SOME KNEW HER AS MAUDE, OTHERS AS DOROTHY, BUT MOST BY THE NAME BEA!

THE GOLDEN GIRL DIES AT THE AGE OF 86!

Bea Arthur, who died Saturday at 86, was the winner of two Emmy Awards for her starring roles on classic sitcoms "Maude" and "The Golden Girls." Before becoming an unexpected TV star in the 1970s, Bea Arthur enjoyed a long and celebrated career in the theater. She won a Tony Award for featured actress in a musical in 1966 for the role of Vera Charles, bosom buddy to "Mame."  

Married at the time to theater director Gene Saks who helmed this tuner adaptation of the play "Auntie Mame," Arthur made no secret of the fact that she would have loved to play the part of the glamourous title character, a part that went to Angela Lansbury. With her basso voice and deadpan delivery, Arthur was a natural for the man-eating gin-drinking actress Vera.

When the movie version was made in 1973, Lansbury lost her role to Lucille Ball, who then insisted on Arthur as her on-screen chum, over the likes of two-time Oscar winner Bette Davis. For her efforts, Arthur would contend for the supporting Golden Globe, losing to Karen Black ("The Great Gatsby").

Ball's demand was easier to accept as by then Arthur had become a TV star. As a favor to her longtime pal Norman Lear, Arthur has appeared on a 1971 episode of the smash hit "All in the Family" as Edith's liberated cousin Maude who dared to contradict the bigoted Archie Bunker. So successful was this guest shot that CBS asked Lear to create a spin-off for the character.

"Maude" premiered in September 1972 and ran for six seasons. As "that old compromisin', enterprisin', anything but tranquilizing" Maude Findlay, Bea Arthur created a memorable persona that earned her a place in the TV pantheon. She was the first lead character in TV history to have an abortion in a powerful two-part episode that aired in November 1972, months before the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on the issue.

MORE PICTURES FROM LAURA WHITLEY'S GOOD BYE PARTY!

AND THE INSITE FINALLY MAKES IT INTO SOME OF THE PARTY PICTURES!

Here are some more pictures sent to me from Laura Whitley's good bye to the news biz party last weekend.  I'm actually in these with Laura, Chris Stipes, Andy Cerota, Katishia Cosely, Carolyn Campbell, and Miya Shay!

Note: My shirt is all wet because it was raining cats and dogs that night!

TORREY 'T-DUB' WALKER'S ANNUAL JOURNEY TO HIS HOMETOWN!

HELLO DETROIT!







It wouldn't be the month of April if FOX 26 photographer and Insite contributor Torrey 'T-Dub' Walker wasn't heading to his hometown of Detroit.  He spent his birthday weekend in the Motor City with his good friends Ronnie Liscombe and Adrea Isom.  Ronnie's a local attorney while Andrea is a reporter for FOX 2 Detroit.  Walker says there's nothing like going back home.  And what's a homecoming for the T-Dub if there is no big birthday celebration.  That was done at the MGM Grand.  You can't beat that for a Houston baller in D-Town.  Here are some of the sights captured by Walker on the trip.  Hey T-Dub, that's for sharing the hometown photos!

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE A MAYOR'S RACE!

WHICH CANDIDATES' POSTERS HAVE YOU SEEN AND WHERE?

I don't know if this a 'sign' things to come but I have noticed campaign signs for Mayoral candidate Annise Parker all over the city.  I have yet to spot in political paraphernalia for Peter Brown, Gene Locke, or the others who are vying for the city's top job.  Which candidates signs have you seen and where?

A DOG IN EVERY YARD!

WHAT'S UP WITH ALL THE PET OWNERS IN MONTROSE?

I had a live report out of the Houston community called Montrose.  What I noticed while going live from a neighborhood was every house and every person appeared to own a dog.  We arrived in this neighborhood around 1pm and until we left at 5:30pm nearly every person I saw had a dog.  Some not just one but two.  What is it with every person in Montrose owning a dog?  Insiting minds would like to know!

MOVIE NIGHT AT INSITE HEADQUARTERS WITH A LITTLE HOME COOKING!

A WORK OF ART BY THE INSITE!

I have to pat myself on the back for the cuisine I created Friday night at Insite headquarters.  It was for movie night.  I got in the kitchen at abou 7pm and this was done about 9pm.  Just a little shrimp creole, rice, potatoe salad, fried catfish, and the peas.  It was great.  I should just open my own restaurant and make money off my skills.  Do you want some? 

A HAND SHAKE CONNECTS THE LEADER TO THE PEOPLE...TOO BAD THE BRITISH LEADER DIDN'T DO THE SAME!

THE CHAUMETTE BOYS ARE THE BIG WINNERS!

WAY TO GO RAPHAEL AND ALEXANDRE!

