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"We are Free" “Our God has given us the freedom to think and act for ourselves. Our God is a God of choice. And He has given us a free will. We can make the decision to go after what He’s already prepared for us, or not. We can choose to live out our dream, or not. We can choose to serve and honor Him, or not. But we must also know that we will have to live with the consequences associated with the choices we make. Now, there’s nothing on this earth that can hold us in bondage. I pray that you come to the realization of this fact today! WE are a free and liberated people today! Not sure what liberty means? In PHILOSOPHY, liberty deals the contrast of free will versus the spirit of determination. In POLITICS, liberty deals with the social, communal, and political freedoms guaranteed to us as citizens of this great nation. And in the BIBLE, the liberty God
has given us has broken the chains of sin which seeks to hold us hostage. But we must choose to walk in the liberty and freedom He’s freely given us. So let’s choose to be free, empowered, inspired, encouraged, and liberated from any physical, mental, or societal bondages that may seek to hold us back from claiming God’s best plan for each of us. Now go out and walk in the freedom and liberty God has granted you today! And remember this: “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” I found this in the book of John 8:36 in the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible. So there you have it. Now go forth in the freedom God has granted you today.”
-- AUBREY R. TAYLOR Houston Business Connections Magazine
PROCLAIM THIS TODAY
LORD I thank You for the freedom You have given me. I thank You for the free will You’ve given me. I reject any and all forms of bondage that may try to hold me emotionally, physically or mentally in bondage. I’m going to walk forward boldly in the freedom You’ve given me today LORD. I thank You for all that You’ve done for me.
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"Our mission is to do all we can to create an "ENVIRONMENT" to assist "BELIEVERS"in identifying "LEADERS" in Education, Corporate America, Business, and our LOCAL, STATE, and FEDERAL GOVERNMENT who value our lives, support, and vote. I believe we can make America even better by accomplishing this mission together." -AUBREY R. TAYLOR, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine - Call (832)212-8735 today!
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EDUCATION PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATE AMERICA VALUE REQUEST A FEW INSIGHTS INTO LIFE GROWING UP, OUTLOOK FOR 2015 & THEIR MISSION IN LIFE. ___________ Celebrating Our History 365 Days of the Year!
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“Ben Hall is asking for our vote, prayers, and support in his quest to become the next mayor of Houston, Texas in the 2015 Mayoral Election.� -- AUBREY R. TAYLOR Houston Business Connections Magazine
Dear Neighbor: I am Ben Hall and I want to be Mayor of this great city! Many of you probably know me, but for those of you who don't, I am a husband, father, businessman and attorney. I left the private sector during Mayor Bob Lanier's term, to lead the City Attorney's office. During that time, I gained the skills and knowledge to move our city forward, by using private sector experience to solve problems. I learned from Mayor Bob that in order to lead this City it requires a focused and committed leader. Saundra and I love Houston and the opportunity it has given us to be a positive force in the lives of others. We want to continue that by giving back to a city that has given so much to us. Our streets need to be repaired; our neighborhoods need to be protected; Houstonians need jobs; and our city debt must be addressed. We can't do this if we don't work together. As your next Mayor,my focus will be on our City's basic needs, and to make sure that businesses can flourish without the harsh penalty of more taxes and fees. I am asking you to join Saundra and me in moving our city forward. Join us in focusing on the things that matter to ALL Houstonians. I am asking for your prayers, your votes and your thoughts on how we can move Houston forward. Sincerely,
Benjamin L. "Ben" Hall, III 2015 Candidate for Mayor of Houston
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City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall takes a moment to give us a few insights into his mission and life AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: I was one of six (6) children born into a family of school teachers. My mother taught French and father taught mechanical drawing. Both parents worked hard to keep us clothed and fed, and I remember missing them sorely at times because of their workload. I always felt loved even when outward condi-
tions seemed difficult. We were a closeknit family, living in tight quarters initially with our grandparents. The children had to share beds because of cramped quarters. Food was not plentiful, but my parents always ensured we had something to eat. We attended church every Sunday as a family and were constantly lectured about proper living and the duty to be of service to others. Toys were a luxury and my par-
ents would work extra jobs and teach during summer school to make sure we received at least one of our wished-for gifts at Christmas. While living with my grandparents, we did not have central heating or air conditioning. The house was warmed in the winter by coal-burning stoves, and in
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the summer we were cooled with fans and open windows. Life was rugged, but enjoyable. Through these early years, I learned to believe that the product of hard work could be success. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: The honest answer is that I really don't remember dreaming about "becoming" anything as a child. My most dominant recollection is just trying to be comfortable. I remember praying a simple prayer every morning and night for everyone to be healthy and safe. This simple prayer was comforting to me. Perhaps it developed from my inner concerns about some of the rugged aspects of my life. Perhaps it was simply the result of indoctrination from religious grandparents/parents. Whatever the origin, I had a solid confidence that things would work out if I believed and worked as hard as I could. I do not remember hoping to be any particular professional as a child. Life itself seemed fulfilling and challenging enough. It was not until college that I began attempting to forecast a career path. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: This is a difficult question to answer. There are so many levels at which this question solicits a response. At a spiritual level, I would hope to perfect myself in conformity with my faith structure. At the family level, I would hope to ensure that all family members (wife, sons, sisters, etc.) know my love for them without any doubt. As a businessman, I would hope to serve all clients and employees with the highest degree of integrity and honesty. And, as a servant, to develop a persistent commitment to help others without need for reward or acknowledgement. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: I am a businessman. I presently own and operate four (4) businesses: a law firm, a real-estate-holding company, a radio station and a newly-formed TV company. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: A couple of recent events may be of interest. I had the honor of representing SHAPE Community Center in a piece of litigation that resulted in a favorable result for SHAPE. We were able to prevent the wrongful seizure of SHAPE's property. Another piece of litigation I am handling is presently ongoing and involves our efforts to protect the bricks laid in Fourth Ward over 100 years ago by freed former slaves. The bricks are historic and I am pleased to have been asked to represent the effort to save this irreplaceable treasure. Also, my wife, Saundra, and I have had the opportunity to purchase the historic KCOH radio station. We intend to continue and grow the impressive legacy of this great radio institution. Finally, I was recently afforded the opportunity to host Mrs. Sarah Collins-Rudolph in our home. Mrs. Collins-Rudolph is the sole surviving child victim of the Birmingham church bombing that killed four little girls at the hands of professed racist klansmen. Her overcoming spirit filled our home.
“
I am a businessman. I presently own and operate four (4) businesses: a law firm, a real-estate-holding company, a radio station and a newly-formed TV company.�
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: Houston's mayoral race this year will consume most of my time and energy. Houston has a number of systemic and chronic issues that must be addressed in a measured and persistent manner. All neighborhoods need a mayor who represents them and applauds our diversity. Streets and potholes must be addressed immediately; the City's pension obligations must be provided creative and constructive solutions; while core city services (police, fire, infrastructure, etc.) cannot be neglected. The mayor's race must be about more than personal agendas, and more about the peoples' business. The City and her citizens deserve answers to tough questions from anyone applying to sit in the mayor's chair. I intend to run an aggressive campaign this year to make sure voters know what we will do as their mayor.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? ATTORNEY BEN HALL: Believe! The nativity site of success is an unyielding belief that you can and will do what you dream. Life's harsh winds will blow against your dreams; clouds of doubt will arise to rob you of hope; and the rains of struggle will test your resolve; but the bright sunshine of your faith in what you believe must pierce the despair to get you through the difficult times. When no one else believes you can do it, believe anyway! Remember Barack Obama's seeming impossible run against Hillary Clinton to become President!
Ride your faith to success!
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Missouri City, Texas Mayor Allen Owen shares a few insights into his life, mission, and outlook for 2015 AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: My mother was an Elementary Teacher and my dad owned an Insurance Company. I was the middle child with an older and younger sister. I grew up in East Texas and graduated from college at Stephen F. Austin State University. I played sports like most kids and even played minor league baseball during my college days. I knew I would not be a big leaguer so I decided to coach and got my coaching/teaching certificate. During that time I began working in a bank and decided that I would like to do that instead. Job was much more secure and you didn't have to have a winning season to keep your job. I had just married and wanted a better future for us.
cities in the USA is another accomplishment I am proud of for our City. I did none of this alone. It took a good Council and dedicated staff to accomplish it all. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: I see a very bright future for our City. Increased property values give our citizens equity in their largest investment-their homes. I see continued growth in our commercial and industrial segments. Placing more value on the ground and creating more jobs for our community means that we can continue to look at ways of taking the tax burden off of the roof tops and placing it on sales and commercial property taxes. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: Never give up trying.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: I really wanted to be a doctor as a child but science courses in college changed my mind. They were too much of a struggle.
ON THE COVER
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: I did play minor league baseball and that was not necessarily a dream, but something I enjoyed doing. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: My mission was just to be successful in whatever I did with my life. I have always said that I thought God put me on this earth to serve others and I have strived to do that in the best way I could. Not only as Mayor but through the many non-profit organizations I serve on. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to
share? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN: I have always said that I hope to be remembered after leaving office for helping guide the City in the development of it being one of the best in the USA to call home. This has been done through the development of Sienna Plantation, Riverstone, Lake Colony, Colony Lakes, Brightwater, Lake Olympia, and the acquisition of Quail Valley Country Club and the preservation of the 400 acres of parkland. Being named one of the safest
MAYOR ALLEN OWEN – Mayor Allen Owen is Missouri City's 10th mayor since the city's incorporation in 1956. He’s faithfully served as Missouri City’s mayor since 1994. He has a long-standing documented track record of placing the citizens of Missouri City first. His track record and dedication was part of the reason Missouri City was honored as one of the top 10 safest cities in Texas by real estate website Movoto back in August of 2014. Movoto combined crime data from the top 100 most populous municipalities in Texas, and used the FBI’s 2012 Uniform Crime Report to determine that Missouri City is the sixth safest city in Texas. 24/7 Wall St., a web-based corporation designed to report financial news and opinions, also recently ranked Missouri City 16th on their list of the top 50 places to live in the United States.
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HARRIS COUNTY
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“Carroll G. Robinson is asking for our vote, prayers, endorsement, and support in his quest to become the next City Controller for the City of Houston in the Mayoral Election.” Dear Fellow Houstonian: On Friday, a federal judge ruled that candidates for city office, in the 2015 city election, could immediately begin raising campaign contributions. I am writing to ask you for as generous a contribution as you are able to give at this time to my campaign for Houston City Controller. As you may remember, I am a former At-Large City Council Member. I currently serve on the Board of Directors of the Houston Firefighters’ Relief and Retirement Fund and Houston Community College System. I have also served on the Board of the National League of Cities, State Bar of Texas, K9s4COPS, Children at Risk and the Northeast YMCA. I would like to work with you to help make life better for all Houstonians and to help make our city greater. Protecting Taxpayers’ money, Fixing the City Budget, Fixing our Streets, Modernizing city government to reduce its operating expenses, paying down the unfunded pension liability debt and attracting more good paying jobs, businesses, entrepreneurs, construction and development to our city - while respecting and protecting our neighborhoods - will be my top priorities. I support legalizing casino gaming in Houston and using private investments to connect Hobby and Bush Intercontinental Airports to our light rail system to attract more tourists to our city to generate more sales tax revenue to help pay for core city services. As City Controller, I will be the Taxpayers’ Voice at City Hall and will work with you to make the City Controller’s Office the Solution Center of City Government. Please consider making a contribution of $25, $50, $100, $250, $500 or more today to my campaign. Together, we can Make Houston Greater! Visit CARROLLGROBINSON.COM to make your donation. Sincerely,
Carroll G. Robinson 2015 Candidate for City of Houston Controller
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City of Houston Candidate for Controller Carroll G. Robinson shares a few insights into his life, mission and outlook for 2015 AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: I had a great childhood. My parents were hardworking and loving. My brother, sisters and I enjoyed each other and our do German Shepard. We were not rich with material things, but we were rich in other ways--love and support. My parents made sure we could achieve anything we wanted in life if we got a good education, worked hard, took care of our family and money and avoided trouble. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: My dream was to go to college, make my parents proud of me and be able to help take care of them as thanks for all they were doing for me, my brother and sisters. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: Yes I did. God is good all of the time. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? CARROLL G. ROBINSON:My mission in life is to take care of my family and to try and make a positive difference in my community. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: As a Houston Community College Trustee I got the Board to approve a 6th Grade PreAdmission program and a million dollars in scholarships for local students. As a City Council member i supported what would become the city's "Rev Cap" spending limit, worked with council members to establish the city's Rainy Day Fund and lead the effort to pass the No Trucks In
The Left Lane ordinance to improve traffic safety on local highways. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: I am praying for Health, Safety, Peace and Prosperity for everyone in 2015. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? CARROLL G. ROBINSON: Believe in yourself, love yourself and your family and be willing to help and serve others.
