THE WOODLANDS GETS A MINI CRIME SPREE!

WHY YOU MAY WANT TO AVOID THE WOODLANDS THIS WEEKEND!

I guess I will be locking my doors in the Woodlands this weekend. I just got a detailed report of at least four incidents in the area over the last two days. People are apparently desperate for money and they're trying to get it by any means necessary. Here's the list of the crimes that have hit the area:

1.HOME INVASION ON LANDSDOWN - 9PM

2. ROBBERY APPLE EMP;LOYEE AT WOODLANDS MALL PARKING LOT - 9:34PM

3. ROBBERY ON TRAIL BRANCH CROSSING AND RESEARCH FOREST - 10:14PM

(SUSPECT SEEN IN TOYOTA DARK COLORED CAR)

4. ROBBERY YESTERDAY AT SAWDUST WALLMART 3 KIDS ON BIKES WITH PISTOL

Thanks to Montogmery County reporter Scott Engle for this information!

FROM THE DESK OF KOFI: ADDRESSING THE HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT!

IT'S TIME FOR THE PEOPLE TO FORCE A CHANGE!

"Mayor Bill White has shown a severe lack of leadership in his timid response to the multiple white supremacist/racist and sexist incidents publicly exposed at the Houston Fire Department. The noose hagging and racist/sexist death threats come as no surprise to those who understand the structural nature of white supremacy/racism and sexism in city government. After months of urging from community members, fire fighters and police officers to address these issues finally the Mayor has been forced to provide a response which is less than adequate. It is crystal clear that the people of this city are the only force that can bring forth the necessary changes. Given these facts we ask is Houston really a world class city that should host national and international events?"

Forward,

Kofi Taharka

Chairman National Black United Front - Houston Chapter (NBUF)

ANNISE PARKER STATES HER POSITION ON THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTROVERSY!

THE CITY WILL NOT TOLERATE RACIAL OR GENDER DISCRIMINATION!

I am gravely concerned with the latest reported incidents of intimidation and harassment against minority and women firefighters. The brave men and women who serve in our Fire Department face enough stress in their daily jobs without the added burden of a hostile work environment.

I join with our Mayor in declaring that the city will not tolerate any form of racial or gender discrimination. I look forward to a full investigation and the prosecution of these crimes to the fullest extent of the law.

Beyond that, we must address the structural problems – such as a lack of diversity on the force – that play a role in making these incidents possible.

Houston has been blessed with an outstanding fire department, full of dedicated men and women who risk their lives to serve the public. We can honor them and help them keep us safe by rooting out discrimination in any form in the department.

- Annise

THE ROCKET CHAIR AT THE HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT!

A STOP BY MICHAEL JACKSON'S STAR!

CARL DANIEL FROM LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA!

Insite special correspondent Carl Daniel is spending a few days in Los Angeles. One of his stops in the City of Angels was Michael Jackson's star. As you can see from this photo he sent back via his Iphone the star is surrounded by flowers and well wishes from his fans who have made a pilgrimage to LA to say good bye to the King of Pop. Hey Carl, thanks for the picture and keep them coming!

PROTESTING NANCY PELOSI IN SUPPORT OF MICHAEL JACKSON!

THE BITTER FIGHT TO HONOR THE KING OF POP!


The Insite has learned a contingency of Michael Jackson supporters from the Houston area is making plans to head to Washington, D.C. for a major protest.

I've been told by sources their target will be Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. This comes just a week after Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee announced she was sponsoring a House Resolution to recognize Superstar entertainer Michael Jackson as a humanitarian.

Jackson Lee made the announcement at Jackson's nationally televised memorial from Los Angeles. It was at the event watched by more than 30 million Americans where Jackson Lee shocked her colleagues with the announcement. Since then Democrat Pelosi of San Francisco says she couldn't support the measure and wouldn't allow the resolution on the floor for debate.

The source that spoke with the Insite under the condition of anonymity says Pelosi has no right to block the effort. That source went on to say we're not honoring Jackson for his personal life but for his contributions to the world on a humanitarian level. That person said no one is without flaw and neither is Speaker Pelosi.

We're told the protest of the powerful legislator could take place as early as next week. Plans are still in the works!

GETTING AROUND TOWN: CAMARO EDITION!

THIS IS HOW MIKE BARAJAS GETS AROUND TOWN!

It's rare that I get excited about another
person's car. Today that happened. I spotted FOX 26 anchor Mike Barajas pulling in to work. It was the black bullet he was driving that caught my attention. Barajas is the owner of a new 2010 Chevy Camaro. The V8 is super sweet and a super sport. Barajas says it's the fastest car in the world. I asked the anchorman why a Camaro and he says he's always been a fan. Hey Mike, thanks for dropping by the Insite with the fancy new ride!

NOW THE SHOE IS ON THE OTHER FOOT AT STATION 54!

