Section A – Houston Business Connections Newspaper

USINESS CONNECTIONS B The 2019 City of Houston Mayoral Contenders...

HOUSTON

NAOUFAL HOUJAMI

COUNCILMAN DWIGHT BOYKINS

MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER

TONY BUZBEE

DEMETRIA SMITH

SUE LOVELL

ANTON DOWLS DERRICK BROZE

BILL KING

KENDALL BAKER

“The official filing period to run for Mayor, City Controller, or Houston City Council opened on Saturday, July 20, 2019, and will close on Monday, August 19, 2019. Call Aubrey R. Taylor at (281)788-3033 if you are not sure what seat to run for on November 5, 2019.”

“HARRIS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC JUDGES RECENTLY VISITED THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON LAW SCHOOL”

DEMOCRATIC JUDGES IN HARRIS COUNTY ARE ON THE MOVE: Recently a few Harris County Democratic Judges were afforded the opportunity to partner with Johnia Henderson, Representative for the United States Census Bureau, for their 2020 Census campaign. These honorable judges were also greeted by Dean Leonard Baynes of the University of Houston Law School.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Judge Shannon Baldwin, Judge Lori Chambers Gray, Judge Tonya Jones, Judge Toria J. Finch, Judge LaShawn A. Williams, Judge Latosha Lewis Payne, Judge Angela Graves Harrington, Judge Linda Dunson, Judge Dedra Davis, Judge Sharon Burney, Judge Erica Hughes, Judge Sandra J. Peake, Judge Michelle Moore, and Judge Ramona Franklin.

JUDGE KOVACH CARES ABOUT DIVERSITY

Honorable Judge Jim Kovach (center) Harris County Civil Court at Law #2 and his staff.

Judge Jim Kovach, and several of his Democratic colleagues recently hosted a training and recruitment session aimed at diversifying the field of Harris County Special Commissioners. “When we took office and looked at the list of special commissioners who were appointed in the prior administrations we did not find it to be reflective of the ethnic diversity of Harris County residents,” Ad-

ministrative Judge Jim Kovach told The Signal in a recent interview. You can learn more at: www.thetexassignal.com. “When we got here the list was overwhelmingly made of people who were older and white,” said Judge Jim Kovach.

THE TRAINING WAS SPONSORED BY VINSON & ELKINS ATTORNEY DAVID WALL. For more information about this law firm please visit: www.velaw.com

Sponsor

David Wall Attorney

“I’M ASKING FOR YOUR VOTE IN THE TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2020 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY.”

www.judgecarter.com Political Advertising paid for by Kyle Carter for Judge 125th Court, Melanie Carter, Treasurer, In compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

DEMOCRATIC 02A

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...JUDGES ON THE MOVE!

O

®

281.788.3033

The Harris County Democratic Party recently celebrated a few of their gay and lesbian members of the Harris County judiciary.

On behalf of Houston Business Connections Newspaper©, i would like to gratulate udge Jerry Simoneaux, Judge Steve Kirkland, Judge Randy Roll, Judge Shannon Baldwin, Judge Jim Kovach, Judge Daryl Moore, Judge Beau Miller, Judge Jason Cox, Judge Kelli Johnson on their recent recognition.

I would also like to personally thank the Harris County Civil Court at Law Judges for holding true to their principles and striving to ensure that going forward the Harris County Special Commissioners will be reflective of the diversity of Harris County, Texas. “When we took office and looked at the list of special commissioners who were appointed in the prior administrations we did not find it to be reflective of the ethnic diversity of Harris County residents,” Administrative Judge Jim Kovach told The Signal in a recent interview. You can learn more at: www.thetexassignal.com

®

Democratic judges bring diversity to Harris County Special Commissioner appointments 832.212.8735

H

You can learn more at: wwwharrisdemocrats.org

Signal Staff

Harris County Civil Court judges recently hosted a training, sponsored by Vinson & Elkins attorney David Wall, for a group of newly appointed special commissioners who determine the value of condemned residential properties.

The newly appointed special commissioners are comprised of an assorted group of people representing the makeup of the communities they represent.

“When we took office and looked at the list of special com-

Judge Barnstone

Judge Briones

missioners who were appointed in the prior administrations we did not find it to be reflective of the ethnic diversity of Harris County residents,” Administrative Judge Jim Kovach told The Signal.

“The list was overwhelmingly made of people who were older and white,” Kovach said. “We de-

Judge Kovach

Judge Williams

cided that in order to make sure that all property owners receive fair compensation we should make sure the Special Commissioners come from all communities and have diverse backgrounds.”

Kovach stressed the need for appointments to be fair and

reflect diverse backgrounds, ensuring property owners that proceedings are unbiased. He added that appointments allow for an opportunity for individuals to get more involved with their local government.

“It has been a one-sided field for far too long,” attorney Joy Thomas, one of the appointees, said. “When you go to a commissioners’ hearing as a [property owner] and you sit down in a room where you see people who look like you, there’s a perception of fairness.”

Thomas argues that diversity in this role would allow legal pro-

ceedings to progress more smoothly. She reasoned that awarded compensation would be accepted without a desire to appeal if landowners identified with the special commissioners.

Attorney Duke Amos, another newly appointed special commissioner, added that a diverse panel of special commissioners would feel more at ease and less intimidated by the process.

“I think it’s great for us to be appointed that way they can relate to somebody that’s gonna be sitting in front of them,” Amos said.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

®

832.212.8735

270th CIVIL DISTRICT COURT

“Making Law and Order

EQUAL Justice.”

J

Judge Dedra Davis publicly declared that she would commit herself to “Making Law and Order EQUAL Justice” if elected by the people back in the 2018 Midterm Election. Today, as the presiding judge of the 270th Civil District Court in Harris County, Texas, she’s keeping her promise. “Every citizen who enters my courtroom has a voice, and receives their fair day in court when they enter my courtroom,” she says.

“In the 270th Civil District Court, we treat everyone, who enters this courtroom with dignity and respect.”

Even opposing trial lawyers have noticed the awesome job that Judge Davis is doing with her summer associates. “Recently, after trial, the lawyers, YES…THE LAWYERS, who just finished the trial, asked to take a picture with the summer associates and THE SIGN,” said Judge Davis. “The 270th Civil District Court is even positively affecting battling lawyers,” she proclaimed. According to Judge Dedra Davis, Lawyers from “BOTH SIDES” are in the picture above..Support Judge Dedra Davis in 2022.

STAY TUNED… “More than 30 years of Legal Experience.”

Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee issues Judge Dedra Davis a Congressional Proclamation.

Facebook - DedraDavisForJudge Judge Dedra Davis will be up for re-election in 2022.

Twitter - @DedraDavisWins

Instagram - @DedraDavisForJudge

www.DedraDavisForJudge.com

PAID POLITICAL AD BY DEDRA DAVIS FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT, TOI ANDERSON, CPA, TREASURER.

JUDGE TONYA JONES HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW 15

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Dear Harris County Voters:

Judge Tonya Jones will be up for re-election in 2022.

“As your judge of Harris County Criminal County at Law No.15, I am committed to the task for which you have elected me. I will remain accessible and accountable to the vision of a progressive criminal justice system.”

— Judge Tonya Jones, County Criminal Court at Law No. 15

ENGAGE, EDUCATE, AND EMPOWER FROM THE COMMUNITY TO THE COURTROOM

For far too long there has been such a disconnect between the bench and those it is meant to serve. Being a judge is not a position of entitlement, it is a position of service. Judge Tonya Jones’ passion for service and her vision for this bench make her uniquely qualified to render even-handed justice. By engaging the community and providing access to resources and education about the criminal justice system, Judge Jones believes that citizens will become empowered and impact the system in a positive way. With Judge Tonya Jones on the bench, citizens of Harris County, Texas can be assured that each person who enters the Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 15 courtroom will be treated with respect and impartiality.

Political ad paid for by Tonya Jones for Judge in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, D'Lenya Jones, Treasurer

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05A

What's Going On In Our Community?

Hon. Carroll G. Robinson, Esq.

Far too many Houstonians-and residents of our county-especially people of color, experience poverty, hunger, homelessness, health disparities

and income inequality daily.

Too often these hard-working individuals (or those down on their luck due to no fault of their own) are forgotten or ignored by the powerful, well connected and well-heeled in local government and the private sector.

Charity alone is not enough. This is why there are still too many food and transportation deserts across our city and county.

Gentrification, low wages and annual increases in property tax valuation are making it harder for working class Houstonians to hold on to their homes inside the loop or to afford a home in or near our many job centers from Clear Lake to the Medical Center and Downtown to the Energy Corridor.

This is why population growth is increasing faster in unincorporated Harris County than inside the city.

The schools across our community educating Black and Brown students must do a better job. The high school graduation rate is not a true indicator of work-force readiness or an ability to read, comprehend, do math or reason. We need a commitment from every school district in Harris County to 100% of all students leaving the third grade and graduating from Middle and High School with the ability to read and do math at grade level.

Teachers, and not just local administrators and TEA staff must lead the way to achieve this goal within the next ten years, if not sooner.

Income inequality is a real-

ity in our community and has negative health consequences for people as the Houston Chronicle has reported. Where you live has a direct impact on how long you live.

It's not just wages but also environmental conditions. The two are connected. Low income Houstonians and Harris County residents are exposed to more environmental hazards and injustice and thus die younger.

These factors also impact the mortality rate of women of color during child birth and the healthy development of children in unhealthy neighborhoods all across Houston and Harris County.

The state of Black Houston and Harris County is not only about the present but also about what present conditions mean for the immediate (years directly ahead) and long term future for the Black community in our region.

Racial diversity and inclusion are talked about often in the city and county but is not reflected in public and private sector contracting with Black businesses nor in the number of Black men or women on corporate boards of directors or in the CSuite in the city or across the county. This deficit also exists at the major non-profits in our region.

Low wages, income inequality and the wealth gap means that as people get older in Houston and across the county and region, there will be many without the resources to retire or maintain ownership of their home or to properly care for it if they can hold on to it as they grow older.

Below are a series of news articles and a report which document the reality of the state of our community. If families making over $100,000 a year can't miss two pay checks without running into serious economic trouble, what about the Black and Brown families in our city trying to make it on less than $40,000 a year?

Beyond this article, Children at Risk is also a powerful source of information on what is really going on in our community!

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com — www.childrenatrisk.org

“It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

®

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FOCUSING ON THE FUTURE: “We recently enjoyed an amazing day hosting undergraduate students participating in the Pipeline Program at the University of Houston. These ladies are our Future Lawyers and Judges! I would like to thank Kristen M. Guiseppi (Director), and attorney Thuy Le for allowing Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 3 to be a part of the program. We look forward to hosting more students soon! Oh, three of the young ladies were students from my alma mater Prairie View A&M University.” — JUDGE ERICA HUGHES

Judge

ERICA HUGHES

JUSTICE

“HERSTORY”

INTEGRITY

Judge Erica Hughes will be up for re-election in 2022.

ALWAYS READY TO SERVE

JUDGE ERICA HUGHES UNSEATED THE REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT JUDGE NATALIE C. FLEMING BACK ON NOVEMBER 6, 2018 IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS — SHE WILL BE RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE MARCH 2022 PRIMARY ELECTION AUBREY R. TAYLOR REPORTS©

In case you don’t know, Judge Erica Hughes would have still defeated Republican Judge Natalie C. Fleming in the race for Judge, County Criminal Court at Law No. 3 – even without the 105,158 straight-ticket voting cushion she received from Democratic voters in Harris County, Texas back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the midterm election. Here’s why: Erica Hughes received 659,197 overall votes.

When you subtract the 515,812 straight-ticket votes, you come up with 143,385 votes. Com-

paratively speaking, if you subtract the 410,654 straight-ticket votes, Judge Natalie C. Fleming received from her overall vote total of 521,594 you come up with 110,940 votes. So, in essence, even if you hypothetically stripped away the straight-ticket votes received by Erica Hughes back in 2018, she would have still unseated Judge Fleming by approximately 32,445 votes back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the midterm election in my opinion.

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THIS MOMENT IN TEXAS HISTORY...

“Women like Judge Erica Hughes are “PROOF-POSITIVE” that dreams do indeed come true for those of us who are bold enough to believe in ourselves. So, I implore you to make it your business to go after the dream that’s been placed in your heart during this pivotal time in the history of our great nation. God bless!”

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com — DON’T FORGET THAT “STRAIGHT-TICKET” VOTING IS NO LONGER ALLOWED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS —

Political advertising paid for by Erica R. Hughes in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

“Judge Erica Hughes will be up for re-election in the March 2022 Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. Judge Erica Hughes cares about every American.”

®

832.212.8735

“I’M HONORED TO BE YOUR JUDGE!”

“As your judge of the 246th Family District Court, I promise to always serve on this bench with compassion, integrity, and respect.” — JUDGE ANGELA GRAVES-HARRINGTON

“I’M GRATEFUL FOR YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT!” Dear Harris County Voters:

It is indeed an honor and privilege to serve as your judge for the 246th Family District Court in Harris County. Before being elected to the bench, I often reflected on events that have caused me to question the integrity of our courts. In January 2017, President Obama implored us to “grab a clipboard, get some signatures, and run for office” if we were disappointed in our elected officials. As fate would have it, after I entertained the thought of running for judge, I was in the audience when Congressman Castro said, “it’s time to get off the sideline and do something.” At that moment, I knew my time to effectuate change had come, and with your prayers and support, we did it!

