2015 December 12, 2015 Runoff Election Edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS HOUSTON

Pastor Kendall Baker

Issues an “Open Letter” to Voters

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE! ECONOMICS. EDUCATION. POLITICS. BUSINESS. CORPORATE DIVERSITY

VOTE EARLY DECEMBER 2ND THROUGH 8TH, 2015

KEY “READER RECOMMENDATIONS” INSIDE:

LONG-TIME FRIENDS: State Rep. Sylvester Turner, a 2015 Candidate for Mayor of Houston (left), Pastor Larry Williams, a 2015 Candidate for HISD Board Trustee for District 2, and State Rep. Harold Dutton.

GOOD FRIENDS: Mike Knox, a 2015 Candidate for Houston City Council At-Large Position #1 and his good friend Trebor Gordon.

CAMPAIGNING: Whitney Bowles Allen, Bill Frazer, a 2015 Candidate for City of Houston Controller, and Pam Holm, a former City Councilwoman.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

Dear Houstonians: “FEATURED OPEN LETTER”

“WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

I’m Pastor Kendall L. Baker and I would like to thank all of the District F voters who voted for me, as well as all of the many people across our great city who supported me in my effort to become the Houston City Council District F Representative. Your awesome support, according to the numbers supplied by the Harris County District Clerk, gave me 26% of the vote in the general election.

While I am pleased and thankful for the support I’ve received, I’m also very disappointed that our efforts did not prevail. But, be encouraged and assured, I’m not stopping here, and I hope you won’t either. My fight will continue on through my ministry, community development center, advocacy work, and perhaps another run for political office in the very near future. I sincerely hope that you will continue forward with me.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE

My wife Esther, our daughter, and I implore you to not stop here. We have much more work to do. And it is imperative that we stick to our core values, beliefs, and convictions when we go to the polls to vote on Saturday, December 12, 2015.

Also, I have joined other concerned citizens in filing a petition on Monday, November 23, 2015 on behalf of myself and other “plaintiffs” that we believe is critically important and imperative to democracy and election integrity. The original petition filed against the City of Houston and the Harris County Clerk’s Office seeks to right a wrong enacted not only against me and my fellow “plaintiffs” specifically, but against all voters and democracy in general. Other plaintiffs include Demetria Smith, Victoria Lane, Kenneth Perkins, Vince Duncan, Ieshia Ayers-Wilson, Hoc Thai Nguyen, Andrew C. Burks, Jr., and Rafael Munoz – all of whom were candidates in the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston General Election.

THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE COALITION

As one of the plaintiffs in CAUSE NO. 2015-69989, I sincerely believe that rampant voter fraud took place in our local elections on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. I and my fellow members of THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE COALITION are not only well within our rights to contest the election results, but obligated, in the interest of public policy and democracy, to appropriately expose, eradicate and correct any fraud. According to Texas Election Code Sec. 232.002, “Any candidate in an election may contest the election.”

VOTING FRAUD IS ILLEGAL

Allegations in our important case include violations of the Voting Rights Act, our First and Fourth Amendment Rights, discrimination, and constitutional infringement.

KEEP ME IN YOUR PRAYERS

I respectfully and humbly ask that you keep me, my fellow members of THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE COALITION, as well as our city and nation in your prayers as we preserve, protect, and promote democracy by seeking justice and transparency on behalf of ourselves and others.

Respectfully yours,

Dr. Kendall L. Baker

Your Community Advocate P.O. Box 772855 Houston, Texas 77215 P: 832.858.4831 Email: kendall.baker@sbcglobal.net

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THE PUBLISHER I

AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS

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HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER I 957 NASA PARKWAY #251 I HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058 I PHONE: (832)212-8735

All City of Houston Voters Are Strongly Encouraged to Consider Our “2015 Reader Endorsements”

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Discrimination is wrong and should not be tolerated in any way, shape, or form. And yes, this includes when we’re pondering who to vote for in citywide, gubernatorial, and presidential elections. So I’m urging you in my personal and business capacity to “Put People Over Politics” when you walk into the voting booth to cast your vote on Saturday, December 12, 2015.

Regards,

-- Aubrey R. Taylor

President/CEO Aubrey R. Taylor Communications Publisher of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

MIKE KNOX

Pd. Pol. Ad. by Mike Knox Campaign

“YOU ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO CAST YOUR VOTE FOR MIKE KNOX ON DEC., 12, 2015”

PASTOR WILLIE DAVIS DR. STEVE LE

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“DON’T FORGET TO VOTE”

GROUND-GAME MAGAZINE

“WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2015 “READER RECOMMENDATIONS” EARLY VOTING BEGINS:

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015 EARLY VOTING ENDS:

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2015 ELECTION DAY:

