November 2008 Houston Business Connections Newspaper by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Houston-Area

Community Community News, News, Business Business Reports Reports & & Politics Politics

Published By Aubrey R. Taylor Communications Proudly Serving The Houston Community Since 1998

• Email: news@houston-businessconnections.com • SPECIAL 2008

Leadership JUST HOW IMPORTANT IS LEADERSHIP DURING TIMES OF CRISES? - VISIT WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM

“As the chief elections officer of Texas, I will protect the integrity of elections as part of our democratic process - a process that Texans value and respect - and work proactively to keep Texas at the forefront of the global economy.”

Election Special: INSIDE: Local Candidates Discuss Why They’re The Right Choice For You! DEMOCRAT Should U.S. Senator Barack Obama win the 2008 General Election he will become the first African American President of the United States of America OBAMA REPUBLICAN U. S. Senator John McCain is seeking to defy age as he would become the oldest man ever elected to a firstterm as President of the United States of America

LEADING TEXAS: Appointed by Texas Gov. Rick Perry, recently, Esperanza “Hope” Andrade is the first Hispanic woman appointed as the Texas Secretary of State.

MCCAIN DEMOCRAT Former Houston Police Chief C. O. Bradford is seeking to become the first African American to lead the Harris County District Attorney’s office in history BRADFORD REPUBLICAN Former Judge Pat Lykos defeated Kelly Seigler in a runoff election to earn the chance to become the first female District Attorney in Harris County’s history

SPECIAL BUSINESS SERIES TO START IN JANUARY OF 2009: Texas history was made recently when Esperanza “Hope” Andrade of San Antonio Texas formally took the Oath of Office as the 107th Secretary of State at the State Capitol Building. But who else is making history in Texas? Find out in this exciting “Keep Sake Edition” of Houston Business Connections. ON THE COVER: Sandra J. Peake, Craig Joseph, Betty Weekley, Ruama Camp, Danny McKinney, Mayor Bill White, Jarvis Johnson, Dr. Monica Graham, and P.J. Matthews, Photo by Wilson Photography.

Governor Brings Texas Leaders Together Gov. Perry Meets with Leaders of Key State Agencies to Assess Impact of National Economy on Texas...PAGE, 2

LYKOS For more election info visit us at: www.houston-businessconnections.com where we will assist you by providing valuable election information.

5 Dozen Ways to Become an “On-Purpose” Leader What you do as a leader is extremely important. Why? Because you are contagious! Leaders have an attitude that others want to catch. Leaders have a charisma that others want to catch. They have skills that others want to have rub off on them and

on and on and on and on. So what you do, more so than what you say, rubs off on those that follow your leadership abilities. And since the one critical thing one has to have in order to be a leader is ... well, you guessed it, FOLLOWERS, then let's keep the focus on those folks and make sure that as leaders we are doing what makes the most dif-

ference to them. After all, leadership is all about the followers! Just think, what would you be if you had a great many leadership skills that made you tremendously effective, but no followers? Well, if I am thinking straight here, you would be incredibly skilled standing out there all by your lonesome. Not exactly how we picture a leader.

A Contagious Leader is the guide on the side, not the sage on the stage and that is what any number of these steps will help you to achieve! 1. Call employees "those that work WITH you". continued on page, P.30

WOFFORD

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ARTC Leadership Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

How Important Is It In Times Of Crisis?

Recently I asked Texas Supreme Court Justice Wallace Jefferson and other political leaders to discuss the importance of good leadership in times of crisis. Here’s what he had to say:

Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections.

We Appreciate Your Continued Support!

s always, I would like to thank you for picking up each issue of Houston Business Connections. This issue is extremely special to me because it marks the previewing of our (Four-Part) People Doing Business Series to debut in January of 2009. I can’t say enough about the entrepreneurs you will find on the cover of (Part-One) of the series. These individuals are not only long-time friends, but are also highly successful people in their respective professions and industries. These folks didn’t hesitate when presented with the opportunity to kick-off this exciting venture - over a year ago. As we pause to thank them for their support, we humbly ask you to give each and every one of them yours. By doing so, you will be doing your part in the economic development cycle. And I urge you to support our supporters. We also would like to thank Mayor Bill White, U. S. Congressman Al Green (TX-9), and Houston City Councilman Jarvis Johnson (District B), for their support in helping us to kick-off this exciting and informative series. Now, all that’s left is for you to get involved. We would like to invite you to join us in this series. We are currently looking for individuals to take part in (Part-Two) of the series. If you or someone you know has a story to tell we’d like to tell it. So give us a call today at 832.212.8735. And remember, in Houston Business Connection you are placing your business in great company. Enjoy this issue!

“The public benefits from a steady hand during a time of crisis -- someone dedicated to evaluating whatJEFFERSON ever emergency is presented, conferring with all affected, and then making clear decisions together with contingency plans for unanticipated complications.”

Gov. Perry Meets with Leaders of Key State Agencies to Assess Impact of National Economy on Texas

Wallace B. Jefferson Texas Supreme Court Justice

e-Interviews: Go Online To See What Other Political Leaders Had To Say About Leadership!

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry recently met with leaders of key state agencies for an assessment of the impact of the current national economic situation on their agencies and the people they serve. “During my time as governor, I have encouraged leaders in the public and private sectors to work to diversify our state's economy so that we will not be held captive by the cyclical changes of any particular industry or market segment,” Gov. Perry said. “Although our economy remains one of the strongest in the nation, it is still interlaced with economies of other states that are suffering, and we must continue to monitor the current financial situation closely.” The diversity of Texas' economy has prepared the state to withstand the continued on page, P.30 current

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Aubrey R. Taylor, Publisher Email: aubreyrtaylor@houston-businessconnections.com

ENTREPRENEURS CREDO I do not choose to be a Common man It is my right to be UNCOMMON...If I can I seek Opportunity - not Security I do not wish to be a kept citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me. I want to take the “Calculated Risk” to Dream and to Build, to fail and to SUCCEED. I refuse to barter incentive for a dole. I prefer the challenges of Life to the “Guaranteed existence”, the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of Utopia. I will not trade FREEDOM for Beneficence nor my dignity for a handout. I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat. It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid, to think and act for myself, to enjoy the benefit of “MY CREATIONS” and to face the world boldly and say: “This with God’s help, I have done. All this is what it means to be a ENTREPRENEUR”

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS IS PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS ALL RIGHT RESERVED. NO ARTICLES MAY BE COPIED, REWRITTEN, PUBLISHED, OR OTHERWISE DISTRIBUTED WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN APPROVAL OF THE PUBLISHER. FOR SPECIAL REQUESTS EMAIL: AUBREYRTAYLOR@HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM NEWS@HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM. FOR MORE INFO CALL: 832.212.8735

Thanksgiving and Christmas are times to celebrate. Start a new tradition with your family as Texas State Parks offer holiday events sure to be memorable. The colder weather makes this a quieter, less crowded time, great for exploring the outdoors with activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, birding, stargazing and many others. The possibilities are endless when you explore Texas! Check out the Texas Parks and Wildlife Events Calendar for all the fun activities you can experiences this winter. Featured Event November 15, 2008 - Cedar Hill SP - 1st Annual Chili Cook-off - Enjoy camping at the park and always wanted to participate in one of those "chili cook-offs?" Well now is your chance! There will be several categories you can choose to compete in and prizes will be given to the winner in each division courtesy of the Friends Group of Cedar Hill State Park. The number of participants is limited and camping in the park is a competition requirement. Join other chili cookers as we rename one of camping loops "Chili Cookers Crossing" for this fun-filled weekend! Come and compete in the cook-off or just come and help us decide who has the best chili! 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; call to confirm program (972) 291-3900, ext. 232. Featured Event November 20-22, 2008 - Big Bend Ranch SP - Digital Photography Workshop Spend three days at the park with Earl Nottingham, Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine chief photographer. Learn tips and tricks about your camera, computer software and your subjects in this hands-on experience. Spend the evening hours evaluating and sharing your pictures with other members of this workshop. Call for times; fees include meals and lodging $397 Texas State Parks Pass members, $400 non-members; reservations continued on page, P.20 required, deadline November 6, 2008 (432) 358-4444.

We once worried that democracy could not survive if an undereducated populace knew too little. Now we worry if it can survive us knowing too much. — Robert Bianco

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PAUL SYKES, D.P.M.

MISSION STATEMENT To provide our patient population with quality podiatric care utilizing state-of-the-art technology. JENNIFER GALAWAY, D.P.M.

At Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers we treat anomalies of the foot and ankle. We offer treatment for athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, ankle sprains, hammertoe, fractures, bunions, flatfoot, and much, much more. Treatment options for our patients include pharmacological, biomechanical, therapeutic or a combination of the aforementioned. In cases where conservative treatment fails to provide relief, surgical treatment is also an option. We accept most types of insurance, including Medicare. Give us a call today and we will gladly assist you with your footcare needs. Call 713.526.PFAC (7322). Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers is the brainchild of Doctors Paul T. Sykes and Jennifer L. Galaway. We are podiatric physicians who can assist you with all of your footcare needs from athlete’s foot to flatfoot repair.

713.526.PFAC (7322) 5445 Almeda Road, Suite 206 • Houston, Texas 77004

www.pinnaclefootandankle.com The highest measure of democracy is neither the ‘extent of freedom’ nor the ‘extent of equality’, but rather the highest measure of participation. — A. d. Benoist

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Leading Houston

PHOTO BY A. TAYLOR

LEADERSHIP A SIT DOWN WITH THE MAYOR BY MICHICA L. GUILLORY

MAYOR WHITE

On Mayor Bill White’s very first day in office, he wasn’t necessarily impressed by the privilege of bypassing all the security checkpoints required of visitors to the third-floor office in City Hall. Instead, he says, all he wanted to know was, “Where are the computer and the phone?” There was an army of hundreds of thousands of people that helped us take care of our neighbors like we would want to be taken care of if we were in the same situa-

tion,” he said. “Our citizens put themselves in the shoes of the folks in New Orleans and Mississippi, and they didn’t need to be told to do it.

PHOTO BY A. TAYLOR

And with that, he was ready to get on with the business of managing the City of Houston. “Seriously, I got a feeling of the gravity of this position before the inauguration ceremony, particularly when people would come up to me with their problems. And they weren’t easy problems to fix like potholes,” recalls the three-term mayor, who’s serving his final term in office. For example, he remembers being approached by a lady whose son was a student at the University of Houston and had accumulated “lots of parking tickets.” “She asked me if I could have them dismissed. I only had one response to that,” he says genially. “If your son was parked improperly, then he should pay the tickets or go to court.” But the enormity of his role as leader of the nation’s fourth largest city reached its zenith in August of 2005 after Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulf Coast and leaving parts of Louisiana and Mississippi in ruins. Then he was tested again recently, when Hurricane Ike tore through the Houston/Galveston area. Responding to his neighbors in need in 2005, Mayor Bill White championed the movement to bring the devastated Americans to Houston. For that, he received the esteemed John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. “To me it’s really an award that could have been given to the people of Houston.

MORE POPULAR THAN EVER: Mayor Bill White's handling of the recent Hurricane Ike disaster has him riding a wave of positive press. Don't miss the Houston Business Connections special in-depth look at the handling of Hurricane Ike by our local and statewide officials coming in January.

“And because of that,” he reflects, “we are a part of the history of the critical national relief effort and the history of modern America after Martin Luther King.” White didn’t come into his job as mayor with the intention of joining the ranks of great Americans making history. In fact, he didn’t even know he wanted the job until about 18 months before the elections. He says it’s the toughest job interview he’s ever experienced having to “garner the approval of thousands.” “Talk about a competitive interview!” he remembers. “But I decided to run because as a citizen there were things I wanted to see like more parks and green space, a sense of optimistic growth and opportunities for people coming into this city. “I was also frustrated by the pace of construction, where you would see the same streets torn up three and four different times downtown,” he says. Meanwhile, the former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy’s day-to-day job of managing the city of Houston is an exercise in efficiency. In fact, operational efficiency is a big priority. “Right now, we are continuing to working on better use of electricity by businesses and the citizens of Houston,” he says. “But it takes time to build up public consensus. That takes changing engrained patterns of behavior and it doesn’t happen over night.” To reach that goal, as well as others, he has to be an effective manager of people. And the mayor says one of any manager’s biggest responsibilities is to recruit good people and to successfully retain them. “For a while, people didn’t know that a certain level of performance was expected. There have been people elected to this office who believed that giving a speech was an action. What’s important is getting work done on time and we like to see results,” he says firmly. “I support talent in this organization, and when I see people continued on page, P.21

Democracy is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder, and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequal alike. — Plato

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

THE CANDIDATES SPEAK TO AUBREY R. TAYLOR

LOG ON TO: WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO FIND OUT WHO EACH CANDIDATE THINK IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADER THEY KNOW!