On Friday, April 24th, when State Bar of Texas president Harper Estes handed out awards in the Bar’s second YouTube video contest, two of the winners looked familiar. Sugar Land Brothers Raphael (11) and Alexandre (8) Chaumette who were among the winners in the Bar’s first-ever YouTube video contest in 2008, were back to reclaim the first place title in the under-18 category. Their first prize winnings include a $2500 scholarship to the school of their choice and a trophy. The challenge was to create and film a video discussing how value systems and ideals unite a community. The Chaumette brothers created a video, “Ideals: Every Citizen Counts” and beat out many students in middle and high school. The boys are the sons of David, a partner at Delarosa & Chaumette law firm, and Jacquie, Sugar Land City Councilwoman. Both attend Commonwealth Elementary in their hometown of Sugar Land, Texas. Raphael and Alexandre were honored at a State Bar dinner in Fort Worth, Texas. There were over 150 attorneys in attendance. Below is the link to the award winning video.

SUTTON TEAMS UP WITH ASHCROFT: TWO CONTROVERSIAL FIGURES NOW DOING BUSINESS IN TEXAS!

REMEMBER THESE TWO TWO LEGAL EAGLES?

Two former U.S. Attorneys in Texas have joined the law firm of former U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft. Johnny Sutton was the top federal prosecutor for the Western District of Texas for more than seven years before resigning last week. He joins Ashcroft's firm along with John Ratcliffe, the former chief of the Eastern District of Texas, and two other Bush administration prosecutors.

The form will be called Ashcroft Sutton and Ratcliffe LLC. Sutton's tenure was marked by his prosecution of two Border Patrol agents convicted of shooting a fleeing drug smuggler. Sutton
said before resigning that he doesn't regret prosecuting the pair, though he called their mandatory 10-year sentences harsh.

FATHER KNOWLES HAS HAD ENOUGH!

KNOWLES: IF YOU DON'T THINK SHE CAN SING THEN YOU'RE AN IDIOT!

This statement from Matthew Knowles comes after a bad rendition of Beyonce' singing If I Were a Boy. It has been floating around the internet. If you can find it take a listen and try to figure out if it's a fake or Beyonce' had a bad day. Here's the statement sent to TMZ:

Beyonce

's dad is on the warpath against the people attacking his daughter for the supposed "board mix" audio of B singing at "The Today Show" -- claiming all doubters of her ability are "idiots."

In a fiery statement to TMZ, Mathew Knowles, who's also Bey's manager, says his daughter was set up. It's one of the best statements we've ever gotten.

"If no one took the time to look at the biggest Inauguration in the history of America then shame on them.

If no one took the time to listen to Beyonce sing 'America the Beautiful' and 'At Last' at the Neighborhood Ball for the first dance of President Obama and the First Lady, and they question Beyonce's vocal ability, they've gotta be an idiot.

At 12 years into her career, the last thing someone should be questioning is her vocal ability.

That would be like questioning if Kobe Bryant could shoot a jump shot. The vocals were obviously altered."

http://blogs.chron.com/intune/2009/04/beyonce.html

GUEST BLOGGER: SKETCH THE JOURNALIST!

HIP HOP HOPE: FAMILY FUN DAY AT THE PRINCE COMPLEX!

By: Sketch The Journalist - “This place used to be junkyard,” Uncle Lloyd said. “But here we are ten years later and, not only is it a place for recreation, but we also believe it is a place for re-creation.”

Lloyd Prince was talking about the Prince Complex, the non-profit youth center he co-founded over a decade ago with Rap-A-Lot Records CEO James J. Prince.

Located in the heart of the infamous 5^th Ward Houston neighborhood he once called home, the organization is designed to be a safe haven for “at-risk” youth and offers after-school basketball and boxing activities along with various community outreach programs for students and seniors.

The complex was celebrated on April 11, 2009 with a Hip Hop Hope Family Fun Day. The event was co-sponsored by Rap-A-Lot and Much Luvv Records along with Copperfield Church and several other service organizations. Its afternoon featured performances by Christian hip hop artists, grocery distribution, inflatable games, basketball skill competitions, free food, and special appearances by well known rappers Gravy (aka Jamal Woolard from the Notorious B.I.G. biopic) and Bun B (of UGK).

Approximately 400 people attended the event between the hours of noon and 4pm. Five pallets of food from Target Hunger resulted in bags of groceries for more than 250 needy families and 19 people received free HIV tests from organizations like FUUSA (Families Under Urban & Social Attack.)

Christian rappers The W.A.R.R.I.O.R.S. drove over three hours from Austin just to perform a ten minute set and participate in the outreach.

“More people need to begin to show the love of God [in ways like this],” group member Victorious said. “The simple fact of the matter is we’ve got prophesying down, we’ve got preaching down, we’ve got taking offerings down… but this love thing is something we’re really suffering with and not enough people are walking in the true ‘agape’ love of God.

“Jesus said you will know my disciples, my followers, by the love they have for one another. So that’s why when a guy like [Much Luvv CEO] Tre9 calls and invites us out, we’re there to support.”

Neither Gravy nor Bun B performed at the event, but both did take the microphone to encourage attendees and play “celebrity judge” during the slam dunk competition held in the Prince Complex gymnasium.

The fact that this day fell on Easter weekend held special significance for many of the Christians in attendance.

