Mattress Mack Congratulates the 2017 World Series Champion Houston Astros by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

WE BELIEVED! - 2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT Meet the entire “World Championship” Houston Astros Team Inside

HINCH

BREGMAN

CORA

MUNOZ

MORTON

DEVENSKI

BRACAMONTE

MUSGROVE

SPRINGER

POWELL

PEACOCK

STROM

McCANN

MAYBIN

BELTRAN

CORREA

McHUGH

BJORNSON

KEUCHEL

HUDGENS

FISHER

GATTIS

LIRIANO

ALTUVE

REDDICK

CENTENO

VERLANDER

GILES

“Congratulations to the Houston Astros on becoming the 2017 World Series Champions! GO ASTROS!” -- MATTRESS MACK

WHAT A YEAR FOR HOUSTON! GONZALEZ

DAUER

HARRIS

GURRIEL

PETTIS

McCULLERS

YOU CAN VIEW THIS EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE© ONLINE AT: www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

FEATURED INSIDE

GREGERSON

Free Summer Baseball & Softball Camps

- ALL CAMPS HELD AT ASTROS YOUTH ACADEMY -

2801 S. Victory Dr.; Houston, TX 77088 Astros Youth Academy free summer camps

In case you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, the Astros Youth Academy hosted free summer baseball and softball camps for boys and girls ages 7-17 earlier this year. Camps ran from June 5-July 14. All camps were free and were individual, week-long sessions. The camps were held at the Youth Academy and were strictly baseball/softball instructional activities. Kids who atteded the camps had to be interested in one of the two sports. For more information about the next camps, please contact the Astros Youth Academy office at 281-260-9166 or email uya@astros.com.

Coming to Houston on January 19, 2018 Held on the field at Minute Maid Park, the Diamond Dreams Gala features seventime Grammy winner, Ms. Gladys Knight The Empress of Soul, as well as Astros players and legends. The event benefits the Astros Foundation and New Hope Housing, an organization combatting homelessness by providing housing and support services for those in need.

The Astros Foundation Fundraising Events

The Astros Foundation is proud to support local 501(c)3 nonprofits and their causes through fundraising events. We support organizations whose efforts benefit Youth Baseball/Softball, Education/Literacy, Childhood Cancer, Military and Quality of Life.

The Astros Foundation Mission

Harnessing the passion of baseball fans to enrich our community.

The Astros Foundation Mission Statement

The Astros Foundation is the official 501©3 team charity of the Houston Astros. We seek to harness the passion of baseball fans to support youth baseball and softball programs, the recognition/honor of our nation's military, childhood cancer awareness and efforts to reduce homelessness. Our cornerstone initiatives include the Community Leaders program, the Astros Youth Academy and the Astros RBI Program. (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities).

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Seven-time Grammy winner,

Ms. Gladys Knight -The Empress of Soul

“POWER TO THE PEOPLE”

“OUR MISSION”

- Get more African American youth interested in playing the game of baseball in America. - Assist urban communities with identifying people who value us locally and nationally. - Help business, political, civic, ministry and community leaders with their outreach to urban communities.

Astros Manager & Coaches

#14 A.J. Hinch

#26 Manager

Alex Cora

“

#39 Bench Coach

*This message is the expressed written opinion of Aubrey R. Taylor (only) and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of any Aubrey R. Taylor Communications clients, advertisers or sponsors.

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR

I’m pleased to announce that Mayor Sylvester Turner will be recognized inside our upcoming “2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT EDITION” of Houston Business Connections Magazine© for all of the hard work he’s put in promoting the city of Houston as a Championship City. I would also like to take this moment to personally thank “MATTRESS MACK” for always coming through for Houstonians. Jim McIngvale is a Houstonian we can all be proud of.

Dave Hudgens

#56 Hitting Coach

Brent Strom

Pitching Coach

Gary Pettis

#48

Third Base Coach

Rich Dauer

#52

First Base Coach

Craig Bjornson

#55 Bullpen Coach

Aubrey R. Taylor President & Chief Executive Officer Aubrey R. Taylor Communications 957 NASA Parkway #251 Houston, Texas 77058-3039 Email: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com Blog: aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com Phone: 832.212.8735 Cell: 281.788.3033

Sylvester Turner Mayor of Houston, Texas

Alonzo Powell

#85

Assistant Hitting Coach

Javier Bracamonte

#96

Bullpen Catcher

Carlos Munoz Bullpen Catcher

A BUSINESSMAN YOU SHOULD KNOW!

HBC MAGAZINE© REPORTS

In case you don’t know, Mattress Mack (Jim McIngvale) gave away 60 tickets to the Houston Fire Department to attend the “2017 World Series Game” as his way of saying “THANK YOU!” from all of Texas. Mattress Mack is a Houstonian we can all be proud of. WAY TO GO MATTRESS MACK! And for those of you who may be new to Houston, Gallery Furniture features high-quality furniture, mattresses and accessories available for same-day delivery throughout the Greater Houston area. Gallery Furniture's specialties include solid wood furniture, home theatre seating and upholstered living room seating, mattresses, and top-quality furniture made in America. North Freeway Location 6006 North Freeway Houston, TX 77076 281-810-9746

Post Oak Location 2411 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 281-810-9746

MATTRESS MACK CAME TO THE RESCUE OF HARVEY EVACUEES

Grand Parkway Location 7227 West Grand Parkway South Richmond, TX 77407 281-810-9746

Jim McIngvale doesn’t have to be told or asked to step-up-to-theplate for Houstonians in need. When Hurricane Harvey’s floodwaters turned parts of Houston into a bayou, Mattress Mack opened two of his furniture stores as temporary shelters to help evacuees. It’s clear that Mattress Mack understands the true meaning of Luke 12:48 which states: “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” -- KJV

www.galleryfurniture.com

Brenham Living Room Group

Run your hands across the velvety upholstery, and then sink into the welcoming pillow-top cushions. The Brenham collection will make you feel as if you don't have a care in the world. The gentle style will make you feel safe and secure, especially in the oversized chair.

Mattress Mack Says

Order today before 10PM and Gallery Furniture will deliver to your home TODAY. Anywhere in the Greater Houston area! We have a broad range of financing available for all types of credit.