DEATH THREATS FOR THE MEN AT FIRE STATION 54?

It was just Tuesday when two female Houston firefighters walked into station 54 and were met by messages of hate, racism, sexism, and death. A full scale criminal investigation was launched by the department. Fire Chief Phil Borisikie and Mayor Bill White vowed to hunt down the culprit or culprits. But now apparently the shoe is on the other feet. Reliable sources at the Houston Fire department and in the station say there have been death threats now aimed at the fire fighters who work out of 54. Calls that have come in fast and furious after Tuesday's events at the airport station were made public. We placed a call to HFD acting Chief Rick Flanagan this afternoon. He says if there have been death threats they haven't funneled down to his office. A spokesperson at the Houston Police Department also said they were not aware of any death threats. But those inside say they've received calls. Meanwhile, our source says many firefighters who work at the station are on edge since Tuesday's story broke.

OUT OF CONTROL: CAN YOU BELIEVE THE HEADLINE BY THIS WASHINGTON DC NEWSPAPER!

WOULD YOU COMPLAIN TO THIS NEWSPAPER ABOUT THEIR CAPTION?

I received several calls about the vulgarity in the Washington City Paper. I decided to pull it up and there it was. A very distubring headline!

In mid-June, Donna Watts-Brighthaupt had an encounter with Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry. Watts was driving around, taking care of some personal business, when Barry caught sight of her. He made a point of getting her to pull over, and the two quickly got involved in an intense discussion.

The exchange hinged on their roughly yearlong relationship, a bizarre one even by the standards of one of the District’s most-watched womanizers. As Barry attempted to stake out his position on their fortunes, Watts-Brighthaupt was quick to point out the ways in which she felt mistreated. One stood out:

“You put me out in Denver ’cause I wouldn’t suck your dick,” Watts-Brighthaupt yelled at Barry, according to a tape recording of the conversation.

Watts-Brighthaupt was referring to an incident that had occurred about 10 months prior, at the Democratic National Convention. At the time, Watts-Brighthaupt was working on Barry’s ultimately successful re-election campaign and traveled to the Barack Obama-crowning affair. For reasons that remain murky, she ended up assigned to the councilmember’s hotel room in the Crowne Plaza hotel. Once behind closed doors, Barry allegedly asked Watts-Brighthaupt to perform oral sex on him. She refused, whereupon Barry threw her clothes out of the room and barred her from coming back in. She slept in the hotel’s parking garage, in a Cadillac Barry had rented.

WHO CAN WE TRUST WITH OUR CHILDREN?

THE PASTOR ACCUSED OF SEX CRIMES AT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL!

The headmaster and pastor of a northeast Harris County christian school is accused of sex crimes against two male students.

Thursday afternoon, a judge quadrupled Darrell Dunn's bonds to $200,000. Prosecutors believe he's a flight risk and allege there could be more victims.

Dunn, 51, was arrested at his home in Crosby Thursday morning. He's charged with one count each of indecency with a child and online solicitation of a minor.

For the past year, the married Dunn is accused of luring two of his students, 14 and 15 year old boys, to his neatly kept home.

Neighbors say they often saw boys at Dunn's house barbecuing and, more recently, setting off fireworks.

"We asked him about the boys, and he said they were from his church," said Angel Miranda, a neighbor.

Dunn is the headmaster and pastor of Living Praise Church and Academy on Woodforest Boulevard. The criminal complaint against him accuses Dunn of abusing his authority by inappropriately touching the boys at both the school and his home.

Investigators carried out a search warrant at each place and seized a computer. Assistant District Attorney Eric Devlin says Dunn gained the trust of the boys and their parents. The boys were eventually allowed to spend the night at Dunn's house.

"Usually there's a grooming process. In this case he often talked about the male genitalia with these kids. He would start the molestation by telling them he needed to check them for testicular cancer," said Devlin.

Devlin says Dunn also sent the boys sexually explicit pictures of other students. In May of this year one of the boys made an outcry to his parents. According to Devlin, the boy said he didn't want Dunn to hurt anyone else.

"I don't think he just started this one day when he turned 49 and said, 'You know what, I'm going to start molesting kids.' It could go back very far."

Dunn has asked for a court appointed attorney. Prosecutors are asking any more alleged victims to come forward with information.

WE WERE PLAYING DIRTY COWBOY WHEN THE GUN WENT OFF!

SEX CAN BE A VERY DANGEROUS GAME!

A woman accused in the shooting death of her common-law husband told police her gun accidentally fired while they were playing a game of “dirty cowboy” during sexual foreplay, a Harris County prosecutor said.

Deborah Yvette Parker, 38, is charged with manslaughter and being a felon in possession of a firearm, court records show. She remains in the Harris County Jail on bail totaling $60,000.

