Michael Jackson's doctor returns to work in Houston

Michael Jackson's doctor Conrad Murray, who is the subject of an investigation into the death of the singer, has returned to work.

The cardiologist has resumed work at his medical clinic in Houston for the first time since the late singer's death on June 25.

"He has not been able to earn a living since the death of Michael Jackson," his lawyer Ed Chernoff told the Associated Press. "His legal fees are enormous and his debts have mounted to the point where it is unclear whether he will be able to keep his house or support his family.

"His intentions are to attend to these patients who have continued to support him, despite the attention and despite the threats."

Downtown alcohol ban lifted

By Laura Elder
The Daily News
Published November 4, 2009

FRIENDSWOOD — Breaking a 46-year dry spell, voters Tuesday overwhelmingly approved the sale of alcohol at restaurants and grocery stores in the city’s downtown.

Proposition 1, which would allow convenience stores and wine shops to sell beer and wine for off-premise consumption, passed with 2,505 votes — 68 percent — for, compared to 1,163 — 32 percent — against, according to complete, unofficial returns.

Proposition 2, which would allow restaurants to sell mixed beverages, passed with 2,648 votes — 72 percent — for, compared to 1,021 — 28 percent — against.

Both propositions allow alcohol sales in a corridor along FM 518 between FM 528 and FM 2351.

The city, founded by Quakers, banned alcohol sales in April 1963, the year Friendswood was incorporated.

Businessman and developer Tony Buzbee, who led a group that argued lifting the ban would lure new business, said the overwhelming victory proved residents were ready for change.

Opponents had argued lifting the ban would undermine the city’s heritage.

“The issue is dear to many people in town; they care deeply about it and I am one of them,” said Janis Lowe, a resident who opposed both propositions.

“Now, all interested parties have spoken. Friendswood will still be here in the morning, but will just be a bit different than it was yesterday.”

Alcohol sales downtown would not drastically change the character of Friendswood, Mayor David Smith said.

“We will still be a family-based, faith-based, education-based community,” Smith said.

READ MORE HERE