April 2006 Houston Business Connections Newspaper

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Houston

Community News & Business Reports

Published By Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Proudly Serving The Houston Community Since 1998

• Email: news@houstonbusinessconnections.com • APRIL 2006

Edwards The Statesman

ADDRESSING ISSUES

Rep. Al Edwards connecting with constituents, HD-146 runoff set for April 11th Houston Business Connections Reports

T

he g r e a t a n c i e n t G r e e k P h i l o s o p h e r , Aristotle once said that a statesman was one who was anxious to produce a certain moral character in his fellow citizens, namely a disposition to virtue and the performance of virtuous actions. The term statesman is a respectful term used to refer to diplomats, politicians, and other notable figures of state. Moreover, in the case of State Representative Reverend Al Edwards of District 146 the term is most appropriate.

Whether or not an individual actually

MAKING CONNECTIONS: Al Edwards at the 2006 MLK Grande Parade with the grandmothers of former University of Texas star Vince Young.

Please see EDWARDS, P.10

Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and County Commissioners Officially open new Harris County Civil Courthouse (Houston) - Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and County Commissioners Lee, Garcia, Radack and Eversole officially opened the new $119 million Harris County Civil Courthouse.

The new civil courthouse is part of an overall downtown courthouse master plan, which includes the Family Law Center, the Criminal

Eckels

Lee

Justice Center, the Juvenile Justice Center, and the 1910 Civil Courthouse. A com-

Garcia

Eversole

mon tunnel system connecting to a new below-grade jury assembly center under-

neath the courthouse plaza is also part of the plan.

“The new civil courthouse is one of four court buildings that will form a new downtown courthouse campus. The plan will make the county’s court system much more convenient for Please see ECKELS, P.2

GOVERNING TEXAS

Gov. Perry Grants Pardon After DNA Testing Clears Man of Crime (Austin) - Gov. Rick Perry has granted a pardon based on innocence to a man after DNA testing proved he

did not sexually assault a 13-year-old girl at knifepoint nearly 20 years ago.

DNA testing was not avail-

able at the time the crime was committed.

The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles had

unanimously recommended the innocence pardon after

Mayor White, Rep. Turner to hold Town Hall Meeting on Rising Electric Rates (Houston) - State Rep. Sylvester Turner and Mayor Bill White are hosting a Town Hall Meeting to discuss rising electric rates for homeowners in Houston. This event will take place in the Wheeler Ave. Baptist Turner Church Gym (Located at 3810 Ruth Street) on Saturday, April 8, 2006 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information, please call (866) 886-8900.

Marriott Receives Top Honors for Diversity Franchising Initiatives (Washington, DC) — Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) received the 2006 Ronald E. Harrison Award, by the International Franchise Association (IFA), for its significant contributions to minorities Johnson in franchising.

“We are honored to be recognized with the IFA’s highest award,” said

Please see PERRY, P.18

Please see DIVERSITY, P.20

African-American Entrepreneurs Blaze the Way to Success; Celebrate Black History Every Month

MAKING THINGS RIGHT: Gov. Rick Perry recently granted a pardon based on innocence to Authur Mumphrey who was wrongfully convicted for a crime his brother, Charles Ray Mumphrey committed.

Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) - According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Madam CJ Walker was the first selfmade woman millionaire. An African-American, Madam Walker was a successful business woman who made her fortune selling hair care products and she popularized the use of the straightening comb among black women by teaching them how to use it. Today, there are

rags-to-riches stories in sports (LeBron James), music (Diddy & Master P), and business (21-year-old Farrah Gray). For those seeking extra cash or ways to create wealth, Weekend Entrepreneur: 101 Great Ways to Earn Extra Cash (Entrepreneur Press, March 2006) has stories about people from all walks of life who went from almost Author - Michelle Anton

Please see SUCCESS, P.14

TO VIEW HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS ONLINE VISIT: www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

NEWS Publisher’s Message

PHA Commission Delivers Noise Reduction Measures, Heavy Crane Purchases for Bayport he Port of Houston Authority Commission (PHA) approved several recommendations, including the purchases of two dockside cranes for the soon-to-be opened Bayport Container Terminal and the purchase of additional non-intrusive safety alarm equipment during its March 27 meeting. Chairman Jim Edmonds presided over the meeting with Commissioner Steve Phelps, Commissioner Jim Fonteno, Commissioner Kase Lawal, Commissioner Jimmy Burke, Commissioner Janiece Longoria and Commissioner Elyse Lanier.

T

BAYPORT MATTERS (Agenda item G6) The commission awarded a contract to Shanghai Zhenhua Port Machinery Co. Ltd. for

the purchase of two dockside electric container cranes at a price not to exceed $17.43 million. The cranes are expected to cost between $12 million and $20 million.

The purchase of these cranes is one step closer toward getting the Bayport container facility opened and operational by summer.

(Agenda item G15) The commission approved the issuance of a $45,237.91 change order to a contract with Zachry Construction Corporation for the installation of 32 additional non-intrusive backup alarms that will continue to be used by PHA after Bayport Phase 1A is completed.

The change order also included a request for $30,018.42 for the relocation of an electrical manhole from possible trench drains.

HHP

RAILROAD REALIGNMENT (Agenda item K1) PHA commissioners authorized the port authority to advertise and receive competitive Please see PORT OF HOUSTON, P.18

Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and County Commissioners Officially open new Harris County Civil Courthouse

Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

continued from P.1

Mailing: 957 Nasa Parkway #251 Houston, TX 77058.

the thousands of people who utilize our justice system everyday”, said Judge Eckels. “We are proud

The Publisher’s Desk

(Agenda item G3) In a related action, the commission approved a request to spend no more than $75,000 on the purchase of non-intrusive broadband safety alarms for container handling equipment at Barbours Cut Terminal.

Both the measures at Bayport and Barbours Cut are part of the port authority's goal to operate its industrial facilities with minimal noise impact on adjacent communities.

to tell the citizens of Harris County that we were able to build this courthouse on time and on

Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., publisher of Houston Business Connections.

I

nstead of bringing you my regular message, I decided to introduce you to the “Entrepreneurs Credo.” If you happen to know someone who’ve be contemplating entrepreneurship, share this credo with them. I am certain it will inspire them as it has me. Enjoy this issue!

aubrey@houstonbusinessconnections.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”

Frontal view of the new Harris County Civil Courthouse located in downtown Houston.The new Harris County Civil Courthouse has 17 floors and a basement, totaling over 660,000 square feet.

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Houston Highlight Publishing, L.L.C. 957 Nasa Parkway #251 • Houston, Texas 77058

View from above of the new Harris County Civil Courthouse located in downtown Houston. The new civil courthouse is one of four court buildings that will form a new downtown courthouse campus.

budget. “Art Storey, Jr., executive director of Harris County’s Public Infrastructure Department and Rich Elwood, project manager, were the overseers and managers of the project. By using in-house construction management, Harris County saved taxpayers millions of dollars.

The new Harris County Civil Courthouse has 17 floors and a basement, totaling over 660,000 square feet. The Civil Courts are on floors 5-17, with four courtrooms on each floor except for floors six and seven where there are only two courtrooms. There are 47 reserved parking spaces in the basement with direct access to secure elevators for the judges and their staff. A cafeteria will also be in the basementlevel.

The Civil Courthouse is a concrete structure with pre-cast concrete and glass exterior.

Interior finishes include tropical brown granite walls and Vratza limestone for the columns and wall bases in the public areas.