ON THE COVER EDUCATOR AND ATTORNEY CARROLL G. ROBINSON – Carroll G. Robinson is an Associate Professor and a former Associate Dean of External Affairs at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston, Texas. Professor Robinson is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of
the Houston Community College System (HCC) and a Citizen Member of the Board of Trustees of the Houston Firefighters’ Relief and Retirement Fund. He is a former member of the Board of Directors and Board of Advisors of K9s4COPs. He is also a past chairman of the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce. Professor Robinson is a former AtLarge (elected citywide) member of the Houston (Texas) City Council. As a member of the City Council, Professor Robinson chaired the city’s Transportation, Technology and Infrastructure Committee. Professor Robinson is a Life Member of the NAACP and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is the author or co-author of numerous legal and public policy articles and commentaries. Robinson plans to put his vast experience and know-how to work for the people of Houston should voters choose him as the best candidate in the race for City of Houston Controller on the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election ballot.
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“Experienced, Effective, and Hard-Working for Missouri City�
Re-Elect Floyd Emery for Missouri City Council District (D) on May 9, 2015 Vote Early: April 27th - May 5th Dear Friends: In May 2011, I was elected to this position by a substantial majority of District D voters. I was re-elected in May 2013 without opposition. I appreciate your support and confidence. In the election of 2011, I ran on a platform of "Ensuring Public Safety", "Protecting Property Values" and "Attracting New Business". I'm proud of the awards, recognition and business success Missouri City has experienced during my tenure. Our City being recognized as one of the safest cities in the US, most diverse city in the Houston area, best place to live and most affordable for homebuyers gives me satisfaction, knowing I have worked hard to keep those campaign pledges. The completion of the City Centre at Quail Valley, Recreation and Tennis Center at Cypress Point and the $50 million Water Treatment Plant at Steep Bank exemplifies our success. Missouri City has worked hard to develop and foster a business-friendly environment. As a result, our commercial tax base reflects a substantial increase as a percent of City revenue and our retail sales tax revenue reflects steady growth. I'm pleased to state that Missouri City is viewed by many as the best place to live, work, shop and play. With the experience I have gained, I am positioned to continue the work with my colleagues on City Council and our City Staff to move Missouri City forward. We must maintain our current path of growth and look for new opportunities to build our business base. Funding of our Public Safety sectors and addressing our infrastructure and water needs while continuing to improve our alliances with our HOAs must be our priorities as we build an environment that meets the expectations of our residents. Thank you to the residents of District D and Missouri City. I will continue my hard work for Missouri City's future. Thank You,
Floyd Emery
Floyd Emery
Missouri City Councilmember for District D
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Missouri City, Texas District D Councilman Floyd Emery takes a moment to give us a few insights into his mission and life AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: I was raised in a Midwest-city by a blue collar worker father and homemaker mother. My father was a strict disciplinarian with a strong competitive spirit. He worked hard and long hours to provide my younger sister and I with the basics required to live a safe and comfortable life. My mother with great homemaker skills provided a loving atmosphere instilling religious principals in my life, and was fully supportive of my fathers’ decisions. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: Like many young boys, I wanted to be a major league baseball player; playing for my home town heroes -- the St. Louis Cardinals. After that, I wanted to build a life where I would not have to face the hardships my father endured due in part to his lack of formal education; but would imitate his hard and competitive work ethic. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: To provide a loving atmosphere for my wife and sons while setting a good example in both my personal and business life. Giving back to my community, country and faith, through service and commitment to each, with an overall goal of being recognized as a good husband, father, friend and citizen is extremely important to me. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: I retired from business life after 47 years of service with Baroid/Halliburton, achieving directorships in the disciplines of IT, Finance and HR. Currently, I have dedicated my time and energy to the job of performing the duties, and meeting the responsibilities as the Missouri City Council-member representing District D. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: I am equally proud of two accomplishments. The attention and actions brought to the support of our Public Safety (fire/police) is most rewarding. Working with the City Staff and my Council counterparts we’ve implemented processes to bring their pay (firemen/police officers) and benefits to a competitive level; provided budget and assets required to make them effective while providing for their safety, and the safety of our residents. Their performance (firemen/police officers) positioned Missouri City as the 6th safest City in Texas. Additionally, the strengthening of our partnership with our
HOA’s is rewarding. My commitment to attend most HOA meetings while directing City actions needed to address their issues; insuring we have City representation at these meetings to listen to, and address issues, promoting the National Night Out event by City Staff; and the review and development of City ordinances that assist the HOA’s in maintaining home values is an accomplishment in which I am very proud to have played a part in. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: I have a very positive outlook for Missouri City and its residents. Taxes collected and jobs created from our current and newly projected business park(s); increases in sales tax revenue, and existing home valuation, will provide the revenue required to meet our budgetary needs and potential City tax rate considerations. The City is in sound financial condition, the standards established for ratios and reserves by credit and bonding institutions reflect we are above the norms. Development of residential properties has a healthy outlook as evidenced in Sienna South, Riverstone and Olympia Estates among others. The City is making great strides in providing transparency in our financial, ordinance, and land planning activities, and mobility for our residents will continue to improve. Missouri City will continue to move forward. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? COUNCILMAN FLOYD EMERY: Educate yourself both formally and in the attributes needed to make yourself a viable candidate for the station in life in which you ascribe. Associate yourself with activities and individuals through volunteerism, public service or other means of involvement. I was given advice early in my career that a job given is a job worth doing well; going over and above what might be expected. In all that you do, build a reputation of reliability, consistency, honesty and truthfulness.
ON THE COVER COUNCIL MEMBER FLOYD EMERY has been married 52 years to his wife, Linda. They have been homeowners in Quail Valley for more than 35 years, where they raised their two sons, Brian and Dennis.
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Judge Loyd Wright takes a moment to share a few insights into his life, childhood growing up, mission, 2015 outlook, and his current job AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I had a great childhood, playing sandlot and organized baseball, football and basketball. I had loving and supportive parents and an older brother, all of whom provided guidance and good advice throughout my life. My mother and father also stressed academics. I will never forget my father's frequent admonishment to not come home with a "B"! I took him very seriously and tried my best to never disappoint him.
two terms as Judge of Probate Court No. 1. I want to continue to earn the confidence of those who come into court and reaffirm that I will always do my utmost to be fair, impartial and diligent. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I think 2015 is going to be another great year for the Texas and Houston. I am looking forward to another four years on the bench. I have a wonderful staff that keeps things running smoothly "behind the scenes." It is just a great place to show up to in the morning.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I suppose if I had a main dream it was to play baseball and football for Rice University. I was admitted to Rice but made a late decision to "get out of town" and attend the University of Texas. I sometimes think about the choices I made, like we all do.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: Everyone should start by giving their best effort in school. There really is no consistently better way to change the circumstances of your life than through achievement and success in school. Doing well academically will give you more opportunities and choices in what to do with your life. Of course, working hard at whatever you decide to do will also make a tremendous difference, perhaps the biggest difference. These core principles become cliches for a reason! America offers so many different opportunities to be successful in one way or another. But you have to be a participant. You have to make a good faith effort. You have to be "in the game". Don't be someone who sits on the sidelines and then complains that things are not fair.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I did not become the star left handed pitcher or tight end I dreamed of being, but the emphasis on academics paved the way for a good legal career which ultimately led to the job I have now as Judge of Probate Court No. 1. Who could complain about that? As a sole practitioner for nineteen years, I had control over my time and was often able to coach my son's and daughter's teams. I would not trade those days being with them for anything. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: My mission in life now is to enjoy my family, continue to do my job to the best of my ability, and help others whenever I can.
ON THE COVER AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: My biggest professional accomplishment has been to win
JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT – currently serves as the Probate Judge for District Court #1 in Harris County.
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HARRIS COUNTY
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Judge Christine Riddle Butts takes a moment to share a few insights into her life, mission, and outlook AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: I grew up in Northwest Houston and went to Westfield High School. My first job was at a skating rink working in the snack bar when I was in the eighth grade. During high school, I enjoyed serving as a waitress at our local steak house, Del Friscos. My father was an attorney and I spent high school and college summers working in his office and accompanying him to court. As a high school junior, Rotary International sponsored me as an exchange student to Germany, where I stayed with a wonderful family in Vreden, a small farming town outside Cologne. My parents were very supportive of me and instilled in me the values of faith, diligence, education, and service. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: When I was very young, my mother required an expensive surgery and, fresh out of law school, my father was desperate to raise the money for her surgery. I gave him the two quarters I had earned from weeding and sweeping a neighbor's driveway and asked what else I could do to help. He said I could grow up and become a lawyer to help him in his probate practice and to serve other families facing crisis. In that moment, my father gave me my mission, and from that point on I knew that I would become a probate lawyer. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: When I accompanied my father to court, I enjoyed sitting in on Judge Scanlan's guardianship docket. His demeanor on the bench demonstrated empathy for family members, compassion and respect toward the disabled, and a mastery of probate law. My desire to follow in his footsteps developed at a young age in the crowded spaces
sis involves the loss or incapacity of a loved one. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: The probate courts have developed a handbook for guardians and such handbook has been translated into Spanish and Hindi by talented lawyers dedicated to serving guardians in their community. We also offer a quarterly CLE program to attorneys and have updated our website to include online docket setting and useful practice information for attorneys, all designed to make the practice of law more efficient and cost effective for attorneys and those they serve. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: 2015 will see a renewed focus on enhancing services for the mentally ill. The assisted outpatient treatment program, which is designed to assist the mentally ill with treatment compliance outside of a hospital setting, is set to expand in the next several years. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? within the Family Law Building. Now, I look out the window from my 7th floor office in the Civil Courts building and see where my dreams took root as I fondly remember the colorful mural in Judge Austin's courtroom, the shaded benches where I often ate lunch, and the painted signs of demonstrators who seemed ever present in the late 1980's. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS: In addition to raising a noble family of my own, my mission is to help families in crisis when the cri-
JUDGE RIDDLE BUTTS OFFERED THIS QUOTE: "Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." Harriet Tubman.
ON THE COVER JUDGE CHRISTINE RIDDLE BUTTS – currently serves as the Probate Judge for District Court #4 in Harris County.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Houston City Councilman Dwight Boykins takes a moment to share insights into his life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: As a child growing up in the South Union community, I focused on always putting family first. My mother provided us with the opportunity to play sports including baseball and football and discipline was enforced.
lars to bring the first of its kind Holiday Tree Lighting & Kwanzaa Celebration on Almeda to the District D community. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS:My outlook for 2015 focuses on my Second Chance Program which provides individuals who have made mistakes in the past, including non-violent ex-felons with an opportunity, without discrimination, for employment. Also, my office is working on the first of its kind second chance home buying opportunity to assist hard to qualify home ownership individuals.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: As a child I wanted to become a public servant. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: My mission in life is to become the best public servant possible and always remember to give back to my community. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: I own a business development firm and I am also the District D Houston City Council Member. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share?
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: Always remember to put God first and believe in yourself.
COUNCILMAN BOYKINS: I established the Seniors Assistance Fund and raised over 50,000 to assist senior citizens in District D with minor home repairs no cost to them or taxpayers. I also raised dol-
ON THE COVER COUNCILMAN DWIGHT BOYKINS – currently represents District D on Houston’s City Council
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Houston City Councilman C.O. “Brad” Bradford shares a few insights into his life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: I grew up on our family farm in north Louisiana. My father, mother, six boys and six girls raised cattle, cotton, soybeans, corn and - yes, turnip greens. Thanks to my mother all twelve children are college educated people.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: Reward is attached to performance and anything worth having isn’t easy to get. Always remember that at the end of the day, when it is all said and done; the question is going to be: ‘What have you done to help others?’ Degrees, titles and positions won’t matter.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: It was not farming. I had had enough! My passion was machinery, automobile mechanics and automotive engineering.
ON THE COVER
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: My mission is to initiate and support efforts which benefit the greater good of all. Try to leave a little piece of the world a better place than I found it. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD:I am an attorney, public safety consultant and former Chief of Police in Houston, Texas. I combine my education, legal training and police experience to work with neighborhoods and businesses, nationally and internationally, to help develop safety strategies. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: As an at-large member of the Houston City Council, I am an advocate for after-school programs and summer jobs for our youth. Working with others on city council the last budget cycle, I was able to spearhead efforts which allocated more
than two million dollars for these much needed strategies. Also, I authored a Council District Service Budget amendment which allocated, for the first time ever at City Hall, one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) to each district council member for use in their respective districts. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? COUNCIL MEMBER C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: I am committed to exhausting utmost efforts to re-focus city government on the delivery of core services which include water, garbage, infrastructure issues and safety services.