Unparalleled, Same Day Delivery Across Houston

Not only does Gallery Furniture deliver your furniture TODAY throughout the Houston area, satisfaction surveys tell us we offer the best furniture delivery experience in town. Your furniture will be unwrapped, placed where you want it, and all packing material removed. Need another piece moved too? No problem! We'll even haul away your old furniture. Gallery Furniture now offers nationwide, white-glove delivery on select items. No matter where you are, every Gallery Furniture delivery is handled with the same level of attention and care.

Community Focus

Gallery Furniture is more than just a furniture store. We are proud members of the community with a 33-year tradition of supporting the city of Houston. For more than 20 years, Gallery Furniture has given away house-fulls of furniture to families in need during our Christmas giveaway. Gallery Furniture has supported education through Teacher's Lounge Makeovers, and recently gave away $5000 Teacher's Lounge Makeovers to twenty schools throughout the Houston area. Gallery Furniture supports the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, the Peace of Mind Foundation and other charitable efforts throughout the year.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Astros Roster & Staff Pitchers #

#47

#53 #44

#36

#60 #46 #43 #31

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Chris Devenski

R/R 6'3" 210lbs

11/13/90

Ken Giles

R/R 6'2" 205lbs

9/20/90

Luke Gregerson

L/R 6'3" 205lbs

5/14/84

Will Harris

R/R 6'4" 250lbs

8/28/84

Dallas Keuchel

L/L 6'3" 205lbs

1/1/88

Francisco Liriano

L/L 6'2" 225lbs

10/26/83

Lance McCullers Jr. L/R 6'1" 205lbs

10/2/93

Collin McHugh

6/19/87

R/R 6'2" 190lbs

12 SALUTE TO THE “2017 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS”

#50

#59 #41

#35

Charlie Morton

R/R 6'5" 235lbs

11/12/83

Joe Musgrove

R/R 6'5" 265lbs

12/4/92

Brad Peacock

R/R 6'1" 210lbs

2/2/88

Justin Verlander

R/R 6'5" 225lbs

2/20/83

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Juan Centeno

L/R 5'9" 195lbs

11/16/89

Evan Gattis

R/R 6'4" 270lbs

8/18/86

Brian McCann

L/R 6'3" 225lbs

2/20/84

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Catchers #

#30 #11

#16

Designated Hitter #

#15

Name

Carlos Beltran

S/R 6'1" 215lbs

4/24/77

Infield #

#27 #2

#10

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Jose Altuve

R/R 5'6" 165lbs

5/6/90

Alex Bregman

R/R 6'0" 180lbs

3/30/94

Carlos Correa

R/R 6'4" 215lbs

9/22/94

Yuli Gurriel

R/R 6'0" 190lbs

6/9/84

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Derek Fisher

L/R 6'3" 205lbs

8/21/93

Marwin Gonzalez

S/R 6'1" 205lbs

3/14/89

Cameron Maybin

R/R 6'3" 215lbs

4/4/87

Josh Reddick

L/R 6'2" 195lbs

2/19/87

Outfield #

#21 #9 #3

#22

Name

George Springer # Name

— Jeff Luhnow — Nolan Ryan — Quinton McCracken — Allen Rowin — Brandon Taubman — Pete Putila — Mike Fast — Craig Biggio — Enos Cabell — Roger Clemens — Jake Beiting — Tom Koch-Weser — Katsumi Oka — Carl Schneider — Steve Perry — Jesse Michel — Stacy Gallagher — Chuck New — Dan O'Neill — Evan Stackpole — Matt Hogan — Charlie Romero — Joshua Miller — Dan Radison — Christian Bermudez — Mark Bailey — Doug White — Jeff Albert — Adam Everett — J.T. Podell — Brendan Verner — Rachel Balkovec — Jamey Snodgrass — Mike Burns — Ralph Dickenson — Bill Firkus — Bryan Baca — James Ready — Daniel Roberts — Jeremiah Randall

FRONT OFFICE STAFF

R/R 6'3" 215lbs

Position

9/19/89

General Manager Senior Baseball Advisor Director of Player Personnel Director of Minor League Operations Director of Baseball Operations Assistant Director of Minor League Operations Director of Research and Development Special Assistant to the General Manager Special Assistant to the General Manager Special Assistant to the General Manager Strength and Conditioning Coach Manager of Advance Scouting Massage Therapist Clubhouse Manager Visiting Clubhouse Manager Mental Skills Coordinator Clubhouse Attendant Umpires' Room Attendant Team Operations Manager Video Coordinator Advance Information Assistant Coordinator, Latin American Dev. Complex Coordinator-Pitching Fundamentals Coordinator Latin American Medical Coordinator Minor League Catching Coordinator Minor League Pitching Coordinator Minor League Hitting Coordinator Infield Coach Rehab Coordinator Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Latin American Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Medical Operations Coordinator Rehabilitation Coach Roving Hitting Instructor Director of Sports Medicine and Performance Minor League Medical Coordinator Assistant Athletic Trainer Assistant Athletic Trainer Head Athletic Trainer

“This feels bigger and more monumental than the Rockets' first win, don't you think? Amazing!!!” -- Judge Mike Engelhart is the presiding judge of the 151st Civil District Court of Harris County, Texas.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“Congratulations to our World Series Champion Houston Astros!!!!!!! I’m so proud of this city and this team!” -- Judge John Schmude is the presiding judge of the 247th District Court of Harris County, Texas.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Judge Ed Emmett showing his love for the Houston Astros at the 9th Annual Harris County International Trade & Transportation Conference with Stan Stanart (the Harris County Clerk) and Sonia Soto.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“Congratulations to the Houston Astros from me and my beautiful wife, Jane on her birthday.” -- Mayor Allen Owen is currently the mayor of Missouri City, Texas. Mayor Allen Owen has been a lifelong Houston Astros fan.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“How great is it to wake up and know the Houston Astros are CHAMPIONS of the baseball world?!!!” -- Mayor Tom Reid, the current mayor of Pearland, Texas and U.S. Congressman Pete Olson (Congressional District 22) are huge Houston Astros fans.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“Thank you Houston Astros! #HistoryEarned #WorldSeriesChamps.” -- Jacquie Baly is the President, of BalyProjects, LLC, and has been a leader in the Houston region's business and policy communities for more than two decades.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“On a personal note - I have resumed breathing! Yeah Baby! ASTROS #Earnedit!” -- Councilman Mike Knox is the Houston City Councilmember for At-Large Position #1. Councilman Mike Knox is “Our Voice at Houston City Hall”.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“WAY TO GO ASTROS” Judge Maria T. Jackson, presiding judge for the 339th District Court in Harris County is a huge Houston Astros fan. She, her brother-in-law Jesse, Frank (her husband sporting Astros gear) up front, and his wife Leah took a little time out to send a shout out ‘Astros while flying in a private plane to go eat lunch in the San Juan Islands.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