Candidates for United States Senator: John Cornyn (i) - REPUBLICAN, Richard J. (Rick) Noriega - DEMOCRAT, and Yvonne Adams Schick - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT RICHARD J. (RICK) NORIEGA: I'm running for the United States Senate because Texans deserve leadership that puts their interests first, ahead of the moneyed interests in Washington. I want to cut taxes for 99% of Texas families and stimulate our economy by charting a new course on energy and healthcare policy. In the last 6 years, gas prices have more than doubled, over half a million Texas children have been denied the NORIEGA health insurance they need, and health care premiums have gone up 80%. You know that you're not better off than you were six years ago. I have a plan for a bold new energy strategy. I'll continue Texas's tradition as a leader in energy, creating thousands of quality jobs here in Texas and a making the United States more enerSCHICK gy self-sufficient and secure. I have a plan to ensure all Texans have access to quality affordable healthcare. I'll fight to extend coverage to all Texas children, create tax incentives for small businesses that provide insurance, and connect Texans with affordable plans. It's time for a change and a new kind of Senator. It's time we renew our commitment to Texas families, workers, and children. LIBERTARIAN YVONNE ADAMS SCHICK: I am the only candidate free to lead from the principles of the Founders as agreed by We the People in the Constitution without undue influence of special interests or the political elite.

Candidates for United States Rep. District 7: John Culberson (i) - REPUBLICAN, Michael Skelly - DEMOCRAT, and Drew Parks - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT MICHAEL SKELLY: About 10 years ago I started a two-man wind energy business. A decade later, that wind power company is a multi-billion dollar operation and one of the largest in the country. By the end of the year, it will be able to meet the energy needs of nearly a million American homes. We created thousands of good paying jobs in Texas and around the country and we worked with dozens of states to boost the supply of domestically produced clean energy. My background is exactly what we need in Washington right now, and there are a few reasons why. SKELLY First of all, with the energy challenges we face, it's critical that we have Members of Congress with a depth of expertise in energy. I strongly believe we have to do it all - more oil and more renewables. That means drilling offshore and in new areas for oil and natural gas - and it also means investing in proven renewable technologies, like solar and wind. We PARKS have to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. It's critical for our economy and national security and we need folks in Congress who will work hard to get it done. My business background is critical in these times of economic uncertainty. We need Members of Congress who know business from the inside out to fix the financial mess we're in. I'm a businessman, not a career politician. I spent my career as an entrepreneur and as a leader of a major company. I understand the economy and I understand what needs to be done to get us back on track. We face a pretty extraordinary time. Given the seriousness of the challenges our country faces, including a financial meltdown and an energy crisis, it is critical that we send people to Washington with the background and competence to confront these important issues. This is a

time for common-sense solutions and folks who can roll up their sleeves and get the job done. LIBERTARIAN DREW PARKS: We believe in a nonintrusive form of government, which looks like the one our founding fathers envisioned. A pyramid with a small Federal government at the top with limited authority, a larger State government which is closer to regional problems, and a larger local County government which can readily deal with real problems without wasting money in bureaucratic mismanagement at many levels. If you think the government is headed in the wrong direction, and the Republicans and Democrats solution is either wrong or they don't do what they say, vote Libertarian in general, and vote for me in particular.

Party and have been its Vice-Chairmen. I have lived in the district for 11 years and am a two-time delegate to the Libertarian National Convention. I have been the Director of the longest running Libertarian T.V. show Called "Live and Let Live" airing on Channel 10 from 89PM and on www.UStream.tv for two and half years. I am comfortable and experienced in representing large constituencies and in large meetings with in-depth parliamentary procedure. I am a self-employed Texan who is committed to representing you; not special interest groups, not big business, not the Democrat or Republican Party's agenda but the Individuals in Texas District 10. I am what a Representative is supposed to be!

Candidates for United States Representative District 18: John Faulk REPUBLICAN, Sheila Jackson Lee (i) DEMOCRAT, and Mike Taylor - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County

Candidates for United States Representative District 8: Kevin Brady (i) - REPUBLICAN, Kent Hargett - DEMOCRAT, and Brian Stevens - LIBERTARIAN on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN KEVIN BRADY: It's not enough to simply change Washington, I'd like to take it back for middle-class Americans. It's clear we can't strengthen the economy by raising taxes, nationalizing our health care or continuing to be so dangerously dependent upon foreign oil. I have the experience, the clout and the principles to help get this country back on the right track. And because I never moved to Washington - I live here in Montgomery County with my wife and two young sons and commute to Washington to work each BRADY week - I've stayed very close to the neighborhoods and communities I represent in Congress. It's time to find real long-term solutions to the challenges facing America, like energy, health care, Social Security, Medicare and the growing national debt. I am eager and anxious to get back to work on behalf of the citizens of the 8th District of Texas. DEMOCRAT KENT HARGETT: In Congress we need some people who will take on some important tasks, tasks they understand and are prepared for. We need some people who will focus on some things, instead of people who are constantly trying to convince the voters that they can do everything.

Candidates for United States Rep. District 10: Michael T. McCaul (i) REPUBLICAN, Larry Joe Doherty - DEMOCRAT, and Matt Finkel - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT LARRY JOE DOHERTY: Harris Countyarea voters deserve to be represented in Congress by an independent voice who will consider their issues the Constitutional separation of powers as a check and balance. I built my legal career on holding powerful lawyers accountable when they abused the system and their clients. I know first-hand what it means to put someone else's interests above my own, and that is what I pledge to do on behalf of the 10th Congressional District. DOHERTY

LIBERTARIAN MATT FINKEL: Voting Libertarian is the best way to affect political change. Voting Libertarian is the best way to tell Politicians that you want a smaller, more limited, fiscally responsible and constitutionally compliant government. Even if I don't win, your vote will have an affect because every vote I receive will be used as a License to lobby for smaller government FINKEL in the State Legislator and in city councils for two years. Second, I can do the Job. I am in my second term representing the people of Travis County on the Texas State Libertarian Executive Committee. I also serve on the Executive Committee of the Travis County Libertarian

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris Countyarea voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN JOHN FAULK: Hopefully, the voters in the Texas 18th Congressional District will be voting for me starting Oct. 21 through Nov. 4th. The legitimate voters of the TX 18 CD should vote for me because, for the first time in 14 years I will provide them with the constituent services that they are due. FAULK

Candidates for United States Representative District 22: Pete Olson - REPUBLICAN, Nick Lampson (i) - DEMOCRAT, and John Wieder - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN PETE OLSON: Voters of the 22nd district deserve a Representative who will tell them where he stands and will act in Washington according to his words in the district. They also deserve a Representative like me, who will go beyond his good relations within the Texas delegation to reach out to all members of Congress on issues of national priority - like national security, NASA funding, illegal immigration, fiscal conservatism, governmental accountability and making America energy independent. I will be a Congressman who constituents and colleagues will know where I stand and will fight for those core Conservative values. LIBERTARIAN JOHN WIEDER: I am asking for your vote, not your money, I want to represent You, Us, U.S. too!!! I have done business with other countries and learned their language to OLSON facilitate my dreams. After 25 years of being self employed I am ready to serve our country again I am going to rescue unborn Americans, GOOOH get our of our house. Go by our Constitution and provide simple solutions for problems that are good for all Americans. Our campaign has generated over 4 million Internet ads, 200K emails, , 1000 radio spots, 150+ TV WIEDER ads, 14,K Telephone calls, 1500 signs, 27 surveys, 777 responses to individuals. We have been instrumental in growing the cosponsors to Ron Paul's right to life amendment from 4 to 61. ETC

Candidates for United States Representative District 29: Eric Story - REPUBLICAN, Gene Green (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Joel Grace - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? LIBERTARIAN JOEL GRACE: I believe in the U.S. constitution, free markets, and the ability of people to run their lives better than any central authority possibly can.

GRACE

continued on page, P.7

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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Harris County Sample Ballot

Vote on Election Day!

Created by Houston Business Connections For Non-Straight ticket voters. Please, study the candidates and mark your selections before going to the polls on Election Day! For more information on the candidates log on to our website located at: www.houston-businessconnections.com

Yes, you can take this form in to the voting booth with you on Election Day 2008!

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

THE CANDIDATES SPEAK TO AUBREY R. TAYLOR

LOG ON TO: WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO FIND OUT WHO EACH CANDIDATE THINK IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADER THEY KNOW!

Candidates for Texas Railroad Commissioner: Michael Williams (i) REPUBLICAN, Mark Thompson - DEMOCRAT, and David Floyd - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT MARK THOMPSON: Harris County is the national center of the U.S. energy industry. The fact that the Texas Railroad Commission regulates energy policy has a dramatic impact on the voters of Harris County. The Railroad Commission has been under one-party rule for so long that they have forgotten they work for the people of Texas, and have instead been bought and paid for by the industry they are THOMPSON charged with regulating. It's time for a change. It's time for balance on the Texas Railroad Commission. Let's change Texas together. C andidates for Chief Justice, Supreme

Court: Wallace B. Jefferson (i) - REPUBLICAN, Jim Jordan - DEMOCRAT, and Tom Oxford LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris Countyarea voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN CHIEF JUSTICE JEFFERSON: I am board certified in civil appellate law, which is the type of law the Supreme Court oversees. I have successfully argued cases before the United States Supreme Court, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, the Texas Supreme Court, and intermediate Texas appellate courts. I have

JEFFERSON

improved the Court's transparency by broadcasting oral arguments on the web and giving the public access to the litigants' briefs. And I have worked to ensure that Texas courts continue to function during natural and manmade disasters.

Candidates for Justice, Supreme Court, Place 7: Dale Wainwright (i) - REPUBLICAN, Sam Houston - DEMOCRAT, and David G. Smith - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN JUSTICE WAINWRIGHT: I am the incumbent seeking reelection for Texas Supreme Court, Place 7, and I have an abiding faith in the values that make Texas and America great: faith, family, patriotism and equal justice under the law. I am the experienced candidate having served almost six years on the high Court, almost four years as a trial judge, and over a decade in private practice before becoming a judge. My record shows that I make an independent judgment in each case, do not legislature from the bench and have WAINWRIGHT written opinions in which both defendants and plaintiffs have been successful, when the law and the facts compel that conclusion. I am experienced, fair and balanced and have shown the fortitude to make tough decisions after careful review of cases.

Candidates for Texas State Board of Education, District 6: Terri Leo (i) REPUBLICAN, and Mary Ann Bryan - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County LIBERTARIAN MARY ANN BRYAN: I do not accept that the answer to our failing public schools is more money and more state control. The most pressing issue is the terrible quality and absurdly high cost of government run education. I would try to help reduce this problem by

returning as much power to local districts as possible. I would try to ease or eliminate curriculum problems, spending mandates and testing mandates. Basically this means the real answer is Legislative Reform - which the board members cannot achieve other than to use their position to BRYAN lobby for those changes. So basically until we have reform the board members are left with rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. Issues will come up as the current curriculum decision and it is a shame that the board even has to consider it. Unfortunately, one size fits all government systems, always result in this kind of viscous battle. I would vote that this question be left up to local school districts to the greatest extent possible. I will always advocate for legislative changes to allow parents to educate their children in accordance with their beliefs and desires.

Candidates for Texas State Senator, District 6: Gilbert Pena - REPUBLICAN, Mario V. Gallegos, Jr. (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Susan Delgado - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN GILBERT PENA: As I have block walk some of District 6, the voters have asked me what I will do for them. My response has been, “what has the incumbent done for you”? I have voted for the incumbent in the past, on his promises that He would fight to lower taxes, that He PENA would be more active in our communities; And I got nothing for my vote. The incumbent is only active in our communities on election year. So, I urge voters to give me the opportunity continued on page, P.9 to make a difference.

“I am the Democratic candidate for Texas House of Representatives in District 129, which includes a significant portion of southeast Harris County.” - Sherrie Matula

TOGETHER WE CAN: 1. Regain control of skyrocketing insurance, electricity and college costs 2. Ensure sufficient funding for public schools 3. Preserve our environment while protecting our jobs 4. Restore ethics and integrity in Austin

IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE: “In the 35 years that I have lived in this community, we have never had a voice in Austin that truly represents our district on decisions concerning our children, our environment and our community values. It's time for a change. I will listen to you and I will fight for your interests. Let's work together to develop smart solutions.”

— Sherrie Matula, Candidate for State Representative House District 129

For State Representative House District 129 Political advertisements paid for by Sherrie Matula Campaign, P.O. Box 591810, Houston, Texas 77259, Mike Matula, Treasurer

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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Harris County Sample Ballot

Vote on Election Day!

Yes, you can take this form in to the voting booth with you on Election Day 2008!

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

THE CANDIDATES SPEAK TO AUBREY R. TAYLOR

LOG ON TO: WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO FIND OUT WHO EACH CANDIDATE THINK IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADER THEY KNOW! Candidates for Texas State Senator, District 11: Mike Jackson (i) - REPUBLICAN, Joe Jaworski - DEMOCRAT, and Cliff Messina - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN SENATOR JACKSON: For 20 years, I have been an effective conservative voice in the Texas Senate, fighting for lower taxes for small business and property owners. I am a small business owner myself and know how even slight tax increases can have a staggering effect on job creation in our economy. My priority during the next session is to continue to increase the small business tax exemption on the margins tax, continue to work to reduce JACKSON the size of government, lower the appraisal cap on property appraisal increase and protect my constituents from insurance rate increases post Hurricane Ike. DEMOCRAT JOE JAWORSKI: It's time for an independent voice and a new direction for the families and small businesses of Senate District 11. That need was made even clearer after Hurricane Ike roared through our communities. Now, residents whose lives and properties were devastated are struggling with big insurance companies that refuse to pay their legitimate claims, and the state's windstorm insurance fund is stretched to its limits. I will lead the insurance JAWORSKI reform effort in Austin.