“We will always recognize God’s place in our lives and that Jesus’ resurrection makes all of this possible,” Uncle Lloyd said from the stage. “Our family name of Prince may be on the building, but we set out to make an impact in the name of the Prince of Peace.”

The inaugural Hip Hop Hope Family Fun Day began and ended with a group prayer led by Much Luvv’s Bobby “Tre9” Herring. He spearheaded the partnership with Rap-A-Lot and expressed his appreciation for the support of all of the event’s sponsors.

“I think we’ve opened a door to a great relationship with the Prince Complex and its 5^th Ward community,” Herring said. “I look forward to doing more outreaches with them throughout the year and starting a weekly Bible study there this summer.”

RUSH LIMBAUGH SAYS THE TEA PARTIES WERE ABOUT OBAMA!

IF HE SAID IT THEN IT MUST BE TRUE, RIGHT?

It was a historical event that touched hundreds of communities around America. People came together to say they're mad as h*ll and they're not going to take it any more.

Those people mainly Republicans and Conservatives said their tea parties were not about partisan politics. It was about a federal government that has run-a-muck with outrageous spending.

Many believed that until there were invitations to the tea parties being sent out by groups like the Harris County Republican party. Other like minded political organizations followed suit.

Some questioned whether this was less about government spending and more about the first Black or half Black President - Barack Obama.

On Wednesday national Conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh revealed what Liberals or Democrats say is the truth. Limbaugh said he had a list of the failures of Obama's administration as the President approaches his first 100 days in office. On that list - the tea parties.

Limbaugh said Obama caused thousands of Americans all over this country to go out and protest with what we were told were nonpartisan protest events. The Conservative went on to say it was Obama and his spending who caused people to take to the streets, not the spending of Congreess or the federal government or the last administration but it was Obama.

I'm just saying!

YOU KNOW YOUR DAY IS BAD WHEN....

YOU SNEEZE UNCONTROLLABLY, EYES ARE RED, THROAT IS SCRATCHY, AND YOU STEP IN DOG DOO DOO!

I had one of those days on Wednesday that gives me the impression I might now be living right. Or as my aunt would say, "the devil is busy." I was out in Kingwood for a report on a church theft. The day was going fine until the temperatures soared into the 80's. I hate the heat. Then there was pollen in the air so that left me sneezing and my eyes blood shot red. It also prompted a scratchy throat. Then just as I'm feeling miserable our live truck dies. It just wouldn't start. That left my photographer and I editing on generator power in a hot live truck. So, I decided to take a walk into the church to get some cool air while I leave my poor photographer to suffer in the heat. I thought to myself someone's got to be cool in this partnership. Just as I'm sneaking off to enjoy the cool temperatures of the church's parlor I began to smell stank. Real stank. I look down and I've stepped in dog doo doo. What a day. Was your day any better than mine?

HAPPY EASTER, NOW GIVE ME ALL OF YOUR MONEY!

HOW DID YOU SPEND YOUR EARTH DAY?

I SPENT MINE AT WALGREEN'S WHERE THEY HAD SPECIALS!

When I got to work Wednesday morning I was kind of thirsty. But I had a problem. I remembered because FOX's entire network of businesses has gone green I'd have no disposable cups to get water. Most of my co-workers bring their own mugs from home. So, I went on a scavenger hunt and ended up in special projects. That's where Greg Groogan and Mark Muller win all of their awards for FOX. I ran into producer Aprille Meek. I asked her if she had a plastic cup. She gave me a shocked look and said, "how could you on Earth Day." I had no clue it was a holiday people took seriously. Then when I got home I realized I had an Earth Day coupon. It came in my email. Nearly everything at Walgreen's was 15 to 20% off. I printed out the coupon and loaded up on things I needed. When I was done I was even given a free green bag. Happy Earth Day everyone, too bad all it means to me is 20% off at Walgreen's. Hey, at least I celebrated it!

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS THE INSITE HEADED ON HIGHWAY 242!

VINCENT KNIGHT AND HIS DYING ART FORM!

SITTING AT THE KEYBOARD WITH THE SKILLS OF A SURGEON!




One would have to travel to Ancient Greece to find the origin of the pipe organ. In the Third Century water pressure was used to weave the heavenly sounds of the meticulous instrument. Sounds that have become synonymous with the church.

However, time moves on and with the invent of electric synthesizers and computerized keyboards, the classic art of pipe organ playing is slowly dying. In part, because the musical instruments take up a lot of space in churches and costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. Some of the wooden carved and ivory detailed models with pipes that stretch to the ceiling can go as high as $1 million dollars.

That brings us to Vincent Knight who is a rare breed. The New York native moved to Houston in 1999 to start a new life and career. He settled in well. Knight says, "I always tell people how great the economy is here in Houston." That economy may be great in part because Vincent has a very marketable skill. He's one of the few people the Insite has ever met who can play a pipe organ.

Knight pulls the stop knobs and presses the expression pedals with the skills of a surgeon. I ran into him as he was preparing to play for a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood. Knight says he's been playing for more than 20 years. If you ask him if playing the pipe organ is difficult he would definitely say yes.