I practiced law for over a decade before becoming your judge of the 246th Family District Court. During my time on the other side of the bench, I represented clients in all phases of litigation, from mediations and arbitrations to bench and jury trials. Actively practicing law before becoming a Judge has given me a wealth of technical knowledge, but my family has been the most integral factor in preparing me to serve as a family court judge. As a wife of nearly 16 years (and counting) and mother of two sons, I understand the compassion and empathy required during times of discord and conflict. The practicality of daily family life, coupled with my years of experience representing families, has given me a unique perspective on life and the job I’ve been hired to do. As an officer of the court, I observed judges completely disregarding the rule of law and rendering decisions based on feelings (and sometimes favoritism). Litigants in Harris County courts deserve able, fair, and independent jurists on the bench and I am honored to say that I am already making a difference in Harris County, Texas. As your judge, I am fully committed to interpreting the law honestly and integrally. Every person who enters my courtroom can be confident that my rulings will be based solely on the merits of his or her case.

I can assure you that justice is (now) administered in the 246th Family District Court in a fair, compassionate and impartial manner. My courtroom will continue to be one where we treat everyone with the respect he or she deserves. As your judge, I promise to always serve on this bench with compassion, integrity, and respect. May God continue to bless you and yours.

Your Public Servant,

Judge Angela Graves-Harrington 246th Family District Court, Harris County, Texas

246TH FAMILY

DISTRICT COURT

“I would like to take this moment to thank a few of the organizations that endorsed me back in 2018.” — Judge Angela Graves-Harrington AFL-CIO, Harris County Labor Assembly COPE Clear Lake and Webster (CLAW) Bar Association Communication Workers of America, Local 6222 Houston Chronicle (2018 Democratic Primary) Mexican American Bar Association Houston Houston Black American Democrats Harris County Tejano Democrats

Association of Women Attorneys Texas Coalition of Black Democrats - Houston Chapter Texas Progressive Executive Council Houston GLBT Political Caucus Pleasantville Voters League International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 716 Bay Area Democratic Movement

Political Advertising paid for by Angela L. Harrington Campaign, 12 Rothwell Street, Houston, Texas 77002. Darryl D. Harrington, Treasurer, in compliance with the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Judge Angela Graves-Harrington will be up for re-election in 2022.

FATHER. JUDGE. MILITARY VETERAN.

DASEAN JUDGE

“

JONES 180TH

CRIMINAL DISTRICT COURT HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

We must be careful in how we distribute “justice”. The system has the potential to build, destroy, or do nothing. Too often the choice is to label rather than understand.

Someone once told me that no matter how you spin the needle on the wheel of justice the poor, black, brown, addicted, and mentally impaired consistently face disadvantage.

Studies show that many crimes are the outcome of social ills.

Yet, our leaders are more focused on being agencies of punishment and brutality.

If we are honest, we should seek to pull out the roots of the problems — Defeat the impetus as opposed to suppressing the outcomes in perpetuity.”

Judge DaSean Jones will be up for re-election in 2022.

NOT AFRAID TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS.

As an undergraduate at Tuskegee University, DaSean Jones was a member of Army ROTC. He graduated from college and immediately commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. DaSean attended the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course and volunteered for his first duty station in Uijongbu, Korea, where he worked as a Multiple Launcher Rocket System Platoon Leader. The Army taught DaSean how to make tough, life changing decisions. And as Judge of the 180th Criminal District Court he’s afforded the unique opportunity to leverage the lessons obtained from his experience as an Army combat arms officer to make tough decisions for the men and women of Harris County, Texas.

WWW.DASEANJONESFORJUDGE.COM Political advertising paid for by DaSean Jones for Judge, Tony Eiland, Treasurer, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

JUDGE LASHAWN A. WILLIAMS “Trusted Administration of Justice with Courtesy and Respect.”

HA RR IS C

OU NTY

CIV

IL C

OU RT AT L

AW NO .3

“I am honored to serve the extraordinary families, communities, and businesses of this great county in Texas!” — Judge Williams

FOREVER GRATEFUL DEAR HARRIS COUNTY VOTERS:

Judge LaShawn Williams will be up for re-election in 2022.

Not a day has gone by that I have not given thanks to God for bestowing the honor of serving as the judge for Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3 upon me. An event such as winning an election is life-altering. My team and I worked hard to win back in the 2018 midterms. I lost count of all the places I visited, meeting wonderful people like you. You all gave me encouragement and the much-needed strength to campaign hard. You helped me silence doubt and enabled me to forge forward in faith — trusting God. I could not have done it without you.

Since taking the bench back in January, my court staff and I have conducted over 13 jury trials and have received overwhelmingly good feedback from the 78 jurors who’ve performed their civic duty.

These 78 jurors reported by a survey that Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3 is doing a great job in the areas of staff performance, efficiency, courtesy, trial management, and the Court’s preparedness. When asked if they would serve again as jurors based on their experience in County Civil Court at Law No. 3, I’m pleased to inform you that

98% of the jurors said they would.

I am eternally grateful for your support, and extend my endless and forever thank you for all that you have done to help me take my rightful place as judge of Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3.

You all are wonderful, and I know that you have high expectations of judicial excellence of me.

I look forward to meeting and exceeding your expectations every day I take the bench.

Winning my election was a huge step in a great journey. But I look forward to earning your future support and humbly ask for your prayers as my staff, and I strive to make a real difference in Harris County, Texas.

Humbly yours,

LaShawn A. Williams Judge, Harris County Civil Court at Law #3

WWW.LAWFORJUDGE.COM

*Pol. Ad. Paid for by Campaign for LaShawn A. Williams for Judge, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Act. Michelle Boldon, Treasurer

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"JUDGE SONYA HEATH IS A FAIR AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY JUDGE!"

A

Meet Judge Sonya Heath

Judge Sonya Heath will be up for re-election in 2022.

A judge must be knowledgeable, fair and impartial. Sonya's relevant familiarity and involvement in the process, with 30+ years of legal-related service, (9 years as a licensed attorney, and 23 years as a civil litigation assistant), equip her to be that judge who can identify and understand the distresses and hards h i p s t h a t f a m i l i e s e n c o u n t e r.

Thereby equipping her to assist them in getting back some semblance of their previous lives, and with any success, restore their broken families.

Sonya's previous experience (before being elected to the bench back in 2018) includes The Craig Washington Law Firm, the First Court of Appeals as a judicial intern and Vice Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the American Bar Association's Family Law Committee. During 2008-2009, she was Vice Chair, Employee Benefits General Committee, Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section of the ABA, and she has served on several committees in the Mexican American Bar Association. In 2006, she was a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Rock County, Wisconsin.

Sonya's law practice, accomplishments and committee involvement have prepared her to be a very good judge. Her wealth of experience and first-hand knowledge provide Sonya with the tools that are necessary to be

“HERSTORY” JUDGE SONYA HEATH UNSEATED THE REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT JUDGE LISA A. MILLARD BACK ON NOVEMBER 6, 2018 IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS — SHE WILL BE RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE MARCH 2022 PRIMARY ELECTION AUBREY R. TAYLOR REPORTS©

In case you don’t know, Judge Sonya Heath would have still defeated Republican Judge Lisa A. Millard in the race for Judge, 310th Family District Court – even without the 105,158 straightticket voting cushion she received from Democratic voters in Harris County, Texas back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the midterm election.

Here’s why: Sonya Heath received 663,582 overall votes. When you subtract the 515,812 straight-ticket votes, you come up with 147,770 votes. Comparatively speaking, if you subtract the 410,654 straight-ticket votes, Judge Lisa A. Millard received from her overall vote total of 517,767 you come up with 107,113 votes. So, in essence, even if

you stripped away the straight-ticket votes received

by Judge Sonya Heath back in 2018 she would have still hypothetically unseated the incumbent by approximately 40,657 votes back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the midterm election in my opinion.

®

THIS MOMENT IN TEXAS HISTORY...

“Women like Judge Sonya Heath are “PROOF-POSITIVE” that dreams do indeed come true for those of us who are bold enough to believe in ourselves. So, I implore you to make it your business to go after the dream that’s been placed in your heart during this pivotal time in the history of our great nation. God bless!”

a fair and knowledgeable judge. In her personal life, Sonya enjoys and has participated in the BP MS150 cycling event (150+ miles from Houston to Austin). The fundraising event is held annually and serves to bring hope to many who are affected by multiple sclerosis.

Sonya recently completed her tenure as President of the University Area Rotary Club, and was very active with the United States – Russian Intercountry Committee Rotary Exchange.

Sonya also enjoys reading and being actively involved with her church, First United Methodist, downtown branch. Sonya has two adult sons, Christopher and Nicholas, who wholeheartedly support her in this campaign. Her experience, as well as commitment to improving the lives of families, makes her the best candidate for Judge of the 310th Family District Court. By supporting Heath4Judge, you are aiding Sonya and her commitment to supporting families.

— DON’T FORGET THAT “STRAIGHT-TICKET” VOTING IS NO LONGER ALLOWED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS —

Political advertisement paid for by Sonya Heath in Compliance with the Voluntary Limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Melinda Schmidt, Treasurer.

QUALIFIED Judge Sandra Peake will be up for re-election in 2022.

PEAKE Judge

EXPERIENCED

FAIR

257th DEMOCRAT

Family District Court

“FAMILIES FIRST!”

“Prior to becoming the Judge for the 257th Family District Court I practiced before these Courts for more than 30 years. So, I am very sensitive when it comes to the unique issues that arise in family law cases. I believe the citizens of Harris County deserve consistent application of law, courtesy and fairness. And as your Judge for the 257th Family District Court I am up to the challenge of ensuring judicial excellence by ruling decisively and with impartiality.” — JUDGE SANDRA J. PEAKE, 257TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

“FAMILIES MATTER!”

THE HONORABLE JUDGE SANDRA J. PEAKE

In voluntary compliance with the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. Political ad paid for by the Sandra Peake for Judge Campaign, David G. Peake, Treasurer

“VOTE FINCH TO THE BENCH” Back in 2018 Toria J. Finch was“PROUDLY’ endorsed by:

Texas Coalition of Black Democrats The Houston Chronicle Tejano Democrats Our Revolution Houston Lawyers Association AFL-CIO Houston GLBT Political Caucus Pasadena Bar Association Area 5 Democrats Northeast Harris County Ministers Alliance Houston Black American Democrats Houston Association of Women Attorneys Texas Organizing Project

Judge Toria J. Finch HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 9

Thank You, Harris County, Texas for Your Vote!!!

We did it! Winning could not have been possible without you. When I announced my candidacy for Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9, on July 28th, 2017, I knew that we could win no matter the challenges and adversity that we would face. We won our campaign because of your confidence, your contributions, your prayers, your sacrifices, your unwavering support, and your time. I look forward to continuing to serve Harris County, Texas well and making your vote count each day that I take the bench as your newly elected Presiding Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9.

Because of Your Vote, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9 will be a court for the People, where the three tenets of Truth, Justice, and Fairness will abound.

Sincerely,

Hon. Toria J. Finch Presiding Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9

JUDGE TORIA J. FINCH CONTINUES TO MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT!

As of January, 1, 2019, Judge Toria J. Finch and her fellow Democratic County Criminal Court at Law Judges Continue to make Your Vote Count:

• Dismissal of the appeal in the ongoing federal bail bond lawsuit • Misdemeanor offender jail population is steadily decreasing • Increased percentages of personal recognizance bonds with appropriate conditions are being issued • New specialty courts are being created to address the needs of our community • Several ongoing efforts aimed at fixing errors and reforming the criminal justice system with innovative ideas to address: discriminatory practices and policies, disproportionate sentencing, increased diversion opportunities, judicial efficiency, mass incarceration, responsible judicial spending of taxpayer dollars, treatment-based rehabilitation, and bridging the gap between the community and the courts.

Judge Toria J. Finch will be up for re-election in 2022.

WWW.VOTETORIAFINCH.COM Truth, Justice, and Fairness

My Court Team from Left to Right: Sheri Gilbert, Court Coordinator, Diana Ramos, Court Reporter, Carmen Sanchez, Court Liaison Officer (CLO), and Deputy Kirk Fretty, Court Bailiff (Not Pictured).

Pd. Pol. Ad by Vote Toria J. Finch for Judge Campaign, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Pedro Danilo Quezada, Treasurer

ATRUE GEM...

“…In short, this courtroom dealing with youthful offenders needs an overhaul, and the impressive Moore exhibits the commitment to fair and impartial justice that is currently lacking.”

“We’ve searched the Harris County archives and cannot find any election returns from a past Presidential Election Cycle or Midterm Election Cycle showing a woman of color gaining more (Harris County) countywide votes than the 674,976 gained by Michelle Moore back in the Tuesday, November 6, 2018 Midterm Election. So, from a historical perspective, Judge Michelle Moore is indeed a true gem.” – Aubrey R. Taylor, Publisher of Houston Business Connections Newspaper©

Judge Michelle Moore is Genuine

I care about the children and families of Harris County.