Flooring throughout the public corridors is made of thickset Italian terrazzo. Spectator benches in the courtrooms are oak with cherry stain. Wood paneling and millwork are made of cherry veneers. The stone behind the judge’s benches is Texas limestone quarried in Garden City, Texas.

Harris County Clerk Beverly Kaufman and Harris County District Clerk Charles Bacarisse will also have offices in the new courthouse. The Honorable Mark Davidson is the Administrative Judge for the District Courts in Harris County. The Honorable Roberta A. Lloyd is the Administrative Judge for the County Civil Courts, and the Honorable William C. McCulloch is the Administrative Judge for the Probate Courts.

Pierce, Goodwin, Alexander and Linville were the architects for the project and Vaughn Construction was the general contractor.

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

2 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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EDITORIAL COMMENTS

Secretary Williams Defends Texas Elections

T

exas Secretary of State Roger Williams today responded to a recent editorial by the New York Times attacking the use of electronic voting in elections in Texas. The New York Times

wrongly suggested that elections in Texas were "marred by electronic voting troubles."

"The March 23, 2006, editorial ‘Common Sense in Maryland,’ was

Williams

misleading and factually incorrect in its assessment of elections in Texas," Williams said. "Contrary to the perception conveyed in your editorial, the technology was not

responsible for the errors in the elections, but, rather, it was critical in identifying them, which is something a paper-based system Please see WILLIAMS, P.15

The following is a comprehensive list of Houston area Chambers of Commerce ------------------------Acres Home Citizen Chamber Of Commerce (713) 692-7003 6130 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Candidates Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Arab U.S. Chamber Of Commerce (281) 447-2563 525 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Houston, TX 77060

we’re with

Al Edwards

Arab-us Chamber National (713) 963-4620 1330 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 Asian Chamber Of Commerce (713) 782-7222 7457 Harwin Dr Houston, TX 77036 Australian American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 467-2146 11935 Cobblestone Dr Houston, TX 77024 C I S American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 464-4800 8707 Katy Fwy Houston, TX 77024

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Congressman Rev. Al Green

Reverend William “Bill” Lawson

State Representative Sylvester Turner

Caribbean Chamber Of Commerce (713) 977-8308 7171 Harwin Dr Houston, TX 77036 Chamber Of Commerce North (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 Chamber Of Commerce North Channel Area (713) 450-3600 P 9759 Ste Ste 100 Houston, TX 77213 Clear Lake Area Economic Development Foundation (281) 486-5535 2525 Bay Area Blvd Apollo, TX 77058 Clear Lake Shores Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058 Cy-fair Houston Chamber Of Commerce (281) 955-1100 11050 Fm 1960 Rd W Houston, TX 77065

Al Edwards Representative District 146

A Democrat You Can Trust!

Re-Elect Be a part of the winning team Our Democratic State Representative

Cy-fair Houston Chamber Of Commerce (281) 765-8888 11050 Fm 1960 Rd W Houston, TX 77065 French American Chamber Of Commerce 5373 West Alabama, #209 Houston, TX 77056 (713) 960-0575 German American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 877-1114 5599 San Felipe St Houston, TX 77056 Please see LISTING, P.5

Political ad paid for by the Al Edwards Campaign, E.H. Danfield, Treasurer.

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

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• APRIL 2006 • 3

BULLETIN BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

April Convention Business Brings $38.1 million to the city of Houston (Houston) - For the month of April, the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) welcomes 25 conventions, trade shows, events and other meetings to the city.

According to GHCVB president and CEO Gerard J. "Jordy" Tollett, "more than 39,000 attendees will spend an estimated $38.1 million in Houston during this month." The following are some of April’s largest conventions:

Billiard Congress of America (BCA) International Expo The BCA Expo will take place at the George R. Brown Convention Center April 6-8.

BCA, a non-profit trade service organization that represents manufacturers, distributors, retailers and room operators, will feature all the latest industry innovations and new products. The Expo includes an exhibit hall with nearly 300 exhibitors and products ranging from billiard tables, cues, balls, lighting and accessories to complementary lines like furniture, bars, video games, music systems and apparel. More than 5,500 delegates are anticipated, which will bring approximately $5.4 million to the local economy.

activities and booth exhibits.

More than 5,000 people are expected to attend, with an economic impact of approximately $4.9 million.

Texas Library Association - Annual Conference The Annual Conference will be held April 25-28 at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The conference brings together librarians, library supporters and library suppliers to see the industry’s innovative products and services and promote, support and improve Texas library services. The event features award ceremonies, general sessions, luncheons, nearly 20 pre-conferences and an exhibit hall where more than 8000 librarians and exhibitors work closely together.

Keynote speakers include Julie

Andrews Edwards, singer, actress, author and advocate of UNICEF and Save the Children and Marlee Matlin, Oscar winner, volunteer and children’s author. More than 5,000 delegates are expected to attend, with an economic impact of approximately $4.9 million.

Houston is a space of infinite possibilities. As a top convention and tourism destination you’ll enjoy the very best hotels,

convention facilities, sports, entertainment, dining, outdoor recreation and attractions. The Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau and its partner, Continental Airlines, encourage you to make Houston your choice for business or pleasure.

For more information on Houston attractions, log on to www.visithoustontexas.com or call 1-800-4HOUSTON.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

“It’s So Easy To Buy A Dodge” at GULFGATE DODGE!

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COME SEE DIANOH!

American Association of Petroleum Geologists

Dianoh Johnson-Wills

- Annual Spring North American Convention

Fleet Manager

281.477.6767

The American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) Convention will be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center April 9-12. The event, bringing the latest research and technological advances for the industry’s advancement, features field trips and workshops, technical programs, symposiums and general sessions. The convention features entertainment from Landry’s Downtown Aquarium and an exhibit hall with more than 200 exhibits devoted to gaining knowledge from experts on the cutting edge about their products and services. More than 7,500 delegates are expected to attend, with an economic impact of approximately $7.3 million.

Of Course, It’s Got a HEMI®!

The Dodge Charger – one of the biggest names from the muscle car era – powered its way out of its storied past and onto the stage at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The much-anticipated 2006 Dodge Charger is making its way back onto the streets of Houston.

Will you be behind the wheel of one?

281.477.6767

Visit GULFGATE DODGE to test drive one today.!

Listen To KWWJ 1360AM From 8-9am

Baptist General Convention of Texas

Call Dianoh Johnson-Wills the Fleet Manager at 281.477.6767

- Hispanic Youth & Singles Congreso The Hispanic Youth & Singles Congreso is held April 13-15 at Reliant Arena. The annual event is designed to inspire and encourage Hispanic youth to pursue higher education, grow in their Christian life and share the gospel with others. The event includes worship services, seminars, concerts, recreational

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Man's capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man's inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary. — Reinhold Niebuhr

4 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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7 7 0 1 7

NEWS TOWN HALL MEETING Mayor Bill White Featured Speaker at Second Annual Health and Wellness Town Hall Meeting For People with Disabilities (Houston) - Help improve your community by voicing your ideas!

The Houston Parks and Recreation department and the Houston Commission on Disabilities, in

coordination with Get Moving Houston, will host the Second Annual Health and Wellness Town Hall Meeting for People with Disabilities. Mayor Bill

White will be on-hand as a special guest and keynote speaker.

The Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 27th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Metropolitan

Multi-Service Center, located at 1475 West Gray. For information call 713-837-9061 or visit www.houstonparks.org.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Candidates Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Listing continued from P.3 Houston Hispanic Chambers Of Commerce (713) 644-7215 2900 Woodridge Dr Houston, TX 77087 Houston Northwest Chamber Of Commerce (281) 440-3476 14511 Falling Creek Dr Bammel, TX 77014 Houston Northwest Chamber Of Commerce (281) 440-4160 14511 Falling Creek Dr Houston, TX 77014

Al Edwards Representative District 146

Houston West Chamber Of Commerce (713) 785-4922 10777 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77042 Houston West Chamber Of Commerce Spring Branch Division (713) 467-9330 8400 Long Point Rd Houston, TX 77055 Indo American Chamber Of Commerce Of Greater Houston (713) 850-1144 1990 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 Interamerican Chamber Of Commerce (713) 975-6171 510 Bering Dr Houston, TX 77057 Italy-america Chamber Of Commerce Of Texas Inc. (713) 626-9303 4605 Post Oak Place Dr Houston, TX 77027 Japan Business Association Of Houston (281) 493-1512 14133 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77079 League City Chamber of Commerce (281) 554-5595 P.O. Box 977 League City, Texas 77574

Al has done a great job for us, that’s why these are just some of the organizations who endorsed Al for re-election: Houston Black American Democrats • Houston Association of Realtors • Afro-American Sheriffs Union Coalition of Black Democrats • Congressman Al Green • Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Representative Sylvester Turner • Reverend William “Bill” Lawson Gayle Falon, President, Houston Federation of Teachers • Robert Robinson, Business Agent, Plumbers Local #68 Claude Cummings, Local President, Communication Workers of America Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas • Texas Political Action Committee for Engineers Associated Builders and Contractors • Texas Medical Association

Be a part of the winning team.

On Tuesday, April 11, vote to re-elect a great Democratic Representative.

Re-Elect

National U.S. Arab Chamber Of Commerce (713) 963-4620 1330 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 North Chamber Of Commerce (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 North Channel Area Chamber Of Commerce (713) 450-3600 13301 E Fwy Houston, TX 77015 North Houston Greenspoint Chamber Of Commerce (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 Seabrook Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058

Our Democratic State Representative Political ad paid for by the Al Edwards Campaign, E.H. Danfield, Treasurer.

Please see BENNETT, P.7

Democracy is not something you believe in or a place to hang your hat, but it’s something you do. You participate. If you stop doing it, democracy crumbles. — Abbie Hoffman

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• APRIL 2006 • 5

BUSINESS BRIEFS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Who Really Pays for Prisons?

Byron E. Price’s new book, Merchandizing Prisoners: Who Really Pays for Prison Privatization, makes the claim that incarceration is the new form of slavery while debunking many of the rationales for prison privatization. In analyzing the Price decision to privatize state prisons, Price, an assistant professor of public policy and administration, reveals the political bias that often drives these policy choices, and how this impacts African-American communities.

Praeger Publishers released Merchandizing Prisoners: Who Really Pays for Prison Privatization,” in March 2006.

His book — one of the first to objectively examine the privatization of prisons — underscores how for-profit private prison companies have gone public and are trading on the stock exchanges, and the inimical impact of prisons being publicly traded. The Newark resident’s work looks at all 50 states as it examines the steady growth of private, for-profit prison firms and the correctional-commercial complex that has developed tangentially with the private prison industry. The book details the strange bedfellows that have been brought together to expand this industry.

Price, a 1993 graduate of Texas Southern University, illustrates that the privatization of prisons has not only led to significant changes in policy making and the management of prisons, but it has also has generated widespread concern that incarceration has become a profitmaking industry. Price argues that profit motive has, strengthened calls for policies on mandatory minimum sentencing that keep the prison industry growing, since, Price notes, prisons need occupants in order to be successful business enterprises.

Price examines the potential reasons why a state might choose to privatize its prisons, and considers financial and political aspects in depth. He ultimately concludes that the desire to save costs is not the primary reason for state prison privatization, but instead attributes the drive to privatize to political and ideological factors, such as the party of the governor and the overall political and ideological culture of the state.

Price holds a coterminous appointment in the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Public Health, Department of Urban Health

Administration. He is the associate director of the National Center for Public Productivity at Rutgers University-Newark; editor-in-chief, Journal of Public Management and Social Policy; and case study editor, Public

Productivity and Management Review. Price has co-authored two book chapters on Mississippi politics, co-authored one book chapter on privatization, and contributed three entries to the Malcolm X Encyclopedia. He

has published in the American Review of Public Administration; the International Review of Public Administration, Public Productivity and Management Review; and the PA Times. His current research agenda includes

constitutional implications of public and private arrangements, prison privatization, egovernance, performance measurement, and education reform. Price is a native of Memphis, Tenn.

TOP: Contractor works on the construction of a new prison. BOTTOM: New Boston Prison located in New Boston, Texas is over 300,000 square foot.

Justice will only exist where those not effected by injustice are filled with the same amount of indignation as those offended.— Plato

6 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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MESSAGE

VOTE IN THE APRIL 11TH RUNOFF ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Candidates Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Success continued from P.1 nothing to six or seven figure incomes.

Michelle Anton, former executive producer for the Dr. Laura radio show and author of Weekend Entrepreneur, is herself an unlikely success story.

Born and raised in Brooklyn’s Bedsty, Anton’s mother singularly worked three jobs to support her family. Anton put herself through school and with perseverance and hard work, became one of the most well-known and sought-after producers in television.

At Dr. Laura, Anton created an online community for www.drlaura.com to help stay-at-home parents find ways to earn extra cash while still being able to spend time with their families. Time after time, these weekend entrepreneurs-in-training fashioned a business after their own passion, whether that was making cobbler or creating cigar-box purses. Anton’s detailed guide portrays more than 100 creative and hard-working weekend entrepreneurs who share their inspirational stories and their secrets for success. They offer insider information about what works and what doesn’t, how much time it takes, marketing tips, finding customers, and more. Plus, Anton and her co-author, Jennifer Basye Sander, provide direct advice about how others can be successful in the same business, along with valuable resources to help weekend entrepreneurs achieve their goals.

Anton herself and three weekend entrepreneurs featured in the book are African-American.

Here is a summary of their stories, all of which Anton can discuss: * Gerald Murray: founder and CEO of School of Hard Knocks; sells tshirts with inner-city slogans * Willie Crawford: Sells soul food cookbooks on the web * Stephen Pierce: Renowned internet marketer Michelle Anton has been a noted producer and media expert for over a decade with prestigious television shows such as The A&E Biography Series, Leeza, Danny Bonaduce, Famous Families and as a freelance associate producer working on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Anton was nominated for the NAACP Image Award 2000 for the A&E Biography Series, profiling the life and career of Dorothy Dandridge.

Area Pastors and Ministers support Al Edwards Representative District 146

Join this impressive list of Houston Pastors and Ministers supporting Al Edwards for re-election.

Houston Metropolitan Ministers Association, President: Dr. Samuel J. Gilbert, Sr. South Union Ministers Association, President: Pastor R. Monroe Baptist Ministers Association of Houston & Vicinity, President: Pastor J.J. Roberson Pastor Calvin J. Abraham Pastor Kernist Ardoin Pastor Caleb Anderson Pastor Terry Anderson Pastor L.L. Atkins Pastor Steven Barlow Pastor R. C. Bell Pastor C.E. Benton, Sr. Rev. Aaron Binder Pastor Gary Blackmon Rev. M.P. Bland Rev. Jew Don Boney Pastor Gusta Booker Pastor Richard Booker Pastor John Bowie Rev. Carl L. Brock Rev. Clarence Brown Rev. Michael Brown Pastor Ken Bryant Pastor Roland Byrd Rev. F. Celestine Pastor James Clark Pastor Harvey Clemons Pastor L.J. Cameaux, Sr.