Knight says playing the instrument is definitely a dying art form. He says he's glad he's mastered the complex control of the monstrosity in hopes of continuing to create beautiful and heavenly music just to the left of the pulpit!

YOUR TEXAS: BAPTIZING BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY!

THE TENT, THE TROUGH, AND THE MAN SETTLES DOWN WITH A HOLY MESSAGE!





On a quiet strip along FM 1485 in Conroe is a small church that really doesn't catch your attention unless you give it a second glance. It's called The New Day.

It was built from the ground up back in 2005 by the man who calls himself a prophet. Ronnie Crankshaw says he's been in the church since he can remember. It was only natural he would one day open his own. Crankshaw says, "it's full gospel and there's some prophesying." That means not only does he preach the word, he tells you what's going to happen.

Crankshaw says everyone is not so embracing of his type of religion but he keeps spreading the word. There are about 25 registered members at New Day.

The Conroe resident says for more than 20 years he's traveled around the country preaching from a tent. That same blue tent still sits on the side of his church on an old trailer that for now remains idle. But Crenkshaw says 2005 was the year he folded up the tarp and decided to plant roots at New Day.

The church is not your traditional holy house. Just outside and to the left of the building is a horse trough. Crankshaw says in 2008 and even today it serves as his baptismal pool. That's right, nearly 30 people have traveled to the small church in Montgomery County to be baptized in its waters.

Crankshaw says all of you are invited to stop by and see what his church has to offer. The Insite would like to thank the Prophet for dropping by the Insite!

WAY TO GO BELLAIRE HIGH SCHOOL!

SOME KIDS YOU CAN BE PROUD OF IN HOUSTON!

HISD’s Bellaire High School (5100 Maple, 77401) has the top debate team in the country again after winning the finals in New York City this past weekend. After competing in the Bickel & Brewer/New York University National Public Policy Forum (NPPF) finals for five consecutive years, the team won its second first place in a row in the national debate competition. The students were awarded $10,000 in scholarships and the “Bickel & Brewer Cup” at a special ceremony.

The NPPF is the only national contest that gives high school students the opportunity to participate in written and oral debates on issues of public policy. This year’s competition began in October when students from more than 100 high schools (representing 26 states) submitted case studies on this year’s topic, on whether the United States should substantially increase alternative energy incentives. From the original pool, sixteen advanced to a single-elimination written debate tournament. These teams volleyed debates back and forth via e-mail, with judges narrowing the field to eight teams and then to four over a six month period. The final four teams competed this past weekend at NYU.

Debate team coach Russell Rach said, “This is the fifth time Bellaire has gone to the finals in New York. We placed second two years ago, first last year and again this year. Our students were determined to win it all again this year, and put in the extra time and effort to get there. I’m extremely proud of the accomplishments of our student debaters.”

Andrew Garbarino, senior and team captain; Jacob Aronowitz, junior; Sharon Sun, junior; Wilma Qiu, junior; Matt Times, junior; and Judy Sun, junior, under the direction of coach Russell Rach sailed through the semi final round against Glenbrook North High School from Chicago, Illinois winning a 5-0 decision.

HPD NEEDS YOUR HELP TO FIND THIS GUY!

HE'S USING SOMEONE ELSE CREDIT CARD ON A SHOPPING SPREE!

Investigators in the Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a wanted suspect responsible for the robbery and fraudulent use of credit cards in northwest Houston.

The suspect is described as a white male about 20 years of age, about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 175 pounds. He was wearing a green T-shirt, baggy blue jeans and white tennis shoes and was last seen in a dark red, early 90s Ford Tempo with chipped paint. Surveillance photos of the suspect are attached to this news release.

At about 10:45 p.m. on March 27, the suspect was walking in front of another male, 27, who was walking towards a restaurant in a strip center parking lot at 7620 Katy Freeway (Interstate Highway 10 West) when the suspect suddenly turned around and pointed a pistol at the male. The suspect then demanded the victim’s wallet and got into the driver’s side rear door of the Ford Tempo and fled in an unknown direction. The stolen credit card was reported used within an hour of the robbery at the following locations along Antoine Drive between the Katy Freeway and Highway 290.

Chevron – 7901 Long Point
Valero - 7230 Long Point (Surveillance photos)
Citgo - 2099 Antoine
Shell - 11203 Northwest Freeway

At 1 p.m. investigators from the HPD Westside Robbery Division will be available to discuss details on this case at the Westside Patrol Division, 3203 South Dairy Ashford.
Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact the HPD Robbery Division at 713-308-0700 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

YOUR DRIVERS LICENSE IS GETTING A NEW LOOK!

YOU LIKE?

DPS is unveiling a redesigned Texas driver license and identification card with a new look and enhanced security features. “The changes will give law enforcement improved resources for verifying the authenticity of Texas- issued driver licenses and identification cards, while combating counterfeiting, photo swapping, tampering and other types of fraud,” said DPS Director Col. Stanley E. Clark.The licenses and ID cards contain numerous security features, which DPS will not discuss publicly. Production of the new cards began April 15 for customers receiving new, renewal or duplicate licenses and ID cards. The vertical format for customers under 21 will continue.Current driver licenses and ID cards are still valid and will be phased out as they expire. The last redesign took place in June 2001. DPS is sending out information to Texas law enforcement agencies, financial institutions and other state agencies to educate them on these changes.