“Great day with the Houston Astros and the World Series 2017 Trophy.” – Governor Greg Abbott. In case you don’t know Governor Greg Abbott declared Friday, November 3, 2017 “Houston Astros Day” in the State of Texas.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Yes, she’s a die-hard Houston Astros fan! Shout out to Dr. Letitia Plummer from “Houston Business Connections Magazine©. In case you don’t know, Dr. Letitia Plummer is running for U.S. Congress for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Election Day: Tuesday, November 7, 2017

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 1

“The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization for less than the market value of the residence homestead and harmonizing certain related provisions of the Texas Constitution.”

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“STRATEGIC VOTER” EDUCATION, ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT CAMPAIGN

Down…But Not OUT!

In the Midst of Personal Setbacks and Struggles in Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Arthur J. Smith, II is Still Urging Others to Vote Arthur J. Smith Sr., known by most people as Art, his wife Darlene “Koffey” Smith, and their son Arthur J. Smith, III are resilient, hard-working people. They’ve overcome many obstacles to make it to where they are today. But Hurricane Harvey has this family reeling and searching for answers. You see, after putting thousands of dollars into renovating their small building located at 5307 Sonora Street in Houston’s Fifth Ward, right across the street from the historic Finnigan Park – they’ve seemingly lost everything, but their will to survive. After all, they still have each other, but much of the equipment they used to operate Super Bold City, a micro-factory for printing T-Shirts for businesses, family reunions, schools and other entities was lost due to Hurricane Harvey’s intense downpour that caused parts of their roof to collapse. The afteraffect has left the Smith family struggling to survive as they continue to work their T-Shirt business the best way they can – but if they are to survive help is needed -- AND FAST!!!. “Everything we invested is all messed up,” said Arthur Smith, Sr. “Our entire livelihood…our piece of the “American Dream” appears to be almost gone forever.”

ART AND KOFFEY ARE HOPEFULLY OPTIMISTIC SOMEONE WILL SEE THIS STORY AND HELP

Many people remember 5307 Sonora Street as simply a barbershop, but Art remembers it as the place where he met the love of his life. Well, not exactly. You see, one day many years ago, Art was sitting in a barber’s chair in this very building, getting a haircut. Back then the barbershop was called Stacy’s Barber Shop in 5th Ward, Texas. While peering out the window, Art noticed

Arthur Smith, Sr.

Governor Greg Abbott

Koffey walking across Finnegan Park with another young lady coming from what was known as the Coke Apartments/Cleme Manor -- where she grew up. According to Art, he jumped up out the barber’s chair and asked the barber to put the haircut on hold while he went to get his girl. And the rest is history. “We’re planning to give you an update on their compelling story when we take a closer look at Arthur Smith, II, and his family in our coveted “YEAR-END REVIEW EDITION” – hopefully by then we’ll be able to bring you some good news,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. “Something just tells me that someone out there with financial means to help is going to step in and help this hardworking family looking to continue their quest to lay hold of their piece of the “American Dream”.

HURRICANE HARVEY DIDN’T KILL THEIR SPIRIT

Arthur J. Smith, Sr. is deputized to register voters in Harris County, Texas. And his "NonPartisan Voter's Depot" is part of his vision to make a difference in Harris County. “My spirit is strong and my faith is unwavering,” says Smith. “I know that my family and I are going to make it somehow,” he says.

LET’S KEEP THE “AMERICAN DREAM” ALIVE IN 5TH WARD TEXAS

Arthur J. Smith, Sr. can be contacted at: (832)258-5776 for information. Darlene Koffey Smith

Arthur Smith, III

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 2

“The constitutional amendment to establish a lower amount for expenses that can be charged to a borrower and removing certain financing expense limitations for a home equity loan, establishing certain authorized lenders to make a home equity loan, changing certain options for the refinancing of home equity loans, changing the threshold for an advance of a home equity line of credit, and allowing home equity loans on agricultural homesteads.”

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 3

“The constitutional amendment limiting the service of certain officeholders appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate after the expiration of the person’s term of office.” – HBC MAGAZINE© NOTE: Dr. Letitia Plummer is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the State of Texas to research “PROPOSITION 3” and exercise your right to vote in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Dr. Plummer is also asking for the vote, prayers and support of “EVERY” registered voter in Brazoria County, Fort Bend County and Harris County who is eligible to cast a vote in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Democratic Party Primary race for U.S. Congress, 22nd Congressional District of Texas. Dr. Plummer is a small business owner who is fighting for Medicare for All, as well as Education, and Jobs for “EVERY” Texan. You can visit www.letitiaplummer2018.com for more information.

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 4

“The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to require a court to provide notice to the attorney general of a challenge to the constitutionality of a state statute and authorizing the legislature to prescribe a waiting period before the court may enter a judgment holding the statute unconstitutional.” – HBC MAGAZINE© NOTE: Dr. Letitia Plummer is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the State of Texas to research “PROPOSITION 4” and exercise your right to vote in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Dr. Plummer is also asking for the vote, prayers and support of “EVERY” registered voter in Brazoria County, Fort Bend County and Harris County who is eligible to cast a vote in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Democratic Party Primary race for U.S. Congress, 22nd Congressional District of Texas. Dr. Plummer is a small business owner who is fighting for Medicare for All, as well as Education, and Jobs for “EVERY” Texan. You can visit www.letitiaplummer2018.com for more information.