I dedicated my entire legal career to serving the public be-

fore becoming your Judge for the 314th Juvenile District Court in Harris County, Texas. I understand the challenges that modern families face and I promise to make decisions that fit your situation while following the law.

Judge Moore brings a Fresh Perspective to the Bench

I truly believe that all children need love. Adoption is a fundamental necessity in our society.

According to openly published statistics, as of June 2017, over 2,386 children in Harris County were in foster

homes. I intend to do everything within my power as Judge of the 314th Juvenile District Court to reunify families whenever it is safe to do so.

Judge Moore Has a Plan

I believe a three-prong approach is key when working with our troubled youth: rehabilitation programs (plus) mentorship (plus) education is my focus.

I recognize being in a court of law can be very stressful.

Knowing this, I treat every person who comes into the 314th Juvenile District Court with dignity and respect.

Judge Michelle Moore will be up for re-election in 2022.

www.michellemoorefor314th.com

PROUDLY SERVING HARRIS COUNTY WITH JUDICIAL EFFICIENCY!

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

“I am thankful for every Harris County voter who cast their ballot to elect me as judge for County Criminal Court at Law #2 back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. I promise to serve you with impartiality and blind-fold justice. I am appreciative that you’ve bestowed this honor upon me and want you to know that I will adhere to the laws as written. I will be firm, yet fair, and I will evenhandedly work to ensure that no person is pressured to enter plea agreements because of oppressive bond amounts. As your judge of County Criminal Court at Law #2, I will make informed decisions to ensure the punishment fits the crime committed and all people receive indiscriminate treatment in my courtroom.”

2022 BOWMAN

“HERSTORY” - TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2022 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

JUDGE RONNISHA BOWMAN UNSEATED THE REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT JUDGE BILL HARMON BACK ON NOVEMBER 6, 2018 IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS — SHE WILL BE RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE MARCH 2022 PRIMARY ELECTION AUBREY R. TAYLOR REPORTS©

One of the things I love most about Judge Ronnisha Bowman is the fact that she is battle-tested. I mean, she just knows how to win. While she was the underdog in both of her 2018 contests, she (in my book) proved that she can stand on her own and duke it out with the best of them! Yes, she gained my respect back on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Primary when she faced off against fellow Democrat Harold J. Landreneau. While some doubted this rising “DEMOCRATIC STAR” she showed poise, grace, faith in God, and confidence in her ability to get the job done! And after the smoke had cleared, Ronnisha Bowman had amassed 74,045 votes for 53.07 percent of the vote while Landreneau fell short with 65.491 votes for 46.93 percent of the vote. But she wasn’t done!

After taking out her fellow Democrat, Bowman turned her attention to the November 2018 midterms in what was supposed to be her toughest challenge – unseating the incumbent at the time, Republican Judge Bill Harmon. While many doubted her once again, calling her young and inexperienced, she took it all in stride and kept her eyes firmly affixed on her goal of becoming judge for Harris County Criminal Court #2. And in the end, her hard work, determination, tenacity,

JUDGE, COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW #2

and unwavering faith in God propelled her to victory. “I trust God,” she proclaimed to me on Election Night as she looked back over her life in amazement at God’s faithfulness.

In case you don’t remember, Ronnisha Bowman (as a candidate) earned 650,963 votes for 55.24 percent of the vote back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the Midterm Election, to unseat Republican Judge Bill Harmon who could only muster 527,402 votes for 44.76 percent of the vote.

So, when you hear uninformed folk say that straightticket voting is the only reason Democrats swept through Harris County, Texas back in 2018 – please share Judge Ronnisha Bowman’s inspiring story with them. After all, even if you stripped away every straight-ticket vote she received back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, she would have still hypothetically unseated the incumbent judge at the time by more than 18,403 votes in my opinion.

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THIS MOMENT IN TEXAS HISTORY...

“Women like Judge Ronnisha Bowman are “PROOF-POSITIVE” that dreams do indeed come true for those of us who are bold enough to believe in ourselves. So, I implore you to make it your business to go after your dream during this pivotal time in the history of our great nation. God bless!”

— DON’T FORGET THAT “STRAIGHT-TICKET” VOTING IS NO LONGER ALLOWED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS — PAID POLITICAL AD BY RONNISHA BOWMAN FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT, KEN D. HOUSE - TREASURER.

JUDGE SEDRICK T. WALKER II

"I am extremely grateful to the voters of Harris County for electing me as Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 11. The 2018 election presented an opportunity to achieve impactful change in our government, and the citizens of Harris County turned out in historic numbers to make their voices heard. I have been given an incredible responsibility, and I am committed to serving on this bench with impartiality, honor, and professionalism." — JUDGE SEDRICK T. WALKER II

HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 11 ABOUT JUDGE WALKER

Judge Sedrick T. Walker II is a Houston native and graduate of Texas A&M University. He graduated with honors from A&M in 2005 with a B.S. in Political Science.

After graduating from University of Texas School of Law in Austin, he worked as a prosecutor at the Harris County District Attorney's Office from 2009 to 2012 where he handled thousands of cases ranging from misdemeanors to 1st-degree felonies. His experience included working on every aspect of cases from the initial filing stage, gathering evidence, making grand jury presentations in felony cases, and ultimately the trial phase. As an Assistant DA, he was recognized for his willingness to work long hours, fairness in negotiations with the defense bar, and a constant commitment to a prosecutor’s ultimate duty – to seek justice, not merely to convict.

After working tirelessly in the criminal courtrooms of Harris County for many years he decided to run for the Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 11 bench and won, back on Tuesday, November 6, 2018.

Judge Sedrick T. Walker brings a reasonable and even-keeled approach to the bench and is committed to ensuring that everyone entering his courtroom is treated with professionalism, dignity, and respect.

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Judge Sedrick T. Walker II will be up for re-election in 2022.

www.sedrickforjudge.com

FAIR FOCUSED FORWARD-THINKING

PAID POLITICAL AD BY SEDRICK T. WALKER II FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

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2022

- TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2022 -

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

Harris County Civil Court at Law #2

Judge Jim Kovach graduated from The University of Houston Law School in 1991 after earning a BBA in Marketing from The University of Texas. Having spent 26 years as an attorney in Harris County, before becoming the Judge for Harris County Civil Court at Law #2, Jim successfully handled more than 10,000 cases. His former law firm represented both Plaintiffs and Defendants, so, his balanced legal experience serves as a great asset to him on the bench. Judge Kovach reviews every case impartially, and not based on some preconceived biases. Whether a person is represented by an attorney or representing themselves, he believes everyone should start the case without any side having an unfair advantage or head start in the courtroom.

Harris VOTE Coun TO RE-ELECT J ty Civ UDGE WWW JIM F i l C ourt a . KOVACH .KOVA t Law CHFOR #2 JU

DGE.C O

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“LIFE MAY NOT BE FAIR, BUT JUDGES SHOULD BE.”

JUDGE JIM KOVACH: “I believe everyone should start the case without any side having an unfair advantage or head start in the courtroom.”

Pol. adv. Jim Kovach Campaign. April Ayers, Treasurer. In compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

SPOTLIGHT

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HOUSTON

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...Harris County ONNECTIONS

SPOTLIGHT

PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS© MAYORAL ELECTION SPOTLIGHT

Councilman Mike Knox is endorsed by Political Analyst Jacquie Baly in his bid for re-election.

Mayoral Candidate Tony Buzbee at City Cathedral Church. Buzbee is gaining the trust and support of African Americans from all across Houston.

Mayoral Candidate Tony Buzbee at City Cathedral Church with Wanita Mitchell (right). Buzbee is picking up support in the black community.

Bishop Delagraentiss has endorsed Tony Buzbee in the race for Mayor of Houston, Texas.

SPOTLIGHT

MLK GRANDE PARADE FOUNDER CHARLES STAMPS HAS ENDORSED BILL KING IN THE RACE FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON, TEXAS Back on Thursday, July 18, 2019, Charles Stamps, founder of the MLK Grande Parade, and his wife Cynthia hosted Q&A and a reception for City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Bill King at their home. Stamps expressed his support for his long-time friend in a brief statement during the private event.

Businessman Arthur “Art” Smith is running for HISD Trustee for District II in the Tuesday, November 5, 2019, HISD Board Trustee Election.

SPOTLIGHT

CITY COUNCIL SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Destry C. Bell Sr. has endorsed Tony Buzbee in the race for Mayor of Houston, Texas.

SPOTLIGHT

The Honorable Dr. Cynthia Lenton Gary is running for HCC Board Trustee for District VII on November 5th. Early voting begins on Oct. 21st.

Kendra Yarbrough Camarena Values Every District C Voter

The race for Houston City Council District A will feature Iesheia Ayers Wilson on November 5th.

“I am Kendra Yarbrough Camarena and I am running for Houston City Council for District C. I am a mother of two, wife of 14 years, career educator and organizer. I am a longtime community activist and resident of the Near Northwest/Oak Forest community for 36 years. I am committed to an attention to detail approach of problem-solving for the city and its' constituents.”

TRUSTEE ZEPH CAPO

DISTRICT I

TRUSTEE DAVE WILSON DISTRICT II

TRUSTEE NEETA SANE

DISTRICT VII

On Tuesday, November 5, 2019, Houston Community College (HCC) will hold an election to fill three (3) HCC Board of Trustees positions for expiring terms in geographic districts I, II and VII.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019, AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

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It’s time to clean up City Hall.

BILL KING FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON: “The future of Houston is always front and center for our team.

Our youngest team member reminds us every day we're building a stronger Houston for generations to come.”

Let’s put 40 years of experience where Houston needs it most.

OCTOBER 21ST THROUGH NOVEMBER1ST

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ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

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BILL KING FOR MAYOR: “Jewish leadership from across our city, including the Medical Center, Braes Bayou, Uptown, Memorial and Kingwood met with Bill King recently to discuss solutions to improve flooding and community safety.”

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Houston is America’s city of opportunity. We can show the rest of the country how to run a world-class city where jobs are abundant, neighborhoods are safe, and the streets are properly maintained. However to do that, we need to clean up City Hall and get back to basics. As lifelong resident, I have the experience, the knowledge, and the passion for finding innovative solutions for Houston’s problems.

My career as a businessman and lawyer has often intersected with government giving me a unique understanding of how the city operates and where it needs improvement. Beginning in 2004, I began researching and writing about these problems as a columnist with the Houston Chronicle, and now in

my blog BillKingBlog.com. During the 2015 mayoral election, I was the first to speak openly about Houston’s need for pension reform, which became the leading campaign issue of that election, and led to significant changes in 2017.

Our campaign centers on two themes: to clean up City Hall and get back to basics. We must end the widespread and rampant corruption within our city government. This is why I am supporting a citizen initiative that would ban political donations from people or companies that do business with the city. Gov-

ernment needs to work for the people, not political insiders.

We also must get back to basics. That means city government must focus on the basic services it provides like combating crime, trash pickup, flood prevention, among others.

These are basic services that every resident of Houston deserves, but city government has fallen short in recent years.

Houston is my home. I was born and raised in the Clear Lake area and attended Clear Creek High School. I worked my way through college and law school at the University of Houston. I have served on the boards of various

charities and other institutions like Interfaith Ministries, the Galveston Bay Foundation, Texas Southern University, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston, Memorial Hermann Foundation, Houston Methodist Debakey Heart and Vascular Center Advisory Council, CYCLE, the HISD Foundation and many others.

If you want a city with smooth streets; a city where the trash is picked up on time, all the time; a city where your neighborhood is regularly patrolled; and a city where your family can go to sleep on a stormy night without being flooded — in other words, a government that works for you and not political donors, join our campaign today! It’s time to clean up City Hall and get back to basics!

BACK TO BASICS.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “THIS FOUR-PAGE SPREAD FEATURING THE BILL KING FOR MAYOR CAMPAIGN IS AN EXAMPLE OF OUR MULTIPAGE ADVERTORIAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AN ENDORSEMENT. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL (281)788-3033.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER© IS PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.”

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Flooding

Problem: Inadequate Infrastructure Leads to Flooding Houston has a flood problem. It is outrageous that some of our neighbors have flooded three or four times in the last few years.

Houston has underinvested in its drainage infrastructure, and has not maintained what has been built. This has left us with a system that is dilapidated and ineffective during heavy rain storms.

Solution: Preventing both types of flooding will take cooperation from the federal and state government, but Houston can also help itself. We must show that we are serious about correcting the problems that have led to repeat floods.

Two immediate things to do: we need to actually put the drainage fee we already pay toward fixing drainage infrastructure. We also must get serious about commonsense regulations when it comes to new developments.

Fixing our flood problem will require a hard look in the mirror, but it’s critical no family go to bed during a rainy night and worry if their house is going to flood.

Crime

Problem: Nearly every parking lot in Houston has a warning to leave nothing valuable in your car and to hide your belongings. And it’s probably easier to find someone whose car has been broken into than someone who hasn’t. Additionally, there has not been a significant reduction in violent crime in the last five years.

Despite a promise by Sylvester Turner to hire 500 new police officers, the department has cut more than 150 experienced positions. Houston has fewer officers per person than it did nearly 20 years ago, and many neighborhoods employ private security to keep their community safe.

It’s a sad situation that neighborhoods are forced to hire private security to patrol their neighborhoods. Unfortunately for those who can’t afford it, their neighborhoods are rarely patrolled.