C.O. "BRAD" BRADFORD is an Attorney, Public Safety Consultant, former Houston Chief of Police and Vice Mayor Pro-Tem for the City of Houston. In January 2012, members of the Houston City Council elected Bradford as Vice Mayor Pro-Tem via unanimous vote. Bradford ran three successful citywide campaigns, the maximum (three terms) permitted under law. During his second and third campaign, he won in every council district, without a runoff and got the highest number of votes in all of the citywide contested races. He became a resident of the city of Houston in 1979. Bradford has lived in Hiram Clarke, Alief, Fondren Southwest, and MacGregor areas, he understands the various characteristics of the Houston community and appreciates efforts to focus on neighborhood needs. Bradford served 24 years as a Houston police officer and seven years as Chief of Police. He was appointed Houston's Police Chief by Mayor Bob Lanier and re-appointed by Mayor Lee P. Brown. While serving as Chief of Police, Bradford managed 7,000 personnel and $500 million annual budget. During his tenure, citizens' fear of crime and public safety concerns
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Houston Attorney Ramona Franklin takes a moment to share insights into her life, outlook and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN: Life was wonderful. I lived a care free life that was well guarded by two God fearing, loving and protective parents. I was able to live and play as a child free from adult responsibilities. I had the love, guidance, nurturing and protection from both of my loving parents. I was also blessed by my neighborhood. You see, I was raised during the time when the “Village” joined in and raised the child. So essentially, I had hundreds of loving mothers and hundreds of loving fathers who guided, encouraged, and instilled values in my life that I still carry today. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN: I wanted to be the female version of Johnny Cochran. I always knew that I wanted to be an attorney and live a life of service to others. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN: Yes and No. Yes, I have achieved the dream of becoming an attorney. However, each day as I grow into my God-given purpose I am discovering untapped dreams that have been instilled in me before my birth that have yet to be completed. No, there are still so many childhood dreams that I am still pursuing. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN: My mission in life is to be a woman of God that encourages, inspires, empowers, educates and equips people with the knowledge of God. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN: First, keep your focus and eyes on God. I
think it is also important to have dreams that are bigger than you that requires outside help. Never give up on a dream! Brush yourself off if you pursue a dream and you find yourself in a holding pattern waiting for your time. Give yourself time to reflect on plans to effectively carry out your dreams. It is always easy to give up on our dreams when they appear to be non-existent, and delayed.
ON THE COVER ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN is a native Floridian but has resided in Texas since 2001. Ramona resides in Katy, TX and has been a member of Brookhollow Baptist Church-Church Without Walls for nine years. Ramona graduated from Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, FL with a Bachelor of Arts De-
gree in English and a Minor in Criminal Justice. Following her graduation from Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University she pursued a Masters of Science in Sports Administration from Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL. Immediately following her graduation from Lynn University Ramona pursued her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, MI. In law school Ramona participated in the Moot Court Competition and was awarded the Best Advocate Award, she participated in the Mock Trial Competition and served on the Moot Court and Mock Trial Executive Board. She served as a Senate Representative, Law School Marshall, Ambassador and served as the President of the Black Law Student Association. Following her graduation from law school she moved to Houston, TX and worked as an Assistant District Attorney at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office before entering into private practice in 2006. While in private practice Ms. Franklin began her law firm concentrating on criminal law, family law and wills. Ramona has handled an extensive variety of legal cases but primarily focuses her practice on zealously advocating criminal cases. Ramona Franklin is an Adjunct Instructor at Remington College, Houston, TX with a main concentration on Criminal Justice Studies. Ramona Franklin is passionate about serving the Harris County Community. She has volunteered in the Houston Volunteer’s Lawyer Program, NAACP Pro Bono Legal Defense Program, The Lady League Mentor Program and the Diamond In the Rough Mentor Program. Ramona Franklin is a motivational speaker, working on completing her first book and is the mother of a precocious 4 month old Malti Poo named Bailey. Ramona Franklin is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.
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SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, AND CONCERNS TO: YOURTHOUGHTMATTERS@GMAIL.COM
District Judge John Schmude takes a moment to share a few insights into his life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: I grew up in Spring, Texas as the youngest of 10 children. My father was an appellate attorney for the US Department of Justice before becoming a corporate attorney for Exxon. My mother was a homemaker. Being part of such a large family, there was never a dull moment growing up. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: When I was a child, I dreamed of being a major league baseball player. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: My mission in life is to be the best husband and father that I can be; to serve families as a fair, impartial, compassionate and hard working judge; and, through the mercy of God, to save my soul. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: I am a State District Judge for the 247th Family District Court of Harris County. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: I am humbled and honored that the people of Harris County elected me in November 2014 to be Judge of the 247th District Court. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: In 2015, I will work hard to bring greater efficiency to the 247th District Court and to work diligently to make judgments that apply the law fairly and impartially while treating lawyers and litigants with dignity and respect.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE: Do not ever let anybody tell you that you cannot do something. With hard work, a positive attitude and an indomitable spirit, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
ON THE COVER JUDGE JOHN SCHMUDE currently serves as the State District Judge for the 247th Family District Court of Harris County.
Judge John Schmude resides with his wife and two children in Spring. John is a lifetime Republican with a
strong record of service to children and to families - especially those children and families who have faced substantial challenges involving extreme poverty and abuse. John's wife, Kelly, was employed by Lockheed Martin Space Operations at NASA and MD Anderson Hospital before becoming a full time homemaker. John's commitment to family law is motivated by his strong faith and his recognition that families are the first and firmest foundation upon which any healthy society is built. John is an active member in Annunciation Catholic Church in downtown Houston.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
FORT BEND COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
FBISD Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre shares a few insights into his life, outlook and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: I had a complicated childhood. My mother died when I was five years old, and when I was seven, my father sent me to live in a faith-based children's home. I lived there until I finished high school. I was blessed to be well taken care of, and I received a good education that provided the foundation for future opportunities; but, it was challenging to be raised by people who were not my parents.
school. Professionally, I am proud that, during the past two years, FBISD has engaged more stakeholders than ever before in developing comprehensive plans for the future. An important result of the community engagement is that 74 percent of voters approved the November 2014 bond election. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: In 2015, I will begin my third year as superintendent of FBISD, so I look forward to moving out of the "transition" phase of organizational development as we begin to bring to fruition two years of extensive planning done in partnership with a strong School Board, an engaged community and a dedicated staff. I will also complete my 20th year in public education, which is a major milestone. Even more importantly, I will celebrate 30 years of marriage to the beautiful woman who has faithfully shared life's journey with me in a loving, supportive way.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: From a young age, I enjoyed performing, and public speaking. I wanted to be a performer or broadcast journalist. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: In terms of overall success, I have far exceeded my childhood dream, but I am definitely not doing what I originally dreamed! When I speak to students, I often remind them that it is likely they will end up in a job or profession they can't even conceive of today. In FBISD, our mission is to inspire and equip all students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine. I feel blessed that teachers and others in my life prepared me in that way. I began my career as Certified Public Accountant. Today, I am Superintendent/CEO of one of the largest public school districts in Texas and the U.S. Who knew!? AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: My primary mission in life is to glorify God in all I do. As a leader in public education, I feel I am fulfilling my calling to invest in the lives of others. The work we do as educators shapes the future of each child we touch, along with that of their families and any spouse or children they might have in the
future. Our work also shapes the future of our community. If our community is to thrive, public schools must send productive, contributing citizens into the workforce. We must develop leaders and prepare students to give back to their communities and invest in the lives of others. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: On a personal level, in 2014, I completed a doctorate degree after four years of graduate
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? SUPERINTENDENT DUPRE: To achieve your dreams, you must be a person of integrity in all things and invest in authentic relationships with others, including colleagues at all levels of the organization. This is different than simply "networking." You must be a life-long learner, and demonstrate you are willing to work hard. It's also important to be flexible, nimble, and willing to stretch the boundaries of the status quo. You must possess the courage to take risks, learn from your mistakes and setbacks, and keep pressing forward.
ON THE COVER FBISD SUPERINTENDENT DR. CHARLES DUPRE – Dr. Dupre is the first African American to serve as superintendent for the FBISD School District.
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FBISD Board President & Trustee Grayle James takes a moment to share a few insights into her life AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? GRAYLE JAMES: I grew up in California where my family has farmed since the 1850s. My mother worked on the farm and everyday I would accompany her to work. When I started school, she went to work while I was at school and then would pick me up after school and take me with her back to work. I learned to appreciate hard work, completing the job you are given, and the loyalty of my family to the family business.
for a $484 million Bond Package for FBISD. This will enable us to keep up with the growth in our community. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? GRAYLE JAMES: Looking ahead into 2015, our school district expects continued growth. We have a major project currently underway to align feeder patterns in our school system. We expect to complete this work in January. We also expect to open a new elementary school in 2015 and another in 2016. Additionally, the district will work to improve our technology infrastructure to facilitate the education of every student.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? GRAYLE JAMES: When I was growing up, I dreamed of working in an office and not on a farm! When I had the chance to go to college, I didn't know what I wanted to study. I especially remember telling my mother I didn't want to be a math teacher. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? GRAYLE JAMES: My childhood dream evolved because in my 20s I finished college and became a math teacher. I also taught science to high school students. I loved teaching and inspiring students to pursue their dreams. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? GRAYLE JAMES: Currently, my life's mission is to be a supportive, loving wife and to raise my children with love and integrity. At the same time, I am devoted to helping every student in Fort Bend ISD reach their full potential. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? GRAYLE JAMES: In my role on the Fort Bend ISD School Board, I have participated in numerous accomplishments.
School Board Trustees work as a team. We must work to build consensus on our path forward and have agreement in order to accomplish any goal. I have worked hard to facilitate our Board's team-building over the past year. As a result, we have hired Dr. Charles Dupre as superintendent of schools and he has demonstrated leadership, integrity and commitment to our students. Also. we have gotten voter approval
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? GRAYLE JAMES: To those striving to achieve their dream, I would say, "Great job! The first step to achieving something remarkable is to have a dream." Next I would advise the following: a) Never give up! -Obstacles are part of life and are unavoidable. b) Don't be afraid of change! -Circumstances change, opportunities change, and life will change; As our perspectives change, we can learn and grow and achieve. If we "fight" change, we will always struggle. c) Be a problem solver! -When you encounter an obstacle, challenge it and conquer it. Always, think creatively and find solutions; Excuses are not a wise option because problems rarely go away by themselves. Problems need problem solvers to fix them!
ON THE COVER FBISD PRESIDENT GRAYLE JAMES – Grayle James currently serves as the President of the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Businessman Durrel K. Douglas takes a moment to share a few insights into his life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS: I grew up in the South Park neighborhood of Houston, Texas on Selinsky Street. We lived in Crestmont Village, an apartment complex my mother managed. People tell me I have an "old soul" all the time and I believe this was because of the way my family raised me -- around people much older than myself. I remember my mother explaining the reasoning behind decisions she made so that I'd make wise decisions if I happened to be by myself. For instance, when I played outside and it was dark and I was called in, I would ask "Why," to which she'd respond: "You have to come inside because I have to get up early in the morning to go to work," instead of saying, "Because I said so." AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS: As a child, I wanted to be a lawyer. Looking back, I never really understood the reasoning behind it, but it may have been because that was one of the two ideal professions I'd heard of. If you wanted to be someone, you had to be either a doctor or a lawyer -- I chose lawyer. When I run into young children in passing -- on the elevator or so, that's one of my favorite things to ask them: What are you going to be when you grow up? AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS: I'll use one of the best answers I'd ever heard from a 4 year-old to answer this question. I was on the elevator at my apartment building heading to my car when I saw a mother and daughter already on the elevator. After telling both of the "Good morning," I asked the little girl how old she was and she told me she was 4. I asked her what she was going to be when she grew up, she paused and gave me an answer that gave me chills -- she said "5." I believe God
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS:Ahh...I grew my beard back and it's fuller than ever LOL. Years ago, I worked for Texas' prison system and couldn't wear facial hair. Once I resigned there, I told myself I'd never do two things: work somewhere I couldn't wear whatever I wanted and work somewhere I couldn't wear facial hair when I wanted to. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS: 2015 is going to be a great year. As tensions rise around certain issues, we'll make progress. This year is a mayoral year and things are already getting heated. Personally, I'm looking forward to spending time with my friends and family -- just making the most out of every day.
speaks to us through people, and that was God's way of reaching out to me through that 4 year old telling me to worry about the next step in life, not the end of the staircase. She could've said ballerina, doctor, lawyer or a multitude of other things, but she replied "5." I'd have to say my mission in life is to make it better for those around me. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS: As a consultant, I work on issue based campaigns, political campaigns and do a bit of advocacy work here and there. In Layman's terms, organizations hire me to strategize -- it seems to be one of my strengths. I work for myself, so I get to pick and choose issues that I work on and only choose issues/candidates that I care about.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? BUSINESSMAN DURREL DOUGLAS:The best advice I could give would be to follow your dream. Understand that most of their friends and families won't see the dream as clearly as they do. Understand that to follow your dream you'll lose friends and colleagues through envy and jealousy. Understand that it won't be as easy as it appears in your head. Understand that at the end of the day, you must follow your instinct.