Parker is accused of recklessly causing the death of her longtime companion, Broderick Craig Crachian, 58, at the couple’s apartment in the 2700 block of Lorraine on June 30.

Crachian was shot in the chest, the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office said. His death was ruled a homicide.

Parker is “extremely distraught” by Crachian’s death and has fully cooperated with Houston homicide investigators, her attorney said.

Get more at: www.chron.com

peggy.ohare@chron.com

MAYOR BILL WHITE SAYS HE WILL TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEM AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT!

ARIZA: I FELT LIKE HOUSTON WAS THE BETTER PLACE FOR ME!

TREVOR ARIZA IS THE NEW ADDITION TO THE ROCKETS!

The recruiting efforts were powerful, and not just because LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal, among others, were on the other end of the conversations.

Trevor Ariza had chosen to join the Rockets, but the Cleveland Cavaliers could offer a place on a legitimate championship contender. Ariza liked what he heard.

“We just came off a championship run (in Los Angeles),” Ariza said. “Fortunately, I had something to do with that. Everybody wants to win. I’m happy that people want me on their team. It was tempting. ... But at the end of the day, I felt like Houston was the better place for me.

“I felt like I can help this team a lot more and help myself also by being here.”

It took Rockets general manager Daryl Morey only seconds to add the punch line.

“We need a lot of help,” he said, not only offering a moment of gallows humor but revealing much about why the Rockets appealed to Ariza.

Ariza signed a five-year, $33.95 million contract with the Rockets on Wednesday, the first day free agents could be signed. Since the Rockets used the disabled player exception they received from the NBA because Yao Ming is expected to miss next season, they offered an indication they would like to make moves so they will not need Ariza quite so desperately.

Morey said there could be a free-agent addition, using a portion of the mid-level exception the Rockets protected by using the disabled player exception on Ariza, in the next week or two.

“We’re not done,” Morey said. “We’re hoping to do more. We’re going to be careful and not do anything just to do it, to plug a hole. ... We still have to address the center spot. I do think the center spot will still have to be addressed by trade.”

Ariza was drawn to the chance to grow as a player and with a team in transition from its foundation around Yao and Tracy McGrady to its young core.

“I think I will have more opportunity here,” the 6-8 forward said. “I was talking to coach (Rick Adelman) the other day. He was telling me that he saw what I did in the playoffs, how my game grew, and he felt there was still more room for growth and improvement, and he’s going to give me a chance to nurture that and improve as a player.

“This is a great young team that has a lot of potential and is very, very scrappy. They never give up and I believe that is the type of player I am no matter what the situation is, whether we are up 100 or down 100, I’ll still fight to the end.”

Morey also saw potential for Ariza, 24, to bring more than the 8.9 points and 4.3 rebounds he averaged last season or the 11.3 and 4.2 rebounds he averaged in the playoffs. But he said he would be happy with the move if only for Ariza’s ability to fit in with a team, rather than become a player to lead it.

More at: www.chron.com

THE FEMALE HOUSTON FIREFIGHTERS WHO SAY THEY WERE THE VICTIMS OF RACISM AND SEXISM!

LAWRENCE: I HAVEN'T HEARD FROM ANYONE WHO SAYS THERE IS A RACISM PROBLEM!

MAYBE SHE'S BEEN ABSENT FROM THE CITY OF HOUSTON FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS!

I was shocked while watching the news Wednesday night. Houston City Council Member Toni Lawrence, who's usually very reasonable and on top of the news of the day, was approached by local reporters. They interviewed her about the latest alleged racial problem at the Houston Fire Department. She was asked if she was concerned about the allegations of racism coming out of HFD. Her response is what surprised me. Lawrence said quote, "I have not talked to a fire department person who says there is a problem." I just wanted to make sure Lawrence was present at the numerous council meetings where Captain Otis Jordan appeared before Houston City Council. During those appearances Jordan said there were serious racial problems at the department. Then there was the little incident on Tuesday where two female firefighters claimed they were the victims of RACISM and SEXISM with death threats. Then there was the alleged racism where a cadet last year was fired for displaying a noose, there was also a report where a HFD captain had another noose in his locker. I'm not done just yet...there was the incident several weeks ago where the firefighters were caught on the department's two way radio system complaining about minorities. But then again Lawrence may have just been sleep for the last two years. Who knows. I'm just saying!

ARE THEY FOCUSED ON THE WRONG THING AT HFD?

WHO GAVE THIS PHOTO TO THE INSITE?