“OUR VOTE GIVES OUR HOPE LIFE!” -- Arthur J. Smith, Sr.

Founder of the “NON-PARTISAN VOTER REGISTRATION DEPOT”

Arthur J. Smith, Sr.

FIFTH WARD TEXAS

#TheNickel “5307 SONORA STREET” Arthur J. Smith, Sr. can be contacted at: (832)258-5776 for information.

Darlene “Koffey” Smith

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 5

“The constitutional amendment on professional sports team charitable foundations conducting charitable raffles.” – HBC MAGAZINE© NOTE: Dr. Letitia Plummer is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the State of Texas to research “PROPOSITION 5” and exercise your right to vote in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Dr. Plummer is also asking for the vote, prayers and support of “EVERY” registered voter in Brazoria County, Fort Bend County and Harris County who is eligible to cast a vote in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Democratic Party Primary race for U.S. Congress, 22nd Congressional District of Texas. Dr. Plummer is a small business owner who is fighting for Medicare for All, as well as Education, and Jobs for “EVERY” Texan. Please take a moment to learn more about Dr. Plummer by visiting: www.letitiaplummer2018.com

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 6

“The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a first responder who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.” – HBC MAGAZINE© NOTE: Dr. Letitia Plummer is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the State of Texas to research “PROPOSITION 6” and exercise your right to vote in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Dr. Plummer is also asking for the vote, prayers and support of “EVERY” registered voter in Brazoria County, Fort Bend County and Harris County who is eligible to cast a vote in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Democratic Party Primary race for U.S. Congress, 22nd Congressional District of Texas. Dr. Plummer is a small business owner who is fighting for Medicare for All, as well as Education, and Jobs for “EVERY” Texan. You can visit www.letitiaplummer2018.com for more information.

STATE OF TEXAS, PROPOSITION 7

Election Day:

“The constitutional amendment relating to legislative authority to permit credit unions and other financial institutions to award prizes by lot to promote savings.”

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

“OUR VOTE GIVES OUR HOPE LIFE!” -- Arthur J. Smith, Sr.

Founder of the “NON-PARTISAN VOTER REGISTRATION DEPOT”

“My VOTE GIVES OUR HOPE LIFE!” -- Arthur J. Smith, III DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

ELECT PRETTA VanDible Stallworth HCCS TRUSTEE DISTRICT IX

BUSINESS

Executing Project Management, Cost Estimation, and Project Scheduling consulting for commercial construction Directed executive responsibilities of planning, identifying and performing strategic support as well as qualitative and quantitative risk analysis for the Katrina Effort in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Performed President duties and project management responsibilities including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, controlling and closure responsibilities for the International Festival of Fort Bend County Created organizational management plan plus acquiring, developing and managing 5 project teams and 30 multi-national organizations for the International Festival of Fort Bend County

EDUCATION

Consultant to Dr. Charleta Guillory of the Neonatology Department of Texas Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital for the development of the project abstract and program evaluation instrument for Texas Pulse Oximetry Project Tool Kit Designed, created, developed and implemented the Learning Emotional Abuse Program (LEAP) Educational Tool Kit with corporate interviews, program goals, four course curriculum, marketing documents, teacher and trainer modules Executed board governance professional development and training for Children 4 Tomorrow nonprofit organization Established and executed project duties with stakeholder relations for the Parents for Public Schools Conference Initiated and managed stakeholder relations for Parents for Public Schools of Houston Education Summit Planned, prepared and administered project efforts of

the HSPVA All School Musical for Black History Adjunct Professorship duties in Statistics, Project Management, Business, Mathematics, and Science courses

LEADERSHIP

Co-President of Parents for Public Schools Houston that organizes, engages and trains parents for education advocacy Consultant for Witty Inventions to develop business plans, finance plans and marketing strategies for clients Executed Trustee responsibilities in the Houston Community College System and established board governance vision, corporate mission, business strategy and organizational design Performed President duties and managed strategic initiatives, finance, operations, and marketing in government 8A contracting including federal compliance for Computer & Technology Support Services, LLC Consulted with Cyril White and defined, developed and implemented fiscal operational procedures for TGBTG Sports

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Develop multi-year strategic business plans with forecasting models for small, disadvantaged and non-profit businesses Performed SWOT, GAAP and Quality analysis for startup, small, and disadvantaged business concerns Established business procedures including personnel development to determine roles, responsibilities and skill levels Classified, tracked, analyzed, and recommended solutions for issues with lessons learned for non-profit organizations Supervised project management of federally funded contracts to ensure government compliance

Raising the Standard of Excellence in Higher Education! PAID POL. AD BY PRETTA VANDIBLE STALLWORTH FOR HCCS TRUSTEE CAMPAIGN

LEADERSHIP I COMPETENCE I HONESTY I ACCOUNTABILITY

Pretta VanDible Stallworth for HCCS Trustee, District IX

Endorsements

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS

HOUSTON BUSINESS-EDUCATION COALITION

“With your input, together, we can make Houston work for “ALL” of Us!” Council Member Mike Knox

City Hall Annex

Mike Knox (center), R.W. Bray, and Freddie Oliver discuss employment and contract opportunities for minority businesses in Houston.

900 Bagby, First Floor Houston, TX 77002 Phone: 832.393.3014 FAX: 832.395.9472 E-Mail: atlarge1@houstontx.gov

“Mike Knox Is Our Voice at Houston City Hall.” POL. AD PAID FOR BY MIKE KNOX CAMPAIGN

Meet Mike Knox

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 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. 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. ---------------------------------------------------------

WWW.MIKEKNOX.ORG

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E H O U S T O N A S T R O S

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS

Council Member Mike Knox attending the installation of the memorial wall honoring the sacrifice of officers killed in the line of duty while assigned to the HPD Westside Command Station.