LIBERTARIAN CLIFF MESSINA: I want to get government out of the lives of individuals, and businesses as much as possible. I believe that government is at the root of most of our problems, and is responsible for the economic downturn we face today. It's very alarming to me that the same people who caused this problem, are going to be the ones to solve this problem. The private sector with few regulations, and low taxes will be the answer MESSINA to this and most problems caused by the government. More government is a recipe for disaster.

Candidates for Texas State Senator, District 17: Chris Bell - DEMOCRAT, Austin Furse - REPUBLICAN, and Grant Harpold - REPUBLICAN, Joan Huffman REPUBLICAN, Ken Sherman - REPUBLICAN, and Stephanie E. Simmons - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT CHRIS BELL: A lot of families were facing serious challenges even before Hurricane Ike and the Wall Street meltdown. Gas prices, college tuition, utilities, property taxes, and health care are getting more expensive, and my family's going through the same struggles that BELL yours is. The big difference in this

race is that I'm the only candidate who's ever worked with Republicans and Democrats to do anything about these issues. That's the kind of leadership you can expect from me as your next state senator. REPUBLICAN GRANT HARPOLD: I have lived in Harris County all of my life. I know the people and I know the community. As a practicing attorney for the past twenty years, I have represented individuals and businesses that need help in resolving disputes that may involve a contract or a piece of property. My law firm, Hargis & Harpold, LLP, is in its 11th year of doing business in Harris County. I am also a HARPOLD lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo serving on its Calf Scramble Committee. Further, I serve on the Board of Directors of the Braeswood Place Homeowners Association. I have a long history of responding to problem issues at work and in my community. I am fortunate to have the support of my wife and three daughters in all I do. 2008 Candidates for Texas State Representative District 23: Craig Eiland (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Charles L. Earley - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? LIBERTARIAN CHARLES L. EARLEY: I am not a career politician and I do not plan to spend the rest of my life as a politician. I believe that the average people of the State of Texas need a voice and career continued on page, P.11 politicians do not pro-

OLMOS FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE HOUSE DISTRICT 143 www.votedorothyolmos.com

My Mission I am dedicated to improving our community by creating an environment of hope and unity. I promise to work tirelessly to improve conditions in our community and effect positive change in the world around us. I affirm the importance of working together to find solutions. I will operate lawfully and respectfully in all matters. I will not profit from my endeavors. I believe in fairness for all. Dorothy Olmos will not waiver in the convictions to create a better community for all citizens.

Vote Tuesday, November 4th!

Dorothy Paid for by the Dorothy Olmos Campaign, Treasurer Desirae Renteria, 1123 Broadway Ste B, Houston, Texas 77012 (713) 926-2743 If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

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vide us with that voice. I am not accepting campaign contributions, so I am not indebted to any special interest group.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 27: Steve Host REPUBLICAN, and Dora Olivo (i) - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLIcAN STEVE HOST: It is a privilege to serve as the Republican candidate for Texas House of Representatives District 27, and it is an honor that I take very seriously. It is my opportunity to personally stand up for our conservative values and beliefs, and I am committed to doing just that

HOST

for the hard-working people of District 27. Our district deserves a representative who will stand up and give them a voice for conservative values that I, like my constituents, believe in and stand for. Values like protecting our border, ensuring economic and political freedom and respect for faith and family. I pledge to listen to the constituents in Texas House District 27 and represent them by providing responsive, responsible government in order to ensure a secure and bright future for all Texans. As a representative, I will bring these principals to the forefront by holding our legislature accountable. Accountability by fighting excessive spending, limiting taxation on families and small business owners, restoring local control over infrastructure issues such as roads, tolls and water and overall, stopping unnecessary legislation. DEMOCRAT STATE REP. DORA OLIVO: As a former

school teacher, as an attorney, a community organizer, and as a mother and grandmother, I have fought to open the doors of government to serve the people and brought clear, proven results for my district and our state. Among other issues, I have fought to increase funding for our public schools; to stop the deregulation of college tuition; and to create more accessible and affordable health care for our families and children. I have fought for common sense solutions to minimize taxes to help our small business owners, and have held government accountable at all levels to protect our environment and guard the rights of the elderly OLIVO and the disabled in our communities. I listen to my constituents and I am respected across party aisles to get things done. And I am proud to have the support of the teachers, environmental groups, labor, law enforcement, health care groups, realtors and many others. continued on page, P.13 In these tough eco-

Dr. Joe Agris: Conservative, Principled, Experienced Dear Friend, You may know me from my work in the medical profession. You see, I have devoted my life to helping others. To me, there is no greater joy than reaching out to someone who is in need of an emergency or life-altering procedure. Through the years, my work has been entirely fulfilling. I am proud of what I have accomplished. But I want to accomplish more. I am running for State Representative District 134 because I believe that it is time to get rid of the empty political rhetoric and take action. That's why I'm asking you to take action by voting for me on Tuesday, November 4th!

IMMIGRATION The growing problem of immigration is one that affects us each and ever day. We must stop the political rhetoric and do something about it!

TAXES Our taxes are through the roof, and yet our government keeps on spending. We must STOP the frivolous government spending, and demand that government be run like a business.

EDUCATION Simply put, education must be put at the forefront of every session. Our kids are our future, and we must keep Texas' future bright. Fondly,

Joe Agris

Joe will be an unwavering voice for our core conservative beliefs.

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

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LOG ON TO: WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO FIND OUT WHO EACH CANDIDATE THINK IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADER THEY KNOW! nomic times, we need a proven leader who can fight for our families and small businesses and I bring that proven track record in the legislature. Over the years I have received calls from constituents asking for help with problems ranging from child support, business matters, prison transfers, school issues and many other concerns. I have always dedicated my office to help people find solutions and ensure that our government serves everyone fairly. I encourage all registered voters to vote so that together we can fight for a better tomorrow for our families and communities.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 29: Randy Weber - REPUBLICAN, and Kevin M. Murphy - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT KEVIN M. MURPHY: I started this race because I was mad about the failures of Austin that were dragging this state down. I will never forget who sent me to Austin and the work I have been sent to do. I have experience as a public school teacher and a college instructor. I went to law school because I wanted to change things I knew that I needed to understand the way laws were written and MURPHY applied. As a practicing attorney, I

have a broad range of experience with matters that affect Texans. I am committed to restoring responsible and responsive government to the people of Texas.

2008 Candidates for Texas State Representative District 126: Patricia Harless (i) REPUBLICAN, Chad Khan - DEMOCRAT, and Oscar J. Palma, Jr. - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? LIBERTARIAN OSCAR PALMA , JR: 1.) I stand for the right of citizens to be free of excessive and unfair taxation. 2.) I stand for the right of citizens to be free of government intervention in their private lives. 3.) I stand for the right of citizens to not be subjected to countless laws that legislators haven't even read, causing unreasonable regulations and budget demands to enforce them. 4.) I stand for the right of PALMA citizens to quality education without paying the exorbitant amounts currently required, while changing the funding from property tax to a fair allocation from state revenues, however that may be obtained. 5.) And most importantly, I cannot be bought. I am a citizen candidate, the kind that the Founding Fathers envisioned governing this country, not a professional politician whose

own interests trump those of the citizens they've been entrusted to represent.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 127: Joe Crabb (i) - REPUBLICAN, Joe A. Montemayor PEREZ DEMOCRAT, and Justo Perez - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County LIBERTARIAN JUSTO PEREZ: Not just me, but any Libertarian candidate would be a better choice than a Democrat or Republican. They should choose “me” if they are fiscally conservative and socially liberal. In other words, if they want to keep Government out of their wallet and out of their bedrooms, vote Libertarian (any Libertarian will do).

2008 Candidates for Texas State Representative District 129: John E. Davis (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Sherrie L. Matula - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County MATULA

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT SHERRIE MATULA: I have been a member of the community for 35 years. I continued on page, P.15 have been a community

ARE YOU STILL UNDECIDED? Here’s Why Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie told Aubrey R. Taylor you should vote Democratic in this election! “Our Democratic candidates are qualified and ready to finally return responsible leadership to our government, especially in Harris County. Scandal plagued Republican politicians in Harris County have disgraced the offices they were elected to represent and have also insulted their constituents. It’s time for change and I am confident our Democratic candidates can provide the change Harris County residents deserve.”

S THI G FOR AITIN E M W I ST ILL PUB RES RE ST HE RE EN P E T H OF AS N WE W FROM GE. W ILL TE: E W . PA IO * NO LICAT SPONS THIS GE IT BSITE E R A PUB HE RE TY FO MESS UR W T ON N PAR E THE T ON O I A V LIC RECEI STED O WE DLY P GLA

CHAIRMAN RICHIE

Here’s Why Texas Libertarian Party Chairman Patrick Dixon told Aubrey R. Taylor you should vote Libertarian in this election! “The Libertarian Party is the only choice for voters to regain leadership of their lives, their families, their property. Our nation was built by strong individuals who took risks, accepted responsibility, and prospered. Today's incumbents propose solutions to problems they created by asking for more of the same control over your lives and your property. How many more bailouts will it take? We understand we CHAIRMAN DIXON are at a disadvantage from unfavorable election code that imposes obstacles for us and insulates incumbents. Despite this, the growing number of votes for Libertarian candidates is being noticed and starting to influence policy. It takes a bold act of leadership on your part as a voter to cast a vote for what you truly believe and not settle for timid compromise.”

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

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activist on behalf of many issues and been a citizen lobbyist in the State House of Representatives for 30 years. I am a person of integrity and honesty who has always been receptive to the needs of the community. I will be the voice in Austin that our community deserves and I will always listen to who I represent - the people.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 130: Allen Fletcher - REPUBLICAN, and William B. Gray, Jr. - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? LIBERTARIAN WILLIAM B. GRAY, JR.: Unlike most politicians, I am in favor of less government, not more. I GRAY am more interested in cutting spending and giving the taxpayers back their money than finding more creative ways in which to steal it or spend it.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 133: Jim Murphy (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Kristi Thibaut - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT KRISTI THIBAUT: I believe the people of District 133 should choose me on November 4th because I will fight every day on their behalf. Much of my district has been neglected for far too long by government at all levels, and everyone in my community deserves to be heard and to have an advocate at the State Capitol. I will work to lower utility rates, expand economic opportunity, improve THIBAUT education and access to affordable healthcare, and to give families a chance to send their kids to college. We need leadership on the crucial issues facing our state, and I will lead.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 134: Joe Agris - REPUBLICAN, Ellen Cohen (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Mhair S. Dekmezian - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? AGRIS

REPUBLICAN DR. JOE AGRIS: Harris County voters should vote for me on Nov 4th because the present system is broken and and fresh, new ideas are needed. Who do you trust more? Your Doctor, or the politicians who've lied to you repeatedly, promised you the moon and stars to get richer and deliver nothing. DEMOCRATIC STATE REP. ELLEN COHEN: I believe that I have demonstrated leadership during my first session in the House in the area of health care and education. I authored a bill that will provide $25 million dollars for sexual assault survivors and education programs around the state by attachCOHEN ing a fee to adult entertainment venues. During my 18 years at the Houston Area Women's Center, I led a staff of 120 people and increased revenue from $1 million to over $6 million. I can be counted on to keep my word and work for the constituents in my district.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 135: Gary Elkins (i) - REPUBLICAN, Trey S. Fleming - DEMOCRAT, and Alfred N. Montestruc - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT TREY S. FLEMING: I am an aggressive

and thoughtful candidate who is focused on issues that matter to this district. I have talked with well over 10,000 residents of this district and I firmly believe that my positions as a conservative Democrat is what Texas and FLEMING House District 135 is looking for. I am anxious to work with members of both parties to solve the more challenging issues that Texas will face in the next 25 years. ALFRED N. MONTESTRUC: I will stand up for the people of my district in seeing to it that they get good quality government service at a reasonable price and that they get honest government.