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2015

PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS

Our Saturday, December 12, 2015 “READER RECOMMENDATION” in the race for Mayor of Houston goes to Bill King. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for City of Houston Controller goes to Bill Frazer. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for City of Houston At-Large Position 1 goes to Mike Knox. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for At-Large Position 2 goes to Willie Davis. Our reader recommendation for At-Large Position 4 goes to Amanda Edwards. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for At-Large Position 5 goes to Sharon Moses. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for Houston City Council District F goes to Richard Nguyen. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for Houston City Council District H goes to Karla Cisneros. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for HISD District 2 goes to Larry Williams. Our “READER RECOMMENDATION” for HISD District 3 goes to Manuel Rodriguez. ***Other candidates who will appear on the Saturday, December 12, 2015 Runoff Election ballot are: Chris Brown, Georgia Provost, David W. Robinson, Roy Morales, Jack Christie, Steve Le, Jason Cisneroz, Rhonda Skillern-Jones and Jose Leal.

IMPORTANT 2015 RUNOFF ELECTION DATES YOU SHOULD REMEMBER

Early voting begins on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 and ends on Tuesday, December 8, 2015. Election Day is on Saturday, December 12, 2015.Vote wisely!

ABOUT GROUND GAME MAGAZINE®

Ground-Game Magazine® is published by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications. This pocket-size magazine is a branding, marketing and public relations tool designed to assist our clients and other “People on the Move” with building name recognition, outreach, press release delivery, editorials, strategy support, strategic campaign sign placement in urban communities, and individualized grassroots-styled urban marketing initiatives tailored to inform, and educate inspire our readers play active roles in the process of claiming their dreams and goals. Let GROUND-GAME MAGAZINE® “Be Your Boots on the Ground!” Call us at: (832)212-8735 for more information.

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“DON’T FORGET TO VOTE”

“CALL 832.212.8735 IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR OFFICE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.”

Let’s Put Race and Politics Aside and Elect Bill King Houston’s Next Mayor on Saturday, December 12, 2015

A lifelong resident of the Houston area, Bill King grew up the son of a union pipefitter and worked his way through the University of Houston, earning both his bachelor's degree and law degree there. In so doing, he became the first in his family to graduate from college.

For the last 40 years, Bill has practiced law and run businesses in Houston. After "falling on my face" as

Chronicle, and now as a candidate for Mayor, Bill has earned a reputation as an outspoken advocate for balancing the city budget, investment in infrastructure, and common sense solutions to Houston's most challenging problems.

Professional Experience

BILL KING he describes his experience during the economic downturn of the 1980s, he picked himself up, rebuilt his business career, and has gone on to serve his community in a variety of ways. In 2012, Bill cochaired the HISD bond campaign to rebuild its dilapidated high schools throughout the city. The measure won nearly 70 percent voter approval.

Prior to that, his efforts to revamp the region's hurricane preparedness plans earned him several gubernatorial appointments and other recognition.

More recently, as a columnist for the Houston

Bill King has enjoyed a wide and varied -- and ultimately successful -- career in business. He served as president of Southwest Airport Services, a fixedbase operator located at Ellington Air Force Base, from 1999 until the sale of the company in February of this year. In 2009, the Coast Guard recognized Southwest for the support their employees provided during the search and rescue efforts after Hurricane Ike made landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast.

Bill has also practiced law for nearly 40 years. His practice included stints at Bracewell & Guiliani and

“YOU ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO CAST YOUR VOTE FOR SHARON MOSES ON DEC., 12, 2015”

Integrity in Motion

KEEPING HOUSTON STRONG!

Moses Sharon

Sharon

Moses 2015

For Houston City Council At-Large Position 5

A Few of My Endorsements:

Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 341 Former City Council Member - Ada Edwards HWPAC - Houston Westside PAC Across the Track PAC Former City Council Member Carroll Robinson C.O.G.I.C - Church of God in Christ Key PAC BMAH&V PAC – Baptist Ministers Association of Houston and Vicinity HBAD – Houston Black American Democrats Tejano Democrats Harris County Democrats KAD- Kingwood Area Democrats Fort Bend County Democratic Party Planned Parenthood NEMA - Northeast Ministers Association

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“DON’T FORGET TO VOTE”

GROUND-GAME MAGAZINE

“WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2015 “READER RECOMMENDATIONS” as the managing partner of Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, a law firm representing local governmental entities nationwide. While heading that firm, Bill gained unique insights into how the City of Houston and other local entities operate, particularly their finances. During his tenure at Linebarger, moreover, the firm was awarded the U.S. Conference of Mayors Outstanding Public-Private Partnership Award for the work it did in establishing a land bank of abandoned lots in the City of Houston. Bill also initiated the first procedures in Harris County to prevent individuals over the age of 65 from being foreclosed when they fell behind on their taxes.