THE US SUPREME COURT MAKES IT EASIER FOR ILLEGALS TO AVOID DEPORTATION!

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS RULING?

The Supreme Court has made it easier for illegal immigrants seeking to avoid deportation to get another chance at a court hearing. The decision Wednesday came in the case of Jean Marc Nken, who came to the United States in 2001 and did not leave when his visa expired. Nken has since applied for asylum, married a U.S. citizen and had a child, who also is an American. But immigration authorities and federal courts have repeatedly rejected his claims, which include the prospect of persecution if he is sent back to the African nation of Cameroon. The federal appeals courts have split on what standard to apply to requests to temporarily block deportation while taking another look at immigration cases. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Va., applied a very tough standard to Nken's request for a stay. But Chief Justice John Roberts, writing the 7-2 decision, overturned the appeals court and sent it back for reconsideration. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented. The case is Nken v. Holder, 08-681.

AMERICORPS IS EXPANDING UNDER PRESIDENT OBAMA!

ARE YOU GIVING BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY!

President Barack Obama has signed a $5.7 billion national service bill that triples the size of the
AmeriCorps service program over the next eight years.

It also expands ways for students to earn money for college. The service law expands ways for students and seniors to earn money for college through their volunteer work. It aims to foster
and fulfill people's desire to make a difference, such as by mentoring children, cleaning up parks or buildings and weatherizing homes for the poor.

It includes a provision to bring volunteers to the "colonias" found along the Texas-Mexico border. The poor communities often lack basic services such as running water and sewer systems. The law exempts such communities from having to help pay volunteers' costs, such as living allowance and health care.

I KNOW THIS IS TEXAS BUT WHY....

DO WE HAVE TO HAVE LIVESTOCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CITY?

First, it was very cool to me when I first arrived in the Bayou City back in 2001. There were farm animals in people's front yards. You could find others riding horses down busy city streets. There were roosters in the neighborhood to wake you up. But now I think I've had enough of the livestock on every corner. I was getting off of I-45 at Rankin when I noticed a field full of cows. In the middle of north Houston. Let's keep our farm animals in the country people. We keep our alligators in the swamp back home in Louisiana!

THE INSITE MAY HAVE FLOODED OUT THE RESTROOM AT SHELL!

I THOUGHT I WAS GONNA GO TO JAIL FOR THE INCIDENT SO I FLED!

It was the middle of the work day. I had to make a quick run to the restroom at the Shell gas station in Santa Fe. After I was done I pressed the little button on the urinal and then walked over to wash my hands. While drying up I noticed the water in the urinal was still running. Then I went back over and pressed the button again. The darn thing just wouldn't stop. I don't know what happened but I think I panicked and just ducked out of the store without telling the clerk. By the time I walked out the water was pouring out of the thing and all over the floor. I should've done the adult thing and told an employee at the Shell but it felt as if I could go to jail for flooding out a business. Well, this is my confessional. At least I've told you guys. Not quite sure of the condition that restroom. Once they mop up I can guarantee the floors will be really clean!

M.D. ANDERSON IS NOW A VICTIM OF THE ECONOMY!

DO YOU THINK HIRING FREEZES AND OTHER ACTIONS WILL AFFECT THE QUALITY OF CARE?

Apparently, there are going to be some serious cuts over at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Here's the latest information released from the hospital:

The economic situation at M. D. Anderson was summarized in the presidential address on March 30. Growth in expenses has outpaced growth in revenues for six months, and projections indicate that, without intervention, the operating margin will be severely reduced and cash flow will be threatened by the end of this fiscal year. The main causes of this situation – an increase in indigent care and bad debt, as well as a reduction in cash philanthropy – are beyond our control. We can and must address those areas that are within our control.

We must reduce the institution's expenses by 10%. While all of the programs and activities at M. D. Anderson add value, we must reduce or eliminate those which are less critical to our mission. As personnel costs account for 60% of all M. D. Anderson expenses, a reduction in the number of currently filled positions is a necessary component to meet that goal. However, there is great variation across operating units in size and function, so the targeted reductions in positions and programs will vary. The quality and safety of patient care will not be jeopardized.

We want to emphasize that this is not an event; it is a process. Some of the changes we undertake must happen promptly; others will require careful analysis using the time-tested performance improvement tools we have in place. The short term outcome will be rebalancing our income and expenses. The long term outcome will be improving the value of the services we deliver and the research we perform at M. D. Anderson – where the value equation is the quality (outcomes) divided by the cost over time.

FREE TUITION FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS!

IS THIS AN IDEA YOU CAN SUPPORT?

A group of colleges and universities wading into the politically charged immigration debate.
The College Board is urging Congress to give illegal immigrants tuition aid and a path to citizenship in light of efforts in several states to block them.