MONTESTRUC

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 137: Scott Hochberg (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Alex Cresswell - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? LIBERTARIAN ALEX CRESSWELL: I have a vision of Texas as a leader among the United States of America. In education for our schools and programs to lead the nation as the best state for education both public and private, and as allowing the greatest choice through a school voucher program for parents to choose which school their children attend. In responsible spending, as being the first state to pass an amendCRESSWELL ment to our constitution that limits increases in spending to be dictated by population growth, and adjusted for inflation. To be known as a responsible state with tax payer dollars, producing the most benefit to citizens with welfare money, and cutting our spending in welfare programs that are not effective. To be a leader in health care, by providing the legal foundation for affordable health care.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 138: Dwayne Bohac (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Virginia "Ginny" Stogner McDavid - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN STATE REP. BOHAC: With support from my district I will continue delivering results for our community. Working with my constituents, I have helped pass the largest property tax cut in Texas history, and plan to introduce legislation to lower the property tax appraisal cap from 10% to 5% or less. I voted for a moratorium on the Trans Texas Corridor and oppose foreign ownership of Texas roads. I helped pass $100 million in additional border security funding BOHAC to help curb drug and human trafficking, and I support requiring a valid Texas photo ID to vote. And I will continue to make public education my top priority. In the past, I have increased teacher pay, provided a 13th check for retired teachers, authored legislation that restored the Pledge of Allegiance in our public schools, and replaced the TAKS test with end of course exams so teachers aren't forced to teach to the test. I will also work to end Robin Hood. 2008 Candidates for Texas State Representative District 141: Michael Bunch - REPUBLICAN, Senfronia Thompson (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Richard Brown - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN MICHAEL BUNCH: I would hope that the voters would select me as their representative in Austin because of my character, leadership skills (as demonstrated in BUNCH the past), my strong education back-

ground and my vision for Texas as a prosperous state.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 143: Dorothy Olmos - REPUBLICAN, Ana E. Hernandez (i) - DEMOCRAT, and Joe O. Marcom - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT DOROTHY OLMOS: The Harris county voters should choose my candidacy because I, Dorothy Olmos have assisted many people in crisis for over 25 years aside from raising my own 4 children. I have taught AtRisk High School students in the 1990"s and I continue to assist people on a daily basis with Problem Resolutions. I have been a business owner for over 30 years in rental renovation and rental properties, OLMOS owned Hair salons and now I have a multi-service office that is assisting the community. That is why I know that I am the people's choice to be State Rep Dist. 143. I am a conservative leader who believes in family values and that can lead the community in a positive and new vision of success. LIBERTARIAN JOE O. MARCOM: Our citizens deserve, and need a real change of direction from that provided by both Democrats and Republicans, who have too much invested in main- MARCOM taining the status quo. Only Libertarians, including myself will actually reduce government, lower taxes and restore lost individual liberty.

Candidates for Texas State Representative District 144: Ken Legler REPUBLICAN, and Joel C. Redmond DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN KEN LEGLER: I've lived and worked in the Pasadena-South Belt area for fifty plus years. I'm a graduate of Pasadena Schools and have been married to my high school sweetheart for over thirty years. We've been blessed with three wonderful children, Joseph, Kristina, Kathryn and one grandson, Brendan. I am a pro-life, pro-family, pro-business Republican. I'm a conservative who believes in individual responsibility, limited government, and local control. I will apply these conservative principals as your State Representative. There is no challenge so great, that we Texans cannot solve it together. LEGLER After graduating from high school, I began work in an entry level position at a local manufacturing company. I worked my way up to become President. And now I own the business. I've campaigned, knocking on door, visiting with voters one by one across the district. They share my concerns for our state. I support providing more resources for border security enforcement, including increased officer patrol hours, providing additional criminal investigators, adding security cameras, sending National Guardsmen and a rapid deployment team of state troopers to respond quickly to illegal activity along the border. I want to safeguard elections by ensuring that only qualified US citizens with the proper photo identification are allowed to vote. I favor keeping our children safe by requiring criminal background checks for every public school employee and requiring increased penalties for child sex offenders. In these tough economic times, I'll fight every spending and tax increase. As your State Representative, I'll bring our conservative values to Austin. Candidates for Texas State Representative District 148: Howard H. Gano, Jr. - REPUBLICAN, and Jessica Christina Farrar (i) DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, continued on page, P.17 November 4th?

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

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REPUBLICAN HOWARD GANO, JR.: District 148 needs a leader that will be more responsive to the interests and needs of the community. I will not be beholding to any special interests. I want to repeal the new business margin tax and make sure that Texas is number one for attracting new businesses to move here GANO and for existing businesses to stay here.

Candidates for Chief Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District: Adele Hedges (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Joe W. Beverly - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT JOE BEVERLY: I have the experience and qualifications to be a fair and effective Chief Justice of the 14th Court of Appeals. I have been practicing trial and appellate law all over Texas for 17 years. I have represented every type of client from multiBEVERLY national corporations, to small businesses to everyday working people. I know what both sides of the bar and their clients face in seeking justice in our court system. I am board certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Prior to moving to Houston I was a Briefing Attorney for the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals - the highest criminal court in the State. I have the support of many great lawyers in the community. I will work hard every day to ensure that the rights of Texas citizens are protected and that the integrity of court system is ensured.

Candidates for Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 5: Laura Carter Higley (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Leslie C. Taylor - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT LESLIE C. TAYLOR: My extensive experience and legal scholarship make me the best candidate for the bench I seek. For 18 of my 24 years as a Texas lawyer, I have been Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I have authored a book for Texas lawyers outlining almost all of the causes of action recognized in TAYLOR Texas. I understand the proper role of intermediate appellate courts is to apply the law fairly and evenly, but never to create new law or compromise our Texas constitutional guarantees of a right to trial by jury. I will be totally impartial, objective and ethical. I will never use my position or campaign funds to sponsor advocacy groups.

2008 Candidates for District Judge, 56th Judicial District: Lonnie Cox REPUBLICAN, and Susan P. Baker DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Galveston County BAKER

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRATIC JUDGE BAKER: GALVESTON County voters should vote for me because I care about our community and will do more than hear cases. I will work to better the court system through programs and communication with those in both the public and private sector.

REPUBLICAN JUDGE RAY: I have 16 years of experience on the bench, am board certified and won the bar poll by 2 to 1. I am the best qualified.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th?

practitioners on both sides of the courtroom. I share the belief that judges should issue rulings based on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights -- rather than on outcomes that reflect the judges' personal biases, policy preferences, or political alignment. I have and will continue to leave legislation to that branch of the government and have my decisions reflect the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Texas as well as the statutes established by our legislative branch. I am humbled as I serve as the Judge of the 178th Criminal District Court and have the responsibility to insure the fair and equal access to not merely the °ßjustice system°® but a true °ßsystem of justice and mercy°® deserved by the people of Harris County, be they spectators, those injured, those charged, or the friends or families of either.

REPUBLICAN BILL MOORE: My entire 20-year legal career has been spent as an advocate for crime victims and their families here in Harris County as a prosecutor. I have tried over 100 jury trials, and have served as a Felony Chief Prosecutor in three Harris County Criminal District Courts handling murder and capital murder cases. I served 10 years as a Special Crimes prosecutor gaining extensive experience handling complex financial frauds and organized crime cases. In 2002 I was awarded a Houston Police Department Commendation for the successful prosecution of 22 organized crime cases MOORE following a two year undercover sting operation. I believe a Criminal District Court Judge should be fair to both the State and the Defense, listen to both sides, and fairly apply the law applicable in each case. I believe it is extremely important for a Criminal District Court Judge to have some experience as an advocate for crime victims and their families. A good judge needs to be aware of what crime victims are going through, and at the same time see that each criminal defendant receives a fair trial. In an effort to avoid any appearance of impropriety, I have pledged not to accept political contributions from lawyers who practice criminal law in the Harris County Criminal District Courts.

DEMOCRAT DAVID MENDOZA: I should be chosen by Harris County voters on Tuesday, November 4th because I have 29 years criminal law experience. I have served the citizens of Harris County as A Felony Court Prosecutor, a Board-certified Defense Lawyer and as a twiceelected Judge of Harris County Criminal Court of Law No. 11 for 8 years. Additionally, I have served on four juries, once as a law student, one as a MENDOZA lawyer and twice in Criminal and District Court while I was a sitting County Court Judge. Having worked my way through college and law school, I fully understand the challenges of raising a family while completing one's education at the same time. I have worked as a janitor, a substitute teacher, an off-set printer, postal carrier, court clerk, lawyer, prosecutor and judge. I am a life-long resident of Houston and Harris County and have personally experienced the growth of Houston and the changing demographics which have presented the criminal courts with a seemingly endless supply of young people charged with drug and alcohol offenses. I have personally been active in the community working with groups and agencies that serve our youth and elderly such as serving as a Lifetime committeeman of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and as presidents of the Wesley Community Center, to name a couple.

Candidates for District Judge, 174th Judicial District: Bill Moore RAY - REPUBLICAN, and Ruben Guerrero - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County

Candidates for District Judge, 177th Judicial District: Devon Anderson (i) - REPUBLICAN, Kevin Fine - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT KEVINE FINE: Because I am the best person for the job. I am running for the 177th Criminal District Court. An estimated 85% of all criminal cases are drug and/or alcohol related. I understand the nature of the problem better than any judge sitting on the bench. I have served on the Committee for the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program of FINE the State Bar of Texas. This program helps lawyers with supstance abuse problems all over the state. More importantly, I am a recovering addict and alcoholic myself and I know first hand the helplessness and hopelessness known only by those with substance abuse problems, as well as the solution that can lead to a full, happy, and productive life.

Candidates for District Judge, 178th Judicial District: Roger Bridgwater (i) - REPUBLICAN, and David Mendoza - DEMOCRAT on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County

Candidates for District Judge, 165th Judicial District: Elizabeth Ray (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Josefina Muniz Rendon - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th?

BRIDGWATER

REPUBLICAN JUDGE BRIDGWATER: I believe that I have the knowledge, temperament, experience (33 years in Harris County trial courts generally; 29 years experience as criminal trial attorney); judicial experience; appellate work; broad-base respect among the Judiciary, criminal law

In my legal career I have personally been involved in disposing of over 35,000 criminal cases and conducting approximately 350 Jury Trials. I have taken great pride in providing fair trials and of making the punishment fit the person and the crime. I have made my number one priority, protecting the public safety while making rational considered judgments in taking care of the people's business in the court.

Candidates for District Judge, 179th Judicial District: Mike Wilkinson (i) REPUBLICAN, and Randy Roll - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County

ROLL

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT RANDY ROLL: As I said early, I will be a full time judge. I want to stress drug treatment for the willing over a short incarceration that does not fix their problems. Texas incarcerates drug offenders at the highest rate in this country. The young offenders need direction and leadership. For the most heinous crimes, we need a a judge that will help protect society.

2008 Candidates for District Judge, 215th Judicial District: Levi J. Benton (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Steven E. Kirkland DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County KIRKLAND

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRATIC JUDGE KIRKLAND: I have a passion for justice. This passion directs my politics, career and community choices and activities. I have seven years judicial experience as a municipal court judge, eightcontinued on page, P.18

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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2008 VOTER’S GUIDE:

THE CANDIDATES SPEAK TO AUBREY R. TAYLOR

LOG ON TO: WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO FIND OUT WHO EACH CANDIDATE THINK IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADER THEY KNOW! een years legal experience, both as plaintiff and defendant. I've seen the courtroom from all sides - which gives me the unique perspective to be a balanced fair. As Municipal Judge I have presided over more than 700 jury trials proving I am decisive, efficient and dedicated to justice. I was a leader in creating Houston Homeless Recovery Court, which allows people who are working their way out of homelessness at a shelter or rehab program to pay off their outstanding warrants with community service. I pledge to bring this same kind of energy, innovation and creativity to the 215th District Court.

Candidates for Harris County District Attorney: Pat Lykos - REPUBLICAN, and C. O. "Brad" Bradford DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris Countyarea voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN PAT LYKOS: I have devoted my life to serving the public and pursuing justice. I have LYKOS the necessary qualifications for the job of District Attorney having been a Houston police officer, litigator in federal, state, local and appellate courts; and as a criminal district court judge. I have presided over more than 20,000 felony cases. Restoring public trust and confidence in the District Attorneys office through principled leadership and transforming it into the best in the nation based upon ethics and professionalism. I will vigorously prosecute the guilty, diligently enforce victims' rights, pursue swift justice, solve and prevent crime. I will also combat and prevent crime by effectively working with local, state and federal law enforcement and the community. DEMOCRAT C.O. “BRAD” BRADFORD: I am uniquely qualified to lead the District Attorney's Office. I have the education, training and experience needed to change the culture of that BRADFORD office from “win at all costs” to seeking justice and public safety. I will obey the law, respect the principle of justice and pursue the truth. I will exercise good fiscal stewardship of our resources. I will be visible and accessible to all communities and work diligently with public and private entities to establish collaborative efforts in the interest of public safety.

Candidates for Harris County Judge (Unexpired-Term): Ed Emmett (i) - REPUBLICAN, and David Mincberg - DEMOCRATon the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? REPUBLICAN JUDGE EMMETT: During my tenure as County Judge, I have managed to create a broad vision for the nation's third largest county. Harris County is in the forefront with mobility plans, our efforts to reform the juvenile justice system, improving EMMETT health care delivery and we have the strongest possible financial position. Our emergency preparedness and response, as seen during Hurricane Ike, is the model for the nation. There is still much to do and I would be honored to continue leading this great county. DEMOCRAT DAVID MINCBERG: I have been fortunate to have been endorsed by both Republicans and Democrats, and by groups ranging from the Houston Association of Building MINCBERG Contractors to the Black Ministers Association. As a native and life-long resident of Harris County, my hope is to serve the citizens in this vitally important position.