“Our Voice at Houston City Hall.” POL. AD PAID FOR BY MIKE KNOX CAMPAIGN

City of Houston, Bond Election City of Houston, PROPOSITION A

The issuance of $1,010,000,000 pension obligation bonds for the purpose of funding a portion of the unfunded liability of the City with respect to the Houston Police Officers’ Pension System and the Houston Municipal Employees Pension System as contemplated by the pension reform plan contained in Senate Bill 2190 (adopted in the 85th (2017) Texas Legislature, Regular Session), and the levying of taxes sufficient for the payment thereof and interest thereon. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision on “PROPOSITION A” prior to the start of early voting (which begins on Monday, October 23, 2017) for the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election.

City of Houston, PROPOSITION B

The issuance of $159,000,000 public safety improvement bonds for the acquisition, construction, rehabilitation and equipment of public safety permanent improvements for the police and fire departments and the levying of taxes sufficient for the payment thereof and interest thereon. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision on “PROPOSITION B” prior to the start of early voting (which begins on Monday, October 23, 2017) for the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election.

City of Houston, PROPOSITION C

The issuance of $104,000,000 park improvement bonds for the conservation, improvement, acquisition, construction and equipment of neighborhood parks, recreational facilities and bayous, including such green spaces along all bayous to create an integrated system of bayou walking, running and bicycle trails to enhance, preserve and protect the health of citizens, water quality, natural habitat and native wildlife and the levying of taxes sufficient for the payment thereof and interest thereon. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL”registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision on “PROPOSITION C” prior to the start of early voting (which begins on Monday, October 23, 2017) for the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election.

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City of Houston, PROPOSITION D

The issuance of $109,000,000 public facility improvement bonds for the acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, remediation and equipment of permanent improvements that support public health and wellness, sanitation and other essential governmental and general services of the City and the levying of taxes sufficient for the payment thereof and interest thereon. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision on “PROPOSITION D” prior to the start of early voting (which begins on Monday, October 23, 2017) for the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election.

City of Houston, PROPOSITION E

The issuance of $123,000,000 library improvement bonds for the acquisition, construction, rehabilitation and equipment of the public library system and the levying of taxes sufficient for the payment thereof and interest thereon. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL”registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision.

City of Houston, PROPOSITION F

(Relating to the area formerly known as the City of Houston Heights as it existed on February 19, 1918.) The legal sale of mixed beverages. SPECIAL NOTE: Houston Business Connections Magazine© is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in the city of Houston to do your research and make an informed voting decision.

Texas Gov.Greg Abbott delivers $50 Million Dollar check to Mayor Sylvester Turner for Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts. As a result, Mayor Sylvester Turner will not have to raise property taxes.

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Houston Community College System, Board of Trustees Election - Nov. 7, 2017 HCCS, Trustee, District IV

Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, the HCCS Trustee for District IV is being challenged by Manny Berrera and Daniel "DC" Caldwell, on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race.

HCCS, Trustee, District V

Robert Glaser, the HCCS Trustee for District V is being challenged by Victoria Bryant on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race.

HCCS, Trustee, District IX

Eugene "Gene" Pack, David Jaroszewski and Pretta VanDible Stallworth are the candidates running HCCS Trustee for District IX on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. The HCCS District IX seat was held by Christopher W. Oliver who will not be running for re-election.

EUGENE PACK

CAROLYN EVANS-SHABAZZ

VICTORIA BRYANT

PRETTA VANDIBLE STALLWORTH

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WAY TO GO ASTROS! #EARNED HISTORY #WorldSeriesChamps.

Robert Glaser is the Right Choice!

Robert Glaser is a true Houston native. A product of HISD schools (Poe, Lanier, Lamar), he holds a BA and BS from the University of Texas at Austin, and a MBA from the University of St. Thomas in Houston. Robert is the founder, owner, and operator of a manufacturing business which has been in the Houston area for over 30 years. He has been an in-district homeowner and resident for over 20 years. He has been for married for 23 years, and has 3 children. He is currently running for election in Houston Community College Trustee District 5.

Robert's Vision for HCCS

Endorsements for Robert

"As a native Houstonian, lifelong resident of District V and business owner, I know how important educational opportunity and accessibility to valuable skills training is to our community. HCCS is the ‘biggest tool in the box’ in supplying our residents with what they need to excel in our economy. The best investment in our future and in our families is in education and training. I will continue to work to make sure HCCS continues its mission by insisting on management transparency, increasing opportunity to families in our community by increasing accessibility to higher education and working with local employers to ensure the skills needed for their growth are provided by our programs and curriculum." - Robert Glaser

Below are the organizations and individuals who have endorsed Robert Glaser for reelection:

I Houston Chronicle I C Club of Houston I Harris County Tejano Democrats I Harris County Young Democrats I Houston Stonewall Young Democrats I Meyerland Democrats I Gulf Coast Area AFL-CIO I And Many Other Leaders

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS

Houston Independent School District, Trustee and Special Elections - Tuesday, Nov., 7, 2017 Houston ISD, Trustee, District I

Monica Flores Richart, Elizabeth Santos and Gretchen Himsl are the candidates running for HISD Trustee for District I on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. The HISD District I seat is currently held by Anna Eastman who will not be running for re-election.

GRETCHEN HIMSL

ELIZABETH SANTOS MONICA FLORES

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Judge Loyd Wright Wendy Bould Wright

Governor Greg Abbott

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E H O U S T O N A S T R O S

FREEDOM...AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.

INTEGRITYFEXPERIENCEFDILIGENCE

LOYD WRIGHT

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue to earn your trust and support as Judge of Harris County Probate Court No. 1” -- JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT

JUDGE HARRIS COUNTY PROBATE COURT #1

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

POL. AD PAID FOR BY JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT CAMPAIGN 2018, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

Houston ISD, Trustee, District III - Unexpired Term

Carlos Perrett, Sergio Lira, Rodolfo (Rudy) Reyes and Jesse A. Rodriguez are the candidates running for HISD Trustee for District III on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. – HBC MAGAZINE© NOTE : José Leal was appointed to the Board of Education in August 2017 by unanimous vote of HISD trustees. He is serving a portion of the unexpired term of District III representative, a position left vacant by the passing of Trustee Manuel Rodriguez Jr. José Leal’s term expires in January 2018. However, won’t be on the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 ballot.