The group of 5,000 schools is best known for its SAT college admission tests. It released a report today that cites a need for federal legislation that would open up in-state college tuition,
financial aid and legal status to many illegal immigrants in the United States.

The push comes after some states in recent years have moved to bar illegal immigrants from paying in-state tuition and, in some cases, even enrolling in their public colleges. It also comes as
opponents are warning that immigration reform now could reduce already-scarce jobs and college enrollment slots in the ailing economy.

The Supreme Court ruled in 1982 that illegal immigrants are entitled to a K-12 public education, but federal law is silent as to their college rights.

The 10 states that still offer in-state tuition to illegal immigrants are Texas, California, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Utah and Washington.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE PRO-LIFE LICENSE TAGS ALL OVER TEXAS?

WE'RE ONE STEP CLOSER IN THE LONE STAR STATE!

A Senate committee has approved a bill allowing Texas to issue "Choose Life" license plates, a measure supported by Gov. Rick Perry and anti-abortion groups.

Approved 6-1 Tuesday by the Health and Human Services Committee, the bill now goes to full Senate for a vote. A similar measure is pending in the House.

Supporters say 19 other states that have the plates on the road have raised more than $10 million for organizations that counsel and support women choosing adoption.

PRESIDENT OBAMA IS NO LONGER STANDING UP FOR BLACK FARMERS?

REMEMBER THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS SETTLEMENT ON THE PIGFORD CASE?

As a senator, Barack Obama led the charge last year to pass a bill allowing black farmers to seek new discrimination claims against the Agriculture Department. Now that he is president, his administration so far is acting like it wants the potentially budget-busting lawsuits to go away.

The change isn't sitting well with black farmers who thought they'd get a friendlier reception from Obama after years of resistance from President George W. Bush.

"You can't blame it on the Bush administration anymore," said John Boyd, head of the National Black Farmers Association, which has organized the lawsuits. "I can't figure out for the life of me
why the president wouldn't want to implement a bill that he fought for as a U.S. senator."

At issue is a class-action lawsuit known as the Pigford case. Thousands of farmers sued USDA claiming they had for years been denied government loans and other assistance that routinely went to whites. The government settled in 1999 and has paid out nearly $1 billion in damages on almost 16,000 claims.

Farmers, lawyers and activists like Boyd have worked for years to reopen the case because thousands of farmers missed the deadlines for participating. Many said the filing period was too
short and they were unaware of the settlement until it was too late.

The cause gained momentum in August 2007 when Obama, then an Illinois senator, introduced Pigford legislation about six months into his presidential campaign.

AN AMERICAN IS ADDED TO THE MOST WANTED TERRORIST LIST!

ACCUSED OF BOMBING BUILDINGS ON US SOIL!

For the first time, an accused domestic terrorist is being added to the FBI's list of "Most Wanted" terror suspects.

That's according to a law enforcement official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he's not authorized to discuss today's announcement ahead of time.

Daniel Andreas San Diego is a 31-year-old computer specialist from Berkeley, Calif. He's wanted for the 2003 bombings of two corporate offices in northern California: Chiron Corp., a biotechnology firm; and Shaklee Corp., a nutrition and cosmetics company. The explosions caused minor damage and no injuries.

Authorities describe San Diego as an animal rights activist who turned to bomb attacks and say he has a tattoo that proclaims, "It only takes a spark."

San Diego would be the 24th person on the list.

THE INSITE BAND OF THE WEEK: POTBELLY!

A HOUSTON BAND YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

First, let me make it very clear, I don't really like rock music but all of that changed when I heard Houston based band Potbelly's cd. The members are Erik, Erin, and Steve. I'm just waiting on the day when they take it to the national level. I even have their music on my Ipod. So make sure you go check out their MySpace page and sample their music. My recommendation is the song 'Two' on their album. It is laid back, cool, edgy, and haunting all at the same time. Make sure you check them out live as well. This band rocks and they'll have you jamming like the Insite on the Ipod!


Link: http://www.myspace.com/potbellymusic

USA BOXING IN HARRIS COUNTY IS COMING!

THE STATE REGIONALS AT DENVER HARBOR!

The Office of Harris County Constable Precinct 6 Victor Trevino is teaming up with USA Boxing to present the 2009 State Regional Boxing Championship to be held Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26. The event will be held at the Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center at 6402 Market.

The last time this event was held in Houston was in 2004. The event rotates between Lubbock, Dallas Fort-Worth, El Paso, San Antonio and Houston.

“This event will be a superb display of strength, endurance and commitment and has exemplified the honor and integrity associated with amateur boxing,” said Constable Trevino. “Boxing is a grassroots activity that physically and mentally prepares the boxers for their futures while giving them a chance to display their skills.”

The championship tournament will feature amateur boxers from throughout the state of Texas. Female and male boxers that are age 17 and older will take part in short rounds based on their weight class. The top boxers will be awarded a chance to compete in the USA Boxing National Tournament to be held in Denver on June 8.

This tournament is a stepping stone to the Olympic trials for the 2012 Summer Games, according to organizers of the event.

On Friday, April 24 the event will begin at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26 the event will begin at noon.