Solution: Houston needs a properly staffed and properly funded police department. Ninety percent of the personnel reductions since Sylvester Turner was elected have come from the police department. That is outrageous and shows how out of touch the priorities this administration are with those of ordinary citizens.

In order to properly fund the police department, we need to get our fiscal house in order. That means making city government more efficient to ensure we are driving the best value with your taxpayer dollars.

Unreliable Garbage Pickup & Dumping

BILL KING FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON: “Four years ago, Bill came within 4,000 votes of winning the Houston mayor’s race. He's been given a second chance, but do not think for one minute it will be easy.

Your support, no matter how small, could make all the difference. Let's make 2019 the year we clean up city hall and get back to basics.”

this. It often takes weeks, sometimes months, to clean up these eyesores and public health hazards.

Solution: Houston must have a properly managed solid waste department, that does regular preventative maintenance on its fleet and a regular program of investments in new vehicles.

Illegal dumpers should be aggressively prosecuted and illegal dump sites should be cleaned up immediately. They are certainly not tolerated in affluent areas of the city. Everyone deserves to have streets that are free of garbage.

Corruption

Problem: City Hall is run by and for the benefit of special interests. Campaign contributors that do business with the city or are regulated by the city, have given Sylvester Turner millions of dollars in campaign contributions. This is far beyond the financial ability of most Houstonians. As a result, the city serves the interests of these large donors and not ordinary citizens.

One of the most recent and egregious examples of rampant pay-to-play system at City Hall was Sylvester Turner awarding his former law firm a $6.7 million contract. That work could have been performed for far less, and perhaps even on a pro-bono basis, but because Turner chose one of his cronies over flood victims, about 200 families’ homes will not be repaired. This award was unconscionable and indefensible.

with ending pay-to-pay at City Hall. We must stop the endless cycle of political donations that lead to government contracts. I strongly support a citizen-driven petition to severely limit contributions with those who do business with the city.

Everywhere I travel across this city, people are fed up with the pay-to-play and cronyism at City Hall. They are sick and tired of the fact that people who make large campaign contributions play by a different set of rules than everyone else. They have lost their patience with the city hiding how their tax money is spent.

It will obviously take new leadership to reform city hall. But just new leadership is not enough. If we are to truly end the corruption, we must overhaul our ethics rules and take steps to guarantee transparency in how the city conducts its business. After all, we all know that sunshine is the best disinfectant.

Streets

Problem: Houston streets are an embarrassment.

Sylvester Turner promised to fix the streets, but after his photo-op with an asphalt packing machine, he actually cut street spending 26% in the first two years of his administration. The amount of asphalt the city used in the last year in street repairs was at its lowest level in a decade, and it resurfaced the fewest lane miles since 2014.

BACK TO BASICS.

Problem: The most fundamental responsibility of any city is to pick up the garbage on a regular basis. Sadly that is something on which Houstonians can no longer rely. This is a direct result of the mismanagement of the garbage truck fleet where frequently less than half the trucks are in service.

Also, in some neighborhoods, especially in poor and minority neighborhoods, illegal dumping has become rampant. You’ll find nearly everything from bags of trash to old tires to used oil drums.The city is doing nothing to stop

Solution: Houston residents need to know City Hall is working for them and not special interests. Creating the most ethical and transparent administration starts

Solution: Taxpayers in 2011 mandated a lockbox for street and drainage improvements. Unfortunately, the Turner administration has pilfered the lockbox to fund their pet projects and to avoid truly balancing the city’s budget. We need to treat this fund for what it was intended: a dedicated revenue source to be used strictly for infrastructure improvements.

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BILL KING: “Bishop Leroy Woodard Jr. of City Cathedral Church is one of Houston's most respected faith leaders. Bishop Woodard and his family have a legacy of hosting the annual Thanksgiving Super Feast for the homeless that goes back 40 years. His spirit of servant leadership and work in our community has inspired so many. I'm grateful to count on his support.”

Iesheia Ayers Wilson

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “THE CANDIDATES ON THIS PAGE ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ONE ANOTHER.”

HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT A SPOTLIGHT

FOR HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL

DISTRICT A

“I’M RUNNING TO REPRESENT ALL HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT A RESIDENTS”

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Representing ALL!!! For too long our elected officials have neglected our communities with funds and services. I’m going to be the one that listens to the people and hears their needs and take action at City Hall. I want to bring transparency back to the city, I am going to work with the homeless community, I want to reorganize the City of Houston's Citizens Review Board where community leaders along with City Council and law enforcement are on the board to make sure the community has a voice and can be heard. I want to work directly community activist who are actually doing the work to see how the City can better assist them so we all can be successful. I want to make sure Houston is represented in a positive light for ALL!

IESHEIA AYERS WILSON: “My name is Iesheia K. Ayers-Wilson and I running to be YOUR next City Council Representative.

I grew up in Carverdale, TX on the outskirts of Fairbanks, Jersey Village and Spring Branch. I grew up in a family where there were five children so I definitely know how to pull my weight as the fourth child. I pride myself on being a hard worker, dedicated servant and a responsible leader. I graduated from Cypress Falls High School and I am recent graduate at Lone Star CollegeCyfair Campus with a degree in Business Accounting looking forward to pursuing my Bachelor's at University of Houston-Down-

town!!!! (soon) I am married to my wonderful husband who always supports my endeavors and believes in me and my vision.

I attend church at Mt. Zion MBC where I am under the leadership of Pastor and First Lady Joshua Davis. I love working in my church and helping as many people as I can. I am here to serve the people any capacity inside and outside the church.

I am not new to helping the community.

I am an active member of Carverdale Community Civic Club and attend other club meetings. I like to remain in the background because helping people is not about me it’s

about doing what is suppose to be done in order to help others grow. I am looking forward to working with every citizen , Mayor and Council Member to help improve not only my district, but the City of Houston. I am ready to get to work for the city. I believe change is something that has to happen rather good or bad. You just have to roll with the punches until you can adjust!”

WWW.IESHEIAWILSON.COM Sincerely,

Iesheia Ayers Wilson

Iesheia Ayers Wilson For Houston City Council District A

Political Ad Paid for by the Iesheia Wilson Campaign,Treasurer Detra Holcomb

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

FOR HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL

DISTRICT C

WWW.ELECTKENDRA.COM Pol. Adv. Pd. For by the Kendra Yarbrough Camarena Campaign, Jennifer Longoria, Treasurer

ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019

KENDRA CARES ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOMORROW’S COMMUNITY LEADERS.

OUR ISSUES

Youth Civic Connection’s (YCC) was founded by Kendra Yarbrough Camarena. Its mission is to develop tomorrow’s community leaders by allowing students to make an impact today. It is essential that we develop a civic mindset in our youth so that they may continue to take ownership of their community, a community which is a part of each and everyone’s identity. Kendra believes that by investing in our youth, providing them a voice in community decisions, they will become more invested in continuing to build their community.

INFRASTRUCTURE

GOOD NEIGHBOR INITIATIVE

Kendra plans to develop a Good Neighbor Initiative that creates an opportunity for dialogue between community leaders, businesses, TIRZ, Management Districts, Houston Police Department and other government entities on how they can improve the quality of life and support local businesses in their area.

Local business owners and residents can identify a pathway together to create opportunities and address community concerns. Meetings will be held quarterly. There will be no cost to the city!

As a wife of a local business owner and community leader, Kendra believes that creating opportunities for discourse can build relationships between all of the groups working in communities throughout District C.

Kendra plans to ensure that the current Capital Improvement Projects that were pushed back for 2018 and 2019 get priority to rebuild storm drainage infrastructure in District C. See 2018-2022 Adopted CIP and 2019-2023 Adopted CIP for more details on the plans that were pushed back.

She wants to see that through partnerships with METRO, Harris County and the City of Houston that all city sidewalks are accessible to everyone. This means that our team will be working with community leaders to ensure this accessibility is available in their communities and along major routes.

Kendra is exploring ways we can develop safe streets for everyone with experts and local leaders. We all know the areas that we walk, bike, drive, or run where we are at the greatest danger. She wants to empower our voices in the decision-making process.

Great plans are being laid out to improve our infrastructure as we continue to grow. Kendra knows that she does not have all the answers but can promise that she will bring everyone to the table to discuss those plans and coordinate meeting to educate the

community on plans that will impact them and get their feedback.

CONSTITUENT SERVICES

Constituents services are a top priority for Kendra. Her plan is to have a dedicated person in the office to oversee 311 calls to ensure the issues reported are addressed and be the contact person to our neighbors to update them on the progress of addressing the issue.

FLOODING

Both the city and county have established a funding source for specific projects to address infrastructure needs to reduce the threat of flooding in and around the Greater Houston Area. We need to ensure that this money is allocated appropriately and not wasted.

Stay tuned as Kendra is talking to experts and community leaders about this issue and other that are related.

TRAFFIC

Traffic is definitely an issue most of us face in our daily commute. Kendra guarantees to communicate planned projects in and around the city that will impact your drive time. She is also reaching out to experts to get their thoughts on what can be done to create some ease for all of us as we drive across Houston.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

“It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

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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.

M PAID POLITICAL AD

BY MIKE KNOX

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.

ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019

Political Analyst Jacquie Baly has endorsed Council Member Mike Knox in the race for Houston City Council At-Large Position #1 on Tuesday, November 5, 2019.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

“Councilman Mike Knox is a public servant who values, respects, ® and appreciates our vote, prayers, and support!”

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

“It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

®

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Texas Democrats Must Aim For The Stars In 2020

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Hon. Carroll G. Robinson, Esq.

As Texas Democrats prepare for the 2020 election cycle, our first priority must be educating our voters that we will need them to "Vote From The Top To The Bottom" of the ballot because there will be No Straight Ticket Voting in the November 2020 General Election.

Voter drop-off, fewer and fewer people voting in down-ballot races, was already a problem when we had straight-ticket voting in Texas.

If voter drop-off increases without straight-ticket voting, Democrats may not be able to retake the Texas State House and elect a Democratic Speaker of the Texas House in time for the 2021 legislative session and redistricting of Congressional and state legislative districts.

Down ballot drop-off would also hurt Democratic congressional, state senate, county, and judicial candidates.

Democratic judicial candidates running countywide (all across the state) in 2020 not only need a strong Democratic presidential candidate at the top of the ticket in Texas to drive voter turnout, but they will also need those voters to be educated to go down the ballot and vote for the judicial candidates.

If Democrats do what needs to be done on voter education for the 2020 election, we can not only win Texas for our presidential ticket, we can also defeat Cornyn, take back the State House, put the State Senate in play for 2022, pick up two or more congressional seats and win more judicial seats at the county level.

Voter Education must be the priority even as we register new voters and improve our GOTV strategies.

To do what needs to be done to win Up and Down the ballot and all across Texas in 2020, Democrats must make serious and significant investments in well organized and accountable efforts statewide in rural, suburban and urban communities to Register, Educate and Turnout an additional half a million (500,000) Black voters in Texas.

It's past time for Democrats locally, statewide and nationally to invest tens of millions of dollars through Black media, consultants and campaign workers in Texas to increase Black voter registration, education, and turnout. This is the cornerstone to turning Texas Blue in 2020.

We can achieve this goal--Black To Blue In Texas--with a precinct by precinct-based strategy focused on and organized around state senate districts as the Texas Democratic Party, and our local county parties are already organized and governed based on the same model.

The Black voting age population, in Texas, is large enough to get Black Democratic voter turnout up to 1.5 million voters in 2020. If Democrats do that, Democrats Win Texas In A Landslide in 2020.

Some people have already told me that turning out 1.5 million Black Democrats in Texas in 2020 is too ambitious a goal and if we fall short of the goal, we will be blamed for being too ambitious.

My reply has been twofold:

First, Black voters, especially Black women, have been and remain the most loyal and dependable Democratic voters. The more we turnout, the more votes the party and its candidates are likely to receive and in some elections, a single vote can make the difference.

Second, I remind them that Dr. Benjamin Mays told us that "It is not a disaster to be unable to capture your ideal, but it is a disaster to have no ideal to capture. It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach for. Not failure, but low aim is a sin."

Texas Black Democrats, let's help the Texas Democratic Party and our local county parties aim for the stars in 2020 and beyond.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

®

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...AUDIA JONES FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY 2020

“We need change, not broken promises of reform. I’m running for district attorney because we need a DA for the many, not the few.” — Audia Jones for Harris County District Attorney 2020

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2020 Candidate for Harris County D.A. Rolls Out Policies To Keep People Out of Jail

Audia Jones, 2020 Candidate for Harris County District Attorney recently unveiled her plans for bold progressive reforms in Harris County. She vows to increase public safety while ending mass incarceration. Read more about her plans to bring balance back to sentencing.

THE PLATFORM

Public safety is compromised every day in Harris County because our elected leaders choose to focus the

attention of the criminal justice system on low-level crime while failing to solve and successfully prosecute some of the most serious crimes. This approach is costly, counterproductive, and cruel. It creates a cycle of incarceration that destroys people and families without doing anything to make us safer.

The current District Attorney promised that she would reform this broken system, but sadly little has changed.