It was just Tuesday when two Houston female firefighters discovered racist and sexist graffiti in the women's dorm at station 54. Fire Chief Phil Boriskie promised a swift investigation into who committed what he called a hate crime. That was Tuesday. By Wednesday, I received an anonymous email attacking the personal life and credibility of one of the females. From the details of the letter it obviously came from a firefighter. The suspected firefighter's actions could further victimize one of the two females involved in the firehouse incident. But it doesn't end there. Now, I hear from reliable sources that staffers at HFD are trying to find out how the media got those photos of the defiled lockers you first saw here on The Insite. They also want to know if city computers were used to email some of the photos showing Die Bitch scrawled on the walls and lockers at station 54. My source tells me it's as if some in the department are still looking for ways to punish the females who were already allegedly victimized by the graffiti they found in their dorm on Tuesday morning. Do you think the department is handling this probe properly or are they doing more damaged to those who say they've been tormented enough already? The Insite would love to hear your opinion on this issue!

RACISM FLOWS OVER THE AIRWAVES AT HFD!

MORE ALLEGATIONS OF RACISM AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT!

Houston's city inspector general is launching an investigation into the source of a racist message carried on a radio channel used by the city's firefighters.

Fire spokeswoman Alicia White says firefighters heard the message on the Houston Fire Department's Trac 2 channel about 7 a.m. Wednesday. Fire Capt. Otis Jordan is president of the city's black firefighters association. He tells the Houston Chronicle that the broadcast contained a vulgar message aimed at black firefighters.

The broadcast comes the day after racist and sexist graffiti was found scrawled on the women's quarters at the fire station at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Fire Chief Phil Boriskie says the acts are "a terminating offense and, frankly, a criminal offense."

THE LATEST ON THE STEVE MCNAIR SHOOTING!

HE WAS SLEEP WHEN THE TRIGGER WAS PULLED!

Former NFL star Steve McNair was shot dead in his sleep last week by a 20-year-old girlfriend distraught about mounting financial problems and her belief that he was seeing someone else, police said Wednesday.

Investigators may never know why Kazemi shot McNair four times as he dozed on a sofa early Saturday before turning the gun on herself, Police Chief Ronal Serpas said.

But interviews with friends revealed that she was making payments on two cars, her rent was doubling and she suspected the married McNair was having a second affair with another young woman.

She told a friend on Friday that "My life is a ball of s--- and I should end it," Serpas said.

Police earlier had labeled McNair's death a homicide, but waited for further tests and the revelations about Kazemi's personal problems before concluding that she pulled the trigger in a
condominium McNair rented with a friend.

McNair, 36, a quarterback for the Tennessee Titans most of his career, met Kazemi six months ago at a restaurant where she was a waitress and his family often ate. She seemed happy and eager to build a life with him, but something went wrong.

JACKSON'S SECOND WEEK OF ALBUM SALES SINCE DEATH DOUBLES FROM THE PREVIOUS!

STORES ARE SELLING OUT AROUND THE COUNTRY!

Nielsen SoundScan says 800,000 copies of Michael Jackson albums were bought in the U.S. last week -- nearly double his sales from the previous week.

Jackson is claiming the entire Top 10 roster on the Top Catalog Album chart this week. His "Number Ones" collection is the top seller, followed by "Thriller." Solo albums occupy every position but No. 7, where the Jackson 5's "Ultimate Collection" album resides.

Data from the week ending Sunday -- the first full week since Jackson's June 25 death -- shows physical albums accounted for 80 percent of his sales.

On Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart, Jackson holds five out of the top 10 slots, with "Man in the Mirror" leading as his top-selling digital download song of the week.

Four Jackson CDs also are in the top 10 albums sold on iTunes, and five of the top 10 singles for the week ending Monday.

IS IT TIME TO SAY GOOD BYE TO THE FIRE CHIEF?

JORDAN: HIS POOR LEADERSHIP LEAD TO ALL OF THESE RACIAL PROBLEMS!

There have been a series of racially motivated incidents to plague the Houston Fire Department as of late. Early Wednesday (today) morning a person believed to be a Houston fire (update - someone may have hacked into the system) fighter apparently used the word nigger on the dispatch radio system. Tuesday two female firefighters found racist and sexist graffiti in their dormitory at fire station 54. Those incidents along with the noose found hanging in a captain's locker several months ago has prompted the President of the Houston Black Fire Fighters to take action. Captain Otis Jordan is asking HFD Chief Phil Boriskie step down. Jordan describes Boriskie as a chief who lacks backbone and leadership. He says the chief has not been forceful enough to address the racial issues that are becoming common place in the fire department. Jordan says lack of action has allowed racism to fester and become acceptable in the department. What is Boriskie saying about these allegations? I've placed a call to him and I'm waiting to hear his response if he decides to make a comment!

RESHONDA TATE'S NEW BOOK IS BEING RELEASED!