ON THE COVER DURREL DOUGLAS is one of the CoFounders of the Houston Justice Coalition. He grew up in South Park on Selinsky Street. In 2005 he took a job as a correctional officer with the Texas De-
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Businesswoman Pamela Ellis takes a moment to share a few insights into her life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: I grew up in a very small town in Texas. For most of my childhood, my mother was a single working mom. I was the 3rd of 4 girls. My mother always encouraged me to work hard and be the best at whatever I set out to do. My grandmother, who was my greatest inspiration, was a huge influence in my life. Serving as our second mom, she taught me about the love of God and the power of prayer. As a child, when I wasn’t busy with church and after-school activities: girl scouts, sports, student associations, etc., I was looking for ways to earn money; cleaning houses for the elderly, selling Christmas cards, recycling aluminum cans, selling bags of pecans, you name it I did it. I was fascinated with making money. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: As a child, I don’t recall dreaming of a particular profession. My mother always encouraged me to be the best at whatever I chose to do. I specifically recall how she used to say, “I want you to be somebody.” By the time I got to college, my dream was to be “In-charge”, make a lot of money and help people. It was just that simple and in that order. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: My mission is life to serve God in all that I do. In serving God, I know that means to serve humankind. I am on a mission to “be somebody”. I’ve learned that what really makes you “somebody” is when can provide solutions to someone else’s problems. In that way, my mission is to encourage and foster opportunities for teen girls and young women to live the life of their dreams. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living?
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: I am very excited about 2015! 2015 marks my 13th year of business. I am looking forward to executing a new service delivery model. We are expanding our capabilities to offer services to a broader market thereby creating opportunities for substantial revenue increase. In 2015, my long anticipated book geared towards Human Resources professionals will be released in the fall of 2015.
BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: I am the Principal Consultant and Owner of Smahrt Solutions. Smahrt provides management consulting for fortune 500 companies and large public sector entities in the areas of Human Resources Management and Business Process Engineering. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: A recent accomplishment that I’d like to share would be the expansion of The Smahrt Girl Foundation, a non-profit that I established in 2003 as a scholarship fund for graduating seniors living in rural communities. In 2013, we expanded to a full program providing mentoring, resources and special programs for teen girls in rural and urban underserved communities. In 2014, we hosted our first charity gala which helped to raise funds for the Smahrt Girl Summer Camp this year.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? BUSINESSWOMAN PAMELA ELLIS: My advice to anyone out there striving to achieve their dreams is to become very aware of the moral and ethical values. Your values are at the root of everything you produce. I like to look at it as my personal constitution. It establishes what I believe (faith), how I live my life and why I live (purpose). Don’t worry about how your dreams will come true; just know that they will if you take action. You won’t have all the answers when you start, but start anyway. Learn everything you can that will equip you to achieve and sustain your dreams. Be open, yet never compromise your values, you will only end up with regrets. Allow God to order your steps, and make smart choices. Lying, cheating, or stealing your way to it will only cause your dream to be short-lived, or take longer. Be smart!
ON THE COVER PAMELA ELLIS is the Principal Consultant and Owner of Smahrt Solutions. Smahrt provides management consulting for fortune 500 companies and large public sector entities in the areas of Human Resources Management and Business Process Engineering. Ellis has managed
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Businessman Craig Joseph takes a moment to share a few insights into his life, outlook and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: I had a normal childhood growing up; although I was around our family business the majority of the time -- simply because I was raised by my grandparents. My mother lived next door to my grandparents, so I would spend the night with her on occasions. Growing up in the inner city was not as challenging as it is today. Everybody for the most part looked out for everybody; even in the absence of parents. But living with my grandparents was just what they wanted to do. Thus it kept me mainly around the restaurant and instilled a lot of values in me.
look for 2015? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: My outlook for 2015 is to take Houston’s This Is It Soul Food to a much higher level. Perhaps franchising the restaurant or even relocating to another city. I also would like to start a mentor program to train new business owners, passing the business on to my son (Christopher). I am attending the Goldman Sachs 10 Program to increase my knowledge of operating a business. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: The best advice, I believe, is to have commitment and dedication to your business. Never give up; because a door is close in your face. If one door is closing, go to another and try and try again. WD-40 didn't accomplish their goal until after the 39th time. That's how it became WD-40. I was turned down 8 times, but I kept on trying. Eventually the door will open. If you don't continue to try, how would you know whether or not you can do it? No one likes a quitter. There is greatness on the inside of all of us. We just have to expose it. God didn't make us a “good people”, He made us a “Great Nation”. There is “GREATNESS” on the inside of each of us. So always remember Joshua 1:8 – “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” So, put God first and you can't help but to win!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: As a child growing up I want to become a civil engineer. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: No, I didn't achieve that dream of becoming a civil engineer; because in the late 70's the engineering market was going down. And I prospects of getting a job as an engineer was slim to none. So, I decided to become a Houston Fire Fighter in 1980. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: My mission in life has always been to serve. Serving people has always been a passion of mine. As a matter of fact: that has been a family tradition for us. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH: Some of my recent accomplishments have been being selected in the top 50 Black
Professional & Entrepreneurs; my retirement from the City of Houston Fire Department after 34 years of service. I’m also proud and blessed to continue be affiliated with TIRR Memorial Hermann. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your out-
ON THE COVER BUSINESSMAN CRAIG JOSEPH – Craig Joseph is a well-known successful businessman who owns one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the Houston area.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, AND CONCERNS TO: YOURTHOUGHTMATTERS@GMAIL.COM
Businessman Bill Frazer takes a moment to share a few insights into his life, mission, and outlook AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: I grew up in a neighborhood with lots of families with lots of kids, plus we had a lot of family and friends of my parents who were always around our house. The one thing that was paramount was to be respectful of other people no matter who they are or how different they appear to be. We were also expected to work for whatever we wanted. My parents provided all the basics, everything else was up to me. So from an early age I had some sort of job, ultimately leading to waiting on tables in high school and throughout college. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: I wanted to own a restaurant. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: To live according to the Seven Christian Habits: A personal relationship with God, daily personal prayer, regular study of the Bible, adjusting my will to God’s will, service to others, maintaining a relationship with people who serve God, and maintaining stewardship of the resources provided to me. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: I give thanks each day for the loving relationship I have with my wife, Jean. We’ve been married for over 42 years and have 2 wonderful children, now grown and “out of the house”, who remind us of how truly blessed we are. But I also like to tell as many people as I can about two organizations I serve. One is with Volunteer Interfaith Caregivers – Southwest. Its mission is to help frail, elderly, and health-impaired people in the southwest Houston area remain independ-
rely completely on Medicaid funds for a place to live. These funds are woefully short of actual cost of care, and we are able to bridge the gap to provide a safe, clean and caring home that our residents and their families can be proud of.
ent in their own homes and to be able to meet their health care needs to preserve their quality of life. Our basic service is to help them meet very critical transportation needs, such as trips to doctor appointments and to the grocery store. Such basic needs are critical in helping them remain in their existing homes. Transportation needs of seniors is a growing problem in this City and we all need to do more to address these issues. As a Board member I’ve been able to help this group raise needed operating capital and to address some critical issues in data management and volunteer outreach. This group must be able to keep track of the seniors who need our services as well as volunteers who provide free transportation. Better computer and data systems help us deliver better service. The other organization I work with is a skilled nursing home in Baytown, which is part of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. As a Trustee I’ve been able to help the permanent staff solve some pressing financial issues. This has enabled the facility to keep up with falling Medicaid reimbursements and to utilize donations more effectively. Most of our residents
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: My goal for 2015 is to help the residents of the City of Houston how we can better utilize the resources we have to solve some very difficult and important issues. To do this will require being honest in our assessment of our pension systems and the condition of our streets and other infrastructure. It is a difficult task and it won’t be easy. But I firmly believe that by addressing these difficult issues now we will become better organized and the skills and hard work of the best and brightest people in the City will develop meaningful solutions. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER: Andrew Jackson’s mother gave him the following advice, and I’ve always liked to repeat it when someone starting their career asks me what advice I’d give. “Andrew….in this world you will have to make your own way. To do that you must have friends. You can make friends by being honest, and you can keep them by being steadfast. You must keep in mind that friends worth having will, in the long run, expect as much from you as they give to you.”
ON THE COVER BUSINESSMAN BILL FRAZER – Frazer plans to put his vast experience to work for the people of Houston should voters choose to elect him on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Businesswoman Keryl L. Douglas takes a moment to share a few insights into her life and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life for you as a child growing up? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: I borrow from Charles Dickens to say my childhood was both “The best of times AND the worst of times.” I grew up with a blessed, albeit somewhat ‘sheltered’ life that afforded me and my siblings, a positive, protected upbringing. But I also was raised in the deep racial unrest of the 60’s in the south. Blacks were still being lynched and oppressed. But our family went unscathed. We and others we knew were passionately engaged in efforts for social justice/civil rights. “Whites Only” signs still adorned water fountains and other accommodations. Yet Blacks we knew, especially my family, were undaunted and determinedly committed to advance, thrive, and achieve. I credit my wonderful parents, especially my mom, Johnnie M. Burgess for rearing us with strong conviction that NO man is superior, nor inferior to others; but ALL are created equal. Christianity was the pinnacle, foundation, and anchor of lives then, as now. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: First and foremost, I dreamt of being a mother, with hope and prayer of being even just a fraction of the mother my mother was. GOD blessed me in this regard with my wonderful son, James Matthew Douglas II, 11th grade honor student at Westbury Christian School. I dreamt of being successful and having a positive impact on society and the world. I continue to build upon both of these throughout what I pray and expect to be a very long, successful life -- Cliché, but true. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: My mission in life is to fulfill the purpose for which my GOD created, sent, called, equipped, and assigned me; including, to provide CHRISTIAN, positive upbringing for my son; to contribute positively to society,
again volunteered to me a few days ago how much he looks forward to going to college. I praise GOD I’ve been able to inspire, empower and open doors for many others to achieve as well through my professional work and volunteerism. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: My outlook for 2015 is again one of unrelenting faith, hope, and optimism as I believe and plead with GOD for a mighty move of HIS hand in my life, my family, sphere of friends; and in the hearts of people around the world. My outlook is fueled by my pleas to GOD for revival of monumental magnitude resulting in true and lasting positive change in society.
the world, and the advancement of humanity by helping establish, secure, and assure that ALL people are “free,” and empowered with access, opportunity, liberty, and justice. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Can you tell us a little about what you do for a living? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: I “do” law as my occupation; but for my true “ living,” I do all I can to help advance humanity, secure justice, freedom, and equality for ALL by serving GOD and humanity in meaningful ways that advance society. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: When there are so many dismal statistics regarding education and our youth, I praise GOD for HIS blessings in raising my son who is well-rounded, Christian, prayerful, conscientious, caring, compassionate, accomplished, academically blessed, self-directed, studious, eager to pursue college and make positive impact on the world. Already sought out by major universities, he
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? ATTORNEY KERYL L. DOUGLAS: My advice to all regarding their “DREAMS:” A) ALWAYS Have a Current Dream; B) NEVER Give Up on Achieving EACH Dream; C) COMMIT to choosing dreams that HONOR GOD and ADVANCE HUMANITY.