During the 1980s, Bill also experienced his fair share of adversity. In his first book, "Saving Face: An Alternative and Personal History of the Savings and Loan Crisis" (Somerset, 2008), he detailed the hard lessons he learned during the collapse of the savings and loan industry. But he also learned something special about Houston in the process. "After I lost everything, I had hundreds of friends who encouraged me to get up, dust myself off, and get back in the game," he later recalled. "We are a city that celebrates and encourages other people’s success, and I just don’t think there are a lot of other places like that."

A Strong Member of The Houston Community

Bill is actively involved in his church and community.

He is a member of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, has served on its Vestry, and is currently a member of its Senior Council. Bill also serves on the advisory committee of the Episcopal Diocese’s Camp Allen.

He is actively involved in helping Volunteer Interfaith Caregivers-Southwest provide much needed transportation services to elderly Houstonians who can no longer drive. He has recently joined the Board of Directors of St. James House, a retirement community sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas to serve those who need housing and critical nursing care in their later years.

Bill and his wife Jean have two children, Jennifer and Jeremy, who both attended public schools in Houston through High School. Jennifer graduated from Rice University and Jeremy graduated from Southern Methodist University.

Consider Casting Your Vote for Bill Frazer a CPA With Over 35 Years of Experience in the Runoff Race for City of Houston Controller on Dec. 12th

Bill Frazer served as Chief Financial Officer of CB Richard Ellis Capital Markets, one of the world’s leading commercial real estate financial services firms. As a board member of GEMSA Loan Services, he helped form one of the nation’s largest commercial real estate loan management and advisory service companies. Bill has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1975. He is a past President of the Houston CPA Society and has served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Society of CPAs for the past 20 years.

published in 1995. This book added to the knowledge base on gang culture and was recognized in 2001 by the National Gang Research Center who awarded it the prestigious “Thrasher” award.

Mike served his fellow officers as a Board Member of the Houston Police Patrolmen’s Union and chaired the HPPU Political Action Committee. In addition, he served as editor of the “Sentinel” (HPPU) monthly newsletter.

Shortly after publishing his book in 1995, Mike began a consulting business focused on helping law enforcement, schools districts, and communities understand and deal with street gangs and violent youthful offenders.

Mike Knox has served his community as a board member of the Spring Branch Education Foundation and was among the original funders of the Spring Branch ISD “Fund for the Future” endowment. He contributed to the creation of the Spring Branch Good Neighbor program.

Mike was recruited in 2007 to help the Spring Branch Management District develop the Public Safety component of its service plan and worked as their Director of Community Service for three years.

MIKE KNOX

BILL FRAZER

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Consider Mike Knox in the Houston City Council At-Large Position #1 Runoff Race on Dec., 12th

Mike Knox is a native Houstonian. He married his high school sweetheart in 1977 and they have raised one son; who now serves the city as a Houston Police Officer. Mike Knox obtained an Associate of Arts degree from the Houston Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston – Downtown while working as a Houston Police Officer.

Mike has a long history of honorable public service.

Mike Knox is a veteran who served in the United States Air Force and served over 15 years as a Houston Police Officer. Mike was one of two officers responsible for the creation of the Houston Police Department’s first divisional gang unit in 1988 and helped create and served on the original board of directors for the Texas Gang Investigators Association.

Mike authored a book entitled Gangsta in the House; Understanding Gang Culture, which was

For the past seven years Mike Knox has served as the President of the Yupon Estates Homeowners Association.

Mike has a deep interest and investment in Houston and believes Houston City Council deserves a dedicated servant.

WILLIE DAVIS

Consider Casting Your Vote for Pastor Willie Davis in the Houston City Council At-Large Position #2 Runoff Race

The Reverend Willie Ray Davis serves as the Senior Pastor/Founder of the MacGregor Palm Community Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. He attended school in the Houston Independent School District and graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School. He continued his education at Sam Houston State University and Texas Southern

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“DON’T FORGET TO VOTE”

“CALL 832.212.8735 IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR OFFICE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.” University in pursuit of a Bachelor Degree in Government and Political Science.

He later attended the Texas School of Theology where he received a Bachelor and Masters Degree of Theology. In 2002, the Texas School of Theology bestowed upon Reverend Davis an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree for his continued commitment to helping others fulfill their learning in Seminary Education. In 1986, Reverend Davis was called to serve as Senior Pastor of the Greater Saint Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church. After twenty years of service there, he was called as Senior Pastor of the Progressive Baptist Church of Chicago, Illinois, where he served for three and one half years. Reverend Davis now serves the Houston community again as the Pastor/Founder of the Mac Gregor Palm Community Baptist Church. Here he is striving to resurrect the community as God gives him direction.

Among the many services that Reverend Davis has rendered to the city of Houston and other organizations are President of the Minister’s Advisory Board to the Mayor, Vice President of the Metropolitan Min-

ister’s Alliance, President of the Southwest Region of PNBC Inc., Religious Coordinator for the Southwest Region of the NAACP, and most recently elected as President of the Board for Zoe Learning Academy.