“This affords the youth and adults in the community to compete in a competitive tournament that will lead to national exposure. This is a great way for the boxers to showcase their talents,” said Juan Moya, Vice-President for the Gulf Association.

All proceed from this event go to support Golden Gloves, USA Boxing, Inc., a nonprofit amateur boxing program, and C.A.R.E. (the Constable’s Athletic and Recreational Events).

DR. KAREN COULD BE HEADED TO LUBBOCK!

SHE'S UP FOR THE BIG JOB BUT HISD COULD BE LOSING A VALUABLE PLAYER!

After leading HISD to more than three years of record academic progress, Dr. HISD Chief Academic Officer Karen Garza was today named the lone finalist to become the new Superintendent of Schools Lubbock ISD. Dr Garza will remain at HISD through the end of this school year and is expected to begin work in Lubbock on July 1.

“This is a huge loss for HISD and a huge gain for the Lubbock ISD,” said Superintendent of Schools Abelardo Saavedra. “Karen has been a force for improving the academic standing of HISD and its schools. Her leadership, in working with the Board of Education, the regional superintendents, principals, and teachers, has helped HISD to make very strong academic progress during her tenure. We’ve been blessed to have someone of Dr. Garza’s skills and abilities. She will be missed, but we wish her well in her new post and know that great things are in store for the Lubbock ISD. I will be appointing an Interim Chief Academic Officer soon, to help guide the district through the transition while the Board of Education searches for a new Superintendent of Schools.”

HISD Board President Lawrence Marshall said, “Karen is a very resourceful and imaginative individual with exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills. She should make an outstanding contribution to Lubbock ISD based on her considerable experience in urban and suburban education.”

THE SEARCH IS STILL ON FOR THE BODY OF FOUR YEAR OLD LITTLE GIRL!

NOW IT'S GARCIA'S PROBLEM AND HE HAS SOME WORK TO DO!

HARRIS COUNTY JAIL FAILS INSPECTION!

The Harris County Jail has failed a state inspection after officials found intercoms and toilets broken and holding cells jammed with prisoners.

The jail has passed just two of its last six reviews by inspectors from the state Commission on Jail Standards. This time, inspectors spent last week reviewing conditions in their first visit to the jail since Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia took office in January.

He blames many problems on his lack of authority over maintenance crews that work at the jail. Those crews are contractors that work for another county department.

"I hope the Sheriff's Office can assume control of the jail maintenance process," Garcia said in a statement. "We will make needed repairs, and I will request a re-inspection once they are completed."

Most problems were maintenance issues, said jail commission Executive Director Adan Munoz.

"An inmate should be able to press the intercom and communicate with the officer controlling the floor. When an officer cannot hear an inmate in need that is a life safety issue," he told a Houston newspaper.

The Sheriff's Department has 30 days to propose remedies to the state, Munoz said.

The jail has come under scrutiny in recent years for overcrowding and a series of deaths, including one last year that cost two deputies their jobs.

Garcia has already directed jail officers to check every 15 minutes on inmates without working intercoms. He said he plans to ask county commissioners for money to replace the broken intercoms.

Once repairs have been made, inspectors will return. If the jail still doesn't meet standards, it could be ordered to move some of its inmates.

The jail system houses more than 10,000 people. For years, county officials have wanted to upgrade jail facilities. However, voters defeated a 2007 $245 million bond referendum to build a 2,500-bed jail downtown.

SUCH A TRAGEDY!

FIVE LITTLE CHILDREN ARE NOW DEAD!

Police filed intoxication manslaughter charges Sunday against a driver who lost control of his car while using a cell phone, plunging the vehicle into a rain-filled ditch and killing five children inside.

Chanton Jenkins, 32, was in police custody facing four counts of intoxication manslaughter, one charge for each of the children found dead so far, said Houston police spokesman Kese Smith. Police said a relative told them Jenkins was the father of three of the victims.

Jenkins failed a field sobriety test following Saturday's crash, which occurred after heavy rain turned the ditch into a torrent. The results of a blood alcohol test were pending, Smith said.

It was unclear if Jenkins had an attorney.

The search was continuing for the missing victim, a 3-year-old girl. A dive team searched a bayou for the child Sunday afternoon, Smith said.

HOUSTON'S AFFIRMATIVE ACTION DIRECTOR TELLS HER SIDE OF THE STORY!

LAWS: GREEN AND I HAVEN'T TALKED AND MANY OF THE COMPLAINTS ARE COMING FROM DISGRUNTLED BUSINESSES!

Over the last two weeks the Insite has reported on how Houston City Councilman Ronald Green has been extremely unhappy with the job done by a fellow city official. Green says it's time for Affirmative Action Director Velma Laws to resign. He claims Laws has not done a good job making sure minorities and women are getting their share of contracts from the city of Houston.

Laws has been the Affirmative Action director with the city of Houston since 2003. She says there is still a great need for the program. But she wanted to make sure the public realizes she's doing her job. That lead to an interview with the Insite by phone on Friday. I wanted to get her side of the story.