ON THE COVER KERYL L. DOUGLAS, avid volunteer and attorney in private practice in Houston, graduated summa cum laude, with standing of #5 out of 202 students, from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in May 2008. She passed the Bar upon first attempt and is admitted to State of Texas Bar and the Federal Bar. Founder and owner of Advancing America and Optimum Solutions Consulting, she’s experienced in public affairs, political empowerment/voter mobilization strategies, fund development, mediation, advocacy, writing, public speaking, poise and etiquette coaching, business development/branding.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, AND CONCERNS TO: YOURTHOUGHTMATTERS@GMAIL.COM
City of Houston Controller Ronald C. Green shares a few insights into his life, 2015 outlook and mission AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up? CONTROLLER GREEN: I was fortunate to have loving parents and grandparents who encouraged my inquisitiveness and school interests. Even as a youngster, I had a strong sense of community, in my case Houston’s Third Ward—where I still live.
involved in the aggressive re-financing of the City’ municipal bonds; our office has seen successful bond transactions that will save the city well over $450 million this next decade, money that will fund services for our citizens. I am also proud that the Controller’s Office has a heightened level of transparency and that more people are aware of what exactly this office accomplishes.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up? CONTROLLER GREEN: I always knew I wanted to be a part of my community and be of help to others; that came from my parents I think.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015? CONTROLLER GREEN: My outlook for 2015 is very optimistic. Houston is doing well, post-recession. The City’s two main sources of revenue—property and sales taxes—have rebounded significantly from their lows during the recession, and that translates into City services such a libraries and parks and health clinics that benefit citizens across the city. There is an infectious civic pride in Houston—and, I think, the notion that we are all better off when there is a lessening of any “prosperity divide” among our citizens.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different? CONTROLLER GREEN: Early on, I thought I wanted to be a doctor, and so I attended Debakey High School for Health Professions. When I was attending the University of Houston, I became interested in social issues and the sense of serving the community became even stronger. After I received my BS degree from the UH School of Social Science, I attended the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University, and then while I served on Houston City Council, I went back to UH and obtained my MBA. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life? CONTROLLER GREEN: I do not have a single “mission in life.” Rather, I have a mission to serve my city—and to elucidate the complexities of municipal finance to the public; a mission to serve and mentor young people; a mission to especially encourage and empower young AfricanAmericans as they begin their careers; a mission to collaboratively work with other municipalities in our country to address the large challenges cities face—and my position on the Board of Directors of the National League of Cities has given me that opportunity. Finally, of course, I have the all-important mission of being an encour-
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream? CONTROLLER GREEN: Dreams need a plan. Most dreams that are realized have a lot of hard work and commitment behind them. Most dreams are team efforts really, and include parents and teachers and supportive friends. I do think it is important to choose your friends wisely and to play within the rules. I also think it’s important to not jeopardize your dreams by doing something stupid on Facebook or YouTube!!
ON THE COVER aging and loving father to Christopher, as my parents were to me. AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share? CONTROLLER GREEN: I am especially proud that as Controller I have been
CITY OF HOUSTON CONTROLLER RONALD C. GREEN – Ronald C. Green was elected as the first African American Houston City Controller on December 12, 2009.
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Attorney Ben Hall, State Representative Sylvester Turner, Attorney Sean Roberts, and other Candidates Running for Mayor Are Expected to At Some Point Ask for our Vote/Support During the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election Cycle Aubrey R. Taylor Houston Business Connections Magazine The 2015 election cycle is a very important one for all Houstonians, especially African Americans. And I believe we may be on the verge of seeing a record turnout if the candidates play their cards right. Are you ready for what could very well evolve into one of the most exciting and competitive races we’ve seen in decades? Well, I encourage you to get your popcorn ready. Anyway, as part of our mission to inform and empower you, I’m imploring you to learn as much as you can about each of the candidates running for mayor of Houston in the upcoming Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.
THE FOCUS OF THIS REPORT These are the three African Americans (Attorney Ben Hall, State Rep. Sylvester Turner and Attorney Sean Roberts) I expect to be in the race. Now, I’m not one hundred percent sure Sean Roberts will be there in the end, but at this time I will include him in the field based on what I’ve been told. A CANDIDATE RUNNING FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON WHO VALUES US AND WANT OUR VOTE AND SUPPORT “At this time Ben Hall is the only 2015 Candidate running for City of Houston Mayor who is seeking our support. Hall is asking for our prayers, vote, and support in his bid to become only the second African American to serve as Houston’s mayor.” OTHER CANDIDATES ALSO RUNNING FOR MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HOUSTON
I fully expect and anticipate that, Attorney Chris Bell, former mayor of Kemah Bill King, Councilman Stephen Costello, Councilman Oliver Pennington, Attorney Eric Dick, Businessman Joe Ferreira, and Businessman Marty McVey will at some point make a push to demonstrate their desire to receive our vote and support like Attorney Ben Hall has already done.
OUR VOTE COULD BE THE DIFFERENCE
1991. State Rep. Turner also lost his second bid for mayor of Houston back in 2003. According to the information gathered from the Texas Secretary of State’s website, State Rep. Turner has never really been challenged in any of his re-election bids for State Representative for House District 139 in Houston Texas. Thus, he’s been re-elected year after year without being challenged.
EMPOWER YOURSELF My prayer and hope is that you find this “SPECIAL REPORT” useful as you are going to have people in the news media, campaign operatives, bloggers, and social media folks also feeding you information (and in some cases misinformation) between now and the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election date. So check out the charts and pies below to inform and empower yourself.
ATTORNEY BEN HALL’S FIRST AND ONLY RUN FOR PUBLIC OFFICE
The demographics of Houston is changing very rapidly. So, I believe, that any candidate who wants to represent a city as diverse as the City of Houston should be compelled to demonstrate their willingness to work with every segment of the Bayou City’s citizenry.
WE MUST MAKE AN INFORMED VOTING DECISION IN 2015 This report is intended to assist you in your quest to become a little bit more informed as it relates to how Ben Hall, State Rep. Turner, and Sean Roberts have performed in their past runs for public office. Attorney Ben Hall has run for office once — and lost. Attorney Sean Roberts has also run for office once — and lost. State Rep. Sylvester Turner lost his first bid for office back in 1984 when he tried to become a Harris County Commissioner by running against Commissioner El Franco Lee. State Rep. Turner also lost his first bid for mayor of Houston back in
In his first attempt at becoming Houston’s mayor, (back in 2013) attorney Ben Hall came up well short of his goal of becoming mayor for the city of Houston. Back on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 in the City of Houston Mayoral Election, Ben Hall joined a field of (7) seven other candidates seeking to unseat Mayor Annise Parker.
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BEN HALL’S FIRST RUN To set the back-drop: Mayor Annise Parker had narrowly escaped a runoff election in the previous City of Houston Mayoral Election which took place back on Tuesday, November 8, 2011. So many in the political world thought she (Mayor Parker) was vulnerable, and would surely be forced to a runoff election in 2013 against the well-funded businessman (Ben Hall) and others seeking to prevent her from serving her third and final term as mayor of the Bayou City. However, this would not be the case; as none of her challengers were able to gain much traction in their bid to unseat Mayor Parker. And Ben Hall, the second place finisher in the race, who was basically entrusting others with the responsibility of marketing his campaign, found himself stuck with a group of consultants and strategists who simply appeared to have no answer for the political strategy being employed by the incumbent mayor. Hall’s team back in 2013 appeared to seemingly just run out of ideas. I mean, the team Ben Hall relied on back in 2013 was seemingly rendered ineffective by Mayor Parker’s relentless assault on him. But I expect his strategy to be much different in 2015, as he has one of the best African American consultants/strategists riding shotgun with him this time around. The person I’m speaking of is Justin Jordan, the founder of Patriot Group Strategies.
dan brings to the table for his 2015 bid for mayor of Houston. Jordan is the founder of Houston, Texas based Patriot Group Strategies. This firm is a premier political consulting firm that specializes in campaign strategy, marketing and fundraising. Jordan has a proven track record. And I believe that he’s one of the best and brightest political consultants the African American community has to offer.
THE JORDAN ADVANTAGE
be seen as to whether they are going to be able to develop a strategy that will turn out African Americans for State Rep. Sylvester Turner.
THE TEAM BEING ASSEMBLED BY STATE REP. TURNER HAS CLOSE TIES TO CURRENT CITY OF HOUSTON MAYOR ANNISE PARKER Pictured on the button below is Grant Martin, Mayor Annise Parker, and Chuck Wolfe. I’m not sure whether Chuck Wolfe is currently working on State Rep. Turner’s campaign or not. This photo of Martin, Parker, and Wolfe is from back in 2009 when Mayor Annise Parker was seeking re-election. Chuck Wolfe is the former President and CEO at the Victory Fund & Institute. Victory helps LGBT leaders (such as Mayor Annise Parker) win elections and serve effectively — to give the LGBT community a powerful voice in decisions that affect their lives.
Patriot Group Strategies has a history of producing effective and hard hitting campaign ads for its clients. The addition of Justin Jordan to Hall’s team could very well give Ben Hall the advantage over any of the other candidates (including State Rep. Turner) who may seek to capture the hearts of African American voters in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election — especially if they don’t plan to ask for the African American vote directly.
Here’s a quick look at how the 2013 race for mayor of the City of Houston turned out:
NOT SURE ABOUT SEAN ROBERTS At this time, I am not sure who attorney Sean Robert will be using to assist with his branding, marketing, and campaign strategy efforts; but as soon as I know something, I’ll be sure to pass the information along via our blog.
A LOOK AT THE TEAM BEING ASSEMBLED BY STATE REP. TURNER In the Tuesday, November 5, 2013 City of Houston Mayoral Election, Mayor Annise Parker won the right to serve her third and final term in office by receiving 98,124 votes to avoid a runoff election. Mayor Parker was challenged back in 2013 by Charyl L. Drab, who received (788) votes, Eric B. Dick (18,368), Don Cook (1,740), Keryl Burgess Douglas (1,227), Ben Hall (48,604), Michael Fitsimmons (1,195), Victoria Lane (1,814), and Derek A. Jenkins, who finished with 834 votes at the end of the night.
In case you don’t already know, Grant Martin, Pat Strong, and Sue Davis, are all closely tied to Mayor Annise Parker and have played pivotal roles in her previous mayoral bids in some form or another. I’m saying this because I would be really surprised if Mayor Annise Parker does not endorse State Rep. Sylvester Turner. If she does, this could give Rep. Turner an edge over the other candidates seeking the vote of the LGBT Community.
BEN HALL TURNS TO ONE OF THE MOST EXPERIENCED AFRICAN AMERICAN CONSULTANTS IN AMERICA Unlike his 2013 campaign strategy where he (Ben Hall) used an assortment of political consultants and strategists; he seems to have learned from some of the “POLITICAL-NEW COMER BLUNDERS” he made in his failed 2013 attempt to become mayor of Houston.
A VERY SMART MOVE As of the date we released this report, it appears that Ben Hall is going to rely heavily on the creativity, ingenuity, expertise, and experience Justin Jor-
STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER MAY ALREADY HAVE A LEG UP ON THE OTHER 2015 CITY OF HOUSTON MAYORAL CANDIDATES DESIRING TO CAPTURE THE HEART OF THE LGBT VOTERS IN HOUSTON
EXPERIENCE MATTERS As it stands right now, it appears that State Rep. Sylvester Turner is going to place his hopes for Election Day success in the hands of: Grant Martin, Pat Strong, and Sue Davis according to published reports. I believe all three of these individuals are very experienced at what they do. However, it remains to
Having the experience of this threesome (Martin, Strong, and Davis) on board is a good thing from an experience standpoint for Rep. Turner. However, he (State Rep. Turner) could wind up having to play a very difficult balancing act, especially given some of Mayor Annise Parker’s recent activity; such as the stance she took against, local pastors, Turner’s all star political team is very experienced, but
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they very well may have their work cut out for them. So we’re just going to have to take the wait-and-see approach as the building of his complete campaign team unfolds.
BEN HALL IS A PERSON OF CHARACTER SAYS CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN
U.S. Congressman Al Green, who represents the 9th Congressional District of Texas had this to say about his friend Ben Hall some time ago: “A friend will tell you Ben Hall is a person of great character and integrity. Rev. William “Bill” Lawson reminds me that reputation is what people think of you and character is who you are. Ben Hall has a great reputation and is known large and wide for his largess and for what he has done for those we consider the least in our community,” said Congressman Al Green. “That largess means a lot to the people I represent. He has represented the least, the last and the lost and he has earned a great reputation for it. Hall has demonstrated to me his character. Character is who you really are. I have been there in quiet moments when we have had to make some crucial decisions that affect the lives of others and I can tell you that in every moment when Benjamin had an opportunity to be of service to someone in need he always displayed the character necessary to stand up for the people who can’t stand up for themselves. He’s a person of character.”
CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN IS ENDORSING BEN HALL AGAIN IN 2015 Congressman Al Green doesn’t appear to be shaken by the under-achieving performance of Ben Hall back in the 2013 City of Houston Mayoral Election. And it appears that he’s going to stick by his
friend (Ben Hall) as he seeks to become the next mayor for the city of Houston in 2015, according to information I’ve received.
individuals in the following types of injury cases: 18wheeler accidents, car wrecks, motorcycle accidents, explosions, medical negligence, defective products, bad pharmaceuticals, dram shop liability, premises liability (slip and fall), Jones Act and other maritime/seaman cases. The firm also represents individuals or businesses in first-party insurance actions/bad faith insurance disputes and other “business tort” cases.