Among the talents, gifts, and services with which Reverend Davis has been blessed, none have been more fulfilling than the call of God upon his life as a servant and his being used of God to reach all of humanity through his preaching and teaching God’s Word. He desires to make his continued mission in life one of seeking others through God’s Word at whatever the cost for the kingdom.

Consider Casting Your Vote for Amanda Edwards in the Houston City Council At-Large Position #4 Runoff Race

AMANDA EDWARDS Amanda K. Edwards is an attorney and native Houstonian with a passion for building communities through public service.

Amanda knows the City of Houston faces critical challenges and key opportunities, and is running for City Council to be part of long-term solutions that will move all of Houston forward.

“YOU ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO RE-ELECT RICHARD A. NGUYEN ON DEC., 12, 2015”

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GROUND-GAME MAGAZINE

WILLIAMS PASTOR LARRY

ENDORSES PASTOR LARRY WILLIAMS FOR HISD DISTRICT 2

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“I’M THE CHRISTIAN CANDIDATE RUNNING FOR HISD TRUSTEE FOR DISTRICT II”

QUESTION #1: Why are you running for school board trustee?

PASTOR WILLIAMS: I’m running for school board trustee because of what Dr. Martin Luther King calls the fierce urgency of now. There is a need for immediate, fierce, and positive action. There is currently over $200,000,000 bond money that is missing, given by tax payers dollars. This is totally unacceptable.

We need change NOW. And my opponent, Rhonda SkillernJones is the board president; she’s asleep at the wheel. As the board president, she should be held accountable.

After being handed the baton by Carol Galloway, who now serves as Rhonda’s treasurer, she has wasted a golden opportunity to serve and advance our students forward. We shouldn’t keep putting board members in office who are ineffective. So our district needs change NOW. Under Rhonda Skillern-Jones tenure, there are 21 unacceptable schools on the TEA Improvement Required list and 16 of those school are on the HISD Employment Watch List for Closure. There are too many schools in District 2 on the verge of closing. And they’re not just closing our schools; they’re tearing them down, such as the historical Phillis Wheatley HS and E.O. Smith. We need change NOW. Our neighborhood schools cannot continue to be closed down; closed schools kill off a community. That’s why I’m running. We need change NOW. My opponent allowed a property tax increase to residents and voters, but awarded Superintendent Terry Grier $98,600 in bonuses, after he announced his resignation, and is on his way out of the door. We need change NOW. The changes I, Pastor Larry Williams, will impose are: increased academic achievement, advocate for our bond money for our schools, quality teachers and Principals. And I will vote NO tax increase. And I will be against any form of proposition 1, known as HERO, (allowing male students in females restrooms), which HISD will try to implement.

QUESTION #2: After being elected, what are some of the most immediate, important decisions that need to be made?

PASTOR WILLIAMS: Being that Superintendent Terry Grier has announced his resignation, it is important that the next elected board member understands the importance of hiring the correct superintendent this time. The next superintendent needs to be one who understands the diversity of all cultures and communities, one who agrees that all students have the right to an education, one who has quality programs for schools in District 2 as other affluent schools in HISD have, and one who offers trades and vocational programs to our children so they too, can be successful contributors to our society.

- INTERVIEW PASTOR LARRY WILLIAMS FOR HISD DISTRICT 2

QUESTION #3: What are some of the things that you think are most important that you’ll bring to the school board once elected?

PASTOR WILLIAMS: I, Pastor Larry Williams, the Christian candidate, will bring a code of ethics, honesty, fairness, transparency, accountability, and a strong work ethic for the children and community. I will fight the closure of schools, and I will be visible for more than just election time.

QUESTION #4: How do feel that there is currently not one African-American male on the school board?

PASTOR WILLIAMS: Being that the district is a majority minority district, I think it is important that the school board is diverse of both gender and ethnicity. We have an opportunity to elect our only African-American male in this election cycle for HISD school board trustee to represent, not only African-American males, but all children.

Let me just say a word to the voters.

For too long our District has been underrepresented. We have taxation without representation. For too long candidates have used the school board to launch their political career and then they run for another position. For too long our children’s schools and communities have been left out, wiped out, and cut out. Not only are our schools being closed down, they’re being torn down. There are several other schools that are on the verge of being torn down, that the current school board trustee is not telling you. I

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will not be a school board trustee who will just tell you what you want to hear, but will tell you what you need to know.

But I want every voter to know that I, Pastor Larry Williams, the Christian candidate, will be a voice for the voiceless. I will fight for the least, the lost, and the left out. It is important that we have a representative who values prayer and has spiritual convictions before making decisions that will affect the lives of many. I’m grateful that I have received the endorsements of one of my former opponents, Darlene “Koffey” Smith, as well as the endorsement of the Harris County Democratic Party. I’m not a politician, just a serious Pastor with serious solutions. Don’t let anyone fool you, there are pre- voter slates/voter guides, where candidates names are listed and are circulating, telling and instructing you on how to vote. Your vote is too valuable to let someone hand you a slate, and dictate to you who to vote for. Don’t let anyone sway you. Your vote matters. Vote your conscious!