We are still locking up people for possessing marijuana and detaining people who are presumed innocent because they cannot afford the high bail amounts requested at the direction of the current District Attorney.

We need to rewrite the rules of our criminal justice system in Harris County. We must focus our resources on holding people accountable for the most serious crimes, and investing in evidence-based services like mental health and drug treatment that we know work to interrupt cycles of crime and help people become stable, contributing members to their families and communities.

That’s the justice system Audia Jones will fight for everyday as your District Attorney.

Audia is running for District Attorney because true

criminal justice reform in Harris County requires policies that will:

Increase Safety While Ending Mass Incarceration; End Excessive Punishment; Ensuring That No One Is Above The Law; Support Crime Survivors; and, Build Community Trust.

INCREASE SAFETY WHILE ENDING MASS INCARCERATION

Incarceration should always be the last resort, but right now we treat incarceration as the default way to hold people accountable. People who pose no threat to public

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EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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...AUDIA JONES FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY 2020

“Real change begins the moment we have honest conversations with the people who genuinely want to see change made and make change happen.” — Audia Jones for Harris County District Attorney 2020

2020 Candidate for Harris County D.A. Rolls Out Policies To Keep People Out of Jail

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safety should not be jailed, particularly when they’re only there because they can’t afford to pay to get out. As District Attorney, Audia will stop seeking cash bail and will seek to eliminate pretrial incarceration unless necessary to ensure community safety or to prevent willful failure to return to court.

Furthermore, we must recognize that the incarceration for certain criminal offenses does little to increase public safety, and, instead, only makes our communities more dangerous by making people and their families even less stable. This is particularly true for brown and black

families, because prosecution of low-level crimes contribute to a persistent racial imbalance in our criminal justice system- for example, even though Latinos, African-Americans and white people use marijuana at the same rate, Latinos and African-Americans are more likely to be arrested, charged, and convicted than their white counterparts.

In order to focus on those crimes that affect public safety, Audia will de-prioritize low level offenses like marijuana possession and criminal trespass when the trespass occurred due to a person’s homelessness. The prosecution of these cases in particular draws vital resources and attention away from the cases that need it the most, and contribute to racial disparities in our criminal justice system.

Harris County must also focus on programs that build

both the individual and their community. Audia will expand no-fee diversion programs, which have been shown to reduce rates of re-arrest, for crimes such as theft, and crimes of poverty and homelessness. She will ensure that prosecutor-led diversion programs are administered in ways that are fair to citizens and non-citizens alike, and that ability to pay fees is not a barrier to treatment. Possession of small amounts of narcotics will be handled effectively, by treating the problem as one of a public health issue and not something that the criminal justice system can solve on it’s own.

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EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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“Real change begins the moment we have honest conversations with the people who genuinely want to see change made and make change happen.� - AUDIA JONES

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...AUDIA JONES FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY 2020

2020 - TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2020 -

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

Political advertising paid for by the Committee to Elect Audia Jones, Tony Eiland, Treasurer.

“We need change, not broken promises of reform. I’m running for district attorney because we need a DA for the many, not the few.” — Audia Jones for Harris County District Attorney 2020

2020 Candidate for Harris County D.A. Rolls Out Policies To Keep People Out of Jail

ENDING EXCESSIVE PUNISHMENT

Harris County has sent more people to death row than any other county in Texas. The retrograde practice risks the execution of a wrongly convicted person, serves no purpose beyond retribution, and is disproportionately applied to people of color. As District Attorney, Audia Jones will use her voice at the legislature to oppose capital punishment in Texas and she will end Harris County’s ignoble position as one of the country’s largest producers of death sentences and executions.

Our prisons have become one of the largest health care providers in the country for older Americans who have spent decades behind bars for crimes they committed in their youth. Moreover, there are thousands of people serving long or life sentences in Texas that have served enough time, transformed their lives while incarcerated, and no longer present any serious safety risk to the community. Audia Jones will actively advocate for parole and compassionate release for those who are elderly or sick, and for everyone who has earned a second

chance to re-enter society as a productive neighbor and community member.

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

While our criminal justice system targets the poor, people of color, the homeless, and those who are mentally ill, more serious crimes and abuses of power are far too often left unpunished. This is why Audia Jones will follow best practices and expand oversight to hold all individuals equally accountable under the law including, Powerful Actors, to increase public trust in law enforcement while decreasing socially-damaging crimes.

We must also make sure that the people and corporations who commit serious harms to our environment through their criminal actions are held accountable, and that people and corporations that steal wages from our most vulnerable communities are not able to do so without consequence.

Finally, it is a black-eye to our justice system that nearly 40% of homicides go unsolved. Nothing under-

mines confidence in the law and respect for law enforcement than failing to solve murders while focusing resources on marijuana prosecutions.

We have too much punishment and too little accountability. As District Attorney, Audia will ensure that resources saved by ending unnecessary prosecution and imprisonment of poor people will be redirected to investigate high-level and violent cases in an adequate and timely manner, ensuring that we can justly prosecute those offenses that affect our communities the most, in a way that does not punish race or poverty.

SUPPORT CRIME SURVIVORS

For too long, the primary way that prosecutors show crime survivors that we care about the harm done to them is to treat the person who committed the harm as harshly as possible — locking them up and throwing away the key. However, a recent survey of Texas crime survivors shows that harsh treatment of the offender is not the support that survivors want or need.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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treatment, mental health services, or job training we make people more stable and connected to their communities, and therefore less likely to be a perpetrator or victim of crime in the future.

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What crime survivors want most is to make sure that the harm never happens to them or anyone else again.

This is especially important because crime survivors often live in the same homes and often even in the same bodies as people who perpetrate harm. Since most people who go to jail or prison will re-enter society again, the smartest course of action is to focus resources on stopping the cycle of harm.

That’s why the vast majority of crime survivors want their elected leaders to focus just as much on investing far more resources on treatment and prevention as they do on punishment. Instability and vulnerability breed cycles of harm and violence. So, when we focus on drug

BUILDING COMMUNITY TRUST

Audia Jones recognizes that repeated systemic failures and broken promises of reform have severely eroded public trust in Harris County’s criminal justice system. Under her leadership, the Harris County D.A.’s Office will establish a community advisory board to provide community leaders with a public forum to voice concerns or provide feedback regarding office policies and actions.

The District Attorney’s office will also assign public points of contact for communities, hold frequent town halls for public comment, and clearly communicate reasons for prosecutorial action or inaction regarding cases

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in the public interest.

Audia will use her platform as Harris County District Attorney to advocate for important policy reforms and investment in our communities, such as in education, housing, and healthcare, and pledges to work with other county officials and departments to meet these shared goals.

It’s long past time to acknowledge that Harris County’s social and economic problems will not be solved by prosecution and incarceration. We will build a safer, stronger Harris County by holding more people accountable, ending excessive punishment, and decreasing our bloated jail and prison populations and preparing people to thrive back home in their families and communities.

After enduring decades of abuse and mistreatment, our communities have had enough. We need big, bold reform not more broken promises. Audia Jones is running for District Attorney because we need a District Attorney who will fight for all of us.

Join the Campaign: info@audiajones.com

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ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, November 5, 2019

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019, AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

“The Education Revolution Needs New Solutions for “ALL” our Students!”

HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

Arthur J. Smith

Candidate for HISD

District II

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GROUND GAME ...FORT BEND COUNTY

“Bringing the County Government closer to the people is a top priority for my Administration.”

— County Judge K.P. George

Fort Bend County Judge K.P. George

THE MOST ETHNICALLY DIVERSE COUNTY IN AMERICA

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FORT BEND COUNTY

Meet Fort Bend County Judge K.P. George and Other Leaders Inside

UPCOMING ELECTION

The Missouri City Council Election Will Take Place on Tuesday, November 5, 2019

GOVERNING BODY: Chris Preston, Council Member - At Large Position #2 (top far left), will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, 2020; Reginald Pearson, Council Member - District A (top second from left), will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 5, 2019; Anthony Maroulis, Council Member - District C (top third from left), will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 5, 2019; Jeffrey L. Boney, Council Member - District B (top fourth from left) will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 5, 2019; Vashaundra Edwards, Council Member - At Large Position #1 (bottom far left) will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, 2020; Yolanda Ford, Mayor of Missouri City, Texas (bottom second from left), will be up for reelection on Tuesday, November 3 2020; and Floyd Emery, Council Member - District D (bottom third from left) will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 5, 2019.

BURT’S RUNDOWN

Political Consultant Burt Levine says next year’s Fort Bend County races are coming into focus.

Businessman Manish Seth Set to Take on State Rep. Reynolds in 2020 MANISH SETH: “First and foremost, I am a family man. I have been married to my wife, Rumana, for over 20 years. We are blessed to have two wonderful daughters.” He is asking for the vote of every House District 27 voter on Tuesday, March 3, 2020.

2020 PRIMARY

Manish Seth and his family are depending on your vote, prayers, and support in Fort Bend County.

RE-ELECT FLOYD EMERY FOR MISSOURI CITY COUNCIL — DISTRICT D

“I’M ASKING FOR YOUR VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019.”

Ensure Public Safety Protect Property & Family Values Attract New Businesses w w w EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019, AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

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Next Year’s Fort Bend County Races Coming Into Focus

By Burt Levine

While most Fort Bend folks focus on surviving the heat of Houston area summer, planning swimming creek or family beach trips some are plunging into the pool of the 2020 local races by filing treasurers for next year’s federal, state and county races or lighting fireworks of rumors.

The filing deadline for 2020 is Monday, December 9, 2019. The first day to file is Saturday, November 9, 2019.

However, before then, if anyone spends resources to run, a treasurer must be filed with the local political party if the race is in one county, and the state party if the seat for which they’re running crosses county lines.

In the race for Congressional District 9 incumbent U.S. Representative Al Green is expected to run for reelection. However, U.S. Representative Pete Olson will not be seeking re-election. High-Speed Solutions business owner Jon Menefee and Rev. Johnny Teague are both expected to run for United States Congress in 2020.

Sugar Land real estate broker Dianna Miller is running in the GOP Primary against Olson. Fort Bend Sheriff Troy Nehls continues to “explore” entering the primary versus Olson but must resign from his current post if he were to announce his intentions.

Sri Kulkarni forced Olson from 59.2 percent in 2016 to 51.36 percent in 2018. Kulkarni has announced for a rematch but first faces African American Democrat Attorneys Nyanza Davis Moore and Derrick Reed, who also serves as the first black Pearland City Council Member.

State Sen. Boris Miles is running for re-election and faces Republican William Booher. Not sure whether Sen. Miles will face a primary challenger or not, just yet.

Rep. Rick Miller is running for re-election and faces recently resigned Republican Chairman Jacey Jetton in the March 3, 2020 Primary. Miller last year was forced to 52.41 percent from 57.86 in 2016 by Sarah DeMerchant who is taking her third bat at Miller. In March she faces Rish Oberoi.

Rep. Ron Reynolds is running for re-election and faces Republican Manish Seth and Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee Dr. John Zerwas will face Dr. Eliz Markowitz.

Long-time Republican Tax Assessor Pasty Schultz retired and saw to it Commissioners Court appointed deputy Carrie Surratt who is running next year as a Democrat to keep the seat. Surratt will face HCC Trustee Neeta Sane and Carmen Turner in the Primary and then Phillip Andrews or Republican Pct. Chair James Pressler in the fall.

Democrats retired HPD Officer Eric Fagan wants to run for Sheriff, and Sam Hayes and Rafael Pruneda are running for Constable Pct. 1 hoping to face incumbent Republican Mike Beard.

LINDA HOWELL, FORT BEND COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY CHAIR WITH BURT LEVINE AND HIS WIFE SANDRA LEVINE County 400th District Court Judge Maggie Jaramillo will face Democrat Derek Obialo, 434th District Judge Jim Shoemake will face Democrat Christian Becerra, and 505th District Court Judge David Perwin will face Democrat Surrender Patel.

Jennifer Cantu who lost for State Rep. against Phil Stephenson last year wants to run against incumbent Republican Pct. 1 Commissioner Vincent Morales, but first will face NAACP leader Lynette Reddix, and Hope Martin will challenge incumbent GOP Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers, but first Meyers faces waterboard businesswoman Wendy Duncan in the Primary.

Linda Howell with Congressm an Dan Crenshaw and Jingjing Zhang Clemence .

JT Edwards, S REC Committe eman, SD11, and Lin da Howell.

Pct. 2 former interim Constable Gary Majors wants a re-match with successor Darryl Smith, but Gilberto Perez plans to push them both away for the seat Ruben Davis held for two decades.

Pct. 3 Constable Wayne Thompson will face Democrat Mohammed Nehad Abdulhameed, and Nabil Shike plans to face Pct. 4 Republican Trevor Nehls if Nehls isn’t running for sheriff if his twin brother vacates the county’s top cop post to run for Congress as he did for Sheriff in 2012.

County Attorney Roy Cordes is retiring from decades as a Democrat County Judge and then as Republican County Attorney. Hoping to succeed him are Democrats Sonia Rash and Bridgette Smith-Lawson.

Linda Howe ll with Ibifrisolam Max-alalib o.

