cullen.) Memorial contributions can be made to the Houston Advertising Education Foundation, or the Public Relations Foundation of Houston. Checks to both the HAEF and the PRFH should be made payable to and mailed to: Greater Houston Community Foundation, 4550 Post Oak Place, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77027.
WOMEN TALKING DIRTY TO EACH OTHER!
SHOCKING LANGUAGE FROM THE LADIES OUTSIDE THE HARRIS COUNTY JAIL!
I was standing outside the Harris County Jail when a major argument broke out between two women. In fact, it was so bad a deputy sheriff started running towards the women to break it up when they moved further down San Jacinto with the argument. And boy was it ugly. I think they were at the jail visiting someone. Here's the dirty talk I remembered and understood. First, they were going hot and heavy with each other in Spanish. Then one switched to English and the other followed suit. Virgin eyes please turn away now. 1st woman: "You suck out my p---y, you dirty b--ch." The second woman wasn't going to be outdone. She even threw me for a loop with this one: "Shut up b---h. What you can do for me is suck my d--k." That comment floored me. The first woman then got into her car and left with a third female who didn't say a word. I think they were all together because when I passed by the second female she told someone on her cell she needed a ride. Just a day in the life of a Harris County jail inmate vistor!
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE WEEK: JOSIAH ENGLISH, THE ATTORNEY SLAYER!
INTRODUCING ATTORNEY WATCH OF AMERICA!He's fresh out of college and already making a dent in the legal world. He's Josiah English. The University of Houston graduate says he saw there was a need for people who have been shafted by their attorneys. What Josiah does is help those who have paid their attorneys for services not rendered. English sends demand letters to lawyers who have accepted in some cases thousands of dollars from their clients but fail to do their jobs. If the attorney doesn't respond English says he files complaints against the attorney with the state bar. It's almost like an attorney collection agency. I thought it was an ingenious idea because I can't count the times I've heard from people who have paid local attorneys for representation and the lawyer won't even return their call. I think Josiah has definitely found a niche for himself. He says he just wants to help those who have been taken advantage of. English says many people feel like they're helpless when they go up against their attorney. The Houstonian says they shouldn't feel that way because there are laws designed to assist those who are being ignored. If you'd like read more about English's Attorney Watch of America contact him at: awoa832@gmail.com!
COCAINE BANNED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS!
A DRINK THAT SENT THE WRONG MESSAGE? Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has resolved the state’s enforcement action against the sellers of the energy drink, “Cocaine.” Under the judgment, the product cannot be sold in the state of Texas and all Internet marketing must disclose that the product is not available in Texas. Because Redux Beverages L.L.C. failed to appear in court, the judge entered a judgment and permanent injunction with civil penalties of $825,000.
The court action permanently halts the distribution of the drink in Texas by Redux Beverages L.L.C., a Nevada company, since Texas co-defendants Kimball Distributing, Texas Wholesale Venture #1 and Import Warehouse Inc. had previously agreed to stop distribution.
The product’s packaging depicted lettering with a granular substance font that spelled the name “Cocaine.” Sellers marketed the beverage as a legal alternative to illicit street drugs and as a dietary supplement that could cure diseases. According to the state’s enforcement action, the defendants’ marketing claims amounted to the introduction of a new, though unapproved drug and therefore violated the Texas Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act, as well as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulations.
Investigators also found that the defendant claimed users could get “high” and feel euphoric. In its advertisements, Redux Beverages marketed the Cocaine drink as a “legal alternative” and asked whether consumers could “handle the rush.”
By marketing the product as a dietary supplement with curative qualities, the defendant made unsubstantiated claims that it could help treat depression, lower cholesterol, prevent hardening of arteries and protect nerve fibers from glucose damage. Only manufacturers of FDA-approved drugs may make those claims – but the claims must be supported by legitimate scientific research.
The Texas Department of State Health Services referred this case to the Office of the Attorney General.
GENE LOCKE PREPARES TO MAKE THE OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!
IS THIS YOUR CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON?WHAT: Gene Locke To Announce Candidacy
Gene Locke will make a public declaration of candidacy for the Houston Mayoral race. Locke will also reveal plans for a campaign kickoff event on April 18th to rally volunteers and supporters for his candidacy and make public a video introducing him through his campaign web site at www.genelocke.com.
WHERE: Tranquility Park, 400 Rusk Street, Houston, 77002
http://maps.google.com/maps?
WHEN: 11 to 11:20 a.m. Thursday, March 26, 2009
Gene Locke is a Texas Super Lawyer who graduated valedictorian from his high school in Marshall, Texas. The son of a teacher, he enrolled at the University of Houston shortly after it became integrated. There he became a leader - attuned to social issues and civil rights. He later graduated from South Texas College School of Law attending night school and worked at a refinery to support his family. After graduation he moved to Washington D.C. to serve as Chief of Staff to Representative Mickey Leland. From 1995 to 1998 he served as Houston City Attorney under Mayor Bob Lanier. Locke is a partner at the Andrews Kurth LLP law firm, and remains General Counsel to the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority. He has been instrumental in negotiating contracts that allowed the development of Minute Maid Park, Reliant Stadium and the Toyota Center.