Candidates for Harris County Attorney: Mike Stafford (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Vince Ryan - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why should Harris County-area

voters choose you on Tuesday, November 4th? DEMOCRAT VINCE RYAN: The Houston Chronicle said it best in their editorial endorsement of my candidacy on October 12, 2008: “In the past year Harris County has suffered through a disturbing RYAN series of public scandals…The County badly needs an independent county attorney…to be an advocate for the citizenry and a watchdog…In the current race, the person best positioned by experience and determination to accomplish that goal is…Vince Ryan.”

Candidates for Harris County Sherrif: Tommy Thomas (i) - REPUBLICAN, Adrian Garcia - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN SHERIFF THOMAS: Leading the third largest Sheriff's Office in the nation with a $360 million annual budget requires an experienced law enforcement executive. I am a master peace officer with 40 years of law enforcement experience - 20 years of which have been in key management positions. I am the first sheriff in modern history to serve in every position in the Sheriff's Office. Under my leadership, the Sheriff's Office has evolve into one of the most prestigious and state of the art law enforcement agencies in the nation. DEMOCRAT ADRIAN GARCIA: 23 years as a Houston Police Officer, three terms on Houston's City Council THOMAS chairing the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee working alongside the Police and Fire Chiefs and their combined budgets of nearly $1billion of taxpayer's dollars. In addition, this year Mayor White chose me as Mayor Pro Tempore to help govern the fourth largest city in America. I also received major endorsements from the main employee groups of the Harris County Sheriff's Office, the Houston Chronicle, and the Houston Fire Fighter's Union, all of which makes me the clear choice to protect the largest county in Texas. GARCIA

Candidates for Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector: Paul Bettencourt (i) - REPUBLICAN, Diane Trautman - DEMOCRAT, and Jeffrey McGee - LIBERTARIAN - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County DEMOCRAT DIANE TRAUTMAN: If elected, I will run the Tax Office as a service organization instead of a political organization. Harris County is the third largest county in the nation and because of our size, we need a tax assessor who will give complete focus to the task ahead of us. Unfortunately on Friday afternoons, my opponent leaves his taxpayer funded job early to host a partisan radio talk show. Instead of handling the people's business, my opponent plays partisan politics on our dime. When I'm elected Tax Assessor, I will be a full time public servant and put serving the people of this county ahead of partisan politics. And I'm prepared to tackTRAUTMAN le the serious challenges this county faces. I have the administrative and leadership experience to keep a large operation up and running. I intend to address the serious challenges facing our Tax Office. Our tax collection rate has been one of the lowest among large Texas counties. This translates to lost tax dollars for our law enforcement, roads, and schools, all services that you and I and our families count on. And our voter rolls are not keeping pace with the county population growth. We can and must do better. I'm asking for your vote on Nov. 4 to help me put service and your needs before politics.

Candidates for Harris County School Trustee, Position 7 At-Large: Stan HENLEY Stanart - REPUBLICAN, and Jim Henley - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County DEMOCRAT JIM HENLEY: Voters should vote for me because I have the respect and support of the students

whom I have taught and their families. They know that I sought to inspire each of them to reach out and claim their God given potential. As a Trustee of The Harris County Department of Education, I will bring this same expectation to all who are employed to serve our children.

2008 Candidates for Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 3: Steve Radack (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Dexter Handy - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN COMMISSIONER RADACK: I have had the honor and privilege of serving this community for almost my entire adult life - 11 years as a Houston police officer, four years as an elected constable and almost 20 years as the Commissioner of Precinct Three. I respect the people of this city and this county immensely and have never been shy about my views and have never been shy about doing what is best for the peoRADACK ple of Harris County. DEMOCRAT HANDY: I firmly believe Precinct 3 needs a leader who is ethical, responsive and proactive. I am running to be your County Commissioner because I have the skills necessary to take our county's infrastructure forward. I am running because I believe we can do this with an open government forum. I believe I can implement diverse transportation options; including metro-rail, light rail, sidewalks, bikeways, and mobility corridors throughout Precinct 3. I am certain I can improve our crisis response capabilities, and prevent a recurrence of the headaches we experienced after Hurricane Ike. I believe I can reduce crime HANDY by integrating our various county and city law enforcement agencies' communications networks to foster quicker response times to incidents.

Candidates for Harris County Constable, Precinct 3: Tony Lewis - REPUBLICAN, and Ken Jones (i) - DEMOCRAT- on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County REPUBLICAN TONY LEWIS: Harris County voters should choose me this election cycle because I represent a clear shift in law enforcement thinking. I believe in the proactive, "go get 'em" policing approach. High visibility and well trained officers is what I am looking to accomplish along with an integrated approach to homeland security. I will send my Deputies to national training events to prepare them for the possi- LEWIS bility of weapons of mass destruction and other terrorist challenges we face. Our police forces must be ready to adapt and operate quickly and with little notice. DEMOCRATIC CONSTABLE JONES: I was Captain of the Constable's Department for 19 years and the elected Constable for the last 8 years. My department has state of the art equipment. Deputies are required to attend twice the state required hours of training. Initiated mounted patrol, child ID fingerprint program, neighborhood crime watch program, contract deputy program, handicapped parking enforcement, senior citizen protection program, disaster JONES response team, G.R.E.A.T. anti-gang program, community policing sub-station and other programs that additional space won't permit.

Candidates for Harris County Constable, Precinct 5: Phil Camus (i) - REPUBLICAN, and Sam Pearson - DEMOCRAT - on the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Ballot in Harris County DEMOCRAT SAM PEARSON: The Constable Office, under my command will treat all persons equally in fair application of the law. To ensure this, all personnel, including the command staff, will be held accountable for their PEARSON actions. Integrity will be established through cultural diversity training, community communication, and accountability of daily operations. Trust is built on truth. Public service is the number one goal.

Democracy is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder, and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequal alike. — Plato

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WE WILL GIVE YOU A PHOTOGRAPHIC LOOK AT PROGRESS ON GALVESTON ISLAND IN JANUARY!

Perseverance THIS IS A HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS SPECIAL COMING IN JANUARY OF 2009 ON SIDE (B) OF THE “PEOPLE DOING BUSINESS” SERIES!

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Postponed Tour Due To Hurricane Ike to take place starting Nov. 14th HOUSTON- You are invited to attend the eighth of a series of free, public tours of certified green buildings here in Houston. The tour will take place on Friday, November 14, 2008, every 30 minutes from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Satterfield & Pontikes Construction office, near the West Belt & Clay Road at 11000 Equity Drive, Houston, Texas 77041. for more details and a map. Light refreshments provided. (This Tour was postponed due to Hurricane Ike). Green buildings save owners and users money with greater energy efficiency. They are better for our environment with more re-use of material. Ultimately, they foster a happier and healthier workplace for employees. To help us along this path, the City of Houston has put together the Mayor's Green Building Advisory Council in partnership with companies that have led the way in green building and achieved certification of their facilities according to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building rating standards. The objective of this group is to share experiences including cost/benefit business cases and key learning with others to help accelerate green building across the city. We very much welcome your participation in this event and your interest and support for green building efforts across Houston. For more information on the Green Building Tour, please contact Steve Stelzer at 713535-7508 or e-mail at steve.stelzer@cityofhouston.net

Battleship Texas, San Jacinto Monument Reopened Recently LAPORTE, Texas - The recently reopened San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site celebrated the beginning of its post-Hurricane Ikeera recently by hosting a reunion of the USS TEXAS Veterans Association this past Saturday. A memorial honoring fallen shipmates was part of the ceremony. Saturday also marked one week since the reopening of the iconic San Jacinto Monument, which had been closed to the public since Sept. 11, when staff evacuated the site after finalizing preparations in advance of the hurricane

that struck the following night. The Category 2 storm knocked out power and water to the historic site, where in 1836 Texas won its independence from Mexico. The elevator that takes visitors to the observation deck of the 570foot tall monument, however, remains closed for repairs. The museum exhibits, gift shop and Jesse H. Jones Theatre are welcoming visitors once again. The U. S. Immigration and Naturalization Service has scheduled a Nov. 10 swearing-in ceremony for new citizens aboard the Battleship TEXAS in honor of Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11. Both currently serving and retired military personnel and their family members will be guests of the San Jacinto Museum of History from Veterans Day through Sunday, Nov. 16. They will receive free admission to view the digital presentation Texas Forever!! The Battle

of San Jacinto, tour the Developing Houston: Photographic Treasures from the Cecil Thomson Collection and visit the San Jacinto Museum of History. Non-military visitors may purchase a combo ticket for entrance to the Texas Forever!! and Developing Houston. Tickets for individual activities and discounts for seniors and tour groups are available. The San Jacinto Monument and Battleship TEXAS are located at the San Jacinto Battleground SHS that reopened Oct. 11, exactly 30 days from the day the park had to be evacuated because of deadly Hurricane Ike. Most of the historic site remains accessible to the public. Only the area on the east side of the monument is closed for contincontinued on page, P.27

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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EVENTS

UPCOMING TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE EVENTS impaired. 6-7:30 p.m. (940) 328-1171. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Purtis Creek SP Christmas in the Park - Join park staff for the lighting of the parks' Christmas tree. Stay for hot chocolate and hot cider, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and watch a Christmas movie by the campfire. Campers, decorate your campsites for prizes. Accessible for the mobility impaired. 6-9 p.m. (903) 425-2332. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Tyler SP - 3rd Annual Christmas Caroling and Pine Ride - Sing carols as you ride through the park on a fragrant bed of pine enjoying all the sights and sounds along the way! And don't miss the opportunity to pick up some unusual Christmas gifts at the park store, while enjoying hot apple cider and cookies. 5-8 p.m. (903) 597-5338. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - World Birding Center - Resaca de la Palma SP - Grand Opening Ceremony - We will celebrate our grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony complete with VIP's. There will also be different programs and events, lunch and refreshments. Come have a "Family Day at the Park" and see what we have to offer! 8 a.m.5 p.m.; entrance fees waived for this event (956) 350-2920.

Happy

THANKSGIVING! THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2008

upcoming events continued from page, 2 Featured Event November 22, 2008 - Huntsville SP - Huntsville Adventure Race - Race presented by the USARA includes mountain biking (10 miles), flat water paddle (5 miles), trekking/orienteering (5 miles) and team challenges. The Elite/Expert class is expected to take 3-4 hours; the Beginner/Intermediate classes should finish in 4-6 hours. Teams must provide their own kayaks and pfd's. Teams may use single or tandem kayaks or canoes. Race packets will be handed out at 7 a.m.; race fee includes park entry fee for all racers and volunteers. For more information, visit http://www.solemracing .com. (936) 295-5644. Featured Event Accessible Event November 28, 2008 - Goose Island SP - Karankawa Thanksgiving - In the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims of Plymouth Massachusetts were celebrating their new harvest with their Native American friends. What was going on down on the Texas Gulf Coast on the same day? Come learn about the native people of the Gulf Coastal Bend and their way of life as we explore the Karankawa Indians. Accessible for the mobility impaired. 7-8 p.m. (361) 729-2858. Featured Event November 29, 2008 - Fanthorp Inn SHS - Twilight Firelight - Visit the 1850s stagecoach inn bedecked with lanterns, luminaries and holiday decorations. The inn comes to life with dulcimer music, the dulcet tones of Latrelle Lindon, cowboy poetry, living history and period characters! Ride the stagecoach and wagon from the historic Grimes County Courthouse to the inn. Enjoy holiday fare and start the holidays off right. 3:30-7:30 p.m. (936) 873-2633. Featured Event December 2008 - Battleship TEXAS SHS - Yuletide TEXAS - Christmas was a very special time for the sailors and officers who served aboard the Battleship TEXAS, and now you can get a glimpse at that history. See the battleship adorned with lights, ornaments and decorations in the spirit of the season, just the way the crew members who served aboard her did while serving their country. Accessible for wheelchairs on main deck only. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (281) 479-2431. Featured Event December 2008 - Monument Hill & Kreische Brewery SHS - Early German Christmas - Get into the season's spirit with us! Walk along the fantastic quarter-mile trail overlooking the town of La Grange and be delighted by the thousands of lights that illuminate it. Experience the more traditionally decorated 1850s-era German home of H.L. Kreische, bedecked in Christmas splendor, in a Texas-German style. Enjoy the genuine seasonal hospitality of the Friends of Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery, who sponsor the event. Entertainment and refreshments provided. 6-8 p.m.; fee $12 per person; available by reservation only to groups of 30 or more, deadline November 15, 2008; call for more information (979) 968-5658. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Brazos Bend SP - Simple Christmas - Escape the hustle and bustle of the season and enjoy the simple life: making smores, Dutch oven cooking, children's crafts, hayrides and more plus a visit from a "Southern Santa." Cap off the evening with "The Brazos River Pickers" old-time, bluegrass band. Refreshments available. Bring a picnic supper to enjoy while you listen to the performance at the outdoor amphitheater. Accessible for the mobility impaired. 3-7 p.m.; for more information, visit http://www.brazosbend.org. (979) 553-5101. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Goliad SP - Christmas Concert - Experience the joyful music of the Beeville Community Chorus as they present their Christmas concert in the chapel of the Spanish Colonial Mission Espiritu Santo de Zuniga. 8 p.m. (361) 645-3405. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Huntsville SP - Sunmart Texas Trail Endurance Runs - The Sunmart Experience: a race like no other! This race is the renowned ultra of ultras for the first-timer or the seasoned trail runner. Choice of 50K or 50-mile run. Both races begin at 7 a.m.; packet pick up December 12 from 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at the Sheraton North, 15700 JFK Blvd., Houston. A shuttle from there will be offered on race day at 5:30 a.m. for $20 per person. To register online and for additional information, visithttp://www.petroleumwholesale.com/sunmart.web/race/default.aspx or contact Patti at patti@rogersoler.com. (936) 295-5644. Featured Event December 6, 2008 - Lake Mineral Wells SP & Trailway - Cross Timbers Cowboy Campfire Christmas - Bring the whole family to the Lone Star Amphitheater for a campfire program of cowboy music, poetry and sing-along with a Christmas theme. Accessible for the mobility