Linda Howell wit h Dr. Robin L. Armstr ong

EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020 A SPECIAL NOTE FROM BURT LEVINE: “Linda Howell thank you and Chuck for sharing your night before the Fourth of July with my wife Sandra, and I. And thanks so much for your keen friendship and mentorship in the media and at government public affairs and writing with me that goes back more than 25 years in Fort Bend County and beyond. I believe your selfless fidelity to the Fort Bend Republican Party is going to serve you well in your new position as Fort Bend County Chair.”

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CONGRESSMAN PETE OLSON WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2020

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “In case you haven’t heard, U.S. Congressman Pete Olson will not seek re-election in 2020. Congressman Olson was first election back in 2008 to represent the 22nd Congressional District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. The 22nd Congressional District covers parts of Brazoria, Fort Bend and Harris counties. Congressman Pete Olson is currently serving his sixth term.”

THE STATED MISSION OF THE FORT BEND COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

SHERIFF TROY E. NEHLS: “It is the mission of persons employed by the Sheriff's Office of Fort Bend County to protect the lives, property, and rights of all people in this County. In accomplishing this mission, Sheriff's Office employees shall be, at all times, courteous, impartial, and diligent. In the execution of their duties, they shall be guided by those constitutional and legal principles, which are the foundation of the United States of America and the State of Texas.”

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State Senator Borris Miles Endorses State Senator Royce West for U.S. Senate Seat

Texas State Senator Borris Miles, D-Houston, announced he is endorsing fellow Texas State Senator Royce West, DDallas, for the U.S. State Senate race this fall.

"I am so proud to support my friend Royce West as the next U.S. Senator for the state of Texas. I have known and worked with Royce for more than 20 years, during which

time I have been consistently impressed by his integrity, hard work, and commitment to helping others throughout the state of Texas. He has been a leader on several issues such as healthcare, criminal justice, education and economic development issues, just to name a few. I wholeheartedly endorse Royce and encourage your support of him for

U.S. Senate."

West has served the 23rd Senatorial District for 26 years and currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee and is a member of Senate committees on Administration, Education and Finance. He is also Managing Partner for West & Associates L.L.P. West announced his U.S.

Senate candidacy recently at the Dallas County Democratic Party headquarters. He will be challenging incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas.

Other candidates in the Democratic primary include Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards, Houston City Council Member Chris Bell, and former U.S. House candidate MJ Hegar.

TEXAS PRIMARIES: MARCH 3, 2020 STATE SENATOR ROYCE WEST

EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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Meet The Honorable Judge Juli A. Mathew

The Honorable Judge Juli A. Mathew was elected to County Court at Law 3 in 2018 after having been Associate Municipal Judge in Arcola, TX and a practicing attorney for 15 years with experience in mass tort, civil litigation, probate, and criminal matters in Fort Bend and surrounding counties including Harris, Montgomery, Galveston and Brazoria.

Judge Mathew, a Fort Bend resident of almost two decades, is a proud immigrant from Kerala, India, is bilingual in Malayalam and English, and is the first Asian American woman ever to be elected in Fort Bend County.

Judge Mathew grew up in Philadelphia and attended Penn State University before attending Delaware Law School for her Juris Doctorate. A few of her academic achievements include:

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Alpha Class member of the Asian American service sorority Alpha Kappa Delta Phi Studied abroad at University of Leiden, The Netherlands about the Dutch Criminal Justice System President, Student Government Association at Penn State Abington Citation for Leadership from Pennsylvania House of Representatives Environmental Law Clinic & Trial Advocacy Program at Delaware Law School

In addition to her service to the community through various capacities, Judge Mathew is a wife and mother of three beautiful daughters. She is committed to serving every Fort Bend resident with understanding, fairness, and justice.

Office Address Fort Bend County Justice Center 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Courtroom 2D Richmond, TX. 77469

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Mailing Address County Court at Law No.3 301 Jackson Street, Room 101 Richmond, TX. 77469

Telephone 281-341-4429

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Meet Fort Bend County Judge K.P. George

KP George is proud to serve as the top Elected Official in Fort Bend County as the Presiding Officer of the Commissioner's Court and Director of the Office of Emergency Management. He is a former two term member of the Fort Bend ISD school board and a local business owner.

KP’s passion for giving back to his community stems from the challenges he faced facebook growing up in a tiny South Indian village. Getting an education meant walking barefoot to the local schoolhouse and doing homework by the light of a kerosene lamp in the family’s thatch-straw hut. After years of balancing school work with helping out on the family farm, KP achieved his first goal: coming to the land of opportunity and living the American Dream.

KP immigrated to the U.S. in 1993 on a work visa for a financial firm, and has since earned multiple financial certifications and licenses. As a Certified Financial Planner, KP co-owns and manages an independent financial planning practice in Sugar Land. KP and his wife Sheeba, an FBISD teacher, have raised their three children in Sugar Land.

The George family has been deeply involved in Fort Bend County. In 2013, KP helped established the Hightower High School Academies’ Booster Club, and served as its first president. He has also served in the Sugar Land Rotary Club, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, and local Indo-American groups.

He is a member of the FBISD Parents Advisory Team, as well as the State Elections Policy & Affairs Team for State Representative Rick Miller.

As devout Christians, KP and Sheeba are very thankful for the opportunities God has given them to live the American Dream. Now, KP wants to ensure our county does its best to help our diverse community achieve their dreams. Today, Fort Bend County is one of the fastest and best places to live in the United States.

Fort Bend County taxpayers have the right to efficient, modern, and highquality services and infrastructure.

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THE MOST ETHNICALLY DIVERSE COUNTY IN AMERICA

Fort Bend County strives to be the most family friendly community in Texas by providing a high quality, enriching and safe environment. Each department and elective office provides fast, friendly service to its customers and continually strives to be number one in efficiency and effectiveness. The Commissioners Court fulfills its leadership role by providing necessary resources to the offices and departments to accomplish their duties and goals by establishing budgets, policies and procedures to make the most efficient use of the resources and by actively pursuing quality businesses to locate in Fort Bend County.

The Gulf of Mexico is located only 50 miles from Fort Bend County and its close proximity helps to hold the summer and winter temperatures to moderate levels. Extremes in climatic changes are usually short in duration.

View current weather conditions.

Natural Resources

Fort Bend County has approximately 11 square miles of surface water in rivers, creeks and small lakes. The County is drained by the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers as well as Oyster Creek. The Brazos River formed a broad alluvial valley, up to ten miles wide in places. The

resulting fertile soils have been a major contributing factor to the agricultural industry in the County.

The three permanently floatable waterways in Fort Bend County are the Brazos River, the San Bernard River south of Farm to Market Road 442, and Oyster Creek south of State Highway 6. The San Bernard River south of Interstate Highway 10 is a seasonally floatable waterway, shared on the west with adjacent counties. Soils vary from the rich alluvial soils in the Brazos River Valley to sandy loam and clay on the prairies. Native trees include pecan, oak, ash and cottonwood, with some old bottomland forests remaining along waterways.

Mineral resources include oil, gas, and sulfur. Sand, clay, and gravel are commercially produced.

Location

Fort Bend County is located in the Houston metropolitan area of southeast Texas. It encompasses a total of 875.0 square miles (562,560 acres). The terrain varies from level to gently rolling with elevations from 46 to 127 feet above sea level, with an average elevation of 85 feet.

US 59 traverses the center of the County from northeast to southwest, while US 90A crosses from east to west.

State Highways (SH) 6, 36 and 99 provide important north-south routes. Neighboring counties are Austin, Brazoria, Harris, Waller and Wharton.

Climate

WWW.FORTBENDCOUNTYTX.GOV The growing season is 296 days, with an average annual rainfall of 45.3 inches. The average first freeze date in the fall is December 7, and the average last freeze date is February 14. Temperatures range from a mean minimum in January of 41º to a mean maximum in July of 93º.

MANISH SETH REPUBLICAN PARTY PRIMARY — TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2020

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE HOUSE DISTRICT 27 MANISH SETH: “First and foremost, I am a family man. I have been married to my wife, Rumana, for over 20 years. We are blessed to have two wonderful daughters. My priority in life is to be the best husband and father to these three remarkable women God has so graciously put in my life.

My roots are in this Fort Bend community. I am a proud member and contributor to the community that has given me so much. I have served this community tirelessly by dedicating time to causes near and dear to my heart. As a Board Member & Treasurer on the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, I worked closely with small businesses to ensure they had the most prudent growth strategies. I have also served on AccessHealth (Board Member), Cullinan Park Conservancy Board (Board Member), Ridge Point Orchestra Booster Association (Treasurer), and Fort Bend Republican Party (Treasurer). Most recently, I was appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the One Call Commission Board, which has allowed me to serve at the State level.

I was raised in this area and was able to take the opportunities presented to me and capitalize on them. I plan to take my experiences and work to bring opportunities to District 27. I want to bring a perspective of knowing the area since childhood to our House seat, and to use my experiences in growing a business, hiring people, and working with others to build our District 27 House seat.”

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Political Ad Paid for by Manish Seth, Candidate for Texas House of Representatives District 27, Andrew Barbe. Treasurer

There are several areas I want to focus on:

Education: We have to work with the local schools to continue providing a long-term educational plan for our children. This includes providing activities to enhance learning after normal school hours. It also means finding ways to provide skills to help the next generation transition from high school and skills to help when they enter the workforce. But it’s not just the children; it’s also the teachers. Making sure our teachers are paid fairly and are given the necessary resources from the State.

Business: District 27 is rapidly changing, and as data shows, many new people are moving to our District. With the influx of people, the District needs to continue to promote business and provide a pro-business growth environment. Local businesses that provide jobs must become a priority. To attract businesses to our community, infrastructure planning must happen at the State level. From my experience working with start-ups to large companies, I believe I have the skills of a “Business Acumen” to take this to the State Legislature to advocate on behalf of our District.

Healthcare: As someone who deals with several different healthcare clients, and through my work with AccessHealth, I have seen first-hand the need for healthcare services in our District. I also have experience in working to make sure it comes in a cost-efficient manner. We must look at ways to make sure our State is taking care of Texans, all Texans. Whether it’s our children, the elderly, or our veterans, we must ensure healthcare is accessible to all.

Property Taxes: We live in a very desirable District. As the demand for property in our area increases, so does our property taxes. Property tax laws have changed, and I will monitor to make certain the changes are positive for District 27.

Floyd

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MISSOURI CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT D Councilman Floyd Emery To Seek Re-election for Missouri City Council - District D Floyd Emery announced he would seek another term on the Missouri City Council representing District D in the upcoming November 05, 2019 City election.

Emery was first elected to that position in May of 2011 and has run opposed in all subsequent elections.

He contributes running unopposed in 3 election cycles to his ability to keep his platform promises and to connect with his constituents on issues important to them.

“I am seeking reelection on a platform heavy into Public Safety which includes the building of Fire Station 6; maintaining the scope of services provided by the Quail Valley Golf Course and City Centre while stressing its importance on home values in Quail Valley; continuing our economic development strategy where many nationally known businesses such as Niagara Water, Ben E. Keith, Comcast, Fed Ex, Best Buy have selected Missouri City as their business location bringing substantial capital investments and job opportunities to our city; transparency of our financial and operating records including City Council actions; a continuation of building and strengthening our alliances with our many HOA Boards and a commitment to maintain our current City Council/City Manager form of City Government.”

“Missouri City needs an experienced and dedicated Council member to address the critical ongoing issues of Mobility, Drainage, and Infrastructure demands. Upcoming issues such as FBISD Coordination, MUD study evaluation, Parks evaluation, Homestead exemption evaluation, and Animal Control

protocol are areas that also demand a seasoned Council member with a broad range of financial and operational experience.”

Emery asks “why to change your Council repre-

sentative when in the current councilmember you have experience, dependability, and commitment to the position, service-oriented to constituents needs and one with a full range of knowledge and experience in most of the issues now facing our City.” “ I am proud to be associated with a city council where during my tenure Missouri City has and continues to be recognized as one of the safest cities in Texas, one of the most diverse cities in the state, best city to live in and most affordable for homebuyers among many other awards and recognitions.”

“I am asking the constituents of District D to allow me to complete many of the initiatives I have outlined in my plans for Missouri City by reelecting me for another term on the City Council.”

Emery is a 40 year resident of Missouri City all in District D, married to Linda for 60 years with two grown sons both educated in the Ft. Bend school system.

In addition to the City, Council Emery continues to be active in community organizations as past president of QV Proud, an active member of the QV/Missouri City Exchange Club, co-chair of the Missouri City Police Officers Association annual fundraising golf tournament and heavy involvement in the Quail Valley First Tee program.

For more detailed information on his accomplishments and plans for the future, visit www.floydemery.com or follow him on his Facebook page.

RE-ELECT FLOYD EMERY FOR MISSOURI CITY COUNCIL — DISTRICT D

“I’M ASKING FOR YOUR VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019.”

Ensure Public Safety Protect Property & Family Values Attract New Businesses w w w EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019, AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

GROUND GAME ...HARRIS COUNTY

“Freedom is, as the Congressional Black Caucus founders told us, built on "permanent interests." Our interests must be a better Texas and a more inclusive nation for all of us.” — Carroll G. Robinson, Esq.

Carroll G. Robinson

PROUD TEXANS CELEBRATING FREEDOM TOGETHER!

PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS©

HARRIS COUNTY

Honorable Carroll G. Robinson Discusses What Freedom Means to Him Inside this Section

“LET FREEDOM RING!” COUNCIL MEMBER MIKE KNOX, HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION #1 AND HIS FAMILY. COUNCILMAN KNOX IS UP FOR RE-ELECTION ON NOV. 5TH.

HOUSTON CITY COUNCILMAN MIKE KNOX: “Our founders understood that Democracy was flawed because it depended on the rule of the masses or majority rule. They understood the majority would always favor the larger group over the individual. A Republic, on the other hand, is based on the rule of law designed to protect the freedoms of the individual over the will of the majority. Unless, of course, the Republic was taken over by a despot, tyrant, or king. Their solution was brilliant. A democratically elected governing body, which could be managed by the majority, confined by the law enacted by the people through their elected representatives. The purpose of the whole exercise was to free the individual to have the liberty to pursue their definition of happiness through the exercise of individual free will.”

JUDGE JACKSON

Democratic Judges Like Maria T. Jackson and Erica Hughes are Impacting Lives in Harris County

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “Having Godly people in positions of authority in America is imperative during times like these. So, Houston Business Connections Newspaper© is encouraging every warm-blooded American to pray for our “PUBLIC SERVANTS” from both major political parties.”

JUDGE HUGHES

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Judge Maria T. Jackson presides over the 339th State District Court in Harris County, Texas.

Judge Erica Hughes presides over Harris County Criminal Court at Law #3 in Harris County, Texas.

PROVERBS 29:2 — “When justice rules a nation, everyone is glad; when injustice rules, everyone groans.” — CONTEMPORARY ENGLISH VERSION

“It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

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“AMERICA”

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Land of the Free...

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...PROUD AMERICANS CELEBRATING FREEDOM TOGETHER!

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“Aubrey R. Taylor Communications will host an “AMERICA” Land of the Free - SUMMIT in Houston, Texas in 2020. Please call (281)788-3033 if you would like to learn more about this summit.”

There’s absolutely no way to discuss freedom without talking about the people who are on the frontlines fighting for the freedoms we all cherish and enjoy.

Houston Business Connections Newspaper© would like to thank our military for fighting for us every day. And for also, educating and making sure that our soldiers blossom into commissioned leaders committed to the values of Duty, Honor, and Country.

As you enjoy this Lieutenant General Darryl A. Williams “GROUND GAME” 60th Superintendent edition of Houston The U.S. Military Academy at West Point Business Connections Newspaper©, please take a moment to check out the page featuring Lieutenant General Darryl A. Williams — the 60th Superintendent at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

JUDGES LIKE HUGHES, KOVACH, AND STEPHENS ROCK

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You can learn more at: www.westpoint.edu

JUDGE HUGHES CARES...

According to Judge Erica Hughes, County Criminal Court at Law #3, her job isn’t simply punish. She believes that judges should seek to assist others in redeeming themselves. “This teenager was going down the wrong road (High school drop out and criminal charges). Last time he was in court, I asked him where his parents were and what he wanted to be in life. He responded that his mom was at work and he wanted to be a firefighter, but thought he was too little,” she says.

“We made him come back to court with his parent and we had my classmate from Prairie View A&M that works as an arson investigator of similar stature come to meet and mentor him,” said Judge Hughes. “I told him that he could be anything he wanted to be, but he would have to invest in his own future. His mom was happy about the court helping him. He’s also going to Houston Can Academy to get his high school diploma.

OUT AND ABOUT...

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“It’s imperative that we make it our business to support our military by electing “PUBLIC SERVANTS” who love America and believe in protecting our freedoms.”

Judge Jim Kovach and Judge Joe Stephens at a fundraiser benefitting the Texas Black Campaign School hosted by the Harris County Democratic Party and Houston Black American Democrats.

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“LET FREEDOM RING”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “I would like to thank Councilman Mike Knox, and the Honorable Jacquie Baly for finding value in my request to share their thoughts on “FREEDOM” and what it means to them. In case you don’t already know, Jacquie Baly is also endorsing Councilman Mike Knox in his bid for re-election on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, in the race for Houston City Council At-Large Position #1. Please vote during early voting.”

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By Mike Knox Houston City Council - At-Large Position #1

“Give me LIBERTY or Give me Death!”

These words are attributed to Patrick Henry from a speech he made to the Second Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775. What was he talking about? Are these words relevant today?

The words Freedom and Liberty are often used interchangeably in conversation, and I will use them interchangeably in this article. Realistically they amount to the same thing. Both mean, in the broadest of terms, the absence of hindrance, restraint, confinement, or repression. Both Liberty and Freedom mean you can do whatever you want to do. Did Patrick Henry mean that Americans should be completely without restraint – I don’t think so.

Our Founding Fathers were avid readers of philosophy, logic, and apologetics. They studied Socrates, Aristotle, John Locke, and of course, the Bible. Many were in the habit of discussing serious issues like Freedom and Liberty as a source of evening entertainment.

They came to understand that Freedom and Liberty meant individuals were free to do as they pleased provided; they did not hinder another person’s Freedom or Liberty. To put it in modern language, “your freedom to swing your arm ends where my nose begins.”

These founders of our country recognized that government authority (laws) inevitably leads to the tyranny of the people and places humans in an unnatural state of servitude to the will of the ruling class.

They set about inventing a new form of government — not a Democracy, but rather a Republic.

Our founders understood that Democracy was flawed because it depended on the rule of the masses or majority rule.

They understood the majority would always favor the larger group over the individual. A Republic, on the other hand, is based on the rule of law designed to protect the freedoms of the individual over the will of the majority. Unless, of course, the Republic was taken over by a despot, tyrant, or king.

Their solution was brilliant. A democratically elected governing body, which could be managed by the majority, confined by the law enacted by the people through their

COUNCILMAN MIKE KNOX

elected representatives. The purpose of the whole exercise was to free the individual to have the liberty to pursue their definition of happiness through the exercise of individual free will.

We have all been engaged in this grand experiment for well over two hundred years, and we have not perfected it yet. Some would argue we have steadily yielded our Liberty to gain safety and security, that we are stifling free speech with political correctness and are losing the ability, as a nation, to disagree without being disagreeable. It seems our schools have stopped teaching the classics in favor of the convenient. Perhaps all this is true. However, I like to think these struggles are not new to the United States and that Liberty and Freedom will ultimately prevail.

Freedom and Liberty are, to me, the light at the end of the tunnel. The goal to which we must constantly struggle to achieve.

Americans have died in places near and far attempting to obtain this “Holy Grail” we call Freedom. From the first person killed in the Boston Massacre, Crispus Attucks, to the next person who gives their full measure of devotion in service to this nation and all who have sacrificed in past conflicts so we can continue to seek Freedom, Americans would rather have Liberty than life itself. So, it would appear to me, Patrick Henry’s words in 1775 are as true today as they were then.

I, for one, agree. Give me Liberty or Give me Death!

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What Freedom Mean To Me

By Jacquie Baly Governmental Affairs and Media Relations Expert

My parents migrated to America many years ago to give their only child a better life and a chance of achieving the American Dream. As a result, freedom embodies having the opportunity to pursue a great education, pursuing a promising career and becoming an accomplished business owner and entrepreneur. I am blessed to achieve these goals and so much more. But Freedom does not stop there. It also encompasses being a dedicated public servant and giving back to our wonderful community that has given so much to me. I am now a proud mother of two very accomplished young men. Freedom now has new meanings as they follow in my footsteps in public service and help make our community even better than it is today. Creating a positive legacy and promoting good will, our freedom as Americans will continue for many generations to come.

***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 numberous entities, then served as gubernatorial appointee on water and wastewater issues and most recently served as Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Sugar Land. For more visit: www.balyprojects.com

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WEST POINT GRADUATES A RECORD NUMBER OF AFRICAN AMERICAN AND HISPANIC FEMALE CADETS IN THEIR GRADUATING CLASS OF 2019

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Lieutenant General Darryl A. Williams 60th Superintendent The U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Lieutenant General Darryl A. Williams is a native of Alexandria, Virginia. He graduated from the United States Military Academy, West Point, in 1983 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

A career Field Artillery officer, Lieutenant General Williams most recently served as the Commander, NATO Allied Land Command, in Izmir, Turkey. Prior to this, he served as the Commander, United States Army Africa (USARAF), in Vicenza, Italy; the Deputy Chief of Staff G3/5/7 of United States Army in Europe, located in Wiesbaden, Germany; the Deputy Commanding General for Support for the 2nd Infantry Division, Republic of Korea; and Commanding General for the United States Army Warrior Transition Command and Assistant Surgeon General for Warrior Care and Transition.

In addition to these assignments, Lt. Gen. Williams has served in key leadership positions at the tactical, operational and strategic levels to include Battery Commander deployed in support of OPERATION DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM; Commander, Division Artillery, 1st Armored Division and Fire and Effects Coordinator, 1st Armored Division deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM; Deputy Director for Soldier Comprehensive Fitness, Department of the Army G3/5/7; and while commanding USARAF in 2014, he was involved with OPERATION UNITED ASSISTANCE fighting against the Ebola outbreak in Liberia.

He assumed duties as the 60th Superintendent of the United States Military Academy in July 2018.

His military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Command and General Staff College, School of Advanced Military Studies, and the United States Naval War College. He holds Masters’ degrees in Leadership Development, Military Art and Science, and National Security and Strategic Studies.

His awards and decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, the Parachutist Badge, Presidential Service Badge, and the Army Staff Identification Badge.

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A record number of African American females recently graduated from West Point. These 32 African American females made history as the largest graduating class of African American women in the United States Military Academy’s history. In addition to the record number of African American female graduates, West Point also graduated a record number of Hispanic females. The overall number of female graduates was up as well.

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The U.S. Military Academy at West Point's mission is "to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the Nation as an officer in the United States Army."

“It’s imperative that we make it our business to support our military by electing “PUBLIC SERVANTS” who love America and believe in protecting our freedoms.”

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General Motors Executive Vice President Global Manufacturing Gerald Johnson announces GM is investing an additional $20 million at Arlington Assembly to upgrade plant conveyors in preparation for the launch of its all-new full-size SUVs, Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at GM Arlington Assembly in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Mike Stone for General Motors)

GM to Invest Additional $20 Million in Texas Plant Ahead of All-New, Full-Size SUV Launch

GM has invested more than $1.4 billion in Arlington since 2015

GM has a long history of leadership in the full-size SUV market segment Company has invested more than $4.2 billion in its full-size pickup and SUV U.S. assembly plants ahead of all-new pickups and SUV launches

for more than 20 years, and our additional investment in Arlington Assembly is proof of our commitment and confidence in our Arlington team,” said Gerald Johnson, GM executive vice president of Global Manufacturing. “We are counting on the Arlington team to continue focusing on building the highest quality products possible for our customers while preparations continue for the launch of the next generation of our full-size SUVs.” Arlington Assembly is the sole producer of the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL and the Cadillac Escalade.

GM has a long history of dominating the full-size SUV market since creating the segment in 1935. Last year, GM dealers in the United States delivered more than 282,000 full-size SUVs — almost four vehicles for each one delivered by the company’s closest competitor. GM’s full-size

SUVs are exported to many markets around the globe.

GM has invested more than $4.2 billion in three U.S. assembly plants – Arlington, Flint, Michigan and Fort Wayne, Indiana – to prepare for the launches of its next generation pickups and SUVs and to increase capacity, further improve build quality and drive operating efficiencies.

GM’s new trucks and SUVs are also driving new investments at plants in Moraine, Ohio to expand diesel engine production, Toledo, Ohio to expand 10speed transmission production and more.

Since 2009, GM has invested more than $23 billion in its U.S. manufacturing base — more than one-quarter of every dollar spent by any automaker.

Opened in 1954, Arlington employs 4,500. The plant converted from car to truck production in 1997. Arlington Assem-

bly operates on three shifts of production.

Through a series of purchase agreements for wind power, Arlington Assembly runs entirely on wind energy, earning the plant a spot on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Top 100 List of the largest green power users.

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is committed to delivering safer, better and more sustainable ways for people to get around.

General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Cadillac, Chevrolet, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, Maven, its personal mobility brand, and Cruise, its autonomous vehicle company, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

WWW.GM.COM Arlington, Texas — General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) is investing an additional $20 million at Arlington Assembly to upgrade plant conveyors in preparation for the launch of GM’s all-new full-size SUVs. GM has invested more than $1.4 billion in Arlington Assembly since 2015 to build a new paint shop and for body shop and general assembly area upgrades.

The new upgrades at Arlington are scheduled to be completed next year.

“We’ve been building trucks in Texas

Cadillac Escalade vehicles roll off the assembly line Tuesday, June 25, 2019 as General Motors announces it is investing an additional $20 million at Arlington Assembly to upgrade plant conveyors in preparation for the launch of GM’s all-new full-size SUVs. (Photo by Mike Stone for General Motors)

General Motors employees work on the assembly line Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at the GM Arlington Assembly Plant in Arlington, Texas. GM announced today it is investing an additional $20 million at Arlington Assembly to upgrade plant conveyors in preparation for the launch of GM’s all-new full-size SUVs. (Photo by Mike Stone for General Motors)

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EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

MARIA T. JACKSON

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“I’m asking for your vote, prayers, and support on Tuesday, March 3, 2020”

“HERSTORY” JUDGE, 339TH CRIMINAL DISTRICT COURT

“The Honorable Judge Maria T. Jackson is a true change agent and leader.”