Pastor Joe D. Dancy Rev. Gerald Daniels Pastor R.E. Daniels Bishop James Dixon, II Pastor David L. Edwards Rev. Terron Edwards Rev. Terron Edwards Rev. Will Ervin, III Pastor Author Faust Pastor Leonard L. Favorite Pastor Michael Forner Rev. O.J. Fontenot Rev. Ezekiel W. Franklin Pastor John G. Gibbs Pastor Paul E. Giddings Dr. Samuel J. Gilbert, II Rev. Rathel Goodman Pastor John Goodman, Sr. Pastor Rodney Graves Pastor F. B. Hall Evangelist Hunt Harris Pastor Charles L. Hicks Pastor S.T. Hillard Rev. Isreal E. Holmes

Pastor Walter R. Houston Pastor Jimmie Irving Pastor Acie J. Jefferson Pastor Terrance Johnson Pastor Dennis C. Jones Pastor Michael Jones Pastor Mose Jones Pastor Willie Jones Pastor Leroy Joseph Pastor Johnny Kelly Pastor Augustus Kemp Pastor William Lawson Rev. Alves LaFleur Pastor Curtis Lewis, Sr. Pastor W. Edward Lockett Pastor Curtis Ray Lucas Pastor Willie Mack Rev. Kervis Martin Pastor Rugley Monroe Bishop Gene Moore Pastor Roland Mouton, Sr. Pastor Patrick N. Myles, Sr. Pastor James E. Nash Pastor Paul Nickerson

Pastor James R. Parker Pastor A. L. Patterson Pastor Larry J. Randle Pastor J.J. Roberson Pastor Kenneth Rose Pastor Joe Fred Russell Pastor Asa Sampson Pastor F.D. Sampson Bishop G. Emerson Scott Pastor Jerry Sims Pastor Michael Smith Pastor Henry Solmon Rev. Alfred Syres Pastor Robert Terry Pastor Robert Ve'en Pastor A. Walker Pastor Rudolph White Pastor F.N. Williams, Sr. Pastor Michael P. Williams Pastor T.R. Williams Pastor Victor Williams, Sr. Pastor Leroy Woodard Vote on April 11th!

Your choice for a moral voice.

Re-Elect On Tuesday, April 11, vote to re-elect a great Democratic Representative.

Our Democratic State Representative Political ad paid for by the Al Edwards Campaign, E.H. Danfield, Treasurer.

Intellectual freedom is the only guarantee of a scientific - democratic approach to politics, economic development, and culture. — Andrei Dmitrievich Sakharov

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• APRIL 2006 • 7

NEWS BRIEFS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Magnolia Hotels Appoints New General Manager of Houston Property Magnolia Hotels recently announced the appointment of Chuck Castiglia, CHA, to general manager of the Magnolia Hotel Houston.

"We are excited to have Chuck join our executive team," said Leigh Hitz, president of Denver-based Magnolia Hotels.

"Chuck brings extensive hotel management experience and proven successes in operations and development. I'm confident Chuck will provide strategic direction and leadership for the continued success and growth of the Magnolia Hotel Houston."

Castiglia comes to the Magnolia Hotel with more than 22 years experience in hotel management, including major hotel corporations Hyatt and ITT Sheraton.

Most recently, Castiglia served as general manager of the Savoy Hotel in Miami, Fla. Castiglia reorganized the Savoy after its release from Omni Hotels in 2002, developing new strategies to increase revenue through cultivating new accounts and increasing an electronic marketing presence.

Previously, Castiglia worked for the Aztec Group, serving as general manager for two 300room Ramada hotels in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He has also served as general manager

for a Staybridge Suites hotel in Naples, Fla. and as director of operations for the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.

"I'm excited to join the Magnolia Hotels Corporation," said Castiglia. "I look forward to elevating the Magnolia Hotel Houston to one of the premier properties in Texas, and to becoming involved with the Houston community."

As general manager, Castiglia will oversee 150 employees and

all functions of the hotel, including human resources, guest services and operations.

He was an active member of the Miami community, serving as a board member for the Miami Chamber of Commerce and with the nonprofit Educate Tomorrow, an organization that reaches out to disadvantaged individuals and foster children, guiding them toward advanced education.

The Magnolia Hotel Houston is a 314-room upscale

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

8 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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NEWS ANNOUNCEMENTS

Texas Labor Market Shows Strength with Added Jobs Unemployment Rate Holds Steady (Austin) — Seasonally adjusted nonagricultural employment in Texas increased by 25,400 jobs in February, for a total of 279,700 jobs over the year. Annual growth for total nonagricultural employment has remained positive for the past two years and stands at 2.9 percent.

February’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 5.0 percent remains steady from January and is down from 5.4 percent in February 2005.

Unemployment rates were down in February for nearly all Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in Texas compared with unemployment rates in

February 2005.

“The Texas labor market continues to gain strength as employers are adding jobs, and more people are finding work,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chair Diane Rath. “Texas is showing continued growth that speaks well for economic development in the state.”

Ten of 11 major industries exhibited job growth in February. The only exception, Trade, Transportation & Utilities, which recorded a modest loss of 1,000 jobs in February, has shown a solid 2.6 percent annual job growth rate, adding 50,500 jobs over the year.

“Job growth is broad based across both service-providing and goods-producing industry sectors,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman.

“Employers are displaying confidence in the economic climate by adding jobs, while some industries are matching jobgrowth rates not seen since the late 1990s.”

Employment in Professional & Business Services posted a gain of 10,600 positions in February, following an increase of 3,900 jobs in January. As a result, the annual growth rate in Professional & Business Services rose to

6.2 percent in February, an over-the-year increase of 70,200 jobs.

Natural Resources & Mining increased by 2,200 jobs over the month. Construction grew by 3,900 jobs in February, marking nine consecutive monthly job gains. Manufacturing sector employment increased by 1,800 jobs in February.

“The continued addition of jobs and decreased local area unemployment rates are good signs for Texas workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

O

n Tuesday, April 11, 2006, Rep. Al Edwards the current representative for HD-146 and Borris L. Miles a local well-known businessman will face off in what is being billed as the "Texas Tango"

by Houston Business Connections. Who will you be standing with on Edwards or Miles? If you would like to offer an opinion on this runoff race, log onto: www.eyeonhouston.houstonbusinessconnections.com.

"In my tenure, several House Bills have been passed which has benefited you and the community. For example, I am a member of the Appropriations Committee. As part of this powerful committee, I was able to help designate over $166 million dollars to our district. This funding was earmarked for highway and bridge construction projects, landscape improvements, emergency service connections to the Texas Medical Center, along with the development of a management district and much more," says Rep. Al Edward.

"I have spent my entire life in District 146. I understand the community’s concerns, and will work every day to get the job done in Austin." says political newcomer Borris L. Miles.

Miles gained entry into the "Texas Tango" by garnering roughly 32 percent of the vote in the March Democratic primary. Now he will face Rep. Al Edwards for the seat Edwards has held for more than 25 years.

VOTE TUES., APRIL 11, 2006 Images seen here are graphic renderings and are not the actual bodies candidates Al Edwards and Borris Miles. Graphic was created by Aubrey R. Taylor.