Hello Houston Friends! Please join me for a booksigning for my new release The Devil is a Lie. Here's a synopsis.... When Nina Lawson wins $16 million in the Texas Lottery, the real estate executive and her fiancé, ecstatically begin planning their future. But when Nina goes to claim her winnings, she gets an astounding twist of fate: her ex-husband, Todd, shows up to inform her that he isn't her ex-anything -since the paperwork for their divorce was never officially filed. Now Todd and his money-hungry girlfriend, Pam - the woman he left Nina for - want half! MORE MONEY, MORE PROBLEMS Besides her divorce drama, Nina also has to deal with relatives coming out of the woodwork to seek a payday for themselves and she must soon ask herself if scoring a fortune in cash comes with too high a price tag. When all is said and done, Nina will discern the real wealth in her heart, not just her bank account, to find out what matters the most. I'll be signing the book, talking about the upcoming movie (Let the Church Say Amen, directed by Regina King), and answering your questions. Houston Public Library - Downtown Thurs., July 9, 7 pm 500 McKinney or Borders - Meyerland Sat., July 11 - 2 pm-4pm Hope to see you there! If you can't make it out, I still hope you'll pick up the book soon! Many Blessings, ReShonda Tate Billingsley

MAN ADMITS TO THE MURDER OF HIS WIFE!

From The Harris County Sheriff's Office: On Monday, 07.07.2009, at approximately 2145 Hrs, Noah Collins called 911 and advised that he had killed his wife. Deputies with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Collins’ residence, located at 13211 Cliff Dr., in the community of Barrett Station. Upon arrival deputies detained Noah Collins without incident. Deputies searched the residence and located the body of Goerta Collins in a bedroom closet. Goerta Collins appeared to have been shot multiple times. A handgun and a small amount of narcotics were recovered at the scene. Noah Collins provided investigators with a statement, admitting to shooting his wife. Noah Collins was placed in the Harris County Jail. Murder charges are pending.

FROM 45'S TO CONCERT PROGRAMS: THE INSITE'S MICHAEL JACKSON STUFF!

WHAT'S IN YOUR MICHAEL JACKSON COLLECTION?


When I told you I was a big fan of Michael Jackson I wasn't kidding around. I did a search of my house and found some of my memorabilia. It's some of the Michael Jackson stuff I have collected over the years. Keep in mind this is actually only a third of what I have. I couldn't find the rest which will likely be in the attic. But here's a look at actual 45 records from the Bad and Say Say Say era. I also have a concert booklet from the Dangerous tour, I have the plaque commemorating the multi-platinum sales of Bad. I'll have to go searching for the rest and post it when I can!

MORE ALLEGATIONS OF RACISM AT THE HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT!

THIS EVENT IS 100 TIMES BIGGER THAN ANYTHING LOS ANGELES HAS EVER SEEN!

MICHAEL JACKSON GIVES LA AN ECONOMIC BOOST!

Los Angeles may be experiencing an economic slump, but the Michael Jackson memorial has already sparked an increase in business for hotels, restaurants, airlines and tourist attractions.

The Los Angeles Times reports that hotels around Staples Center, the site of Tuesday's memorial service, were booked to capacity shortly after last Thursday's announcement of the event.

"The magnitude of this event is 10 to 100 times of any other event we've had," said John Kelly, general manager of the Holiday Inn across from Staples. Similarly the Hilton Checkers hotel nearby reported over 80 percent occupancy.

On Tuesday restaurants are also preparing for a large influx of crowds.

"We don't really know what to expect," said Jenny Nikoletich, a manager at the Yard House, a restaurant in L.A. Live, which is next to Staples Center. "We are preparing like we did for the Laker parade," which took place last month.

Fox News reported that Virgin Atlantic sold out on all flights over the weekend. British Airways also said it has seen a huge jump in bookings since Friday, a day after the memorial service details were released.

Even though the local economy is seeing a jump in business, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is asking fans for donations to help defray the $4 million it is costing the city to host the funeral and memorial service, according to TMZ.com .

Live feed of Services: http://www.myfoxhoustonlive.com/

ALLEGATIONS OF RACISM JUST WON'T STOP SPILLING OUT OF THE HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT!

FEMALE FIREFIGHTERS ARE SHOCKED AT THE RACISM THEY FOUND IN THEIR STATION!


The Insite has learned there are more allegations of racism in the Houston fire department. This time two female firefighters showed up at work at Fire Station #54 only to find graffitti in the facility. Sources tell the Insite scrawled on the walls of the women's dormitory and on a bed was written the words: Nigger Lover, Die Bitch, and Die Nigger. One of the firefighters said I have never seen anything like this before. The racially destructive words were also written on the portrait of a little girl. That girl died and is the daughter of one of the female firefighters who found the racist graffitti early Tuesday morning. The suspect or suspects wrote on that deceased girl's picture die bitch die. Keep in mind the little girl is already dead. Sources tell me the female firefighters are destraught and blocking the room so no one came come in and erase the graffitti. We've also learned Houston Executive assistant chief Rick Flanagan has already started looking into the matter. In fact, he confirmed in a phone call early Tuesday morning he wanted to get to the bottom of the alleged racism. Stay tuned to the Insite and FOX 26 news for more details!