Gene Locke is a devoted husband and father. His wife, Aubrey Sampson Locke; daughters, Tembi and Attica; sons, Nicholas, Douglas and Thomas - are among his biggest supporters.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
JAMES VERRETT MAKES THE PHOTO!
THE ARTICLE IS ABOUT COLLEGE - COLLEGE ATHLETES SPEAKING LIKE THEY DIDN'T FINISH HIGH SCHOOL!Congratulations to Insite good friend and FOX Sports reporter James Verrett. The Atlanta based journalist made the photo in a very interesting article. Check it out:
Sportswriters Debate How to Quote the Undereducated
Mike Freeman, a columnist for CBSSports.com, had a question for fellow sportswriters in the National Association of Black Journalists.
"I'm in Philly at the NCAAs," he wrote, speaking of the National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament. "I was listening to the players from Chattanooga. Here is one quote:
"When we seen that we got UConn, I mean, we was happy to be up there on the board. Coming here, we believed we can be one of the teams in history, to make history and beat UConn. It's all about believing in the system, believing in yourself. When you toss up that ball, anybody can win. Ain't just 'cause they UConn it's a lock. It's a basketball game. Both teams we got to play, they just like us.
"We seen? We was happy?
"A couple of questions:
"1. This quote was distributed verbatim by ASAP Sports," a transcription service. "Should it have been cleaned up by them?
"2. There are too many young brothers speaking this way publicly. What can anyone do about it?
"I hope I don't sound like a prude nor am I saying I'm without faults but I find the way many of these young players are speaking in public to be troubling. They're being ill-served by their coaches and schools.
"Whenever I said 'ain't' growing up, my mom corrected me. Who is correcting the grammar of these young kids?"
Sixty-four postings later, members of the e-mail list of the NABJ Sports Task Force had debated the fairness of the journalistic rules for using direct quotes, who was to blame for the poor grammar of many black college athletes, and where the journalists' responsibilities lie in such situations.
THE FULL ARTICLE:
http://www.mije.org/PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, TAKE THAT EARPIECE OUT BEFORE THE INTERVIEW!
A VERY DISTRACTING DEVICE!
It used to be sunglasses that really bothered me as a reporter. They're really distracting if a person I'm interviewing is wearing them. It typically makes them look shady. But now in the new millennium it's bluetooth earpieces. It is one of the most distracting devices I've seen in years. It also looks super stupid to me. I'm not saying those who wear them look stupid, it's just a very odd device to stick out of your ear during a television interview. Some people don't want to take them out. They think it makes them look cool. That takes me to Saturday night when I was watching the news. I saw two very tragic stories. In them each person being interviewed had lost a family member to violence. And in each report both of the people wore that irritating bluetooth earpiece. It took my attention away from the story. I implore all of you potential interviews out there to please take out the bluetooth and just set them aside until the Insite is finished!
THE PARTY KING BRINGS YOU THE GAME!
BACK STAGE WITH L.A.'S HOTTEST RAPPER!
By: Kalele 'Party King' Thumbutu - The Party King was concert bound Sunday night to see Grammy nominated rapper and actor The Game who performed in front of a packed house at Warehouse Live (813 Saint Emanuel) just outside of downtown Houston. It was standing room only when the West Coast met the
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THE TEXAS CONFERENCE LAY ORGANIZATION CELEBRATES CHRISTIAN NIGHT OUT!
TRAMAINE HAWKINS WOW THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL AUDIENCE IN HOUSTON!
The Insite had the honor of serving as Master of Ceremonies at the Texase Conference of Lay Organizations Saturday night. The event was held at the Power Center on S. Post Oak. Hundreds of people turned out for the religious event billed as Christian Night Out. Members of the AME church celebrated with food, entertainment, and fellowship. And boy was there entertainment. To kick the evening off the entertainment committee booked Christian comedian Sister Peeola Patterson. She was a riot and a lugh a second. Sister Peeola had the crowd in stitches. But the closer was none other than gospel legend and icon Lady Tramaine Hawkins who belted out foot stumping and hand clapping hits to the amazement of the crowd. Some of the people attending were: Carl New Hammer Davis, Donna Arron, Rev. Leo Griffith, Gavin Jones, Rev. Ricky Warren, Lee Jarmon, Linda Nesmith, Doris Norine Jones and the list goes on. Several of the attendees opted to take photos with Mrs. Hawkins and here they are on the Insite!
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