Al Edwards Champion

Borris L. Miles Challenger

State Rep. HD-146

For State Rep. HD-146

Your Vote Is Your Voice — Make it Heard On Tues., April 11 - A MESSAGE FROM HOUSTON HIGHLIGHT PUBLISHING, L.L.C. 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

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• APRIL 2006 • 9

POLITICS RUNOFF APRIL 11, 2006

Edwards continued from P.1 is a statesman, is generally a matter of opinion, although in some cases there is little controversy.

Politicians who are regarded as statesmen are usually very mature in age and popular, with long distinguished careers. While Edwards does not consider himself advanced in years, he is certainly popular, and he has certainly dedicated most of his adult life to public service —this is without question.

Edwards also exemplifies unquestionable stately qualities that are unparalleled in Texas politics —and unmatched in the upcoming District 146 runoff. He is a more than 25-year incumbent and is one of the most powerful members in the House of Representatives. His seniority in the House has landed him on three of the most influential committees in Austin. He is the chair of the Rules and Resolutions Committee, chair of the Budget and Oversight of the Ways and Means Committee, and a member of the Appropriations Committee.

As a member of the Appropriations Committee he was instrumental in providing Texas Southern and Prairie View A&M University with an additional $25 million each—this is a major accomplishment and should be duly noted as such.

A graduate of Texas Southern University, Edwards has always been actively involved in the community.

During the civil rights movement, he was an essential figure right along with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Carl Stokes, Reverend William “Bill” Lawson, and many others who tirelessly fought for the rights we sometime take for granted today.

Not Ready To Leave Office When a politician retires, he is often referred to as a “respected elder statesman” by his supporters. Yet, for Edwards, whether you support him or not, few can question his life long dedication to public service. His commitment to do what is right has always been a guiding principle. Moreover, the time is now to reward him with sending him back to Austin to continue the work of the people.

“I am asking that you return to the polls on Tuesday, April 11, 2006 to vote for me, again. Please do not believe the deceptions and lies, which are all false. I have been a continuous, leading part of District 146...You know that I am a committed and loyal Democrat with no history of contributing to the Republican Party. You know me as a dedicated, effective, and proven legislator who has consistently given to the community.

Let us stay focused and continue to work together toward a productive and progressive district.,” says Edwards.

perhaps the toughest battle of his long and illustrious career.

Nevertheless, according to Edwards, there is still too much work to be done for District 146 to change leadership.

Has Proven Commitment Over The Years Edwards has demonstrated his commitment to the fight for

the rights of others — even in the face of uncertainty. In 1987, he was arrested in Houston for a peaceful demonstration he took part in to stand against the apartheid policies of South Africa.

Recently, he also led a successful march of over 5,000 people (many students) in Waller

County to ensure that the students of Prairie View A&M University were guaranteed the right to vote.

Edwards has been elected to the Democratic National Committee since 1984. He served as chairman of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus from 1991 to 1997 and was elected to the chairmanship of the

Democratic National Committee Black Caucus for six years and served as vice president for 10 years. He is currently the longest serving member of the Democratic National Committee for Harris County.

Please see EDWARDS, P.17

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

“Lawyers You Can Trust” Brown & Hixon, PLLC is engaged in the practice of general civil law. With over more than thirty years of legal experience, we have built a legal practice that has one central focus: we are “Lawyers you can trust.”

Our strong belief that a good personal relationship between client and attorney should exist, and our determination to get the best possible result for clients, has resulted in a tradition and reputation for caring, competent legal representation.

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This type of appeal is new for Edwards as he finds himself in Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.— Margaret Mead

10 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

WORLD FINANCES

Ethiopian Becomes 77th Richest in the world according to Forbes magazine Forbes magazine names Al Amoudi richest black in the world at $4 billion The Ethiopian born Saudi tycoon Sheik Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi has become the 77th richest person in the world and the top billionaire in Africa with a net worth of 6.9 billion USD, according to Forbes magazine.

In its special issue, the business magazine reported that the year 2005 was great for the tycoon with his net worth increasing by 4.4 billion USD, jumping to 77th rank from 243th the previous year.

It said Al Amoudi is also the richest person in Africa and the fourth in the Middle East as well as the richest black man on the planet.

Last year the City of Atlanta, Georgia, officially welcomed

Sheikh Mohammed Hussein AlAmoudi of Ethiopia to the City where he was honored with a Proclamation and a Phoenix Award, which is the highest award given to a citizen of visiting dignitary by the City of Atlanta. He was in Atlanta as part of the 22nd Annual Ethiopian Sports Federation’s Tournament that took place in July last year.He gave $200,000 to the Ethiopian sport Federation in North America on July 9.

One of his greatest joys in life is being able to stretch out the hand of friendship and help those in need, say people close to him.

A lot has been said about his generosity when it comes to the downtrodden and those in need.

But his foresight and desire to

VERY RICH: Sheik Mohammed Hussein is richest black. help the younger generation to plan and build for tomorrow often takes a back seat.

People would be surprised at the number of students attending colleges and universities here in America on scholarships sponsored by him. In 1996, AlAmoudi paid all transportation expenses for the Ethiopian Olympic team when they traveled

to America for the Atlanta Games.

Sheikh Al-Amoudi has been praised for playing a pivotal role in improving the lives of thousands of marginalized people in a section of the Ethiopian society, through productive investments, and carefully targeted social development programs.

Sheikh Mohammed AlAmoudi was born in Ethiopia

and raised in Saudi Arabia.

He has helped a number of former Ethiopian athletes both at home and abroad, in many ways including covering all the medical expenses for Ali Redi, the national soccer team goalkeeper who was treated for leukemia at a Cape Town hospital in South Africa.

He was born and spent his youth in Northern Ethiopia, before migrating to Saudi Arabia.

He migrated to Saudi Arabia.

He started at the bottom and worked his way up the business ladder, according to reports.

The largest private investor in Ethiopia, he put money into diverse assets as hotel, gold mines and a food processing plant.

His Svenshka Petroleum is engaged in oil and gas exploration from the Nordic shelf to the Ivory Coast, it was learnt.

There are reportedly 793 billionaires in the world, most of them Americans, and 78 women.

The Ethiopian Herald (Addis Ababa) Staff and wire reports.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

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FOR A FAST TAX RETURN & A CHANCE TO WIN A BIG SCREEN TV, CALL : 713.663.7312 The well being of democracies regardless of their type and status is dependent on one small technical detail: The right to vote. Everything else is secondary.— Jose Ortega y Gasset

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• APRIL 2006 • 11

NEWS OUTLOOK TSU

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

Will Slade suffer same fate?

T

exas Southern University’s Priscilla Slade has been suspended following revelations she spent school funds on her private residence. However, Slade is not the first school President to be accused of such activity. And, she would certainly not be the first to be fired because of her actions. John Shumaker, Donald Kennedy, Mark Perkins, Kenneth Keller, and Steve Altman all brought shame to their universities and were relieved of their duties.

“I cannot overstate my personal pleasure at TSU’s willingness to partner with me in my quest to leave behind a legacy that will surely touch and change lives for generations to come. This gift is my attempt to move our people from idea to action; from simply talking and reading about the pyramids we built yesterday, to building some of our own today,” said Tavis Smiley after donating more than $1million to Texas Southern University. But, that was 2004.

Slade

Shumaker

Kennedy

Perkins

Keller

Today, in 2006, Dr. Priscilla Slade is not smiling.

She was once upon-a-time the hope of the predominantly African American university nestled in Houston’s Third Ward. Now, she may be facing a future that is not so promising. And, the thought of facing possible jail time is not out of the question for Slade.