More about Station #54: Firehouse #54 was originally located at Tierwester and Lydia in 1960. When Intercontinental Airport was a dream of some land developers in 1965, and then became a reality. #54's was located in temporary wooden quarters while Intercontinental Airport was being built. Upon completion of the airport in 1969, #54's station moved into a super station on the Intercontinental Airport property. In 2003, Station 54 once again moved into a six-bay super station on the extreme northern section of the Intercontinental Airport property.

HAVE YOU VISITED THE MAN CHILD SWAGGA YET?

THE FOCUS HAS BEEN ANYTHING URBAN INCLUDING THE INSITE!

It is slowly becoming daily reading for the Insite. It's a website called the Man Child Swagga. It's done by my Facebook friend Ron Eldridge. The New York native addresses issues in the African American community along with various news issues and profiles. The Insite has been lucky enough to grace the virtual pages of the growing website. So make sure you go and check it out and tell me what you think. The link to the website will be posted below!

Link: http://www.anythingurban.com/

I JUST WANT A REFUND OKAY?

WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE DONE IF SHE MAN HANDLED YOUR SANDWICH WITH BLACK FINGERNAILS?

I made a stop at the Subway in the Woodlands over the weekend to pick up a sandwich for a family member. The worker who prepared it did an excellent job. She had a net over her hair and plastic gloves on her hands. But it was the cashier I had a problem with. She was not wearing gloves and when she man handled the sandwich I was shocked. She held it too tight and her fingernails were black. It was like she had been digging into dirt with those nails. I didn't want any trouble but I needed a way to return that sandwich handled by the dreaded black nails. So, as I turned in the cash I just decided to just tell them I changed my mind. I asked for my money back. She asked if there was a problem. I thought to myself besides your black finger nails embedded into my sandwich, no there is no problem. But I told her I just changed my mind. She eventually gave me my money back. I should've asked for a manager but I decided to get my cash and my relative had to settle for a Whopper. What would you have done?

ANOTHER DOWNTOWN SPOT CLOSES ITS DOORS!

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO LIVE SPORTS CAFE' IN DOWNTOWN HOUSTON?

One of the first places I did a rap story in Houston was at Live Sports Cafe. It's located right on the rail line on Main Street. Last week when I was walking downtown to interview another bar owner I noticed a line of people standing in front of the business scratching their heads. Live was open during the lunch hour and apparently they hadn't seen the memo. The doors were shut except when a moving guy walked out. He told me the cafe was shut down. He didn't have any explanation. He said he was just there to move. Live was the venue where I interviewed New Orleans rapper Juvenile when I first got to Houston. I can recall the owner being a very accommodating individual but for the life of me I can't remember his name. I really hate to see Live Sports Cafe' go. Have you ever been there before?

Note: The cafe's website is still up but the last thing advertised is the Super bowl!

Link:http://www.livesportscafe.com/

THE LIST OF GUESTS ATTENDING MICHAEL JACKSON'S MEMORIAL!

THOSE WHO WILL REMEMBER THE KING OF POP!




Today, the Jackson family released the names of performers, politicians and friends who will take part in the late singer's July 7th memorial service. The preliminary list includes Kobe Bryant, Mariah Carey, Berry Gordy, Jennifer Hudson, Shaheen Jafargholi, Magic Johnson, Martin Luther King III, Bernice A. King, John Mayer, Lionel Richie, Smokey Robinson, Rev. Al Sharpton, Brooke Shields, Usher and Stevie Wonder.

A NEWSMAN SHOPPING FOR THE GRUB!

GREG GROOGAN TRACKED DOWN BY AN INSITE READER!


An Insite reader and Facebook friend ran into one of my coworkers this Fourth of July weekend. It was none other than Emmy award winning reporter Greg Groogan. The person who spotted him the grocery store shopping for the Fourth holiday is Insite reader Kira Dennis. Dennis says, "I saw him shortly before my work-out and he was preparing for a a bbq,nonetheless I told him how much I loved the insite and the FOX staff." Kira thanks for capturing these photos and thanks for dropping by the Insite!

THE TEXAS ATTORNEY GENERAL SAYS THE GM BANKRUPTCY IS WRONG!

DOES IT MEAN BAD NEWS FOR LOCAL DEALERS?

“Yesterday’s decision by the federal Bankruptcy Court requires that General Motors comply with Texas law. The court’s ruling reflects a significant victory for the State of Texas, which launched a concerted legal effort to prevent General Motors from trampling state law and avoiding state regulation.”

“The Texas Legislature has enacted numerous laws that govern the relationships between franchise dealers and automobile manufacturers. In an attempt to avoid those laws, General Motors - which is 60 percent owned by the federal government - tried to force Texas dealers to sign agreements that specifically waived their rights under state law.”