Featured Event December 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 2008 Monument Hill & Kreische Brewery SHS - Trail of Lights Enjoy a fantastic quarter-mile trail illuminated with thousands of lights that decorate the Monument Hill and Kreische House portions of our park. Walk a trail overlooking the town of La Grange. Experience the more traditionally decorated 1850s-era German home of H.L. Kreische, bedecked in Christmas splendor, in a Texas-German style. Bring your children to tell secrets to Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and enjoy the genuine seasonal hospitality of the Friends of Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery, who sponsor the event. No pets please. 6-8 p.m.; fees $3 adults, $1 children 3-12 (979) 968-5658. Featured Event December 11, 2008 - Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center - Christmas on the Border - Join us in celebrating the holiday season in West Texas border fashion. Local community performers will provide the entertainment. Refreshments and treats will be served and we will have a special visit by Santa Claus for the children. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. 6:30-9 p.m. (432) 424-3327. Featured Event December 12, 2008 - Sebastopol House SHS - Holiday Classic Movie - There's nothing like a classic holiday film to get you into the holiday spirit. The parlor at Sebastopol has been turned into an old fashioned theatre in order to bring you a 1948 Holiday Classic"Miracle On 34th Street," starring a very young Natalie Wood. If this warm family film doesn't soften the heart of the Grinch in your life-nothing will! Seating is limited. 6:30 p.m.; reservations required (830) 379-4833. Featured Event December 12-13, 2008 - Cooper Lake SP/Doctors Creek Unit - 2nd Annual Christmas in the Park - Load up the family for a drive through the park and enjoy the holiday decorations. We will also have refreshments and Santa will be here for a visit. Sponsored by The Friends of Doctor's Creek. 6-10 p.m. For more information, call the Friends of Doctor's Creek at (903) 395-4314 or the park at (903) 395-3100. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Barrington Living History Farm-Washington-on-the-Brazos SHS - An Old-Fashioned Texas Christmas - This is a time for gathering with family and friends, for singing carols around the open fire, for making surprises tucked away in pretty packages, for feasting on goodies made with love, and for making special memories. Join the farm staff in decorating, singing and celebrating this wonderful holiday season with many more surprises to come. Accessible for the mobility impaired. 3-8 p.m. (936) 878-2213. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Battleship TEXAS SHS - Santa's Swingin 40's Christmas - Visit the Battleship Texas and enjoy the spirit of the holidays. Write and mail letters to Santa, enjoy hot wassail, meet and have your picture taken with Santa, and much, much more. Accessible for wheelchairs on main deck only. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (281) 479-2431. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Fort Richardson SP&HS & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway - Christmas Fun - Start the day with a fishing tournament from 9 a.m.noon, then Santa Clause will come and visit from 1-2 p.m., and finish the day with Dianne Martin who presents her "The Night Before Christmas" collection of Victorian stories, books, antiques, figurines, object de art, etc. from 2continued on page, P.28 4 p.m. (940) 567-3506.

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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PREVIEW

2009 PEOPLE DOING BUSINESS SERIES • SPECIAL FEATURE

WANT TO BE A PART OF THIS EXCITING EDITION? EMAIL US AT: NEWS@HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM TO REQUEST INCLUSION!

MAYOR BILL WHITE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

• IN THE ACTUAL MAGAZINE HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS WILL FOCUS ON THE POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECOVER EFFORTS ASSOCIATED WITH HURRICANE IKE! meeting their goals and deadlines, they are given more responsibility. This is the way we work.” However, being the mayor of Houston doesn’t mean he’s chained to his chair trying to work his way out from under piles of paperwork. He’s got a very busy public appearance schedule that helps him keep in touch with his constituents and neighbors. And he admits he’s got a favorite. “My favorite part about this job is inter-

acting with kids,” he said. In fact, the day of the interview he’d met earlier with a group of youngsters from Galena Park who were visiting a golf course for the first time. “I enjoy being a part of those experiences.” But Mayor White knows his time in office isn’t infinite. Invariably, he’ll reach the end of his term in office. And on that day, he says he’ll be proud of the city he’s leaving behind and he hopes future mayors will continue to build a city

Houstonians are proud of. “I’m extremely proud of the direction this city is headed in with affirmative action programs. We are going forward,” says the father of three. “I’d like people to expect that the [person serving as] mayor will bring people together and build a diverse team. We don’t want a city that is perceived to ignore large sections of the public based on their political beliefs or economic status.”

And that’s important because when the job of managing the city of Houston has run its course, this will be a city White must enjoy living in, too. “I never forget that I was a citizen without a title before I took this job,” he says, “and I will be a citizen without a title when I leave this job. --------------------------------------------------To reach any city department, just call Houston’s Information Line by dialing 3-1-1.

2009 Series Preview Houston Mayor Bill White in the 2007 interview arranged by Aubrey R. Taylor for the launch of the “People Doing Business Series” scheduled to debut in January of 2009, after the Presidential Inauguration. To be included call: (832)212-8735!

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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SANDRA PEAKE FOUNDER OF SANDRA J. PEAKE ATTORNEY AT LAW

t’s a common assumption that people who work for themselves have the luxury of rolling out of bed at ten o’clock and arriving at work by noon — if they wanted to. But people who are in business for themselves will beg to differ...strongly.

almost exclusively on the development of a consumer and small business bankruptcy practice. She began focusing more on developing a primarily family and probate practice. They found the combination a good mix while raising their family. In 1998, David left private practice when he was appointed a Chapter 13 Standing Trustee in the Southern District of Texas. Sandra has continued to concentrate on her family, probate and general practice.

She has also been able to utilize her professional expertise in assisting with her memberships, in volunteer work with, various Houston area women’s organizations. She enjoys her volunteer work with Asians Against Domestic Abuse (AADA), a non-profit organization organized to promote “equal and healthy family relations through public awareness” that continued on page, P.31

Sandra J. Peake, a family practice attorney and mediator, says she loves being her own boss. In fact, she says it’s the best part about owning and operating her business. “I may be tied to my office a little bit more than I would like to be at times, but I have sole control,” she says wittily. “I don’t have to consult with anyone else before I make a business decision.” But that kind of freedom, she says, requires a certain level of discipline and constant preparation — because if you don’t provide the discipline and direction, there is none. In the legal profession, if you’re a solo practitioner, you have periods of relative feast as well as famine. You have to make sure you have cash flow during unpredictable periods when cases are not being opened unless there is an exigent circumstance or dire emergency. That is why it is important to learn your business cycles. She thinks that is true in any professional. Also, being accessible, following up with clients and being approachable are all musts. According to her, any case is considered a collaborative process between her and her client, requiring mutual respect and cooperation. “I have made a concerted effort to make my practice one where I can pay attention to the client as a person, rather than just the case. I don’t take every case that comes through the door. Building sustainable and long term relationships is achievable because of personalized service.” She and her husband, David Peake, started their law practice in 1982. Their dream was to fill a niche for affordable and accessible legal services. As the years progressed, they decided that although the practice was lucrative, it was also limiting because they were not able to take more complex cases under the then existing format and caseload. At the same time, her husband and business partner began focusing

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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THE GRAHAMS FOUNDERS OF GRAHAM TIME FAMILY PHYSICIANS

he husband and wife doctor duo of Monica and Akili Graham at Graham Time Family Physicians say being in business for themselves gives them peace in their practice and flexibility in their schedules. But it hasn’t always been a smooth ride. Akili Graham, a graduate of Prairie View A & M University, says while he loves having his own practice today, he’d rethink the steps he took to get there. “I walked away from my position as the medical director of a group of family physicians,” he recalls. “I just knew I was going to go into business for myself, practice medicine the way I thought it should be done and patients would be at my door. It didn’t quite happen that way.” He can laugh about his struggles today, but he says that emotionally charged departure from stable employment taught him some of the biggest lessons in business. “The things I have done emotionally have brought a lot of challenge to us,” he says, specifically referring to financial challenges. “But God has gotten us through it every time.” But he says his best business move since opening Graham Time in the Third Ward in 2003 was bringing his wife into the practice. He admits Monica’s got a great mind for business that he lacked. “He was of the school of thought that if I don’t have the money to pay a bill, I’ll get it paid when I can and I’ll talk to the company when I get the money. And most people think that way,” says Monica who obtained her undergraduate degree from Tu s k e g e e University. “But when I arrived, I got on the phone with some of our service providers and explained our situation, and we worked those things out. “I would tell other new entrepreneurs that businesses understand you’re just starting out. Do not be afraid to pick up the phone and sometimes they will work with you. That way you’re not running or having them chase you,” she says. It’s been four years since the practice has opened, and Graham Time Family Physicians is facing a new set of business

challenges. Particularly, patient access to medical information on the Internet has kept the two physicians on their toes! “Empowerment is important. I tell patients to come in for their visit with their own information. This is a dialogue, not a one-way conversation,” Monica says. “I know a lot, but I’ll be the first to admit I don’t know everything. You’re the one who has to live with your body.” “We have a tendency to believe all people are like us. Our work ethic is what we want

to see in other people,” he admits. “And it’s hard to get an employee to understand we have to drop them because we won’t drop our standards.” Insurance companies, he says, add another challenge to the practice of medicine for doctors everywhere because of their control over what services will and won’t be covered for patients. This pushes doctors into a corner when they disagree continued on page, P.30

CATERING • 281.852.5666 HOURS • MONDAY-SATURDAY 11:00A.M. - 8:00 P.M. • SUNDAY 11:00 A.M. -6:00 P.M. BREAKFAST • SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS 6:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. 207 GRAY STREET • HOUSTON, TEXAS 77002 • 713.659.1608 • WWW.THISISITHOUSTON.COM

If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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CRAIG JOSEPH OWNER OF HOUSTON’S THIS IS IT SOUL FOOD

t 34 years old, Craig Joseph didn’t have any interest in owning his grandparents’ infamous This Is It soul food restaurant. He was living the career of his dreams as a firefighter for the Houston Fire Department. But an “insulting” low-ball offer from a stranger to buy the veritable Fourth Ward landmark gave him a change of heart and the restaurant a future. And in 1995, Craig and his wife Georgette carried on the legacy and the dream of Frank and Mattie Jones. “I’d rather see us lose the business than to give it away,” Joseph recalls. “So, I asked my grandfather to teach me what he knew.” Having grown up inside This Is It, Joseph understood the operation of the restaurant. It’s the food he had to master. “Maintaining the same consistency and quality in the food is the hardest thing. With the change in ownership, we had to make sure nothing about the food changed. Believe me, people would know and they’d be sure to tell us,” he says smiling. “Once I mastered the food and how to cook it, he gave me a trial run cooking on my own.” But mastering the cuisine of melt-in-your-mouth oxtails, tender greens and moist cornbread wasn’t his only hurdle to culinary success. There was a perception Joseph had to overcome that he couldn’t maintain his grandparents’ restaurant. He admits he heard the whispers from doubters who believed he’d “lose the business.” “We tried to change the décor without taking away from the character of the restaurant,” he says. “We’ve added uniforms and expanded the menu. We’ve managed to keep it going.” He’s proud to say the restaurant has “survived” the management change, he’s also “blessed” to have maintained many staff members for more than two decades and is even preparing for an expansion. The restaurant moved to its current location in 1995, which marked the first time in the restaurant’s history that it

owned the building in which it operated. Today, Joseph says, he’s working on further expansion plans. “The only thing that’s missing is him,” Joseph says of his grandfather, who passed away in 1999. Still, he’s proud to carry on the family’s legacy and knows he’s moving in the right direction when customers give him great feedback after a great meal. “My favorite part is when

people enjoy their experience and they’re pleased - especially when they say to me, ‘Keep up the good work!’ or ‘I’ll see you next time!’” he says. “But what really makes me happy is when I see young children ask their parents to bring them to This Is It for their birthday dinner instead of going to McDonald’s or Chuck E. Cheese.” And while much hasn’t continued on page, P.29

Hours of Operation: The Museum opens and conducts tours Monday thru Friday from 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00a.m. to 4:30p.m. the Museum is closed on Sundays. www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com 1 8 3 4 S o u t h m o r e , H o u s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 0 0 4 I Te l e p h o n e : 7 1 3 - 9 4 2 - 8 9 2 0