The Texas Southern University board of regents recently made the decision to strip Slade of her financial responsibilities and has appointed Provost Booby Wilson as interim. Provost Wilson has been selected to stand in pending the outcome of the investigation into Slade’s spending. He a chemistry professor at the school and has acted as overseer of the academic side of the university throughout Slade’s seven-year reign.

How it came to this Dr. Slade allegedly charged the university $87,000 dollars to furnish her Memorial area home. Then she reimbursed the school $138,159 dollars —the amount paid by the school for landscaping work done at her home. According to published reports the explanation given by Dr. Slade was that the university paid the landscaping bill by mistake.

D.A. has been involved before As recently as October of 2004 the DA's office launched an investigation into how the school spent a multimillion-dollar Tobacco Prevention Grant. The investigation itself was launched following a state audit, which raised questions about how $575,000 dollars of the $2.7 million grant was spent. The grant in question was intended to educate young minorities about the health risks associated with smoking.

As a result of the findings of the audit, TSU had its Tobacco Prevention Grant rescinded and was required by state officials to repay $200,000 dollars that it had already received. In addition, the university was not reimbursed for expenses totaling $375,000 dollars it had billed the state related to the Tobacco Prevention Grant.

A HIGH POINT FOR SLADE: PBS/NPR Host Tavis Smiley celebrated his 40th birthday by unveiling The Tavis Smiley School of Communications and the Tavis Smiley Center for Professional Media Studies at Texas Southern University at a news conference Sept. 13, 2004. Photo By David Perry/Smiley Group Inc.

Dr. Slade not this first Dr. Slade is not the first university head to come under fire for inappropriate spending. Unfortunately for her, many presidents who have come under this kind of scrutiny have not survived with their reputations in tact.

Nor have they retained their jobs.

A look at a few embattled presidents President John Shumaker of the University of Tennessee was forced to step down in 2003. His departure was prompted by revelations he used the school's plane for personal trips, and that he allegedly awarded no-bid contracts to his friends. Shumaker was also accused of misusing his state-issued credit card.

Remember Donald Kennedy the former Stanford University president who was forced to vacate his post in 1992, amid revelations he had spent money intended for

federal research projects. He was alleged to have spent the money to purchase personal items, including expensive silk sheets and an Italian wooden commode.

Do you recall the situation involving Mark Perkins, president of Towns University who was forced to resign in 2002. Perkins was accused of authorizing $860,000 dollars to renovate the house Towns University had just bought him. The university had purchased the mansion for over $800,000 dollars.

Do you remember Kenneth Keller, former president of the University of Minnesota? Keller was forced to resign in 1988 after it was discovered he'd spent $1.7 million out of his expense account to renovate his home.

Steven Altman was another embattled president. He is the former president of the University of Central Florida. Altman was forced to step down following revelations he was paying for escort service fees out of his expense account while on official travel for the university.

Washing one's hands of the conflict between the powerful and the powerless means to side with the powerful, not to be neutral. — Paulo Freire

12 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

HELPFUL TIPS FROM HPD

AVOID IDENTITY THEFT & FRAUD The Houston Police Department has created an education campaign to help the public protect themselves from identity theft.

Due to the many ways of committing this crime, everyone is a potential victim but there are a number of ways to reduce the

chance of becoming a victim.

Reducing access to personal identifying numbers is a must.

Identity thieves are sophisticated and use a wide range of techniques to obtain your personal information. These include sorting through discarded trash (dumpster diving), rifling through coworkers* desk drawers, bribing bank employees, stealing U.S. mail, soliciting per-

sonal identifiers through false job applications schemes and of course on the internet.

1. Don’t carry extra credit cards, your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport in your wallet or purse except when absolutely necessary.

2. Install a locked mailbox at your residence or business to deter mail theft. Don’t leave paid bills at your mailbox for the

postal carrier to pick up; take them to the post office instead.

3. Never print your Social Security number on checks, and release the number only when absolutely necessary.

4. Carefully review credit card statements and bank account statements.

5. Cancel all unused credit card accounts and keep a list or photocopy of all your credit

cards so you can contact the issuers in case your cards are stolen.

6. Never give out your credit card number or other personal information over the phone unless you have a trusted business relationship with the company and you initiated the call.

Please see TIPS, P.20

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• APRIL 2006 • 13

LEGAL COLUMN FROM BROWN & HIXON PLLC.

DIVORCE — A MUCH BETTER WAY By: Ella Edwards Brown and Eric C. Hixon Brown & Hixon, Attorneys-at-Law Phone: 713/6612541

sary, to make a proper evaluation of the case.

Intervention by the court is suspended while the parties are using Collaborative Law Procedures.

sk someone who has experienced a divorce and they may tell you that it was a very painful, emotional, and difficult experience. For some, the ability to “bounce back” after a divorce never happens. Hurt feelings, extreme bitterness, and an inability to communicate with their partner are some of the reasons couples can’t resolve their marital disputes. This inability often comes at a high price, both emotionally and economically. However, for some couples considering divorce, there is a desire to set aside differences and to work together, to resolve the marriage in a less adversarial manner. You may ask “How can we make a painful experience less painful for all parties involved, especially the children?” One good answer is found in Collaborative Law Procedures.

• the parties jointly agree to all experts used in the proceeding. Common experts may include Financial Planners, CPAs, Real Estate Appraisers, etc.

A

• if the Collaborative Law Procedure does not result in a settlement of the dispute, all attorneys involved in the Collaborative Law Procedure must withdraw. In this instance, the parties may continue the divorce proceeding using the traditional route, with new attorneys. There are time restraints that generally apply, that will be discussed with you by your attorney.

• the agreement may include other provisions agreed to by the parties that are consistent with a good faith effort to collaboratively settle the divorce proceeding.

What is Collaborative Law? Collaborative Law is a procedure used in divorce dissolution proceedings that allows the parties and their attorneys to use their best efforts, to end the marriage on an agreed basis. If the parties can agree on all issues, then the parties go to court for final approval of the divorce agreement. Not all cases are appropriate for Collaborative Law, especially those cases where the parties are extremely bitter and are unable to set aside their differences.

Many couples see Collaborative Law as a resourceful avenue that allows the parties to handle their divorce in the best way possible for their particular circumstances.

In many instances, contested divorces become very time consuming, and as a result, are a lot more expensive than those where the parties are able to reach an agreement.

For some couples, creating their own unique agreement can go a long way toward helping the parties readjust their lives and their life styles. For example, the couple may decide to rotate living in one home rather than disrupt the children’s living and educational environment. Child support may involve setting up a trust agreement for the

children rather than paying monthly child support payments.

What Happens If You Decide to Use Collaborative Law Procedures When You File For Divorce?

If the parties decide to use Collaborative Law Procedures, • the parties must agree in writing to use Collaborative Law Procedures.

• each party agrees to a full and candid exchange of information between the parties and their attorneys, as neces-

If you are considering divorce, explore Collaborative Law as an option with your attorney. It may save you money, and as importantly, if not more importantly, it can also preserve the dignity and respect of all parties involved, allowing them move forward, in a productive way, making a painful experience less painful.

The information in this article is not intended as legal advice but to provide a general understanding of the law.

Readers with a legal problem, including those whose problems are addressed here, should consult an attorney for advice on their particular circumstances.

