Black Power,

Sisters & Brothers,

Wanted to drop a little note on Hurricane Rita today Friday, Sept 23, 2005 7:30am before shutting down computer later.

As of this morning local media is reporting eye of Rita scheduled to hit Port Author, Beaumont (75 miles east of Houston) area early Saturday morning, effects of tropical force winds/rain expected between noon today and tonight. Hurricane force winds/rain are expected 80 miles out on each side of storm. (This forecast can change alot depending on last minute movement of storm).

Many people have left Houston and surrounding areas, however many people are still in Houston locking down for storm including myself and family. Several other community groups are here. Many of us are located in the 3rd ward community a little south of downtown Houston. Several NBUF members have left Houston headed north. Bro. Omowale & ZIN just arrived in Tyler, Texas a trip that takes normaly 2.5 -3.0 hours took them 24 hours. As of around 4:00pm yesterday officials were telling people that if you hadn't left don't get on the highway because of massive traffic jams overnight, people stranded stalled out etc. Traffic seems to have eased somewhat overnight on one of 4 major arteries North, and West.

Mandatory evacuations have been called since early in the week for coastal communities South of Houston such as Galveston, TX and other areas. No mandatory evacuation of Houston except flood plains. We are not in flood plain, but anything could happen. Very little if any gas is available, almost no water stores stations closed. We are stocked with supplies, water.

Many who are in Houston from New Orleans have had yet another move fleeing this Hurricane. Many are still here populating Hotels etc. Most very large major shelters have been cleared out.

Ealier this week NBUF recieved buses of supplies from Pastors for Peace (Via Malcolm Suber) coming from I believe California and a 18 wheeler from Brooklyn, N.Y. (December 12th Movement). About 15 pallets from Pastors for Peace stored in warehouse. 6 pallets distributed. Tooke half of D12 18 wheeler have distributed to people and shelters housing/helping Katrina. Goods have gone thus far to: S.H.A.P.E. Community Center Hurricane Katrina Families, NOI Mosque #45 Hurricane Katrina Operations, New Black Panther Party New Orleans evacuated families, St. Peter Clavier Church Shelter and some persons. Asante (Thank You) for your support.

Ready to go back to work after Hurricane Rita passes.

Forward,
Kofi Taharka
Chairman National Black United Front-Houston Chapter (NBUF)
713-526-7478
713-962-0284 Cell