If an individual agrees with everybody, he lacks conviction; if he likes everybody and is everybody's friend, he is indifferent to one and all. — Nikolai Dobrolyubov

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RUAMA CAMP PRESIDENT & CEO OF G.R.A.C.E. COMMUNITY SERVICES

he creation of Ruama C a m p ’s G.R.A.C.E. Community Services may truly be the epitome of divine timing. Shortly after Camp departed from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (F.E.M.A.), formed her disaster management ministry and moved into its permanent office, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast in August 2005. At that moment, G.R.A.C.E. was truly in business and in a big way. The faith-based organization is committed to empowering African-American churches and other minority ministries with disaster preparedness training when things like flooding, fires, plane crashes, plant explosions and terrorism affect their communities. Camp considers it lifesaving work. “It’s important so that the next time there’s a flood someone knows to go get Miss Ethel down the street because she’s bound to a wheelchair,” she says. “And we saw cases like this in Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath.” Camp, who says her experience working with FEMA was the catalyst for forming G.R.A.C.E., believes that minorities don’t typically participate on the service side when it comes to disaster management. Rather, minorities “are on the receiving side” of the equation. She says it’s her goal to teach and educate minorities how to participate and become more disaster ready for their communities. Particularly, she says churches need to understand how crucial their role is in the disaster scenario. “Often, when a disaster happens, one of the first places people turn to or look to for help and assistance is the church. And churches have got to have disaster preparedness plans in place so they can help those who are depending on them,” says Camp of her business and ministry. “We offer training classes like Disaster 101 and CERT Training to educate churches on how to put a ministry in place. We also help people learn to navigate through the FEMA system.” What’s more interesting is

the G.R.A.C.E. business model. Camp applies a unique hiring process that ensures the new staffer and the company is a good fit. “My staff has to volunteer before they get hired. Typically, you interview for a job and then get hired. But I believe we need to make sure we have a person who truly embraces what we do,” she says. “Plus, it allows a potential employee to see what a typical week is like for us. Volunteers usually work for two

weeks. The longest volunteer we ever had stayed with us for five weeks as we waited for funding to become available to hire her.” A relatively new organization, G.R.A.C.E. Community Services grew quickly, as the demand for it grew after Hurricane Katrina. Its humble beginnings span all the way back to Camp’s home, eventually continued on page, P.29

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When great changes occur in history, when great principles are involved, as a rule the majority are wrong. The minority are right. — Eugene V. Debs

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P. J. MATTHEWS FOUNDER OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS NATIONAL MUSEUM

magine visiting a museum, eager to see a display of precious jewels or ancient artifacts or rare textiles from a lost civilization. Undoubtedly, there would be a rope or some other barrier keeping visitors at least three feet away from the priceless items on display. Those items would most likely be stuffed into a glass case draped in the glare of poorly placed spotlights all around, making closer inspection of the museum’s possessions frustratingly impossible.

But at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in the heart of Houston, visitors can touch weapons, clothing and real artifacts by just reaching out to the open-air displays that populate nearly every wall. “Our job here is to preserve, promote and perpetuate,” says museum founder Paul J. Matthews. “Usually, museums put a little bit of stuff on a big wall. We put a lot of stuff on a little wall so our visitors can touch it and have an interactive experience. “The Smithsonian came by and said, ‘You have a lot of priceless artifacts here and just sitting out on a table.’ We flipped the whole exhibit model,” Matthews says proudly. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum highlights the contributions of African American soldiers in American military history. And display space isn’t the only thing that makes the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum unique. The museum has licensed its logo, a decision Matthews says was his best move. “We get 70 percent of royalties from wholesalers who sell Buffalo Soldiers National Museum merchandise,” says the former Vietnam veteran. “It protects us from anyone else saying they are the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. There’s only one, and it’s us. That’s a very powerful position to be in.” His love for the elite group of soldiers began in the ‘60s with a life-changing decision he had to make about his future. “I was in the ROTC at Prairie View A & M University, and I had to make a decision about my

future, which possibly included me going into the military. I read two paragraphs about the buffalo soldiers and I became intrigued,” he remembers, smiling. “Here are a bunch of Black men standing up for America when America was not standing up for them. Buffalo Soldiers during World War II stayed in France the first two to three years of the war when the average tour of duty was only a year. “Boom! That was my answer.” The popular museum began with Matthews’ retirement fund

and a “hollow room.” “When I walked through the door with the Realtor®, there was nothing on the walls. But I could see these flags - the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force,” he says. “And I told the Realtor this is the place. I took $40,000 of my retirement money and the artifacts I’d collected in my garage and moved in. Without any staff other than my wife and family, we continued on page, P.31

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A True Community Pharmacy Located In Southwest Houston

ictor Aboiralo Ehiemua, son of a pharmacist earned his pharmacy degree from University of Houston in 1979. And today, he has over 27 years of progressive experience serving as a Community and Clinical pharmacist. As owner of The Pharmacy, located at 6630 South West Freeway on Houston’s southwest side, Ehiemua, without a scintilla of doubt, has brought professional accolades and personal honor, and ethical purpose to the community he serves. “I am what I am by God’s grace,” says the very humble Victor Ehiemua - whose pharmacy has become one of the most respected in the area. He has also assisted in the training and mentoring of hundreds of aspiring young professionals both in medical and non-medical fields. “I believe in strong community involvement and have supported and will continue to support and provide services to the community I’ve grown to love dearly,” he says. Shelter Homes for the Homeless, Counseling and mentoring for Juvenile Detention Centers, Drug Aw a r e n e s s Counseling, Community Health Screenings, Community schools and Institutions, and being supportive of Scholarship Programs for the Needy are just a few of the areas where Ehiemua places great emphasis. He has been given such

awards as “The Community Service Award,” “The Businessman of the Year Award,” “The Servant-Leader Award,” “The Community Leader Award”— to name a few. And he has served as Member of the Board for numerous organizations. According to Ehiemua, he’s a member to different chambers of commerce, different community organizations and holds professional affiliations to the Texas

Victor Aboiralo Ehiem, owner of the Pharmacy, located at 6630 South West Freeway in Houston,Tx.

State Board of Pharmacy and the American Pharmaceutical Association.

Victor Aboiralo Ehiemua is also an assistant pastor in a local church and has been mar-

ried to his very supporting wife for more than 29 years, and has five adorable children.

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Battleship Texas continued from P.19 ued clean-up of debris. Hurricane Ike damage to the 1,200-acre site included downed trees, electrical damage to the monument elevator, structural damage to part of the boardwalk near the Battleship TEXAS, and the demolishment of the Battleship gift shop and concession area. A temporary gift shop has been set up in the Officers' Galley on the battleship. Battleship admissions are being sold from a temporary ticket booth at the gangway. The San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site is located just minutes from downtown Houston. Take Highway 225 east to Battleground Road north, approximately three miles from the freeway. The Lynchburg Ferry remains closed at this time due to damage from Hurricane Ike. To learn more about the San Jacinto Museum of History, call (281) 479-2421. For more information on the Battleship TEXAS and battlegrounds, call the park at (281) 479-2431.

Percy C. Singleton, Jr. psinglaw@sbcglobal.net

Democracy cannot be forced upon a society, neither is it a gift that can be held forever. It has to be struggled hard for and defended everyday anew.—Heinz Galinski

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE • Just $40.00 bucks can get you here! BUSINESS SHOWCASE is a monthly inspirational platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Aubrey R. Taylor Communications makes every effort to check the authenticity of our advertisements, we accept no responsibility or liability for the contents therein. The advertiser assures that advertisements will not contain any matter that is libelous or violates any person's right of privacy or constitutes copyright infringement or is otherwise contrary to law. The advertiser assumes all responsibility in connection with the advertisement placed in this publication. Aubrey R. Taylor Communications. shall be held harmless from any claim, loss, damage (including reasonable attorneys' fees) that may be incurred or suffered for any reason including but not limited to a breach of any kind associated with advertisers included in this section. What are you waiting for? Call today get started!

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Thanksgiving and Christmas are times to celebrate. Start a new tradition with your family as Texas State Parks offer holiday events sure to be memorable. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Martin Dies, Jr. SP - Holiday Celebration in the Park - Help us celebrate the holidays with an afternoon of family fun! We provide all the materials needed to construct a gingerbread house and decorate a gingerbread man ornament. Join in and sing carols and holiday songs with a live band. 2-4 p.m. (409) 384-5231. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Sheldon Lake SP - Wildlife Christmas in the Park - Children can make fruit wreaths, seed cones, and other special ornaments to be hung outside as a special treat for backyard wildlife. There will be a special tree in the park that ornaments can be hung on. Holiday music and treats will be provided at this free event. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. 1-4 p.m. (281) 456-2800. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Stephen F. Austin SP Christmas Caroling Hayride - Take a caroling hayride with us through the park and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate afterwards. 6-8 p.m.; admission is one canned good per person (979) 885-3613. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - Stephen F. Austin SP Pancake Breakfast with Santa - Join Santa for a breakfast of pancakes with homemade syrup, sausage, juice and coffee and let him know all your dreams for this Christmas. 8-10:30 a.m.; fee $4 per person (979) 885-3613. Featured Event December 13, 2008 - World Birding Center Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley SP - Artist in the Park - The Lower Rio Grande Valley is full of talented and renowned nature-inspired photographers, authors, artists and poets. Join us in the Rio Grande Meeting Room to meet the featured artist of the month, see their work and hear their stories. Enjoy lunch afterwards at the Y Caf . 10 a.m.-noon; call for featured artist and more information (956) 584-9156. Featured Event December 14, 2008 - Bastrop SP - Christmas in the Pines - The Friends of the Lost Pines host this event featuring sugar cookie ornament decorating, clay ornament decorating, pine cone decorating, story corner and pine needle basket making. Santa Claus will visit from 3:30-5:30 p.m. with the opportunity for pictures. Refreshments will be provided. Held in the Refectory. 1-6 p.m.; fees $2 adults, free for children 12 and under (512) 321-2101. Featured Event December 18, 2008 - Fort Leaton SHS - Posada at the Fort - Come celebrate Christmas with us with a traditional Mexican Posada. Walk and sing with Mary and Joseph as they search for shelter. Enjoy the play "Christmas with the Leatons" along with refreshments and see the historic structure come to life in the candlelight of 600 luminarias. Wheelchair accessible for most of the event. 6:30-9 p.m. (432) 229-3613. Featured Event December 20, 2008 - Goose Island SP Christmas Campfire - Join us at the Recreation Hall for an evening of food and fun as we get ready for Christmas with an old-fashioned campfire gathering. Bring your s'mores fixin's and enjoy the hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows as we sing Christmas carols and share our favorite Goose Island holiday stories. 7-8 p.m. (361) 729-2858. Featured Event December 20, 2008 - World Birding Center Estero Llano Grande SP - Breakfast With the Birds and Santa - Come have breakfast on our magnificent covered deck situated right on one of our lakes and spend some time visiting with a special guest, Santa. There will be photo opportunities galore, with both Santa and the birds that often come very close to the deck. Join Santa as we have a light holiday breakfast on the deck and then follow our knowledgeable guides as they take you on a guided nature walk. 8:30-11 a.m.; fees $7 adults, $5 senior citizens, free for children 12 and under; reservations required (956) 565-3919. Featured Event December 21, 2008 - Lyndon B. Johnson SP&HS - Centennial Celebration Series: 39th Annual Tree Lighting - This year's events are dedicated to Lyndon B. Johnson "Celebrating the Life of a Man & the Land that He Loved" in the 100th year of his birth. Come join the Texas Hill Country community in this special tradition started 39 years ago by President and Mrs. Johnson. Enjoy carolers, a live nativity, Santa Claus, refreshments and of course, the spectacular tree lighting. Then step back in time to the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm for cookies amid glowing lanterns and a traditional candlelit German Christmas tree. LBJ Park Bookstore and Gift Shop will be open and many other things to help you get into the holiday spirit. Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight. Accessible for the mobility impaired. 6-10 p.m.; donations accepted (830) 644-2252.

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continued from P.25 being moved into the garage. And when the hot and uncomfortable conditions of the garage became too much to bear, operations were moved to her SUV. “So, right there in my truck, I'd pick up disaster survivors, take them to a place of shelter or wherever they needed to be and their files were right there with me. It was a real mobile office,” she recalls with a little laughter. In October of 2005 G.R.A.C.E. opened its Acres Homes area computer training and tutoring lab. And in July of 2006, the company finally found a permanent home in the Astrodome/Reliant Stadium area, where it’s corporate office is now housed. As for the future of G.R.A.C.E., Camp says she always wants each day to start with prayer and meditation and for the disaster survivor to be kept in the forefront. “Our goal is to see survivors recover holistically and move on with their lives,” says the mother of two sons, both of whom volunteer at the ministry. “Their lives may never be the same but at least they can return to some sense of normalcy.” And she simply wants people to “understand our heartbeat.” “I would want GRACE to be the ministry that is remembered,” she says, “for doing what it said it would do.”