In the brief interview Laws said, "most of our efforts here are geared towards providing opportunities for minority and women owned businesses." She said she had the numbers to prove just how vigilant her office has been in ensuring there is inclusion here in Houston.

According to data provided to the Insite, the office of Affirmative Action has awarded more than 18% of the city's contracts to certified minority and women owned businesses. That would translate to $171 million dollars in business for this fiscal year. That's out of $947 million the city has spent on contractors overall.

The question remains is Laws doing enough to ensure minority inclusion? I put that question to her. I also asked why Councilman Green and some others believe she wasn't doing enough for women and minorities. She pointed to disgruntled applicants who have tried to do business with the city.

Her response verbatim...

The Insite: Why are some saying you're not doing enough to help minority and women owned businesses?
Laws: The companies that have had challenges on their initial shots of getting certified.
The Insite: Those who are unhappy with the process are complaining to council members?
Laws: That's what council members say.
The Insite: Have you had a chance to work out your differences with Councilman Green?
Laws: We haven't had a chance to speak but I listen to the information that is debated at the council table and I look at it as the opportunity for me to shed some light and provide some facts.

Laws went on to say those who have problems with the process have a right to appeal her department's decision. She said she even pushed for the city's Contract Compliance Commission. It's an independent body for those businesses who have been rejected. They can go before the group and get a second look.

In the meantime, Laws says she has no plans on leaving the department. But she made it clear she believes in transparency and for those who have concerns there's an appeals process. Also, her door is always open!

Facts:

* 1,449 certified minority and women owned firms able to do business with the COH - up 20% since fiscal 2005
* 550 minority and women owned firms with city contracts - up 27% from fiscal, 2005
* $171 million in city contracts awarded to minority and women owned business - 18.1% of the total city contracts

Source: City of Houston Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance

CONSERVATIVE BERNARD GOLDBERG COMES TO OBAMA'S DEFENSE!

DID THE PRESIDENT DO A GOOD JOB WITH RESCUING THE AMERICAN CAPTAIN FROM THE PIRATES OR DID HE BOTCH IT UP?

The big international story last week was the rescue of American Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates. The rescue came after President Barack Obama gave the go ahead to take out the suspects once the hostage life appeared to be in imminent danger. Sharpshooters from the US Navy delivered killing three of the Somalis who held the captain hostage. Some chalked it up as a decisive victory for President Obama.

That didn't last long because the Conservatives had to weigh in. The criticism came fast and furious. Some say Obama waited too long, others said the President gloated and took credit he didn't deserve. Whatever the Conservative critics could come up with they used against Obama according to published reports.

FOX Newschannel took an in depth look at the issue. The network turned to former CBS reporter, turned author, and now Conservative commentator Bernie Goldberg. They wanted his take on the issue. Goldberg said Conservatives were being overly critical of the President. He said we should just give credit where it is due. He congratulated Obama on doing a good job.

Goldberg said Conservatives should be better than the Liberals who criticized President George W. Bush over the last 8 years. He says it takes away credibility when you criticize just for the sake of criticism and partisan politics.

Do you agree? Should there be a defining line when it comes to real criticism and politics? The Insite would like to hear your opinion on the criticism issue. Are the Conservatives criticizing Obama just to win the argument or because he botched the rescue of the American captain?

GETTING AROUND TOWN!

THE CEROTA BMW DEBUTS ON THE INSITE!

It's once again time for our Getting Around Town segment. We highlight some of the cars Houstonians drive around the Bayou City. This week's spotlight hits ABC 13 reporter Andy Cerota. He has the cool BMW getting him around town. I ran into the tv journalist this weekend at a going away party. Cerota graciously allowed the Insite to get some shots of the hot rod. Because I was in such a hurry I didn't get all the details on the BMW but do you really need them when it's a BMW? Hey Andy, thanks for dropping by the Insite!

WILL YOU ATTEND THE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL THIS YEAR?

IRELAND COMES TO THE CITY OF HOUSTON FOR TWO WEEKS!






The Insite was again invited to take part in the opening ceremony of the Houston International Festival. Greg Hurst, Tom Koch, Bill Balleza and the Insite all shared emcee duties last Friday as Mayor Bill White also helped open the big event. This year's celebration will focus on Ireland. The fest will run through next weekend. Unfortunately, the first weekend was rained out and organizers are hoping for a better second weekend. Do you have plans to attend the IFest and what are you looking forward to seeing? The Insite would like to hear from you!

THE INSITE READER OF THE WEEK: BERNARD FRANCIS!

MORE THAN 20 YEARS IN THE NEWS BUSINESS!

The Insite would like to recognize a dedicated reader who has also helped spread the word about the blog in Houston. That reader is KTRK-TV 13 Chief Photographer Bernard Francis. Francis says he reads the Insite as much as he can. The hard working photo journalist has been in the news business for more than 20 years. He says he chose the profession because he's a people's person. The award winning photographer was appointed the chief at ABC 13 just last year after management recognized his skills in leadership. Hey Bernard, thanks for dropping by the Insite!

OFFICER SUSPENDED IN PENNSYLVANIA FOR MOCKING MURDER VICTIM AND SUSPECTS!