FRIENDS: Pastor Larry Williams has received many awards, proclamations, and recognitions from friends, supporters, and elected officials. “Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is a friend of mine. So is Houston City Councilman Ed Gonzalez. I’m thankful for the support of my many friends.” -- Pastor Larry Williams

KEY ENDORSEMENTS: “YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO CAST YOUR VOTE FOR PASTOR LARRY WILLIAMS ON DEC., 12, 2015”

THANKS FOR YOUR ENDORSEMENT DR. McCULLOUGH “BABY JANE” AND DARLENE “KOFFEY” SMITH”

DR. “BABY JANE” McCULLOUGH

DARLENE “KOFFEY” SMITH

“I, Darlene "KOFFEY" Smith as a former candidate for Houston ISD, District 2 have made the choice to endorse Pastor Larry Williams, who is in the run-off election.

I’m endorsing Pastor Larry Williams because he has some similar concerns that I have for HISD District 2. (Stopping School Closures, Stopping Violation of Policy and Procedures amongst the School Board and Fighting for a Quality and Fair Education for our Students in District 2 to better the Higher Learning for our children.

Pastor Williams has concerns about the missing $200 + million dollars in reference to the Bond Money for HISD and the tax-payers dollars being misused. Pastor Larry Williams and I are in agreement that District 2 needs stronger representation.

District 2 has not had a “Contested Election” since 2007 because the person that's in the seat right now was not elected by the constituents of District 2; she was “Appointed” and “Selected” by the former Board Trustee (Carol Mims-Galloway), who now serves as her campaign treasurer. The people deserve an opportunity to vote for who they feel will best REPRESENT them, not someone who was given to them through manipulation and deceit. Even though Rhonda Skillern-Jones called and spoke with my husband about me endorsing her in the HISD District 2 run-off for 2015 -- I made a choice not to endorse Skillern-Jones, but when Larry Williams called, spoke with me and we met, I decided to endorse him.

"Let Your Vote Be Your Voice" - Darlene "Koffey" Smith

VOTE PASTOR LARRY WILLIAMS FOR HISD BOARD TRUSTEE FOR DISTRICT 2

“United We Stand!”

PAID FOR BY LARRY WILLIAMS CAMPAIGN

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“DON’T FORGET TO VOTE”

GROUND-GAME MAGAZINE

“WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2015 “READER RECOMMENDATIONS” Growing up in northwest Houston, Amanda’s passion for community building began at an early age.

Amanda lost her father to cancer as a teenager, and his battle opened her eyes to serious policy deficiencies in the U.S. health care system and inspired her to effect change by empowering her community.

Amanda attended Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD and Emory University in Atlanta, where she earned a degree in political science and served as student body president for the college. Amanda earned many accolades at Emory including both the Emory Academic Excellence and Overall Excellence Awards, and was inducted to the Emory University Hall of Fame. While in Atlanta, Amanda gained valuable community building and public policy experience, working in community development corporations as a Community Building and Social Change Fellow and in the Georgia State Legislature.

Amanda’s experiences broadened her perspective about how to effect change through urban policy and collaboration.

Soon thereafter, Amanda worked for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in Washington before earning her degree from Harvard Law School. While at Harvard, Amanda served as a Criminal Justice Institute student attorney, chaired the Harvard Black Law Students Association Spring Conference and was awarded the Elaine Osborne Jacobson Award for her commitment to serving underserved populations in the healthcare law arena.

Compelled by the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Amanda relocated to New Orleans. While there, Amanda served as a judicial law clerk for Federal District Court Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle and founded Project NOW: The New Orleans Writing Project, which inspired New Orleans youth to empower themselves and their community through the power of writing.

Amanda returned home to Houston with a broadened perspective and interest in impacting her community. Currently, Amanda practices law at Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP in Houston, where she solves complex issues relating to tax-exempt bond financings, public-private partnerships, community development projects, and non-profit organizations.

Amanda also maintains a strong commitment to community service. She has served as President of the Board of Directors for Project Row Houses in the Historical Third Ward community and on numerous other civic boards and committees, including Texas Lyceum, Crisis Intervention of Houston, Texas One Voice: A Health and Human Services Collaborative, and the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals. Amanda is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Amanda is a graduate of the Center for Houston’s Future Business/Civic Leadership Forum, Leadership Houston, and the United Way’s Project Blueprint. She resides in Midtown and attends St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes.

SHARON MOSES

Consider Casting Your Vote for Sharon Moses in the Houston City Council At-Large Position #5 Runoff Race

Sharon Moses is an attorney and a native Houstonian who has a passion for uplifting people, building strong relationships and working towards common goals. She received her Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law and her Masters in Transportation Planning and Management from Texas Southern University. During her Masters studies, Sharon won the highly coveted title of Eno Fellow, allowing her to attend the Eno Future Leaders Development Conference in Washington, DC. This program gives 20 of the nation’s top graduate students in transportation a first-hand look at how national transportation policies are developed.