“The Office of the Attorney General addressed General Motors’ troubling tactics by filing a formal objection with the Bankruptcy Court. As a result, the federal court ruled that franchise agreement disputes between General Motors and its Texas dealers will be decided by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, not a federal bankruptcy court 1,300 miles away in New York City. The court also rejected General Motors’ attempts to avoid duly enacted provisions of Texas law. And most importantly, the court made it clear that its order does not limit the State of Texas’ authority to regulate General Motors.”

COLORADO COUNTY BATTLING WILDFIRES!

ROAD RAGE LEADS TO A DEADLY ENCOUNTER IN HARRIS COUNTY!

HARRIS COUNTY NEEDS YOUR HELP TO FIND THE KILLER!

From the Harris County Sheriff's Office: On Monday, 07.06.2009 at approximately 0300 Hrs, the complainant and his friends were returning home from El Chaparral Club, located at Hwy 290 and Loop 610. The complainant and his friends were riding in a black Ford F-150, Crew Cab pickup truck. They became involved in an apparent road rage incident with a 25 to 30 year old Hispanic male, who was driving a white Ford F-150 extended cab pickup truck. The suspect vehicle possibly has tinted windows, louvers on the back side windows and large chrome wheels. The vehicles drove north bound on the Eastex Freeway from Loop 610. The white Ford pickup truck exited at Aldine Mail Rt. and fired at least one gunshot at the complainant’s vehicle. One bullet entered the passenger compartment and struck the complainant in the upper body. The complainant’s friends drove him to Memorial Hermann Northeast, in Humble, where he was pronounced dead. Anyone with information regarding this homicide is asked to contact the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit at 713.967.5810 or Crime Stoppers at 713.222.TIPS (8477)

The victim is identified as 21 year old Alfredo Vasquez!

IRVIN WILLIAMS TAKES YOU FRONT ROW AT BEYONCE'S HOUSTON CONCERT!

A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON AND AFFORDABLE TICKETS FOR HER FANS!

By: Irvin Williams -

Beyoncé appeared on stage in a cloud of fog and opened with Crazy In Love/Déjà Vu doing her usual hype routines and afterwards said “it feels good to be home” the exact same thing she said in NYC, as the audience cheered wildly. The excitement did not stop there and she continued hyping the audience with another fast tempo hit ‘Freakem Dress’ and guitarist BiBi McGill joined her center stage as Beyoncé arched her back to the ground.

Midway through the show Beyoncé added a special tribute to Michael Jackson to the tour during the song ‘Halo’. The tribute began with home footage of Beyoncé as a child going to her first Michael Jackson concert in Houston. The lyrics to the song were slightly altered to include Michael’s name.

You can view the clip of this on You Tube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nbVy8v7RKk

I was able to shake Beyoncé’s hand as she walked into the audience and greeted everyone on the front row. My friend was not able to let go of her hand, she grinned as he eventually let go, and all eyes could see us on the screens in the Toyota Center.

Overall the Houston show was just as awesome as NYC, but it had that extra “H-town” excitement that the East Coast could never duplicate!

Ticket packages ranged from $1,000 to $20 dollars each. In an effort to make tickets affordable for everyone 2,000 tickets were sold at $20 at each venue. The tour is worth every penny, she changes costumes several times throughout the show and literally bounces around the entire venue as she starts flying into the air suddenly. If you ever have a chance to see Houston’s most successful performer you must and I guarantee you will become a fan!

THE PARTY KING TAKES YOU TO BET AWARDS WEEK IN LOS ANGELES!

INSIDE ALL OF THE EXCLUSIVE PARTIES!





































By: Kalele 'Party King' Thumbutu - The Party King was westward bound last week and headed home to Los Angeles for his Grandmother’s 88^th birthday, Fathers day, the BET Awards and celebrations surrounding the annual event. The following pictures are from a few of the parties that the Party King attended. The first pre-party that the Party King attended was at club Sushi. (6347 W Sunset Blvd, LA) Special thanks to DJ PJ Butta who graciously placed me and my party on his guest list and kept the floor jam packed and dancing through the night! After leaving that event the Party King attended the Allhiphop.com Party in the Hollywood Hills as a personal guest of VP of Allhiphop.com Steve Raze. Several familiar faces from Texas were in the were in the crowd including Video Director Dr. Teeth, ½ of Grammy award winning producers Play-n-skillz, Chamillionaire, 97.9 the box radio personality Nnete and Steph Jones to name a few. Music was provided by none other than DJ Skee followed up by a late night set by DJ Syncity on the turntables, and the view from this Hollywood hills mansion was absolutely breath taking. The final event for the week that The Party King attended was the BET Awards after party at one of the hottest and most exclusive clubs in Hollywood Les Deux (1638 N Las Pamas) . The after party at Les Deux was hosted by R&B artist Ryan Leslie! The red carpet was in full affect and hosted entertainers and athletes that included actress Shondrella Avery of Napolean Dynamite fame, Kyla Pratt of UPN’s One on One, Houston Rockets Ron Artest, and Tity Boi of Players Circle, and Etcetera to name a few. The real excitement was not on the red carpet, but inside the multi million dollar club. The party on the patio was bananas and a good time was had by all. The Party King definitely had a wonderful homecoming and a wonderful week and wants to give special thanks to all the individuals who made the week such a success including but not limited to DJ PJ Butta, Evelyn Daniels, Nneka Hite, Steve Raze, and uber publicist Nancy Byron. Yeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!