CARLOS PERRETT

JESSE A. RODRIGUEZ

SERGIO LIRA

Houston ISD, Trustee, District V

Susan Shafer, Sue Deigaard, Kara DeRocha and Sean Cheben are the candidates running for HISD Trustee for District V on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. The HISD District V seat KARA is currently held by Michael Lunceford who will DeROCHA not be running for re-election.

SUE SHAFER

SUE DEIGAARD

SEAN CHEBEN

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

John Schmude Judge 247th District Court

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E H O U S T O N A S T R O S

www.fairandimpartialJustice.com

Judge John Schmude Harris County Civil Courthouse 201 Caroline, 15th Floor Houston, Texas 77002

"It is a tremendous honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve the families of Harris County as Judge of the 247th District Court. Thank you for your support!"

g{x fv{Åâwx YtÅ|Äç POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY JOHN SCHMUDE FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT, VALOREE SWANSON, TREASURER.

MIDTERM ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

Houston ISD, Trustee, District VI

Daniel Albert, Robert Lundin and Holly Flynn Vilaseca are the candidates running for HISD Trustee for District VI on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. Holly Maria Flynn Vilaseca was appointed to the Board of Education in January 2017, by unanimous vote of the trustees, to serve the unexpired trustee term representing District VI. Her goal is to ensure that students have access to rich, engaging, and personalized learning experiences that equip them with the skills to succeed in their chosen career after high school. Throughout her career, she has worked to close the achievement gap.

DANIEL ALBERT

HOLLY VILASECA

Houston ISD, Trustee, District VII

JOHN LUMAN

ROBERT LUNDIN

Anne Katherine Sung, the HISD Trustee for District VII is being challenged by John Luman on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. Anne Sung was elected to the Board of Education in 2016. She is committed to pursuing equitable policies ANNE SUNG and programs that build strong schools in every neighborhood. She intends to focus more attention on fiscal responsibility to ensure that district dollars are managed to the greatest benefit for students’ academic success according to HISD’s website.

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BUTTS

JUDGE CHRISTINE RIDDLE

HARRIS COUNTY PROBATE JUDGE COURT NO. 4

“My mission is to serve families in times of crisis in a thoughtful, compassionate, and deliberate way, whether that crisis involves the loss of a loved one, the need for a guardianship, or a mental health issue.”

Christine

Pol. Adv. Christine Riddle Butts Campaign, Michael C. Riddle, Treasurer, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

ELECTION DAY - TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E H O U S T O N A S T R O S

Experience ~ Integrity ~ Dedication

Houston ISD, Trustee, District IX

Wanda Adams, the HISD Trustee for District IX is being challenged by Karla Brown and Gerry W. Monroe on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The early voting period will begin on Monday, October 23, 2017 and end on Friday, November 3, 2017. Houston Business Connections Magazine© will not be making an endorsement in this race. Wanda Adams was elected to the HISD Board of Education in 2013 after serving the limit of three twoyear terms as Houston City Councilmember for District D. In addition to representing HISD District IX, Adams also currently serves as Board of Education President. Her commitment is to continue to incorporate strong literacy programs, strengthen parent and community engagement, and decrease the number of low-performing schools in HISD according to DR. KARLA BROWN HISD’s website.

WANDA ADAMS

GERRY MONROE

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C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E H O U S T O N A S T R O S

RENEE MAGEE

FAIR I HONEST I HARD-WORKING

TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

Endorsement JUDGE RENEE MAGEE: “Elected as Judge of the 337th Criminal District Court in 2012, I have served in the criminal justice system for the past 25 years. In November, 2016, I, along with every other Republican elected official on the ballot, was swept out of office in Harris County. I am seeking to continue my work as Judge in 2018, on the 184th District Court, a criminal court bench vacated upon the retirement of the current republican Judge. I bring strong conservative principles and many years of experience to the bench. I am asking for your support again in 2018.”

Terry Lowry

Editor, The Link Letter Host, "What's Up" Radio Program

"Renee Magee is one of the very few of whom you can say has unmatched credentials for the 184th Criminal District Court. Renee Magee had a long tenure at the District Attorney's office prior to her election as judge in 2012 and was respected on the bench. Renee's commitment to conservative principles is beyond reproach. Personally, Renee is deeply committed to her family and it is reflected in their commitment to her political endeavors. I am glad to endorse Renee Magee for the Judge of the 184th Criminal District Court and we be working hard to see her back on the bench."

Endorsement Steven F. Hotze, M.D.

CEO, Conservative Republicans of Texas Publisher, CRTXNEWS

"Renee Magee's record of performance in the courtroom and on the ballot is superb. She has consistently demonstrated conservative principles and maintained her engagement in Republican party politics, even in the 'off season,' earning the trust and credibility of conservative leaders across Harris County. Renee is a tireless campaigner who will fight to win. We need our best conservatives out there fighting to win and that is why I am endorsing Renee Magee for Judge of the 184th Criminal District Court in 2018."

Endorsement FAMILY: Renee and her husband, Tucker, reside in Houston. Renee has two grown children: Angela, and Christopher.

Gary Polland

Editor-in-chief, Texas Conservative Review

"I am proud to endorse Renee Magee for Judge of the 184th Criminal District Court in the upcoming 2018 election. In addition to her other accomplishments, Renee Magee is an Olympian. She brings an Olympian's standard to her work over the last 25 years, both as an assistant district attorney and as Judge of the 337th Criminal District Court. Magee's career exudes leadership and strong ballot performance. We need Renee Magee leading our ballot this year and making our criminal courts experienced, hard working and smarter. Please join me in supporting Renee Magee for Judge of the 184th Criminal District Court in our Republican primary."

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Pd. Pol. Ad by Renee Magee Campaign in Compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, James Tucker, Treasurer.

MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS

Mayor Allen Owen

Jacquie Baly

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City of Missouri City General and Special Election Recommendations from Mayor Allen Owen

Mayor Allen Owen is Missouri City’s 10th mayor since Missouri City’s incorporation back in 1956. He and his family have lived in Missouri City for more than 36 years. Mayor Owen continues to dedicate much of his time and expertise towards the development of a community where he and his wife of 46 years, Jane, raised their three children. In case you don’t know, Mayor Allen Owen was first elected mayor of Missouri City back on Saturday, May 7, 1994. Prior to that time he was a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission for five years and a City Council member for eight years, including serving as mayor pro-tem. Mayor Allen Owen earned degrees from Southern Methodist University’s Graduate School of Finance and Banking and from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Community Involvement

From the beginning of Mayor Owen’s association with Missouri City, he has been highly visible in the community that now has grown to well over 68,000 residents and numerous businesses. He continues to play a major role in building a strong economy evidenced by Missouri City’s attraction of quality residential and commercial development.

Mayor Owen combines his position as retired senior vice president and Texas government liaison for Wells Fargo Bank of Texas with assuring he is available to hear and work with the City’s residents on their needs. He actively participates in numerous community activities, including tireless volunteer hours with the YMCA, United Way, March of Dimes, and many other organizations.

Additional Service

Mayor Owen serves on the boards for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Fort Bend Women’s Center, Fort Bend Literacy Council, and the Fort Bend Community Justice Council. He is also a lifetime vice president and director of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a lifetime member of the Fort Bend Fair, past president of the Texas 4H Foundation, and president of the Asian American Family Services Center.

City of Missouri City, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT A

Mayor Allen Owen is not endorsing either candidate in the race for Missouri City Council, District A in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Councilmember Yolanda Ford is being challenged by Sonja Giddings in the race for Missouri City Council, District A. Councilmember Ford has been a resident of Missouri City for more than 35 years. She has a passion for public service, community development, design and entrepreneurship. Professionally, Councilmember FORD GIDDINGS Yolanda Ford’s background is in urban planning, architecture, community development and government contract management. She currently holds a Masters of Architecture (M. Arch) from Prairie View A & M University and a Bachelor of Science (B.S) from the University of Houston. HER CHALLENGER: In case you don’t know, Sonja Giddings has been a resident of Missouri City for over 12 years. She’s a graduate of Grambling State University. Ms. Giddings is a member of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Grambling State University National Alumni Association, DLW Chapter of Grambling State Alumni Chapter — Houston, Texas, American Federation of Teachers, Former Board Member of The People’s Family Workshop of the Arts and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Back on Saturday, May 7, 2016 Sonja Giddings ran for Fort Bend Independent School District Trustee for Position 7 under the name (Sonja Nelson Leonard) and finished last in a field of five candidates.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION A

Shall Section 3.05 of Article III of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to clarify that the mayor pro tem of the city council may be elected at the first regular city council meeting following a runoff election? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION A in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION A needs to be approved because of the possibility of run-offs.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION B

Shall Subsection 4.01.A of Article IV of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to remove the requirement that the city manager must be bonded at city expense in an amount not less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000)? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION B in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION B needs to be approved because the city of Missouri City already has an “Umbrella Policy” that addresses this concern.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION C

Shall Subsections 4.01.D and 4.01.F of Article IV of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to provide that the city manager may appoint, suspend, and remove department directors and assistant city managers without the concurrence of the city council? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION C in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION C needs to be approved because the City Man-

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ager should have this right. According to Mayor Owen, the City Manager should be able to simply present these actions to City Council in the form of information.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION D

Shall Section 4.05 of Article IV of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to allow the city manager to establish, combine, discontinue, redesignate, or combine city departments? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION D in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION D needs to be approved because, along with other duties the City Manager should be afforded the opportunity to establish, combine, discontinue, redesignate or combine city departments.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION E

Shall Sections 6.01 and 6.02 of Article VI of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to make the Charter consistent with City of Missouri City Resolution No. R-16-32, adopted on October 17, 2016, changing the City’s election date from May to November? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN voted against this measure when it was initially brought before Missouri City Council. He recently told Houston Business Connections Magazine© that he voted against this because all the other cities, school districts, and municipal utility districts “ALL” have their election in May and that he believes people should be able to vote on Missouri City issues without having to read through a lengthy ballot where Missouri City, Texas is at the bottom of the said ballot. So, Mayor Allen Owen is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City to vote “NO” on CHARTER PROPOSITION E in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION F

Shall Section 7.01 of Article VII of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to change the name of the city’s finance department to the “financial services department?” MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION F in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION F is simply a name change to reflect the duties of that particular position consistent with other cities titles.

City of Missouri City, CHARTER PROPOSITION G

Shall Sections 9.01 and 9.03 of Article IX of the Charter of the City of Missouri City be amended to change the City of Missouri City’s fiscal year from July 1 through June 30 to October 1 through September 30? MAYOR ALLEN OWEN is encouraging “ALL” registered voters in Missouri City, Texas to vote “YES” on CHARTER PROPOSITION G in the Tuesday, November 7, 2017 General Election. Mayor Owen told Houston Business Connections Magazine© recently that CHARTER PROPOSITION G will help Missouri City’s governing body to plan better for the budget if they’re afforded the opportunity to see what the CAD revenues are going to be (early on) rather than having to play the guessing game. According to Mayor Owen, Tax rolls aren’t actually available for review until later in the year, after the “ORIGINAL FISCAL” year.

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LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

THRIVING SMALL BUSINESS, EMPOWERED WORKERS, HEALTH CARE FOR ALL

For 20 years I’ve watched the middle class and working families get squeezed from every side by a political process that’s left their lives hanging in the balance. I’ve struggled as a small business owner to give my employees fair wages and good benefits. It’s time for policies that empower working families and small business owners — the engine of the American economy.

I grew up in Houston watching my father make a difference in people’s lives every day through his dental practice, and it was his example that inspired me to pursue my own career. Today, I am a woman on a mission to give people great smiles, boosting their confidence and sense of self-worth with compassionate care. Thanks to years of hard work and perseverance, and with the support of the best staff any small business owner could ask for, I own a successful dental practice with two locations serving the communities of the 22nd Texas Congressional District.

