The SouthSide Signal

Breaking stories and news --week ending 5/5/26

Sandra Gray stands as the creative genius behind the unforgettable looks of professional wrestling’s legends, despite often remaining out of the spotlight.

Her journey began after her mother won a sewing machine at bingo, sparking a passion that led her from designing prom dresses to answering a last-minute call for wrestler Marc Mero’s gear—though she’d never worked with spandex or wrestling attire before.

Her debut design survived the ring’s chaos, igniting a career stretching over 30 years.

Gray became wrestling’s go-to seamstress, working for WCW, WWE, and AEW, and dressing stars like Scott Hall, Cody Rhodes, and Maxwell Jacob Friedman.

Behind the scenes, Gray faced challenge after challenge, from live-event stress to surviving breast cancer and caring for her husband.

Even after stepping back in 2023, Sandra Gray’s bold vision still shapes wrestling’s biggest moments—a lasting legacy built behind the curtain.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — Eric Taylor has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after leading a human trafficking operation targeting young girls and women across San Antonio, Houston, and Travis County.

Taylor used social media to lure victims—some minors—offering false promises of opportunity before coercing them into strip clubs and prostitution.

Authorities found the victims were forced to live with Taylor, transported between Texas cities, and made to work under his control.

His operation reportedly earned up to $1,000 a day at its peak.

Taylor’s sentencing included 35 years for human trafficking and 15 years for promoting prostitution.

This high-profile case sparked a tougher statewide crackdown: club managers arrested, businesses closed, liquor licenses stripped, and new laws demanding stricter age verification.

Recent similar cases across Texas show the fight against trafficking is far from over.

Katrina Mason, a parent of six from Downey, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for masterminding a multi-million-dollar Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud.

Mason, who previously went by Kris Mason, secured over $2 million in relief funds through fake business applications during the pandemic.

Investigators revealed that more than $600,000 was spent on cosmetic procedures, luxury purchases, and personal branding, with little support provided to Mason’s own children.

During sentencing, testimony from the mothers of Mason’s children underscored unpaid child support exceeding $70,000.

The judge stressed the serious misuse of public funds, noting that parental responsibilities were disregarded.

Mason was also ordered to repay the full $2 million and will serve time in a federal facility.

Authorities continue to intensify efforts to crack down on pandemic-related fraud across California and the nation.

The local football community is mourning the sudden loss of Devonta Lee, a beloved athlete whose life ended at just 27.

Lee was known for his drive, resilience, and undeniable presence on the field, wearing number 16 with unmatched pride.

Coaches called him relentless. Teammates saw him as reliable, and fans admired how he gave everything every play.

He inspired many not just through his game, but his heart and commitment off the field.

As a leader in the locker room and a role model for young athletes, Lee stood out as a cherished son, brother, and friend.

The image of Lee rising with wings has become a powerful symbol of his enduring spirit — strong, elevated, unforgettable.

Although the circumstances of his passing remain unclear, a wave of shock and tribute floods social media.

Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

The Jackson family—famous for their talent and tabloid headlines—faced one of their most talked-about chapters when Jermaine Jackson married Alejandra Oaziaza, who had previously been in a long relationship with his brother, Randy Jackson, and had two children with him.

The relationship’s twist created an unexpected and deeply personal rift within the iconic family.

Outside observers likened it to a movie plot, while insiders dealt with real tension, uncertainty, and hard questions about family loyalty and personal boundaries.

Jermaine and Alejandra’s marriage blended children from both partnerships, including Jermaine’s adopted son, Donte, forcing everyone involved to redefine what family looks like.

For some, the union blurred lines of trust and loyalty; for others, it was a reminder that life’s choices are rarely black and white.

Houston’s weekend is packed with free, family-friendly events across the city.

On Saturday morning, head to Memorial Park for the Urban Harvest Farmers Market.

Enjoy fresh produce, artisan foods, and live music from 8:00 AM to noon—perfect for all ages.

As evening falls, Discovery Green transforms into a hub of energy with a community Zumba class at 6:00 PM.

Expect lively music, supportive instructors, and a welcoming vibe for everyone.

On Sunday, the Houston Museum District opens its doors for free, with many museums waiving admission.

Explore world-class art, science, and history exhibits at no cost.

Cap off your weekend at Market Square Park with live performances by local bands from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Stay hydrated, enjoy the city’s vibrant scene, and make the most of Houston’s unbeatable weekend lineup.

James Garfield Broadnax, 37, was executed in Texas, closing a case over a decade old.

Broadnax was put to death after being convicted of the 2008 murders of Stephen Swan and Matthew Butler in Garland.

Investigators say Broadnax and his cousin, Demarius Cummings, targeted the men outside Zion Gate Records in an attempted robbery, leaving the victims dead for just $2 and a camera.

What shocked many was Broadnax’s recorded confession, in which he admitted to the killings with no visible remorse.

Years of legal battles led to this moment, marking the end of a story that shattered two families and haunted the community.

As Garland residents reflect, the tragedy underlines the ripple effects of violence and loss—and the long reach of justice.

Las Vegas, Nevada was electrified as Mary J. Blige launched her highly anticipated residency, turning opening night into a true spectacle.

From her first step on stage, Blige commanded the crowd with timeless hits and deep emotion, setting a powerful tone.

The energy soared when surprise guests Method Man and members of The Lox joined her, transforming the stage into a vibrant fusion of hip-hop and R&B.

For Blige, this residency represents more than a concert—it’s about legacy, reinvention, and the power of owning one’s moment.

As Las Vegas residencies become symbols of musical greatness, Mary J. Blige stands out as an artist who has not only made hits, but defined an entire era.

Her unforgettable debut signals that this Vegas run is much more than a show—it’s a celebration of culture, resilience, and dominance.

Houston resident Lee Price III has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for orchestrating a major COVID-19 relief fraud scheme.

Price exploited the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) by submitting false applications seeking over $2.6 million for a business that never existed, with no real employees or payroll.

Authorities revealed that instead of supporting workers, Price spent the funds on lavish personal items, including a $233,000 Lamborghini Urus, luxury vehicles, a Rolex watch, and extravagant stays at upscale hotels and clubs.

Price pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering, prompting swift action from the U.S. Department of Justice to seize his assets and recover stolen taxpayer funds.

This high-profile case stands as a warning against exploiting pandemic relief programs and demonstrates that such abuse carries serious consequences.

LaMont “The Waterman” Gilbert is making a dynamic return to the auto scene, now leading Absolutely Amazing Automotive and backed by a nationwide licensed dealer network.

Known for his deal-closing prowess since the 90s, Gilbert’s system has been digitized and scaled nationwide through a new alliance with Byrd Dawgs Automotive Group LLC.

Buyers can source over 50,000 vehicles across 48 states, get live verifications, arrange terms, and enjoy home delivery—cutting out dealership hassles.

This unique “dealership to your door” approach is now part of a broader virtual buying ecosystem that spans autos, water, coffee, and streaming services.

The grand launch features a “Bucket List Flash Sale,” where locals can snag travel deals and prizes while shopping for a car.

Details are rolling out via The SouthSide Signal, promising a major shift for Houston’s car buyers.