REV. WILLIAM “BILL” LAWSON IS BACK ON BOARD TO SUPPORT BEN HALL IN 2015
LET’S WAIT AND SEE It still remains to be seen, as to whether Sean Roberts will officially enter the field of mayoral candidates in 2015; and whether or not he has the capacity to raise the finances and assemble the kind of team needed to be competitive in a mayoral race also remains to be seen. We will have to just take the wait-and-see-approach as the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election unfolds.
HERE’S A LOOK AT HOW SEAN ROBERTS PERFORMED IN HIS RUN FOR U.S. CONGRESS BACK IN THE 2010 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY ELECTION William A. Lawson is the founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. He is now retired from that position. But still very active, and one of the best-known community and civil rights leaders the African American community has to offer. He’s also the treasurer for the Ben Hall for Mayor of Houston campaign in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.
In the Tuesday, March 2, 2010 Democratic Primary, Attorney Sean Roberts, and former threeterm Houston City Councilman for District B, Jarvis Johnson, tried what some considered to be an UNTHINKABLE endeavor. These two young guns in the Democratic Party tried to dethrone Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the U.S. Representative for the 18th Congressional District of Texas. At first glance, the race appeared that it would turn out to be somewhat competitive. Especially, since the well-known congresswoman was virtually ignoring her would be challengers.
HOW IT TURNED OUT NOW LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT SEAN ROBERTS, A HOUSTON AREA BOARD CERTIFIED ATTORNEY WHO MAY BE RUNNING FOR MAYOR IN 2015
As election night unfolded, it became clearly evident that Roberts and Johnson were not ready for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. In public she played nice with her opponents. She was even quoted in one article prior to election day as saying, “I hope my opponents will have long services as council members and lawyers.” If you didn’t get it, she was basically saying that the pair did stand a chance against her. And she was right.
Here’s What Happened on Election Day:
Attorney Sean Roberts is the new-kid-on-the block. He’s the founder and lead attorney for The Roberts Law Firm which specializes in representing individuals and their families catastrophically injured or killed by the negligence, gross negligence or incompetence of others according to published information on his firm. As principal of the firm, Sean Roberts has been board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law since 2005. The Roberts Law Firm represents
Sean Robert came up short in his bid to become a U.S. Congressman, as he could only finish third in the Tuesday, March 2, 2010 Democratic Primary. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee made quick work of both Johnson and Roberts as she flexed her muscle by garnering more than 21,570
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votes that night. Jarvis Johnson finished second with 9,133 votes, and Sean Roberts ended the night with 1,508 votes. At first glance this could appear as a major victory by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee; but the voter turnout in this election was unacceptable. According to information we obtained from the Harris County Clerk’s website the 18th Congressional District has more than 339,955 registered voters. Anyway, Attorney Sean Roberts will need a lot more than 1,508 votes if his goal is to become mayor of Houston. At best, he would be a longshot if he remains in the crowded 2015 field of mayoral contenders. So, I would be very surprised if he stays in the 2015 race for mayor. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if he (Sean Roberts) opts out of the 2015 mayoral race, and then re-emerges to run for something in the Tuesday, March 1, 2016 Democratic Primary taking place next year.
NOW LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT SYLVESTER TURNER, THE MAN “SOME” POLITICAL OPERATIVES FEEL IS THE FRONT-RUNNER IN THE 2015 RACE FOR MAYOR OF THE CITY OF HOUSTON
For some reason, there are many political operatives and pundits who feel like the third time could be the charm for State Representative Sylvester Turner. As a matter of fact, some have already anointed him the front-runner in the race for Mayor of Houston in 2015. However, I think its a little premature for all of that. But I digress. Anyway, it’s not my job to deal with hypothetical situations. Nor do I rely on the information being fed to me by the political machines already hard at work trying to put their own spin on the 2015 City of Houston mayor’s race. But I am pleased to inform you that I have taken on the job of trying to do my very best to inspire, encourage, and inform the readers of Houston Business Connections Magazine as the 2015 campaign season unfolds.
THE CHALLENGE FOR STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER State Representative Sylvester Turner has a huge challenge ahead of him. And that challenge is to not allow the front-runner status he’s been anointed with to lull him to sleep. Sometimes, being anointed the front-runner can give a good candidate a false sense of security. And State Rep. Turner must avoid having this happen to him during this election cycle. To win, I believe State Rep. Sylvester Turner must run his race and formulate his strategy as though he’s trailing by double-digits in the polls. At least that’s my bit of
advice to him at this time. STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER MUST PROVE HE CAN CLOSE THE DEAL IN A RACE WHERE HE HAS AN OPPONENT
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2014 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
To become mayor of Houston, State Rep. Sylvester Turner must do something he’s never done before; and that’s to close the deal in a mayoral race; or any other race where he has a formidable opponent running against him.
PAY CLOSE ATTENTION A careful look at the information below will give you a better feel and understanding for why I’m saying that he (State Rep. Turner) must prove he can close the deal. The information pies included in this report will clearly show why I’m saying, State Rep. Turner has never really won a political contest where he’s had a formidable opponent. But please don’t take this the wrong way. All, I’m trying to point out here, is that State Rep. Sylvester Turner has his work cut out for him. So, please don’t go around town saying that I’m against State Rep. Turner, because that would be a flat out lie.
In this 2014 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 3,847 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
VOTER TURNOUT WILL BE KEY My hope is to see a very high voter turnout from African Americans, and other voting groups on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. And at the end of the day, I’m praying for good clean campaign races full of energy and fresh ideas. So please don’t let other media outlets spin the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election in a way that sways your vote to their candidate of choice by making this a partisan election. Party affiliation has no place in this election. So implore you to do your own homework on each and every candidate going forward.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2012 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2012 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
In this 2012 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner was able to beat Republican, Sam Brocato by receiving 39,022 votes. At the end of the day, Sam Brocato received 11,604 in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2014 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW THE 2014 MIDTERM ELECTION STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2012 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2012 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 2014 Midterm Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 21,802 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2014 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS
In this 2012 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 5,231 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
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ceived 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 35,220 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2010 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2010 MIDTERM ELECTION
In this 2010 Midterm Election for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 20,842 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2010 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2010 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 2010 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 6,213 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2008 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
In this 2008 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, re-
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2008 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2008 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 2008 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 17,785 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2006 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2006 MIDTERM ELECTION
In this 2006 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 1,221 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2004 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2004 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
In this 2004 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 30,151 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2004 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2004 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 2006 Midterm Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 13,969 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2006 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2006 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 2004 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 3,006 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
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PERFORMED IN HIS 2002 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2002 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2003 BID FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON
In this Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 4,504 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas. In the Tuesday, November 4, 2003 City of Houston Mayoral Election, nine candidates faced off in the race for the open mayoral seat. Orlando Sanchez and Bill White made the runoff by finishing with (98,600 votes for Sanchez) and (112,916 votes for White) respectively. Anthony M. Dutrow received(405) votes, Jack Josey Terence (323), John Worldpeace (368), Douglas Robb (193), Sylvester Turner (87,267), Luis Ralph Ullrich Jr. (311), and Veronica Michelle Gregory finished with 385 votes at the end of the night. Bill White went on to defeat Orlando Sanchez in the Saturday, December 6, 2003 runoff election by a vote count of (136,618 votes for Bill White) to (81,830 votes for Orlando Sanchez) respectively. By defeating Sanchez, Bill White earned the right to serve his first term as Houston’s mayor.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2002 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2002 MIDTERM ELECTION
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2000 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2000 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
In this 2000 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 22,642 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
In this 2000 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 1,824 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1998 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1998 MIDTERM ELECTION
In this 1998 Midterm Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 12,068 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1998 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1998 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 2000 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 2000 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY In this 2002 Midterm Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 18,559 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER
In this 1998 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 870 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
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opposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 11,944 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1996 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1996 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
In this 1996 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 17,194 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1994 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1994 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
In this 1994 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 4,278 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1996 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER THE 1996 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1992 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1992 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1991 BID FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON, TEXAS
In this 1996 Democratic Primary race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other candidate was in the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 2,522 votes were still recorded for him in the race for State Representative for House District 139 in Texas.
In the Tuesday, November 5, 1991 City of Houston Mayoral Election, Mayor Kathryn J. “Kathy” Whitmire lost her seat by finishing In this 1992 Presidential Election race for House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, rethird, behind Bob Lanier, ceived 100% of the vote; but he was running unand Sylvester Turner in her bid to opposed. That means, no other candidate was in serve a sixth term as Houston’s the race but State Representative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, 19,542 votes were mayor. Bob Lanier made the runoff still recorded for him in the race for State Represen- election by receiving (138,096) tative for House District 139 in Texas. votes, to Sylvester Turner’s (113,782) votes. Mayor Whitmire HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER could only muster (63,631) votes as HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW PERFORMED IN HIS 1992 BID FOR election night voting closed. Willie M. Reid received (787) votes to STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS PERFORMED IN HIS 1994 BID FOR HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN round out the field that night. Bob RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS THE 1992 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY Lanier went on to defeat Sylvester Turner in the Saturday, December 7, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN In this 1992 Democratic Primary race for 1991 runoff election. Lanier received THE 1994 MIDTERM ELECTION House District 139, State Rep. Sylvester (152,792) votes, to Sylvester Turner, received 100% of the vote; but he was running unopposed. That means, no other Turner’s (135,173) votes to earn the In this 1994 Midterm Election race for House candidate was in the race but State Represen- right to serve his first term as HousDistrict 139, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, retative Sylvester Turner. At the end of the day, ceived 100% of the vote; but he was running unton’s mayor. 4,112 votes were still recorded for him in the
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HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVETER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1990 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1990 MIDTERM ELECTION State Rep. Sylvester Turner was re-elected in the 1990 Midterm Election for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT HOW STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER PERFORMED IN HIS 1990 BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE 1990 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY State Representative Sylvester Turner gained the Democratic nomination in the 1990 Democratic Primary race for House District 139 in Texas.
HERE’S THE FIRST POLITICAL WIN RECORDED BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE SYLVESTER TURNER Sylvester Turner was elected to the Texas House of Representatives back in 1988 to serve the people of House District 139 in Harris County, Texas.
HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT THE FIRST POLITICAL DEFEAT STATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNER EXPERIENCED In 1984, Sylvester Turner launched his career in politics by facing off against Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 1 El Franco Lee in the Democratic primary. Turner suffered a loss to El Franco Lee in his first bid for public office. _________________________________________ HAVE QUESTIONS? Call (832)212-8735 and ask for me, Aubrey R. Taylor if you have any questions regarding these charts, or would like to discuss your inclusion on the blog or inside Houston Business Connections Magazine. I can be reached directly at (832)894-1352 if you would like to make us your media partner.
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LEADERS WHO VALUE US I
HARRIS COUNTY
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Favorable Jury Verdict Should Result in Victory for Voters and Religious Liberty! Great news...the jury returned a verdict that should allow the people to vote on Mayor Parker's Unequal Rights Ordinance. Over the past eight months, a coalition of pastors and community leaders have worked together to repeal Mayor Annise Parker's pro-LGBT so-called "Equal Rights Ordinance." A lawsuit was filed (Woodfill v Parker) after Parker and her legal team invalidated the petitions of approximately 55,000 Houstonians who sought a referendum vote on Parker's Unequal Rights Ordinance. "The Mayor's lawyers went to extraordinary lengths to discredit, demean, denigrate and disqualify as many petitions and signatures as possible. Thankfully, in spite of an incredible amount of detail presented and even oft repeated by the city's attack team, our God has again raised His standard of justice," stated Dr. F.N. Williams, lead plaintiff for the pastors of the No UNequal Rights Coalition and Senior Pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church as well as President of Houston Ministers Against Crime. During the two week trial, the Mayor and her legal team of fifteen lawyers attempted to use the power of government to intimidate and threaten those who opposed her LGBT agenda, including attacking pastors, citizens, and even my family. "We are thankful that the
PEOPLE FIGHTING FOR RELIGOUS LIBERTY AND FREEDOM IN HOUSTO: Jared Woodfill (top left) former chairman of the Harris County Republican Party. Woofill is also a candidate for Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. Dr. F.N. Williams (top right) lead plaintiff for the pastors of the No UNequal Rights Coalition and Senior Pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church as well as President of Houston Ministers Against Crime. Pastor Henan Castano (bottom right) an influential Hispanic pastor and network leader as well as one of the "Houston Five" subpoenaed by Mayor Annis Parker. God of justice stood with this David again against the Goliath of the machinery of city government in the hands of those like Annise Parker intent on serving her personal agenda even at the cost of voting rights of the people," added Pastor Hernan Castano, an influential Hispanic
pastor and network leader as well as one of the "Houston Five" subpoenaed by the Mayor. Judge Robert Schaffer will now apply the ruling to the almost 55,000 individuals who signed the petition. I am confident he will conclude we had the requisite 17,269 signatures
necessary for the people to vote on this issue. I want to thank all of you who have been praying over this case. I also want to thank the Houston Area Pastor Council and the thousands of grassroots activists across the country who stood with us as
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we fought for religious liberty and voting rights!