THE DEATH OF A QUARTERBACK!

INVESTIGATORS BELIEVE IT WAS MURDER SUICIDE!

WhenSteve McNairdied from multiple gunshot wounds in aNashvillecondominium Saturday, an incident Nashville police hinted may have been a murder-suicide committed by his girlfriend, he took with him the image of an unyielding competitor, a tough-as-nails quarterback who fought through pain, discrimination and some of the toughest defenses inNFLhistory.

The images McNair left were indelible: His face in a twisted grimace after a devastating hit, from which he always managed to get up, always managed to keep going; limping on a badly damaged ankle; holding an aching shoulder; a sternum bruised so badly he had to be hospitalized.

"If you were going to draw a football player, the physical part, the mental part, everything about being a professional, he is your guy," said former Titans andRavenscornerback Samari Rolle, who played with McNair on both teams. "I can't even wrap my arms around it. It is a sad, sad day. The world lost a great man today."

Nashville police hinted that McNair's death may have been the result of a murder-suicide committed by 20-year-oldSahel Kazemi, who was found with a single gunshot wound to the head a few feet from McNair's bullet-riddled body. The two had reportedly been dating for four months, though McNair was married.

McNair, 36, never won the Super Bowl but got awfully close, leading theTennessee Titansto seven victories in their last nine games of the 1999 season, good for a 13-3 record and second place in theAFC Central. "The man had ice running through his veins. He was so cool under pressure, so calm," saidEddie George, the star running back from that team. "He never raised his voice, never lost his composure. ... He would just go in there and get hit from every angle and get up grimacing and out of breath, limping back, but not once did he ever fold and say that I can't go today."

CORNYN GETS NO LOVE AT AUSTIN TEA PARTY!

NOT WHAT HE EXPECTED FROM THE PEOPLE HE THOUGHT SUPPORTED HIM!

Hundreds of people holding signs denouncing big government, taxes and illegal immigration gathered on the lawn of the Texas Capitol on Saturday, booing a U.S. senator and cheering multiple jabs at actions in Washington.

Sen. John Cornyn, who'd been invited by organizers, was booed at the start and close of his remarks assailing federal spending and taxes. Many shouts concerned Cornyn voting last year for the federal bailout of Wall Street approved by Congress, the Troubled Asset Relief Program.

"You're the problem!" one crowd member hollered. "You voted for TARP," yelled another.

Boos interrupted Cornyn, who won his second term last year, after he said: "This is a day of celebration, the day we celebrate our Founders, who defied empires and declared their independence."

He resumed: "I realize not everybody wants to listen, but maybe some people do."

The boos dissipated while Cornyn awarded a Purple Heart to William Warren, a Copperas Cove resident injured in Iraq in 2006.

Cornyn later tried to distinguish himself from the Washington scene that the crowd and speakers were protesting.

"I'm not part of Washington," he said after his speech. "I happen to work there, but on behalf of Texas, and I can vote no on these reckless spending bills, on the refusal to cut taxes."

Gov. Rick Perry, among other Republican officeholders to speak, drew scattered boos, notably about his advocacy of toll roads to relieve traffic congestion.

"Washington needs to hear you loud and clear with one simple message," Perry said. "Cut the spending! Cut the taxes! Shrink the government! Read the Constitution of the United States!"

The gathering was the second smaller-government "tea party" in Austin this week and one of many held nationwide over the Fourth of July weekend.

People who attended held signs with messages such as "Say no to Socialism and Obamaism," as well as "We can't deport them all but we can start with you" and "Call 911 — We are being robbed" plus "Coming Soon! U.S.S.A." Many people in the crowd wore stickers that read, "I resist Socialism."

Don Crawford, host of Christian radio's "The Eagle and Child Show," got the crowd to chant "That's an Obamination" to statements about abortion, socialism and the right to bear arms.

The tea party, organized by the Texas office of Americans for Prosperity, a nonpartisan group that says it advocates economic freedom, differed from one held Friday at Zilker Park, to which elected officials weren't invited.

Saturday's speakers included U.S. Rep. Louie Gohmert of Tyler and Wayne Allyn Root, the Libertarian Party's 2008 vice presidential nominee.