Copyright pending 2006 Ella Edwards Brown, Eric C. Hixon

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TEXAS TAX REFORM

Perry Praises Plan for Record Property Tax Cuts Tax Reform Commission Plan Also Calls for Overhaul of Business Taxes without loopholes, a (Houston) – Gov. stable source of revRick Perry is wholeenue for our chilheartedly supporting dren’s education, the tax reform plan unveiled by the and substantial propTexas Tax Reform erty tax relief, then Perry Commission, which we’ve got a plan that would provide a works for them,” record $6 billion property Perry said.

The commission’s tax cut while overhauling the state’s antiquated busi- plan would pay for part of ness tax structure. Perry the reduction in school spoke at the Houston Club property taxes with a Lyceum Distinguished reformed, broader-based business tax while also Speakers Series.

“If Texans want a fairer and broader business tax Please see PLAN, P.17

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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

14 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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Williams continued from P.3 could not do."

The federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA) requires that a voting system that is accessible to voters with disabilities be used in every polling place in America, and at present, the only voting systems that have been certified as accessible are electronic voting systems.

This was a massive change for our election officials, our voting system vendors, and our voters, but all 254 counties, each with their unique challenges, acquired electronic accessible equipment to meet this federal mandate.

"The lesson learned in Texas is that new systems require new training," Williams added. "But to suggest that Texas, or the nation, should abandon electronic voting because of some minor human errors defies ‘common sense.’

Electronic voting promises greater accuracy, accessibility and reliability, and less opportunity for fraud.

Moreover, electronic voting systems offer voters with disabilities the opportunity to vote independently and in private".

The Secretary acknowledged that more emphasis needs to be placed on education and training at the county level. County officials in Texas did an outstanding job using this new technology for the first time, and the Secretary of State’s Office is committed to doing whatever it can to bring more resources to the counties for training to improve the system as we move forward.

Texas was the first state in the nation to conduct a primary under the new requirements of HAVA. The voting systems in Texas worked well and our county officials are to be commended for stepping up to the plate and ensuring that Texans with disabilities are able to vote independently and in private throughout the State of Texas.

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My commitment to your satisfaction is the foundation from which a solid business relationship is built.

I realize that people do business with people they trust. I am interested in what is best for you, the client, and am committed to establishing a long-term relationship based on trust. I pride myself on being knowledgeable and staying current with changes in the industry that will affect the success of your transaction. You have worked hard to be able to purchase the home of your dreams. I feel the responsibility to make those dreams a reality and pursue the right solution enthusiastically.

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Corporate Headquarters: 2600 SOUTH LOOP WEST • SUITE 630 • HOUSTON, TEXAS 77054 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

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• APRIL 2006 • 15

Plan continued from P.14 lowering the rate businesses pay under the current franchise tax.

The governor said the plan contains four key benefits: • It is a fundamentally fairer way to fund education because its centerpiece – the reformed franchise tax – is broader, fairer and assessed at a lower rate than the tax we have today. It closes tax loopholes so many more will pay their share, and some will pay less.

• It encourages employers to invest in people. If legislators pass this plan, employers will have new incentives to create jobs and invest in worker pensions, worker healthcare and employee dependent care.

• It makes homeownership more affordable for millions of Texas families by slashing school property taxes by about one-third starting in the 2007 tax year.

• It dramatically increases the state share of education funding.

By Fiscal Year 2008, the state will pick up an estimated 50 percent of the cost of public education, instead of only 34 percent, which the current system is leading us toward in Fiscal Year 2007.

Perry appointed the bi-partisan commission last year to recommend changes to the current franchise tax. He named John Sharp, former comptroller and a Democratic, to chair the group.

The Texas Supreme Court later issued its ruling in a school-finance lawsuit and gave the legislature until June 1 to address what it found to be an unconstitutional statewide property tax.

“For years Texas has needed a new tax structure that protects jobs, reflects the modern economy, broadens the tax burden and lightens the load of property owners,” Perry said. “Now we have that plan."

“It is a responsible plan that appeals to Texans’ sense of fairness, encourages investments in jobs and workers, discourages harmful addictions like smoking, and utilizes a portion of the surplus to give the people a well-deserved tax cut without leaving future legislatures a mountain of debt.”

The property tax cut would take effect immediately, with property owners seeing an initial rate reduction in school property taxes of 17 cents. Those property tax reductions would be paid for with an increase in taxes on tobacco products, increased tax compliance measures and a portion of the state surplus.

The reforms to the business tax structure would take effect next year and school property tax rates would be further reduced to $1 per $100 in valuation – a one-third reduction in the current school tax rate of $1.50.

“What this commission has proposed is fair, forward looking and future-oriented. It creates a tax structure for a 21st century economy. And it provides tax relief to those who need it most,” Perry said.

“This is our great chance, a once in a generation opportunity to lay aside politics in pursuit of shared prosperity. I ask legislators of both parties to join me in that pursuit.”

Complete copies of the commission’s plan and draft legislation can be found at www.governor.state.tx.us.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE is a monthly inspirational platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. 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. Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. 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.

To include your business in this section call 832.212.8735 or email your request to: advertise@houstonbusinessconnections.com

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orry is a form of fear, and all forms of fear produce fatigue.

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Whatever field of human activity one may take, only those trends that are in harmony with the needs of society show rapid progress. — Nikolai Chernyshevsky

16 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

Edwards

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

Something To Think About

continued from P.10 Not A Position To Take Lightly Being elected to the House of Representatives, is not something that should be taken lightly. Nor should the responsibilities and powers bestowed on a legislator. The duties of the legislature include consideration of proposed laws and resolutions, consideration of proposed constitutional amendments for submission to the voters, and appropriation of all funds for the operation of state government. It takes a person with a high moral standard and a certain skill set to serve in this capacity — all of which Edwards ha proven he possesses. Edward is in the position he’s in for one reason and one reason only — he has qualified himself to be there. Since 1978 he has authored, co-authored, or sponsored 513 bills and 117 have been signed by the governor. In the past legislative session, he sponsored a very important bill called, “Eminent Domain” which prevented corporations from taking citizens’ property in the state of Texas.

A Look Ahead For Edwards Upon returning to Austin on April 17, 2006 for a special legislative session, Edwards and State Representative Sylvester Turner will ask Governor Rick Perry to call a bill they have authored call “The Utility Reduction Bill.” One bill will restore “The System Benefit Fund” which was set up to provide assistance to poor Texas who cannot pay their electric bill. The other would grant the Public Utility Sector authority to adjust the fuel factor downward to reflect the market price — thus reducing the rate paid by Texas citizens.

A Look At A Landmark Accomplishment On June 19, 1865, the Union General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Tex., to inform inhabitants of the Civil War’s end two months earlier. Two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, Granger’s General Order Number 3 finally freed the last 250,000 slaves whose bondage, due to the minimal Union presence in the region, had been essentially unaffected by Lincoln’s efforts. June 19th—which was quickly shortened to “Juneteenth” among celebrants—has become the African-American addendum to our national Independence Day, for, as Juneteenth jubilees remind us, the Emancipation Proclamation did not bring about emancipation, and the prevailing portrayal of Independence Day ignores the ignominious incidence of slavery entirely.

Most noted for making the Juneteenth Holiday a state paid holiday, Edwards in 1999 also authored and sponsored House Bill 1865 establishing the “Emancipation Juneteenth Cultural and Historical Commission.”

The commission is responsible for the establishment of Juneteeth monuments and markers throughout the state of Texas.

He was inducted into “Who’s Who in America” in 1989. Edwards was also inducted into the Hall of Fame of the African American Biographic Association and “Who’s Who of Global Decision Makers” in 2006.