Jared Jared Woodfill
VICTORIA LANE FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON IN 2015
ELECTION DAY IS: TUES. NOV., 3, 2015
“As your next mayor I will use my 40 years of business experience to reduce our debt; Make Houston the “Tourism Capital” of the South; Modernize and repair our streets; Improve our education system; Employ local contractors for city government projects; Make Houston more enviornmental friendly; Reduce Houston’s crime rate; Create a Civilian Review Board; Equip every HPD Officer with a body camera; Reform the grand jury system; And bring good moral leadership back to Houston’s City Hall.”
-- Victoria Lane
- VICTORIA LANE Candidate for Mayor of Houston, Texas
Are You in the right lane? “The culture of Houston is off track. If you read the book of Genesis in the 19th Chapter of the Bible you will see how God totally destroyed the city of Sodom and Gomorrah for some of the very same wickedness we’re allowing to shape the culture of Houston.” -- Victoria Lane
We need good Governance and Moral Leadership at City Hall!
Political Ad Paid for by Victoria Lane for Mayor Micaela Gomez, Treasurer
MIKE NEEDHAM General Manager Ben E. Keith Company Mike began his career with Ben E. Keith in 1991, after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a BA in History. He has served in many capacities during his tenure with the company including Warehouseman, District Sales Representative, Produce Specialist, Purchasing Manager, District Sales Manager, and Operations Manager. Since 1997, he has served as the Assistant General Manager and in 2008, was named the General Manager of the San Antonio Division. In July 2014, he was named the General Manager of the new Houston Division.
SCOTT DAVISON Assistant General Manager Ben E. Keith Company Scott, a Sam Houston State University graduate with a BS in Agriculture Business, has been with Ben E. Keith since 1995. He has held positions such as District Sales Representative, District Sales Manager, and Branch Manager for the Conroe Sales Office. In 2008, Scott was named an Assistant General Manager.
JERRY DUBOSE Assistant General Manager Ben E. Keith Company Jerry is a graduate of Texas A&M who began his career with Ben E. Keith in 1996 as a DSR in the Bryan/College Station area. In 2001, he was promoted to a DSM and then in 2009 was promoted again to the Director of Sales Training and moved to the General Office. In July 2014, Jerry became the newest Assistant General Manager in the Houston Division.
MARK HERZOG Director of Purchasing Ben E. Keith Company Mark came to Ben E. Keith in 2007, with 20 years of food service experience, including Operations as well as extensive
Purchasing duties. He has also served as a Senior Merchandiser and as a Director of Purchasing before joining Ben E. Keith. Mark began his tenure as the Director of Purchasing in our new Houston Division in 2008.
LOU CITRO Branch Controller Ben E. Keith Company Lou began his career as a CPA in Public Accounting in 1981 after graduating with a BS in Accountancy from Northern Illinois University. Lou has over 30 years of accounting experience, most of which has been in the food industry with the following companies; Nabisco Brands, RTM (Arby’s), Huntington Restaurant Group (Chili’s/Denny’s), and Shamrock Foods. Before joining Ben E Keith Foods in July of 2012, Lou spent ten years with Shamrock Foods as their Controller.
DREW SCUDDAY Marketing Manager Ben E. Keith Company Drew joined Ben E. Keith Company in 2007. He has a BBA in Finance from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University. Beginning his career at the San Antonio Division, he has held positions as a District Sales Representative, VPT Analyst, and Business Development /Marketing Specialist. In 2012, Drew was named the Marketing Manager for the Houston Division.
IRENE GALVAN Credit Manager Ben E. Keith Company Irene began her Ben E Keith career in March 2001. She held the position of Assistant Credit Manager in the San Antonio Division for the past 11 years. In 2012, Irene was named the Credit Manager for the Houston division.
SHAUN MCFAUL Operations Manager Ben E. Keith Company Shaun began his Ben E. Keith career in 1999. He has an AA in Business Management. Shaun started his career at the Ben E. Keith Foods division in Amarillo working in several warehouse positions. In 2005 Shaun was promoted to Operations Manager in the Albuquerque Division, Shaun also served as the Safety Manager, DOT Compliance Manager, Transportation Manager and Sanitation Manager while at the Albuquerque Division. In 2012, Shaun moved to Houston to be the Operations Manager.
CRAIG VAUGHN Information Systems Manager Ben E. Keith Company Craig joined Ben E. Keith Company in 1998 as an I.S. Support Specialist for the Oklahoma City Division. He transferred to Amarillo to assume the role of I.S. Support Manager in 2003. Craig is a graduate of UCO with a BBA in Management Information Systems. In 2008, Craig was named the I.S. Support Manager for the Houston Division.
Grayle James JAMES WALLACE Transportation Manager Ben E. Keith Company James began his career in 1994 as a local Route Service Associate for the Dallas/Fort Worth division. He delivered in the Houston and Collage Station markets. As Ben E. Keith grew in the market so did his career. He moved from Route Service Associate to lead RSA then on to be the first supervisor in the Houston market. In 2010, James was named the Transportation Manager for the Houston Division.
President Fort Bend ISD - Position 2 Term Expires - 2015 Grayle James was elected to Position 2 in May 2012. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and her Secondary Education teaching
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credentials in mathematics and physical sciences from California State University, Bakersfield. Grayle has volunteered for many years at multiple FBISD schools, and has served as the PTO/PTA President for Lakeview Elementary, First Colony Middle School and Kempner High School. In the past, she has served as PTO/PTA Treasurer and VIPS Coordinator, as well as serving on the FBISD Parent Advisory, Health Advisory and Discipline Advisory committees. Grayle and her husband, David, have three children, who all currently attend or have graduated from FBISD schools.
Dave Rosenthal Vice President Fort Bend ISD - Position 7 Term Expires - 2016 Dave Rosenthal was elected to Position 7 in May 2013. Dave is a geophysicist with a private oil and gas firm in Houston and more than 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. He graduated with a Master of Arts Degree in Geological Sciences in 1987 from the University of Texas at Austin and received a Bachelor of Science degree (cum laude) in Geology from the University of Delaware in 1983. Dave and his wife, Joan, have three children, two of which attend Fort Bend ISD schools.
Jenny Bailey Secretary Fort Bend ISD - Position 6 Term Expires - 2015 Jenny Bailey was elected to Position 6 in May 2012. Jenny worked for the Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC), a financial firm specializing in teacher retirement annuities, as a manager, project coordinator and research analyst. She also worked for Nova Pension Valuations (NPV) as retirement plan administrator. Jenny received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Bowling Green State University of Ohio in 1984. Jenny’s school volunteer experience includes serving on the PTO, fundraising committees, room parent, and a Junior Achievement teacher, providing her numerous opportunities to interact with
teachers and parents. Besides being an active volunteer in FBISD, her other volunteer experience includes First Colony Community Association, Fort Bend Boys Choir, Boy Scouts of America, and First United Methodist Church in Missouri City. Jenny and her husband, Bob, have two sons enrolled in FBISD schools. They have been residents in Missouri City since 1998.
Jason Burdine Fort Bend ISD - Position 1 Term Expires - 2017 Jason Burdine was elected to Position 1 in 2014. His family has called Fort Bend their home for the past seven years. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Education Degree. As an independent contractor with Investment Professionals, Jason has earned numerous accolades for his commitment to exemplary service. He currently partners with a money management firm that specializes in the area of Educational Trusts. In the Fort Bend community, Jason mentors at-risk youth, and serves as a member of the Ridgemont Elementary and Early Childhood Center’s Campus-Based Leadership Team. Other community involvement has included volunteering at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, where over the past ten years he has logged a total of 500 volunteer hours. Additionally, he has served on the District Strategic Steering Committee working collaboratively on the Master Facilities Plan for FBISD. Jason has two young children that will be attending Fort Bend ISD schools in the near future.
KP George Fort Bend ISD - Position 5 Term Expires - 2017 KP George was elected to Position 5 in 2014. He grew up in a tiny village in South India. He began his education learning the local language as he walked barefoot to get to school. As he did his homework in his straw hut by the light of a kerosene lamp and helped his parents farm before and after school, KP dreamed of achieving his greatest goal: coming to the land of opportunity and living the American Dream. His hard work propelled him out of the poverty of his hometown. He arrived in the U.S. in 1993 to work for a financial firm, and has since earned multiple financial certifications and licenses. KP is currently self-employed as a Board Certified Financial Planner and owns and manages an independent financial planning practice with six other advisors. Since 1999, KP and his wife Sheeba (an FBISD educator) have raised their three children in Sugar Land. One of his children is a recent graduate, and two are currently attending Fort Bend ISD schools. KP took the lead in establishing the Hightower High School Academies’ Booster Club in 2013 and served as its first president. He has also served local Indo-American groups, the Sugar Land Rotary Club, and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. He is a member of the FBISD Parents Advisory Team and State Elections Policy & Affairs Team for State Representative Rick Miller. KP George is very thankful that God has given him the opportunity to live The Dream. Now, he wants to ensure that our children have the necessary tools to achieve their DREAMS, because they are our future.
Jim Rice Fort Bend ISD - Position 3 Term Expires - 2016 Jim Rice was elected to Position 3 in 2013 and has previously served as Board President and Board Secretary. He has been a resident of Sugar Land since 1981 and is the president of Rice & Gardner Consultants, an engineering and construction management firm. Jim is an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and is currently serving on the Sam Houston Area Council Board of Directors. He has extensive experience working directly with youth in the Boy Scouts and church, and all three of his sons are Eagle Scouts. In addition, Jim has served on the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors since 2005 and is currently serving a second term as Vice Chair of the Chamber’s Education Division. Jim is also a 2005 graduate of the Fort Bend Chamber’s Leadership Forum Class. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County; the Fort Bend Regional P16 Council, which is dedicated to supporting student achievement; and is co-founder and current Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fort Bend Cares - a 501 c(3) charitable foundation. Jim and his wife Mary have raised three sons who graduated from Fort Bend ISD schools.
Kristin K. Tassin Fort Bend ISD - Position 4 Term Expires - 2017
Founder/Director of the charitable organization, Father's Joy. Kristin is a member of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Houston Young Lawyers Association and the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. In 2011, she was named a Texas Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers magazine. Kristin was founding PTO president at Heritage Rose Elementary and has served in that position for three consecutive years. She also served as head of fundraising for three consecutive years, as well as on the Campus-Based Leadership Team and numerous other PTO leadership positions. She is a member of the FBISD Parent Advisory Council, member of the FBISD Steering Committee for Facilities Planning and is a Mentor Program volunteer. Kristin and her husband, Shannon, have three children – all of whom attend FBISD schools.
Attend a Fort Bend ISD Board Meetings Fort Bend ISD Board Meetings will generally take place the second Monday of the month to discuss all items that will be considered as part of the agenda at a regular business meeting on the third Monday of the month. The meetings are held in the Board Room of the FBISD Administration Building, 16431 Lexington Blvd., in Sugar Land. Meetings begin at 6 p.m. with Board Recognitions and other Special Meetings that are open to the public. The Board regular business meetings begin at 7 p.m. Called Meetings are scheduled on an as-
needed basis, although Texas law does allow the Board to call an emergency meeting in a crisis situation. In accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, the Board has the privilege to meet privately in closed session to discuss matters related to personnel, student discipline, security, land acquisition or to consult with legal counsel. No action, however, may be taken during a closed session.
Board of Trustee Elections Information Your Board of Trustees, comprised of seven local citizens, provides an important public service to the Fort Bend community and serves without compensation. In accordance with the Texas Elections Code, Fort Bend ISD calls Board elections for the second Saturday in May of each year. Vacancies occurring after the election are filled by appointment until the next election is conducted. Trustees are elected to three-year terms on a rotating basis. Two are elected each year, one from each side of the district (Position 1, 2 and 3 on the West, and Positions 5, 6 and 7 on the East). Also, every third year, the “at large” Position 4, is elected. The seven Board of Trustees members are voted on by all residents of the district, and represent all residents of the district.
