Janet Jackson speaks out

In an emotional, but brief statement Janet Jackson spoke on behalf of the family. She made a surprise appearance on the BET awards Sunday. In a trembling voice and almost to tears, she said "to you, he's an icon. To us, he's family. We miss him so much." She then thanked everyone for their love and support and left the stage to a standing ovation. It was a moving moment as many in the audience were crying as well. Her dad, Joe Jackson, also did an interview on CNN in which he said that he wished Michael had received the love he's getting now while he was still alive. In what some considered very tacky, Joe also promoted his new business venture, a record company.
These were just a few of the highlights from the awards show which also featured New Edition (with Bobby Brown) which gave a rousing rendition of the Jackson 5 songs, Jamie Fox served as an entertaining host, and the O'Jays performed after receiving the lifetime achievement award. What did you think of the show?

Chillin' at the Park

Snowcones. Fried Chicken. BBQ. Lots of friends and family. That was the scene at Sprott Park Saturday at the City of Beaumont Concerts in the Park. The Jazz Innovators performed and they were great as usual. They even threw some Michael Jackson songs in the mix. Members of the Charlton Pollard Class of 1980 held a fundraiser for their upcoming reunion. They were frying chicken in the park. My kind of people. It was a really fun and family friendly event. If you missed it, there will be another one coming up soon. I'll keep you posted.

Love is in the air

Celebrating love this weekend as we gathered for a bridal shower for KBTV 4 Producer Crystal Williams. Williams is marrying Andre Petry in August. Some of her colleagues gathered to congratulate her and offer words of wisdom at Pablano Grill Saturday. We all had a great time. Best Wishes to the happy couple. Those attending included Sheldra Brigham, Camille Briggs, Chip Fields, Marquel Sennett, and Erika English.

Memories of Michael Jackson

I first heard the news that Michael Jackson had suffered cardiac arrest and was being taken to the hospital on Magic 102.5 this evening. Adrian Scott said it was not looking good. I went to a meeting and I'd forgotten about it when a friend of mine who had been in the meeting left and came back and said 'Guess What? Breaking News." And I said "Michael Jackson is dead." We couldn't really concentrate on the meeting afterwards. Both of us were devastated. We wrapped it up pretty quickly. Later the CBS special brought back so many memories---his performance on the Motown anniversary special, all the songs (I want you back, ABC, Remember the Time, Beat it, I'll be there), the videos (Thriller), the Michael Jackson imitations by friends which would bring so much laughter, and of course the famous trial. He was such a big part of my life and the life of millions. It's so sad. My prayers go out to his family and to his children. What are your fondest memories?

Syphilis increase prompts action

The number of syphilis cases in Jefferson County has grown from 24 in 2006 to more than 300 in 2008. That sharp increase prompted county officials to take action today announcing a "Stomp out Syphilis" campaign in the Golden Triangle. The announcement was made during a news conference downtown. "We want people to know what is it, how it's treated, and what the signs and symptoms are," says Ingrid Holmes, director of the Beaumont Health department.
The campaign is being sponsored by the Texas Department of State Health Services in collaboration with Beaumont, Orange, Port Arthur, and Hardin County health officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control and the Triangle AIDS Network. It will include radio and TV ads and community outreach. Syphilis is a very serious sexually transmitted disease. People with the disease are at a high risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Officials are encouraging residents to get tested and to practice safe sex as a preventative measure. The news conference was attended by local health officials, Councilman Jamie Smith, and members of his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, which is helping to get the word out.
For more information, call (409) 832-4000.

Isiah Carey Day

Congratulations to Houston Blogger/Reporter Isiah Carey. He was recognized today by the City of Houston with a proclamation designating June 23 as Isiah Carey Day for his contributions to the community.
Carey is a familiar face in Houston as a reporter on Fox KRIV-TV and he has a popular blog called Insite.
Carey is my homeboy (we're both from Baton Rouge) and fellow Southern University Jaguar. We're very proud of you. Keep up the good work!
If you happen to be in Houston, go by the happy hour and give him a hug for me.

"Stomp out Syphilis"

Due to a significant increase in the number of syphilis cases in the area, the Beaumont Public Health Department is sponsoring a "Stomp out Syphilis” campaign in collaboration with the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Syphilis is a very serious sexually transmitted disease and those with it are at a very high risk of contacting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

A news conference announcing the campaign will be held on Thursday, June 25^th at 4:00 pm at Riverfront Park (behind City Hall). For further information, please contact Sherry Ulmer, RN at (409) 654-3677.

Earthquake Coming to Beaumont

Are you ready to laugh? Check out Earthquake and Friends Comedy Explosion, Friday, July 17 at 8 p.m. at the Julie Rogers Theatre. If you haven't seen him before, this guy is really funny! The show is being presented by Coball Entertainment. For more information, call the Beaumont Civic Center at (409) 838-3435.

Reporter makes the Switch

Diane Dean, a former reporter at KBMT Channel 12, is the new weekend anchor/reporter at KBTV Fox 4. She made her debut this weekend. Dean was recently relieved of her duties at Channel 12 after a two-year stint at the station. Congrats on the new job.