Armed with education, training and readiness, Sharon began her quest to serve. She became the Director of Business Development at Edwards and Kelcey, a transportation/engineering firm, where she began the process of creating and establishing strong relationships. She then became Founder and President of the Houston Chapter of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS), an international organization dedicated to building the future of transportation through the global advancement of women.

Though this is Sharon’s first run in the political arena, she is no stranger to government, as she has served as an Agenda Director and Policy Researcher under the leadership of Former City Council Member Ada Edwards, District D. While there, Sharon advised the council member on legislative matters in the council agenda and served as the point person for several committees, including the flooding and drainage committee, which housed a steering committee and a stakeholders committee. Additionally, she proved to be a staunch advocate for the community against the concrete crushers in the District D area. Sharon’s legal knowledge is well substantiated by her experience with diverse matters, such as examining trade secret issues, contractual disputes, attorney/client privilege, family, criminal, probate matters, medical malpractice and securities fraud.

For the past nine years, Sharon has worked diligently for the City of Houston by helping to educate

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the public regarding sustainability concerns, civic matters, recycling and solid waste issues. Because Sharon believes strongly in our individual and collective abilities to make a difference within our community, she has become an advocate for these issues through school and corporate presentations, coupled with civic and super neighborhood meetings. Sharon has also served as Producer/Anchor/Host of the municipal channel’s Solid Waste Management show on H-TV. The show, entitled “Wasting No Time”, provides information to the public regarding Solid Waste matters.

Sharon’s education, background, training and experience within the community uniquely qualifies her to serve as your City Council Member. Her training in Transportation will assist her with sorting through the city’s transportation and infrastructure concerns, while her knowledge of the legal system and legalese will help alleviate some of the complexities that council leaders deal with on a day-to-day basis. Serving as a City employee in community outreach has made her much more aware of the needs of the community.

Sharon is approachable and not opposed to hearing your voice. No need for formalities here, as she welcomes your insight on matters and believes it takes input from the community to get the job done.

As a devoted wife, published author and public speaker, Sharon has a strong sense of family, character, ethics and integrity. She is committed to making a difference by giving the city back to the community of voters and keeping Houston-Strong!

RICHARD NGUYEN

Consider Re-Electing Council Member Richard Nguyen for Houston City Council District F

Richard Nguyen was born in Saigon, Vietnam and was forced to flee with his family at the age of 11 after the fall of South Vietnam. His father hid Richard on a boat while he found the rest of the family, and they all left on a damaged, cramped ship. They were a part of the “Boat People,” the wave of refugees that left Vietnam after the war on boats and ships, hoping to be picked up by someone that could help. Not all were as lucky as the Council Member’s family. These events have had a huge impact on Council Member Nguyen and drive his commitment to family and community.

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“CALL 832.212.8735 IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR OFFICE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.” The family settled in Ohio after several stops. After high school, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Capital University in Columbus and worked with young people that were institutionalized. Council Member Nguyen briefly taught middle and high school in Hilliard, Ohio after working in the health care field.

Upon moving to Houston, Council Member Nguyen earned a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Texas Health and Science University in Austin and then continued his career in public service with the Solid Waste Management Department in the City of Houston, where he served for almost 10 years.

In addition to his career, he enjoys drawing and spending time with his children. The Council Member currently resides in Alief with his wife and two children, as well as his elderly parents.

KARLA CISNEROS

Consider Casting your Vote for Karla Cisneros, a Proven Leader in the Houston City Council District H Runoff Race

Karla Cisneros is a proven leader who gets things done. She was appointed to the HISD Board of Education in 2000, was elected to a full 4-year term in 2001, and served as Board President in 2004. As Board President, Karla led the search effort that resulted in the selection of HISD’s first Latino school superintendent.

A 35-year resident of Houston, Karla Cisneros has dedicated her adult life to working to improve public schools and her community. As a classroom teacher at Northline and Harvard Elementary schools, Karla taught and helped usher children through their lives.

In addition to being a classroom teacher, she has worked as a science teacher and as a reading interventionist. She also worked as a Title 1 Parent Involvement Specialist, where she nurtured parental and community involvement in 25 schools in HISD’s North Central District.

As a school activist in the Woodland Heights, she organized numerous community efforts to make improvements at Travis Elementary School. She has been active in the PTA, the Friends of Travis, the Woodland Heights Civic Association, Parents for Public Schools, the Greater Heights Education Project, the SPARK Board, and the board of Multi-Cultural Education through Counseling in the Arts – MECA.

While serving as Assistant Director of the city’s SPARK School Park Program, Karla worked with parents and community members to develop over 20 school parks throughout the city.

Karla and her husband, Tim, have three children, all of whom attended HISD schools.