Representative Al Edwards is truly a statesman in the state of Texas.

A

N

NDRE

o one keeps up his enthusiasm automatically. Enthusiasm must be nourished with new actions, new aspirations, new efforts, new vision.

It is one’s own fault if his enthusiasm is gone; he has failed to feed it. —Papyrus

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FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 126 It is with great pride that I step forward as a Candidate in the Nov.,7, 2006 General Election for: Texas House of Representatives District 126

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It is time for a change in our current legislative leadership. I provide an alternative to voters by offering them a candidate who will make improving Education, Health Care, and the Environment his top priorities.

Please vote for a positive change in the Texas Legislature, the face of the American dream.

“I want to be your next State Representative for District 126 and I would appreciate your vote.”

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Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• APRIL 2006 • 17

PHA continued from P.2 sealed proposals for the realignment of a railroad track at Main Street in Galena Park at an estimated cost ranging from $500,000 to $1 million.

The recommendation follows a request by the Texas Department of Transportation to reconfigure the tracks away from the proposed paved area associated with the Main Street widening project and the installation of additional track siding going into the port authority's grain elevator.

JACINTOPORT MATTERS (Agenda item K2) The commission also authorized PHA to advertise and receive bids for the replacement of the Jacintoport Terminal fender system. The project, estimated to cost between $3.4 million and $3.9 million, will provide for the replacement of the existing timber fender system with a new steel pile-supported fender system. This new system will also allow for greater access by the contractor to the work site.

BARBOURS CUT, TURNING BASIN MATTERS (Agenda item L2) The commission ranked North American Controls Corp. as the top candidate and Bath Engineering second for a professional services contract to install a gate at Cargo Bay Road. ESPA Corp. Inc was ranked third. PHA will negotiate with North American on the contract.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

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L AW O F F I C E S O F L A N E T R A S . L A RY

W

hen we accept tough jobs as a challenge to our ability and wade into them with joy and enthusiasm, miracles can happen. When we do our work with a dynamic, conquering spirit, we get things done.

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Perry continued from P.1 DNA testing cleared Arthur Merle Mumphrey of the crime and proved that Mumphrey’s brother, Charles Ray Mumphrey, had committed the assault.

“The trial court has determined that Arthur Mumphrey was wrongfully convicted and served 18 years in prison for a crime his brother committed,” Perry said. “My action today cannot give back the time he spent in prison, but it does end this miscarriage of justice.”

Mumphrey, now 42, had been sentenced to 35 years in prison for the crime and was released on bond in January. Montgomery County District Attorney Michael McDougal petitioned the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles for a pardon based on innocence; the pardon was supported by state District Judge Kathleen Hamilton.

DNA testing was granted by the trial court in 2005 and the district attorney’s office reopened an investigation of the crime. During that investigation, the brother, Charles Ray Mumphrey, told authorities that in 1986 he had admitted his participation in the assault but authorities thought he was covering for his brother. A co-defendant in the assault, Steve Thomas, received a 15-year sentence after testifying for the state at trial that Arthur Mumphrey had participated in the assault. Charles Ray Mumphrey was a juvenile at the time of the assault.

Because the statute of limitations on the crime has passed, authorities said Charles Mumphrey cannot be charged with the assault.

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NOT CERTIFIED BY TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

In actual fact those who do not care for politics and sit on the fence do indeed side for a political party: The ruling party. — Max Frisch

18 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

Classifieds To advertise here call 832.212.8735 or email your advertisement along with your contact information to: advertise@hous-

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

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Not Certified By The Texas Board Of Legal Specialization

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

Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• APRIL 2006 • 19

Marriott Receives Top Honors for Diversity Franchising Initiatives Diversity continued from P.4 Stephen P. Joyce, executive vice president of Owner and Franchise Services and North American full-service development, Marriott International. “We are excited about the success of Marriott’s Diversity Ownership Initiative and look forward to developing relationships with more women and minority franchisees and owners.”

Marriott launched the Diversity Ownership Initiative in 2005. Currently, there are over 300 Marriott hotels that are now owned, operated or under development by minorities and women; with a goal of reaching 500 in the next five years. Most recently, Marriott announced RLJ Development, owned by Black Entertainment Television (BET) founder Robert L. Johnson, expects to purchase 90 Marriott International hotels from White Lodging Services Corporation by year end 2006. RLJ Development will become one of Marriott’s largest franchisees upon completion of the transaction.

Marriott’s Diversity Ownership Initiative identifies and educates potential owners with significant business experience about the hospitality industry. Through workshops, Marriott brings together experts from the lending community, along with Marriott’s development and operations teams for ongoing support in preparation for opening.

Sixteen years ago, Marriott instituted a diversity program with a key component focusing on human resources training, development and recruitment. The award-winning program has had many successes — nearly tripling the number of women in executive positions and doubling the number of full-service women general managers in the past six years.

These achievements are reported to a subcommittee of Marriott’s Board of Directors, known as the “Committee for Excellence,” which is focused on achieving the highest levels of diversity in the lodging industry.

The committee is chaired by board member George Munoz, principal of Munoz Investment Banking Group, LLC. Membership includes board members Debra L. Lee, chairman and CEO of BET Networks; Harry J. Pearce, chairman of Nortel Networks Corporation; and William J. Shaw, president and chief operating officer of Marriott International; as well as other senior executives who represent various disciplines throughout the company.

The International Franchise Association is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising with members of more than 75 industries and in more than 100 countries. The award is named after Ronald E. Harrison, a retired PepsiCo Inc. senior vice president and IFA’s past chairman, for his positive role in implementing programs to ensure diversity and inclusion.

He is currently chairman of the IFA Diversity Institute board of directors.

For more information on Marriott’s Diversity

Ownership Initiative, visit http://marriott.com/development/north-america/default.mi MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company with over 2,700 lodging properties in the United States and 66 other countries and territories. Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Real Estate...At The Speed Of Life

GUESS GROUP, INC. A REAL ESTATE SERVICES CO. The Guess Group, Inc. will maximize your investment returns.

The Guess Group, Inc., is a full service Commercial Real Estate Firm, with the ability to bridge the chasm between public and private sector interests. With superior staff expertise in: · · · · ·

Avoid Identity Theft & Fraud Tips continued from P.13 7. When creating passwords and PINs, never use the last four digits of your Social Security number, your birth date, middle name, pet’s name, consecutive numbers or anything else that could easily be discovered by thieves.

8. Don’t throw away pre-approved credit offers without shredding them first.

9. When you order new checks, do not have them sent to your home’s

mailbox. Pick them up at the bank instead.

10. Order your credit report once a year from each of the three credit bureaus, and make sure that you recognize every line of business that has been established on your file.

If you suspect your identity has been stolen contact your local police agency. The manner in which you have been victimized will determine your next course of action.

For more information contact the Houston Police Department Financials Crime Unit at 713-308-0900.

International, Horizons, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. Marriott is also in the synthetic fuel business. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has approximately 143,000 employees. In fiscal year 2005, Marriott International reported sales from continuing operations of $11.6 billion.

For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at http://www.marriott.com

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LAND ACQUISITIONS AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROJECTS Renaissance Strip Center • HEB Grocery Store •Taco Bell • McDonald’s • Papa John’s Pizza • Houston Independent School District (Old & New Locations) • Houston Community College System • Texas Southern University • Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not. — Thomas Jefferson

20 • APRIL 2006 • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

PUBLISHED BY HOUSTON HIGHLIGHTS PUBLISHING, L.L.C. • 832.212.8735