My practice was not my first venture into owning a business, however. Shortly after graduating from Atlanta’s historic Spelman College, I started a company called Safe Hands selling latex gloves. While I felt sure I wanted to follow my father into dentistry, I wanted to gain experience managing a business first. I quickly learned that managing a

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LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

small business is one of the toughest things you can do — and I was hooked. The rewards of running my own business gave me the courage to return to school and pursue my dental career. I founded Maxwello Dental 18 years ago in Pearland. Our practice has thrived, and we were able to open a second location in the Museum District in 2010.

I quickly learned that managing a small business is one of the toughest things you can do — and I was hooked. I find great joy in helping my patients. I know how much a great smile gives people confidence, and I know from personal experience how important confidence can be to finding a job, let alone chasing your dreams. Many people don’t have adequate coverage for dental care in their insurance plans. That leads people to put off treatment or preventative maintenance until problems become much more serious – and much more expensive to correct. That’s why I founded my nonprofit, Career Smiles. I wanted to give the gift of confidence and good oral health to low-income adults who were struggling to find work or afford proper dental care.

Being self-employed has helped me develop a well-rounded perspective on the challenges faced by middle income families today. I am confronted by the flaws in our health care system not only in my work, but in my family. On a personal level, I’m a single mother with three sons, and I’ve found it difficult to find affordable, adequate coverage through the private plans available to small employers like me. My mother is a cancer survivor who suffers from several chronic conditions that saddle her with high out-of-pocket medical expenses not adequately covered by Medicare. My father continues to work to maintain supplemental insurance to cover the gap, unable to retire and enjoy his golden years.

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LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

I am confronted by the flaws in our health care system not only in my work, but in my family. As a business owner, I consider it my personal responsibility to ensure my employees receive a living wage; that I’m able to provide them with retirement packages and good health care plans that meet their families’ needs. It’s something I’ve struggled with from the very beginning, and rising costs have only made it worse. This is the kind of pressure that discourages people from starting their own business today, leaving many Americans dependent on market whims and bottom lines from a handful of multinational corporations that dominate every industry. The heart of the American dream is the ability to control your own destiny. We need legislation that empowers people to innovate and forge new paths. That’s why we need a system like Medicare for All that provides universal health care benefits to everyone, and takes that pressure off of small businesses. If I didn’t have to provide health insurance for myself or my employees, I could afford to hire more staff or expand my practice to serve more patients.

The heart of the American dream is the ability to control your own destiny. We need legislation that empowers people to innovate and forge new paths. I know I’ve been lucky. I chose a great career, and I was born at a time when a middle class girl fresh out of college could launch a company, then build up a business to be able to overcome the inevitable bumps in the road. The opportunities available to young people or people trying to change careers today are not the same as those I or my parents had.

Look at the cost of higher education. College tuition rates have increased nearly 200% since the time I entered Spelman. Now, with my oldest son graduating from high school, the family is trying to scrape together the funds for his tuition. All across America parents like me are worried about whether or not their kids will have the chance to earn a degree and chase their dreams the way we did.

We need to consider a college education an investment in our future, developing tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, inventors, and leaders. I will work with all my Brand New Congress colleagues to fight for tuition-free public college and trade school to make sure everyone who wants an education is able to get one.

These are not small problems. The future has been stolen from an entire generation. I’ve watched

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middle class and working families like ours get squeezed from every side by a political process that’s left their lives hanging in the balance. I decided it wasn’t enough to be mad about it anymore — it’s time to take action. I’ve served my community faithfully as a health care provider and an employer. Now I want to serve the people of Texas’ 22nd district in Washington, fighting for health care for all, equal access to education, support for small businesses, family leave and childcare, and billions in investments in new industries and clean energy to create an explosion of high-wage jobs.

I’ve watched middle class and working families like ours get squeezed from every side by a political process that’s left their lives hanging in the balance. It’s time to restore the promise of the future. As your representative in TX-22, and together with my fellow BNC candidates, we will overcome the obstacles of our broken political process and make Congress work for real people again.

This is not a paid Political Advertisement. This promotional space is being published as an example of how our “MULTI-PAGE” branding promotionals will look inside our “2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT EDITION” of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. Call (832)212-8735 for more information. Or feel free to call Aubrey R. Taylor, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine© directly at (281)788-3033 to discuss your inclusion.

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DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

www.jamescargas.com

It’s not about left or right, it’s about right or wrong. DEAR HBC MAGAZINE READERS:

I’m running for US Congress in Texas’ 7th District because we deserve representation that reflects our values. Houstonians want Congress to expand access to health care, stand up to discrimination, invest in science and research, and build an economy that gives all hardworking Americans the opportunity to succeed. The stakes have never been higher, and we need someone who is ready to do the job from day one. I worked on Capitol Hill before the Tea Party, Culberson and Trump corrupted it. Now, I’m running for Congress to stand up to Trump when he ignores the Constitution and to ensure that the promise of America belongs to all of us.

I hope you’ll join me.

This is not a paid Political Advertisement. This promotional space is being published as an example of how our “DOUBLE-PAGE” branding promotionals will look inside our “2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT EDITION” of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. Call (832)212-8735 for more information. Or feel free to call Aubrey R. Taylor, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine© directly at (281)788-3033 to discuss your inclusion.

WAY TO GO ASTROS!

Jacquie Baly, President of BalyProjects LLC: “Thank you Houston Astros!

#HistoryEarned #WorldSeriesChamps.”

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

EARLY VOTING TUES., FEB. 20TH - FRI. MAR. 2, 2018 ELECTION DAY TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

Meet the Honorable Jacquie Baly

Jacquie Baly, President of BalyProjects LLC, has been a leader in the Houston region's business and policy communities for more than two decades. She began her career as a city and regional planner for numerous entities, then served as a gubernatorial appointee on water and wastewater issues and most recently served as an elected official and is currently an appointee of Gov. Greg Abbott on education issues.

Baly founded BalyProjects in 1999 with the objective of providing public affairs, media relations, and public policy services to individuals, institutions, small businesses, government and corporations. Ms. Baly is also a co-host of FOX 26 KRIV's political show, The RoundUp which airs every Sunday morning 6 AM - 8 AM. Baly has been featured on KUHF, KTRH, KTRK and several radio stations discussing politics and policy matters. She also lectured on public policy and urban politics at the University of Houston for over 8 years.