Race for HISD Board Trustee for District III on December 12th

Manuel Rodríguez Jr. was first elected to the Board of Education in 2003 and reelected in 2007.

He served as assistant secretary in his first year as a trustee, second vice president in 2005 & 2013, first vice president in 2006, and president in 2007.

LARRY WILLIAMS

Consider Casting Your Vote for Pastor Larry Williams in the Runoff Race for HISD Board Trustee for District II

Pastor Larry Williams is not a career politician.

However, he is candidate with serious solutions to the problems, issues, and concerns facing our young people. He likes to call himself the Christian candidate running for HISD Board Trustee for District II. Pastor Williams was born and reared in Houston, Texas, attending public schools before enrolling at Prairie View A&M University where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.

After, graduating from Prairie View A&M University he attended Seminary School at the Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta, Georgia. His concentration was Homiletics.

After that he returned home to Houston, where he began a career of teaching school and Pastoring the Covenant Baptist Church that he is the founder of. He is the Pastor/Founder for twenty years. He has been a Preacher of the Gospel for Twenty Seven years.

While working in education, he has served as Project Manager for Communities in Schools, and GearUp Coordinator for Project Grad.

He was elected Precinct Judge in 2004 where he has served for the past eleven years. Few can argue against the fact that Pastor Williams has worked tirelessly as a Community Activist over the years.

Pastor Larry Williams was called to preach the Gospel at an early age, and has dedicated most of adult life to addressing concerns related to the future of our children.

Pastor Larry Williams was recently elevated to Bishop-Elect in the New Covenant Churches International Inc. Pastor Larry Williams has a passion for public service and is committed to being a voice for the least, lost, and left out in all communities across our great city, state, nation, and world.

Consider Re-Electing Trustee Manuel Rodriguez in the Runoff

A graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School (Class of Jan. 1970), he received an associate of arts degree in social sciences from Solano Community College and studied organizational behavior management and marketing at the University of Houston. He served as a part-time community-relations specialist in the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department's Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations from 1998 through December 2004.

A computer specialist in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1977, Rodriguez served the Air Training Command in Lubbock, Texas, in the 601st Tactical Command Wing and was attached to NATO in Lindsey Air Station, in Wiesbaden, Germany. He finished his tour at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, Calif.

Rodríguez’s primary carrier responsibility was as a computer programmer and operation specialist; he was also the Airman Training NCO and was the EEOC/Drug & Alcohol Relation Liaison.

MANUEL RODRIGUEZ

Trustee Rodríguez is also the founder and president of the MARVAA Corporation, which provides assistance in education, housing, and community involvement. Rodríguez served from 2008-2011 as the HISD director for Houston on the Board of Directors of the Texas Association of School Boards and in 2010 he was elected president of the Mexican American School Board Members Association. In 2013, he was inducted into the National Hispanic Institute Hall of Fame, and was the recipient of the Houston East End Chamber 2008 Education Impact Award. He has been awarded an HISD commendation for meritorious service as well as a community service award from the Texas House of Representatives for his long-time dedication in working with Houston youth. He was named a James Deady Middle School Volunteer of the Year and been named one of the Outstanding Young Men of America.

In 1997, Rodríguez served on HISD's task force to review the state comptroller's audit of the district, and he was a member of Parents for Public Schools and a national board member for the organization from 2000 through 2005.

Rodríguez and his wife, Virginia, celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in May 2013 and have four children together. Rodríguez, his wife, and all four of their children graduated from HISD schools.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 11

“LOOKING AHEAD TO 2016”

ERIC REED

“WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

Important 2016 Election Dates

For Harris County Constable - Precinct 3

Tuesday, March 1, 2016 - Mark your calendar for the 2016 Democratic and Republican Primaries.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Dear Fellow Constituents,

My name is James Eric Reed and I would like to take this opportunity to announce my candidacy for the Harris County Precinct 3 Constable position.

Hence, I respectfully ask for your vote and your support in the 2016 primary election.

Equally important is the fact that I am the proud son of Late Mr. Elvin S. Reed and Patricia Reed. I am also younger brother to Donnie Reed and husband to Sandra C. Andrade-Reed. Together, Sandra and I have one child, Zane Reed. From a previous marriage I have 3 other children, Nikki, Erica and Prince and 4 grandchildren.

Family is of utmost importance to me and that is why I want to continue serving our communities, our youth and your family.

First day to file for a place on the primary ballot for precinct chair candidates.

Saturday, November 14, 2015

First day to file for all other candidates for offices that are regularly scheduled to be on the Primary ballot.

the

Mon., Dec., 14, 2015 at 6PM

Filing deadline for candidates; filing deadline for independent candidates to file intent declaration.

Friday, January 1, 2016*

I was born and raised in Barrett Station and it was there that I learned the value and importance of loyalty, trust and respect.