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Joseph continued from P.24 changed at This Is It, Joseph says that’s true of the restaurant and food industry as well. In fact, the more it seems to change, he says, the more it stays the same. “One year it’s don’t drink wine. Then the next year, it’s okay to drink wine. Then the new trend is don’t eat eggs. Then the next year, eggs are good,” he quips. “But if you go back to our heritage, our ancestors lived a long time on these foods. Personally, I think it’s the chemicals put into the foods that make the food bad for you.” Meanwhile, the future of This Is It is stable. Joseph says his children - 25, 19 and 17 years old have taken their cue from him and their mom, who “does a little of the baking and a lot of everything else.” He says they will carry the torch of the restaurant that’s “starred” in the feature film Jason’s Lyric. “What I want is for my kids to carry it on. They feel much better about it than I did at their age. And I know they have a desire to carry it on. They look at what I go through on a daily basis and they are coming up with menu ideas,” he says proudly. “I would never want them to sell the business. Really, I would hope they would have children to carry it on.” “The restaurant has been around 48 years,” says Joseph, who plans to retire from his firefighter’s post in three years. “That’s a long time to be in business, but particularly in the Black community. I hope that we, as people, continue to support Black-owned businesses.”

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If...the machine of government...is of such a nature that it requires you to be the agent of injustice to another, then, I say, break the law.— Henry David Thoreau

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Physicians continued from P.23 with the insurance companies on the best line of treatment for a patient. But this particular challenge, they agree, is what pushes them to practice medicine in a holistic way, focusing on three elements of health — physical, mental and spiritual. “The bottom line for us is getting people where they need to be in terms of good health. Everybody doesn’t get there the same way,” Monica says. “But it all comes back to lifestyle modification. That depends on the food you eat, the friends you hang out with and your spirituality.” Akili takes it a step further and adds that he and his wife also help their patients by living as examples of good health. “It’s hard for a person to live by the word of a hypocrite. I have personal friends who are doctors who disagree with me 100 percent. Their thought is, ‘I went to school and learned these things so I can tell you what to do,’” he says. “When doctors start improving their own health, then they will initialize the change. If you see a doctor smoking, your subconscious says, ‘It can’t be that bad.’” Meanwhile, the Grahams say they set themselves apart from their competition by developing relationships with their patients rather than rushing them in and out of their office. “We’re not an assembly line type of practice. We spend time with our patients. It’s a lost art,” Akili says. “Today, it’s about calculating the number of people you need to see in order to make a certain amount of money so you can live the lifestyle you want.” “We don’t have quick rewards with our type of practice, but it’s peaceful and it’s rewarding for us.” Akili and Monica - proud parents of two children who’ve been married for 13 years - consider working with one another their favorite part about being in business. Despite the fact that not everyone sees eye-to-eye with them on their move to partner in business as well as in life, they let their success do the talking for them. “People said a husband and wife shouldn’t work together. They’d ask us how long we thought this was going to last,” Monica says. “I think we do this medicine thing together pretty well.”

Gov. Perry Awards $860,000 in Grants to Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Programs AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has awarded more than $860,000 in grants to three programs that provide substance abuse treatment to adult offenders in local correctional facilities. The grants are awarded under the federal Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Program (RSAT) and are distributed by the Governor's Criminal Justice Division (CJD).

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Gov. Perry Meets with Leaders of Key State Agencies to Assess Impact of National Economy on Texas Continued from Page - 2 instability in the national economy, and stronger guidelines for home equity borrowing and lending has resulted in Texas having some of the lowest levels of mortgage defaults among the nation's top ten most populous states. Texas continues to be a leader in job creation, generating nearly half of all jobs created in the nation from August 2007 to August 2008. Texas' unemployment rate remains at

5 percent, 1.1 percent below the national average. Texas is also home to more Fortune 500 headquarters than any other state in the nation. The governor attributed the relatively strong Texas economy to the state's strong, principled policies of limited growth in spending, low taxes and reasonable regulatory climate that have fostered an environment that encourages job creation. The governor also

expressed disappointment Congress passed a $700 billion taxpayer funded economic bailout that hasn't fixed the stock markets. “While there may be a few provisions in the bill that benefit Texas, the truth is that Congress passed a $700 billion taxpayer-funded bailout for corporate America that included $470 million to create jobs in Hollywood and tax breaks for wooden arrow makers,” he said. The governor was joined by representatives from several state agencies, including the

Office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts, Texas Pension Review Board, University of Texas Investment Management Company, Teacher Retirement System of Texas, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Water Development Board, Texas Permanent School Fund, Employee Retirement System of Texas and Texas Workforce Commission. For a complete list of attendees, please click the link below.

Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on the Death of Anthony Sadberry: AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry today issued the

“Anita and I extend our sincere condolences and prayers to his wife, Denise, his family and his friends all over the state.”

following statement on the death of Anthony Sadberry, Executive Director of the Texas Lottery Commission:

“Texas lost a genuine leader today when Anthony Sadberry passed away. At every juncture of his life, in school, in his law practice and with

the lottery, Anthony seemed to end up in positions of leadership. His peers clearly recognized his innate leadership abilities, concern for others and

unfailing common sense. “Anita and I extend our sincere condolences and prayers to his wife, Denise, his family and his friends all over the state.”

5 Dozen Ways to Become an “On-Purpose” Leader

Leader continued from P.1 2. Stop calling employees "my employees," "my people." 3. Set goals with others. 4. Teach others to write his (or her) own goals down. 5. Ensure goals are measurable. 6. Create goals that are both realistic and unrealistic. 7. Hire the right people for the right jobs. 8. Encourage mentors at all levels. 9. Provide value to someone before you need value from them. 10. Be genuinely interested in the needs of others. 11. Have sincere desire, authenticity, and integrity in what you do or you will fail. 12. Know that all endeavors will not be easy and will not happen the way you wish. 13. Recognize that all followers will not agree with or "be on board" with what you want. 14. Allow for the opinions and ideas of others in all matters. 15. Find the leaders on the team you lead that have no leadership title. 16. Cultivate the natural gifts, skills, and abilities of those individuals. 17. Infuse a need to grow by teaching, rather than giving, the answers. 18. Allow for errors and missteps and mistakes at many levels. 19. Inspire persistence even after the first, second, and

third rejection of an attempt. 20. Keep a cool head even in times when the world is falling apart. 21. Avoid engaging emotions until all angles have been examined. 22. Communicate assertively, but not in an overpowering fashion when issues are heated. 23. Remember that your body continues talking long after your lips stop moving. 24. Adhere to the ratio that you have two ears and a mouth and use them proportionately. 25. Seek input from those closer to a problem than you are. 26. Be interested in the growth of others even more so than the others are at times. 27. Listen to the grapevine often and regularly. 28. Build rapport with someone by finding overlapping frames and reference. 29. Fuss over others' events, achievements, families, and friends. 30. Be entertaining, humorous, or at the very least, fun to be around. 31. Engage serious behavior on serious subjects when warranted. 32. Communicate with others in a language that they understand. 33. Avoid assuming that your communication or personality style is the one everyone else has. 34. Inspire creativity. 35. Promote impromptu

brainstorming sessions with the leader present. 36. Engage in active learning every day. 37. Encourage all those you lead to have and or get a LIFE! 38. Reinforce the idea that work and life must be balanced or both will be out of whack. 39. Share you expectations clearly and consistently and early. 40. Give yourself permission to leave things undone. 41. Let go of needing to be perfect. 42. Let go of needing everyone else to be perfect. 43. Relinquish the need to always have others like you. 44. Recognize those who perform their job consistently day in and day out. 45. Learn the different types of recognition: public, private, tangible, and intangible. 46. Avoid giving a public person private recognition; they will see little or no value in it. 47. Share kudos and praise in public, yet discipline and reprimand in private. 48. Give tangible people stuff they can feel, hold, and hang on to. 49. Be spontaneous, as well as scheduled in your recognition efforts. 50. Spend most of your time with those who are performing the way you have asked. 51. Observe what people do for others to learn what they

would like done for them. 52. Focus on the end result: Motivation for performance. 53. Remember that money does not motivate for the long term and becomes expected. 54. Address only areas of behavior and performance when being critical. 55. Maintain clarity on the fact that attitudes are not taught or changed without the owner's consent. 56. Criticize someone's attitude at your own risk. 57. Micro-manage only those who need it and only until they prove that they do not. 58. Believe that people do what they get paid attention for. 59. Recognize that managers have to have a title and leaders do not. 60. You become what you think about. About the Author Monica Wofford brings more than 18 years of experience as a business consultant, trainer, and speaker to Monica Wofford International, Inc. A sought-after trainer, Wofford leverages scientific research and data to design curricula and presentations that positively impact both behavior and performance. She is the author of "Contagious Leadership", "Contagious Confidence," and "Contagious Customer Service". She can be reached at www.monicawofford.com or (866) 382-0121.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.— Margaret Mead

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Matthews

Peake

continued from P.26

continued from P.22

opened the doors in 2001.” And during its first year of operation, nearly 20,000 visitors crossed its threshold. The museum, with a $2 admission price and open six days a week, grew from there. It now touts a budget of $500,000 and has a board of directors along with a fundraising arm with members from companies including the Houston Chronicle, Chevron, Center Point and the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GHCVB). Plus, volunteers do everything from writing grants to performing in historical re-enactments. So, what does all this growth mean to Matthews? “It’s good and bad,” he simply states. “It's good because the message that we are here is getting out there and reaching more people. The bad part is that I'm constantly in fundraising mode!” Goals for next year include recruitment of an executive director, salaried grant writers and a resident artist. And at the top of that short list is financial independence for what Matthews calls a successful “mom-and-pop” company. “Even bringing in museum memberships, broadening our base of partnering foundations and developing a rapport with corporate America is part of the change that we must incorporate into our business,” he says. And while he grows his business, Matthews still finds time to enjoy what attracted him to start it in the first place - teaching the public about buffalo soldiers. “I still enjoy giving the tours. It's amazing the knowledge that the seniors have about the things we have on display in here like the kitchen tools and equipment,” he says. “Then sometimes we have the World War II guys come in and they learn they’re technically buffalo soldiers themselves, and didn’t know it. Sometimes they stand with tears in their eyes.”

also provides support services for Asian American women and children victims of domestic abuse. For her, it has been a gratifying, eye-opening and culturally expanding experience, particularly given the multi-cultural city makeup of the Houston area. It has afforded her a unique opportunity to experience the differences in customs and cultures that she would not otherwise experience. Another passion is the Blue Triangle Multi-Cultural Association serving children and seniors in the Third Ward community. “I have been fortunate to be able to assist the BTMCA Board in a small way. All the credit goes to the Board Members who have dedicated their time, knowledge, tenacity and resources to making sure the Blue Triangle is sustained as a community center and is able to continue providing after school enrichment and other activities for children and seniors in the community. The Blue Triangle organization consists of a phenomenal group of visionary women, who keep the programs running and expanding. They have been able to do things in their “retirement” that you would not believe.” She is also a member of the Texas Spring Cypress Chapter Links, Inc. Her chapter's focus area is the Fifth Ward, including Acres Homes. The Chapter provides additional resources for health awareness, education in area schools and cultural enrichment through partnerships with other organizations and community groups.

— MICHICA L. GUILLORY

Gov. Perry Awards $6 Million to Local Law Enforcement

“I believe the best business decision we made was to advertise.” They realized early on that in order to survive in a competitive market, they had to build and nurture their client base. She has clients who come in now with advertisements and correspondence from years ago and can identi-

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fy the period during which the client began using their services. It is always interesting as well as rewarding to her to see these particular clients. It confirms the relationship was firmly established and the goal of client satisfaction achieved. “One of the fundamental changes in the way we practice law having a huge impact on the legal field is the integration of technology into the process. When we started our practice, office equipment consisted of one typewriter. Back then, word processing was considered a technological advance and accumulating and maintaining a law library was essential. Today, we can research, file documents and pay filing fees on line. It’s made the practice more efficient and less stressful because it saves time.” In family practice, the practice culture has evolved. “The courts, the family bar and litigants are more cognizant of the negative long term effects protracted, contentious and expensive litigation has on families, particularly when there are children involved. To that end, requiring parenting classes in cases where children are involved and requiring mediation prior to trial in most cases, has positively impacted the way we manage our caseloads and gives litigants an opportunity to resolve their disputes outside of court.” Parties have an opportunity to open the lines of communication and creatively resolve disputes. “Just like you have control over the creation of your relationships, you can have control over the dissolution of it.” To her, winning and losing aren't the only important things. What is really most important is to get her client through the process and make sure the client's objectives are met. She's an avid reader and loves to travel. “I need to be able to effectively manage my business to be able to have time for family and outside interests,” she says.

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AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has awarded more than $6 million to help local law enforcement agencies target violent crime, continue drug enforcement activities and provide essential law enforcement equipment. These grants are awarded under the federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program and are distributed by the Governor's Criminal Justice Division (CJD).

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Devastation PLEASE REMEMBER OUR NEIGHBORS STILL STRUGGLING TO PUT THEIR LIVES BACK TOGETHER IN THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE IKE!

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