Kristin Tassin was elected to Position 4 in 2014. She has lived in Missouri City for 17 years. She is a graduate of Louisiana State University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Quantitative Business Analysis (Computer Science option). She also earned her Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University Law School. She is currently employed as an attorney at Dry & Tassin and is CoKristin K. Tassin
Jim Rice
Jenny Bailey
Dave Rosenthal
Jason Burdine Grayle James
K.P. George
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Higher Dimension Church www.higherd.net Pastor Terrance H. Johnson, frequently referred to as Pastor J, is the founder and senior pastor of Higher Dimension Church. His education derives from American Baptist College located in Nashville, TN, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Sociology. Pastor J is known throughout the country as a premier preacher with extraordinary gifts in biblical exposition, interpretation, and proclamation according to the Higher Dimension Church website. His wife First Lady Torsha Johnson, is spiritually gifted in leading women to the heart of God by developing and nurturing dynamic women's ministries. They are both native Houstonians and have three sons, Terrance, Thailan, and Theophilus, and one daughter, Tirzah. Pastor Johnson and First Lady Johnson uphold and exemplify strong family values; believing the church is only as strong as its families. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
the world’s poorest citizens. Together they co-pastor the St. John’s United Methodist Church located in Downtown Houston that began with 9 existing members in 1992. St. John’s has grown to over 9,000 members (30% were formerly homeless) in 21 years into one of the most culturally diverse congregations in the country where every week people of every social and economic background and ethnicity share the same pew. The Rasmus’ attribute the success of the church to a compassionate group of people who have embraced the vision of tearing down the walls of classism, sexism, and racism and building bridges of unconditional love, universal recovery, and unprecedented hope. A recent in-house poll revealed the number one reason people attend St. John’s is because they can “feel the love” from the parking lot to the pew. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
A life-long Houstonian, Victoria began her career in her family’s business. Now as a supportive wife, mother of two children and a co-pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, TX, Victoria is an inspiration and mentor to women everywhere. She is committed to helping women, children and families discover their purpose and reach their highest potential in Christ. Victoria has recently released a new book from Simon and Schuster, called Love Your Life: Living Happy, Healthy and Whole. In the book, Victoria offers today’s busy modern woman a simple and practical plan to help them embrace joy and live life to the fullest. She speaks directly to women harried by the pressures. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
St John’s Church www.stjohnsdowntown.org Juanita Rasmus is a Spiritual Director with a desire to see a merger between the contemplative life and active life in society. Rudy Rasmus is an author, and global humanitarian with a passion for outreach to
Dr. H. Edwin Young was born and raised in Laurel, Mississippi and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of 12. While in college at the University of Alabama , he felt led by God to become a pastor, and transferred to Mississippi College to continue his education. Dr. Young's preparation for the ministry continued at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. His first pastorate was in North Car-
www.kingdombuilders.com Kirbyjon H. Caldwell is Senior Pastor of Windsor Village United Methodist Church. Under the leadership of Caldwell since 1982, Windsor Village Church member-
olina, and he pastored in North and South Carolina until 1978 when he moved to Houston, Texas to become the pastor at Second Baptist Church where he continues as senior pastor today. The congregation has grown from 2,000 members in 1978 to over 60,000 members on 5 church campuses. Dr. Young served two terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention and has authored many books including The 10 Commandments of Marriage, The 10 Commandments of Parenting, and Healing Broken America. Dr. Young and his wife, Jo Beth, have three sons, all in ministry: Ed (author, speaker and senior pastor of Fellowship Church in Grapevine, Texas), Ben (author, speaker and associate pastor at Second Baptist Church, Houston), and Cliff (Creative Media and Communications director and associate pastor for Second Baptist Church, Houston, and founding leader of the contemporary Christian group Caedmon’s Call.) Dr. Young and Jo Beth have eleven grandchildren who light up their lives. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
www.brentwoodbaptist.org
Lakewood Church www.lakewoodchurch.com/ Joel Osteen is a native Texan and the Pastor of Lakewood Church, which according to Church Growth Today is America’s largest and fastest growing church. On July 16, 2005 after completing $95 million dollars in renovations, Joel moved Lakewood Church into its new 16,000seat home — the former Compaq Center.
It is the largest regularly-used worship center in the United States. Each week Joel delivers God’s message of hope and encouragement to more than 38,000 attendees. According to Nielsen Media Research, Joel is the most watched inspirational figure in America. His weekly sermon is broadcast into every U.S. television market where it is viewed by seven million Americans each week and more than 20 million each month. His weekly broadcast is also seen in almost 100 nations around the world according to the Lakewood Church website.
www.second.org
Windsor Village United Methodist Church
Brentwood Baptist Church The Reverend Dr. Joe Samuel Ratliff has been married to the former Doris Ernestine Gardner since 1980. He is a native of Lumberton, North Carolina; where in 1962, he began his Christian journey by uniting with The Mt. Sinai United Holy Church of Lumberton. Seven years later, he answered his Call to Ministry while attending Morehouse College. He served as pastor of the Cobb Memorial United Holy Church in Atlanta, Georgia for eight years. Dr. Joe Samuel Ratliff was elected as pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church of Houston, Texas in February 1980 and by the year 2000 had grown it from a 500 member congregation to a mega-church of 12,000. The congregation has reached a plateau of more than 7,000 members with over 5,000 worshipers attending its two Sunday morning worship services. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
Second Baptist Church
ship has increased from 25 members to more than 16,000, making it one of the largest Protestant Churches in the country. As a result of Caldwell’s effective social entrepreneurship, both Caldwell and the Windsor Village Church Family have been featured extensively in national and international print and broadcast media, including U.S. News & World Report, the British Broadcasting Corporation, The Wall Street Journal and the CBS Evening News. Caldwell was included in Newsweek’s “Century Club”, the publication’s list of 100 people to watch as America moved into the 21st century. .
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Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church www.wheeleravebc.org The Reverend Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, the third child born to the late Mr. Rogers Cosby and Mrs. Bobbie J. Cosby, serves as the Senior Pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. A proud native of Chicago, Illinois and a product of Emmanuel Baptist Church where Dr. L.K. Curry served as pastor, Cosby received
logical Center (ITC) in Atlanta, Georgia and the Doctor of Ministry Degree in Homiletics from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lombard, Illinois. Dr. Cosby is married to his high school sweetheart, Mrs. Audrey Marie Cosby, and they have been blessed with three beautiful daughters, Adrienne Marie, Ashley Marie and Aliyah Marie and two sons, Marcus D., II and Matthew D. Cosby. Visit the website link for more information on this ministry.
the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion and English from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, the Master of Divinity Degree in Homiletics and Christian Education from the Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theo-
Grace Church www.grace.tv Pastor Steve Riggle is the founding pastor of Grace church, the president of Grace International, and executive member
of the Houston Area Pastors Council. Steve holds a Masters Degree from Oral Roberts University and a Doctorate from The Kings University. Becky has led women’s ministry in the local church, taught bible studies, and speaks at conferences and women’s events across the United States and internationally. Her desire is to encourage women of all ages to grow in God’s word and to live out their God given purpose. Steve and Becky take every opportunity to be with their family and friends. A motion picture is in production that chronicles the unmistakable hand of God moving in Steve and Becky’s life during a mission trip in the Philippines where they were taken hostage in an attempted prison break and were the only survivors. Click here to view “Between the Gates” movie trailer.
We’re Building Winning Lives...
The mission of Bishop K.J. Brown Ministries is that through the preaching and teaching of the gospel that a multitude of men, women boys and girls will come to know the Lord Jesus as Savior. We also endeavor to be a source of encouragement, inspiration, information and for those that already know the Lord as Savior and desire to strengthen their relationship with the Lord. Our vision at Bishop K.J. Brown Ministries is to raise up a Church that is a light in the world . Not just the local assembly, but the Body of Christ. We endeavor to be strength for the weary, hope for the worn, healing for the wounded, and encouragement for the well. As we patiently wait for the return of Jesus Christ our Lord.
“God Wants U 2 Win! God has a plan to prosper your life. Trust in God's Ways Listen to God's Voice. Follow God's Instructions. Move Forward in Faith and Win!” -- Bishop K J Brown
2015
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PUBLIC SERVANTS I
“FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT�
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO
Plano Residents Collect over 7,000 Signatures Dear Citizens of the Lone Star State: I am happy to report that Plano Citizens United, a coalition of local citizens, leaders and pastors, announced they have collected more than double the necessary signatures required to force the Plano City Council to repeal or place on the ballot the recently passed "Equal Rights Ordinance." Like the Houston ERO ordinance, the Plano ERO infringes on the religious liberties of Plano citizens and small businesses by criminalizing mainstream religious views about sexuality and gender. Jonathan Saenz of Texas Values stated, "These LGBT special rights ordinances are designed to be used as weapons against people of sincere faith, as we have seen in Houston. The people of Plano, just like in Houston, are ready to put an end to government hostility towards our First Freedom."
A spokesperson for Plano Citizens United released the following statement: "In spite of the challenges created by the suspect timing of the City Council's passage of this ordinance, we set a goal to collect twice the minimum number of signatures needed. We want to send a clear message to Mayor LaRosiliere, and Councilmen Miner, Davidson, Smith, and Downs who all voted for this ordinance. You can ignore the citizens at the City Council meeting, but we will make our voices heard with this petition and next May at the polls. We are certain that once Plano citizens realize the City Council has criminalized religious views about sex and gender, the ordinance will be rejected overwhelmingly at the polls. The citizens of Plano are good and decent and treat one another with respect, so criminalizing the beliefs of our diverse communities of faith does not advance the common good." -------------------It is now time to move to phase II and make sure the referendum passes at the ballot box. I will keep you posted on how you can help our friends in Plano. Information about the ordinance and repeal efforts is available on the web at www.PlanoEqualRights.com. Thank You,
Jared Woodfill Jared Woodfill
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CALL THE LAW OFFICE OF KERYL L. DOUGLAS AT (713)819-9945 WITH YOUR LEGAL QUESTION
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The Law Offices of Keryl L. Douglas
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PLACE YOUR AD IN THIS SECTION FOR AS LITTLE AS $40 DOLLARS
CALL 832.212.8735 TO DISCUSS YOUR INCLUSION IN THIS SECTION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE Businessman Durrel K. Douglas Interview
SUPPORT THE BUSINESSES
____________________ CONTINUED FROM (PAGE - 20)
partment of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for five years eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant. After seeing the trend of hallways filled with young men of color coming from marginalized communities like his, he resigned in 2010 determined to balance the scales of justice through advocacy, grassroots organizing and community empowerment that would lead more from his community on a path to success. He currently serves on the board of directors for the historic League of Women Voters; was a LWV Rising Star Class 2013-2014, Chair of the Resolutions Committee of the Harris County Democratic Party and is a member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.
Businesswoman Pam Ellis Interview ____________________ CONTINUED FROM (PAGE - 21)
the growth of the firm into a key service provider to Fortune 1000 companies in the greater Houston area and nationwide. Smahrt’s clients have included Service Corporation International (SCI), Anadarko Petroleum, Turner Broadcast Systems, U.S. State Department and most recently the State of Maryland where she and her team successfully lead planning, procurement and program management efforts for the Maryland Statewide Personnel System (SPS) Modernization project which was budgeted at $67 million dollars and included more that 64 agencies statewide.
Businesswoman Keryl L. Douglas ____________________ CONTINUED FROM (PAGE - 24)
Douglas received her M.S. in Chemistry, magna cum laude, from Texas Southern University, B.S. in Biology, cum laude, from Florida A&M University, and completed coursework for a Ph.D. in Epidemiology at UTHSC. She’s served as an instructor and administrator at TSU and HCC. She’s member of numerous legal and community organizations, Counsel for Friends of Emancipation Park Board, Chair of Ready Women, Inc., which assists underprivileged, abused, and/or financially challenged women successfully prepare for integration into work/independence. She has one son, James Matthew Douglas II.
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CALL: 832-212-8735 Councilman C.O. “Brad” Bradford Interview ____________________ CONTINUED FROM (PAGE -15)
went from 59% in 1996 to only 10% by the time he left office in 2003, as documented by Dr. Stephen Klineberg, Rice University. He holds degrees in law from the University of Houston Law Center, criminal justice from Grambling State University, and a public administration degree from Texas Southern University. Also, he is a graduate of the FBI Academy and Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government Program for State and Local Executives. Bradford has served as a Precinct Chair and Election Judge in Harris County, Texas. Also, he has extensive experience as a Senior Consultant in the international consulting firm of Brown Group International (BGI). BGI is a full-service consulting firm that provides solutions to problems of government, corporations and individuals. BGI offers services in the areas of Public Safety, Homeland Security, Crisis Management, Government Relations, Community Government, Personnel Selection, Litigation Support, Technology Services and International Trade.
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