Having lived in Harris County Precinct 3 since birth and having served as a Harris County Deputy since 1994, I have dedicated myself to the service of the people. At the age of 15 I served in the Barrett Station fire department as an EMS volunteer. Years later I served as captain of the fire department as well as a board member of the Crosby EMS team.

As a Harris County Deputy, I have had the privilege of working in many schools including middle schools and high schools. Having worked at these schools has allowed me insight into the problems affecting our streets and our youth. I believe that my non-judgmental and fair approach in dealing with people has helped me positively impact many lives. I also believe that I have helped guide and encourage many children onto a brighter and better future. Our children are our future and when I earn their trust and win their loyalty, I know I have done my job.

Furthermore, being a local resident, I am also well acquainted with the problems facing our communities. Therefore, as your Precinct 3 Constable, I will continue to dedicate myself and my department to the service of our communities and schools by identifying community needs, focusing on public safety, implementing crime prevention programs and allocating department resources to improving customer service. So, when elected, I will work diligently to restore a sense of trust, pride and efficiency back to Precinct 3 by being visible and accessible in our Precinct. Please vote ERIC REED and let me prove that together we can create a better quality of life for all.

Eric Reed ______ Sincerely Yours,

Eric Reed, Democratic Candidate

Barrett Station, Baytown, Cedar Bayou, Channelview, Crosby, Fall Creek, McNair, Northeast Houston, North Shore, Sheldon, Summerwood Political Advertising Paid for by the Eric Reed for Constable Campaign, Alesia Reed-Treasurer

First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (NEW LAW: first day of calendar year for ABBM and FPCA) Last Day to Register to Vote

Monday, February 1, 2016

*First day to file does not move because of New Year’s Day holiday. An “Annual ABBM” or FPCA for a January or February 2016 election may be filed earlier, but not earlier than the 60th day before the date of the January or February election.

Tuesday, February 16, 2016*

*First business day after Presidents' Day

First Day of Early Voting

Friday, February 19, 2016

(NEW LAW: 11th day before election day; ABBM and FPCA)

Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked)

Friday, February 26, 2016

Last Day of Early Voting

Last day to Receive Ballot by Mail Tuesday, March 1, 2016 (election day) at 7:00 p.m. (unless overseas deadline applies)

ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, March 1, 2016

12 n HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER - www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

KEY 2016 PRIMARY RACES: President/Vice-President U. S. Senator U. S. Representative District 2 U. S. Representative District 7 U. S. Representative District 8 U. S. Representative District 9 U. S. Representative District 10 U. S. Representative District 18 U. S. Representative District 22 U. S. Representative District 29 U. S. Representative District 36 Railroad Commissioner Justice, Supreme Court, Place 2 Justice, Supreme Court, Place 4 Justice, Supreme Court, Place 6 Presiding Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals Place 7 Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals Place 8 Member, State Board of Education, District 4 Member, State Board of Education, District 6 Member, State Board of Education, District 8 State Senator, District 4 State Senator, District 6 State Senator, District 7 State Senator, District 11 State Senator, District 13 State Senator, District 15 State Senator, District 17 State Senator, District 18 State Representative District 126 State Representative District 127 State Representative District 128 State Representative District 129 State Representative District 130 State Representative District 131 State Representative District 132 State Representative District 133 State Representative District 134 State Representative District 135

State Representative District 137 State Representative District 138 State Representative District 139 State Representative District 140 State Representative District 141 State Representative District 142 State Representative District 143 State Representative District 144 State Representative District 145 State Representative District 146 State Representative District 147 State Representative District 148 State Representative District 149 State Representative District 150 Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 2 Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 6 Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 7 Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 8 Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 9 Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 3 Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 4 Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 5 Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 6 Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 8 District Judge, 11th Judicial District District Judge, 61st Judicial District District Judge, 80th Judicial District District Judge, 125th Judicial District District Judge, 127th Judicial District District Judge, 129th Judicial District District Judge, 133rd Judicial District District Judge, 151st Judicial District District Judge, 152nd Judicial District District Judge, 164th Judicial District District Judge, 165th Judicial District District Judge, 174th Judicial District District Judge, 176th Judicial District District Judge, 177th Judicial District District Judge, 178th Judicial District

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CALL (832)212-8735 IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR ONE OF THESE OFFICES IN 2016 www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 13

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www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 15

VOTE FOR MY GRANDPA!!! Mike Knox for Houston City Council, At-Large #1

The three important issues Houstonians face are the Budget, Infrastructure, and Public Safety.

• We all need to live within our means…Including City Hall.

• We deserve roads without potholes, that don’t flood.

• And, our communities need to be safe.

With your support, together, we can make Houston work for us again!

Vote Mike Knox for Houston City Council, At-Large Position 1

Pd. Pol. Ad. by Mike Knox Campaign

Mike Knox Campaign P.O. Box 1581 Houston, TX 77251 p. 713.973.6992 e. campaign@mikeknox.org

www.mikeknox.org

MIKE IS THE RIGHT CHOICE!