Beaumont Children's Museum Fundraiser

A Garden Party was held at the beautiful Old Town home of Marty and Revon Craig Thursday to raise money for the Beaumont Children's Museum. The luscious gardens and perfectly manicured lawn made a perfect backdrop on a hot and steamy night in Southeast Texas. Community and business leaders attended the party which was catered by Jason's Deli. The Beaumont Children's Museum will be located downtown. It will be a place where children and their families can explore and learn through a variety of educational and fun exhibits. It is the brainchild of Elizabeth Schreck. Those attending included Tammy Crutchfield, Shawn Hickman, Kate Carroll, Shanna Lee, Nancy Beaulieu, Regina Rogers, Tawana Cadien, Langston Adams, Amy Renick, Sheree and Vernon Pierce, Gloria Harrison, Pat White, Eddie and Sheri Arnold, Kyle Hayes, Jeff and Sherrie Branick, and Christina Delgadillo.

Babineaux Brothers host Charity Weekend

Port Arthur natives and famed NFL players Jordan Babineaux of the Seattle Seahawks and Jonathan Babineaux of the Atlanta Falcons will hold their annual Weekend of Charity from June 26-28. In 2005, the brothers organized a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to spur community development, help the youth, and help fight the debilitating disease of Lupus. As part of the weekend of charity, the Babineaux Family Foundation will host a a football camp, a bowling tournament, and a golf tournament in Port Arthur. The golf tournament is one of the largest in Southeast Texas. The weekend will end with a community block party in Gilliam Circle. Sponsors, donations, and event sign-ups are still being taken. For more information, go to www.babineauxbrothers.org or send an email to joshua@babineauxbrothers.org or call (409) 351-2752.

100 Plus Black Women Coalition

The 100 Plus Black Women Coalition recently held a reception at the Melton YMCA in honor of its scholarship recipients and their families. The group sponsored three $1,000 scholarship to students at West Brook High School (Demetrial Graham); Central Medical Magnet High School (Mick'n Zeno); and Clifton J. Ozen High School. Cheryl Black Fitzpatrick served as the guest speaker. The reception was attended by members and guests. Congrats to the scholarship winners! We're very proud of you.

Usher and Tameka are history

After less than two years of marriage,Usher and his wife Tameka are divorcing. Usher filed for divorce on June 12 in Atlanta calling the marriage "irretrievably broken." Court records show the couple have been separated since July 2008. The couple has an 18-month old son and a six-month-old son. After all they went through to be together, I'm surprised they're splitting up so soon. What do you think?

Stephen Jackson's Gala

The Second Annual Jack 1 Foundation Gala was held Friday at the Stephen Jackson Academy in Port Arthur. The foundation was founded by Port Arthur Native Stephen Jackson of the Golden State Warriors to help the youth. The gala was attended by business and community leaders. It was emceed by Jackie Simien and the Poet Seven. The keynote speaker Anita Perry, wife of Gov. Rick Perry, said she accepted the invitation because she's a basketball groupie. That brought a lot of laughs. Those attending included Mayor Delores Prince, Superintendent Dr. Johnny Brown, Coach James Gamble, Tamika Humphrey, Coach Steve Tucker, Hilton Kelley, and T.J. Ford.

Walk for a Cause

Armed with T-shirts and comfortable shoes, a large crowd gathered Saturday morning to participate in the Walk against Domestic Violence. The walk is organized by Dr. Alvin Williams of Family Services of Southeast Texas. It was emceed by KBTV 4 News Director Angel San Juan. The 1.5 mile walk started at Crockett Street. It included a diverse crowd of men, women, and families. Afterwards, hotdogs and drinks were served.

Now Hiring

If you're looking for a job, you're in luck. The owners of the new Chick-Fil-A in mid-county at 365 and 69 South are hiring managers and staff. The restaurant opens in July. Officials are looking to fill about 65 positions. Applications are available on site.

Stephen Jackson Giving Back

NBA Player and Port Arthur Native Stephen Jackson is in town this week giving back to the community which he loves. Jackson of the Golden State Warriors is holding his annual basketball camp this week in Port Arthur at the Stephen Jackson Academy, 235 Proctor Street. The camp runs until Thursday. It's not too late to enroll your child. "We're not going to turn anybody away," Jackson told Front Row this morning via phone.
And Friday, June 12, he will host his second annual Jack 1 Foundation Gala at the Academy from 7 until 10 p.m. The First Lady of Texas, Anita Perry, will be the guest speaker and entertainers and other celebrities will be on hand including Vince Young, T.J. Ford, and Carl Thomas. The foundation raises money to help the youth reach their goals. More than 300 people are expected to attend. Tickets are still available at $100 each. "I get a lot of love from this area and it's only right that I give back," Jackson says. "I love it,man!" Jackson was hanging out at Buffalo Wild Wings in Beaumont last night watching the game with his brother Donnie, other family, and friends and mingling with his many fans. Also, Congratulations to Steve and his fiancee Renata. They're getting married this summer!