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THIS MOMENT IN TEXAS HISTORY...

Judge Maria T. Jackson has been the presiding Judge of the 339th State District Court in Houston, Harris County, Texas since the election of 2008. Judge Jackson presides over serious felony offenses, which run the gamut from lowlevel drug offenses to capital murder.

She has presided over one hundred jury trials and several have been featured on The First 48 Hour national television show. She has appeared on many Houston radio and media outlets like Red, White and Blue Political Show, Magic 102, KCOH, and The Prison Show on FM 90.1. Judge Jackson has taken the lead in implementing sweeping changes for DWI probationers in her court. These changes are so notable that the Harris County Probation Department has followed Judge Jackson’s lead in implementing them county wide.

Education — — — —

B.A. Political Science The University of Texas at Arlington Doctor of Jurisprudence Texas A&M School of Law formerly Texas Wesleyan School of Law

Judge Maria T. Jackson will be on your 2020 Democratic Primary ballot.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com Political advertisement paid for by Maria T. Jackson in Compliance with the Voluntary Limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Kent Schaffer, Treasurer.

— DON’T FORGET THAT “STRAIGHT-TICKET” VOTING IS NO LONGER ALLOWED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS —

“Judge Maria T. Jackson will be up for re-election in the March 2020 Democratic Party Primary in Harris County. Judge Jackson cares about every American!”

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MARIA T. JACKSON “OPEN LETTER” TO JUDGE 10D

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Good afternoon Judge Jackson! I hope you are doing well!! This is Patrick Moore. I was in your courtroom roughly 8 years ago with yet another charge. I had basically been in and out of trouble since the age of 16, living reckless, no regards for the law or my own future which kept landing me in and out of jail. Well, this go-round it landed me in front of you. No plea agreement could be reached with the district attorney, so on the very last setting it ultimately came down to your recommendation as to what my punishment should be. At the time I was certain I was headed back to jail, I mean, my background screamed "he'll just get in trouble again." The last time I was in trouble the exact words from Judge Devon Anderson were "he's going to jail, I'm not giving any probation and have that rock in my neck." And so off I was sent. But that day in front of you, which I'm forever grateful for, something must have fell on your heart. Because you asked me "Mr. Moore, are you ready to turn your life around?" I have to admit I was so shocked I couldn't believe it. And I answered "yes." Then you told me "ok I'm going to give you one last chance." And my heart sunk in my chest because I knew that with that I wasn't going to let you down! It was life changing because a complete stranger took a chance on me to believe in me to become something other than just another inmate, or habitual criminal. And I walked out of your courtroom completely grateful with a mindset that I was going to turn my life around. So with Judge Maria T. Jackson that, fast forward to today, I have accomplished some amazing things. I became a personal trainer and started my business in Tomball, TX. I'm probably the most successful trainer in Northwest Houston lol!

But I didn't stop there! All that energy I used to put into doing the wrong things, I put it into my body and started bodybuilding. And as of last weekend it all paid off! After 5 years of extremely hard work, I competed in Las Vegas at the Mr. USA Championships and won, which earned my professional status in bodybuilding! I was extended a few endorsements as a result of that show and life couldn't be better! I remember telling you the last time I saw you, as you released me from community supervision, that I was not going to let you down! And I'm extremely blessed to report back to you that I have kept my promise. I know that me landing in front of you 8 years ago was not happenstance, but instead it was God's plan and you were truly a blessing in my life! I thank you so much for the decision you made as it has forever changed my life!! God bless you so much and thank you again Judge Jackson!

PATRICK MOORE

WORLD CHAMPION BODY BUILDER

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

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PATRICK

MOORE

“Judge Maria T. Jackson helped me turn my life around.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “THIS TWO-PAGE SPREAD FEATURING IFBB PRO WORLD CHAMPION PATRICK MOORE IS AN EXAMPLE OF OUR TWOPAGE ADVERTORIAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AN ADVERTISEMENT. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL (281)788-3033.

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER© IS PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.”

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Comedian Joe Torry is endorsing

Carey Lashley For State Rep. House District 131

Carey is a dedicated and passionate father, homeowner and resident of Houston, Tx. He has been a proud community advocate for youth and families regarding social, economical and educational injustice issues since working and volunteering with the Hayward-South Alameda County NAACP at the early age of sixteen.

Carey Lashley is a proud product of public schools and has earned his Associates degree in Liberal Arts (Social & Behavioral Science) from Chabot College, Carey attended Texas Southern University and earned his Bachelors degree in Psychology with a minor in Urban Policy from Victory University.

Carey has worked as an Community Liaison (NAACP), Educator (Jesse Jackson Academy), School Counselor (Lincoln Families), Director of School Counseling and Social Worker. With this experience Carey will lead his community by inspiring residents to positive action through a clear vision. Carey knows what hardworking families are experiencing in their everyday life, dealing with the increasing costs of housing, property taxes, groceries, and everyday necessities, Carey wants to fight for local jobs guarantee, increase employee rights and bring focus to youth jobs-not jails by secure pledges to hire 50,000 Texan youth. Carey also wants to increase the number of minority owned businesses and farmers in his district as well as statewide. Carey will bring new energy to our community and he will build community pride. At a young age Carey was taught the value of perseverance, empowerment and partnerships and Carey wants to continue to bring those values to the residents of his community. He believes in social, economical, and educational justice and that the only way to find solutions is to energize, empower and educate all our residents within our community about the struggles of everyday and to hold all politicians accountable.

Carey Lashley will be the new energy that Texas State Representative District 131 needs and will continue to build on our community core values. It's time for new energy in Texas politics and Carey Lashley will hold Austin accountable and continue to fight and be accessible for all residents in his community.

Carey lives in District 131 with his family and is proud to call it home, let's energize the vote together and continue to build on our core values.

JOE TORRY

Carey Lashley is new energy. Texas Energy.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

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Time for new energy in Texas Politics AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why do you want to run for State Representative?

CAREY LASHLEY: “I am energized by the way government works with lawmakers to accomplish change. Seeing positive change with President Obama, Congressman Al Green and the Black Girl Magic Movement, our community and government can accomplish real positive change when the right people and resources are utilized. I am running for office to continue to build positive change within my community, district and state of Texas. I want to energize, empower and educate my community and bring real positive change

to Texas government that will empower our community.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Tell us about yourself, who is Carey Lashley?

CAREY LASHLEY: I’m patient, strategic and very observant. Working as an educator and social worker for many years helped me build confidence, self-awareness and taught me the importance of observing and understanding other’s needs. I am a constant advocate and change agent for self-improvement. Most importantly, I am a husband and a father of three (2) girls and (1) boy.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR What experience do you have that is relevant to the office you are seeking?

CAREY LASHLEY: “I have initiated and supported change in my community working with the NAACP and several Non-profit agencies. I collaborated and lead families and youth, communities and organizations to continuous learning, self-awareness and change. Energizing, empowering and educating others is part of my id and I will continue to fight for change for my community, district and for the great state of Texas.”

The Honorable Cynthia Lenton Gary is Running for the HCC District VII Seat being Vacated by HCC Trustee Neeta Sane on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 14D

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DR. CYNTHIA LENTON GARY: “With my passion for education and compassion for schools, I will fight hard to be a voice and a sounding board for residents, parents, administrators, teachers, and, most importantly, all students from all areas of District VII.” CANDIDATE FOR HCC DISTRICT VII

IMPORTANT ELECTION INFORMATION

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TRUSTEE ZEPH CAPO

DISTRICT I

TRUSTEE DAVE WILSON

DISTRICT II

TRUSTEE NEETA SANE

DISTRICT VII

Trustee Elections 2019 Houston Community College

Notice of Deadline to File Applications for Place on the Ballot

On Tuesday, November 5, 2019, Houston Community College (HCC) will hold an election to fill three (3) HCC Board of Trustees positions for expiring terms in geographic districts I, II and VII. Interested candidates desiring to run for a HCC Trustee position must file for a place on the general election ballot between Saturday, July 20, 2019 and Monday, August 19, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. All applications must be filed in person or by mail at the following location:

“

Houston Community College Office of Board Services 3100 Main, 12th Floor, Houston, TX 77002

The HCC Office of Board Services will accept applications for a place on the general election ballot during the designated filing period, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. NO applications will be accepted after 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 19, 2019. There is no filing fee.

You may pick up an application form from HCC Office of Board Services at the address listed above or from the Texas Secretary of State’s website at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/index.shtml.

For additional election information, please click on Frequently Asked Questions or visit 2019 Trustee Election on HCC’s website: https://www.hccs.edu/.

For remaining questions, please contact the HCC Office of Board Services at 713-718-8398. Please note that HCC Office of Board Services is unable to provide legal advice.

“As a proven leader for ALL people, Cynthia is an advocate for change, diversity, and service.”

ABOUT THE HCCS BOARD

The Board of Trustees is the official governing body of Houston Community College. The Board is composed of nine members who are elected from single-member districts and who serve without remuneration. Board members are elected to staggered six-year terms. The Board has final authority to determine and interpret the policies that govern HCC. As part of their duties, the trustees maintain a full schedule of community service, public appearances, speaking engagements and legislative affairs on behalf of HCC. Board members represent an impressive mix of individual talents and professional backgrounds enabling them to provide governance of the highest quality.

ELECT CYNTHIA LENTON GARY

Honorable Cynthia Lenton Gary is the right choice on Tuesday, November 5, 2019. As a proven leader for ALL people, Cynthia Lenton Gary is an advocate for change, diversity, and service. She is a former Missouri City Council Member and FBISD Board Trustee public servant. Cynthia Lenton Gary has served her community well over the years.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019 DR. CYNTHIA LENTON GARY: “Houston Community College is striving to be a leader in providing high quality, innovative education leading to student success and completion of the workforce and academic programs. My experience and commitment to education, along with my relevant qualification, makes me the best choice to represent District VII on the HCC Board of Directors.”

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com PAID POLITICAL AD BY THE CYNTHIA LENTON GARY FOR HCC TRUSTEE DISTRICT VII CAMPAIGN. THE ELECTION INFORMATION SECTION IS PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS AS A PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT. CALL (832)212-8735 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.

“Dr. Cynthia Lenton Gary is the “BEST CHOICE” in the race for Houston Community College System Board Trustee for District VII on Tuesday, November 5, 2019.”

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“FREEDOM”

Hon. Carroll G. Robinson, Esq.

Freedom for Black people once meant freedom from slavery; the ability to pursue our God-given rights and to participate fully in the rights, privileges, immunities and due process of citizenship and the benefits of the American Dream as described by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in his speech at the March on Washington.

Freedom is an ongoing struggle to:

• protect our Civil and Voting Rights; • secure economic equality for Black people in America; • end discrimination based on race, gender and sexual orientation; and • reform the criminal justice system to end sentencing disparities, the school to prison pipeline, better protect our children (and us) from violence (guns and tasters) at the hands of law enforcement and provide people who have gone through the system with a second chance.

As the old saying goes, "Freedom ain't free." People aren't going to do for Black people what we won't do for ourselves.

Freedom requires vigilance, hard work, foresight and a continuing commitment to community, educational achievement, prosperity, and adopting-mastering, mobilizing and utilizing-"Forces of Change" like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to better protect and advance our interests.

“Freedom is, as the Congressional Black Caucus founders told us, built on "permanent interests." Our interests must be a better Texas and a more inclusive nation for all of us.” — Carroll G. Robinson, Esq.

MARK YOUR CALENDER FOR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2019

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(832)564-3804 CALL MARJORIE A. MURPHY AT:

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EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 AND ENDS ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2019

“It’s imperative that you know the rights that have been afforded to you as an American citizen in these “UNITED” STATES of America.”

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GROUND GAME ...UNITED STATES

“Government can help secure and protect our freedom, but it’s not the source of our freedom.”

Justice Jeff Brown

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Freedom is a Gift of God Says Texas Supreme Court Justice Jeff Brown — Texas Supreme Court Justice Jeff Brown

“WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO US!” PICTURED: JUDGE ANGELA GRAVES HARRINGTON, JUDGE TONYA JONES, JUDGE TORIA J. FINCH, AND JUDGE SHANNON BALDWIN

JUDGE KYLE CARTER: “We are all endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights, the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Freedom is the ability to exercise those rights. However, this freedom is not something that just happens. Our forefathers made it possible for us to experience the American dream of freedom and we must, as part of our generational duty continue to fight against those who would take our freedoms away and to ensure opportunity exists for all Americans. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt aptly stated "In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved."

“OUR FOREFATHERS MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR US TO EXPERIENCE THE AMERICAN DREAM.”

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www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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Land of the Free...

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“Aubrey R. Taylor Communications will host an “AMERICA” Land of the Free - SUMMIT in Houston, Texas in 2020. Please call (281)788-3033 if you would like to learn more about this summit.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “When I think of freedom, I can’t help but reflect back over my life, my struggles, my triumphs, my clients, and my life-long friends. Especially, clients/friends like Judge Sandra J. Peake, and countless others who stuck it out with me during the truly trying times I’ve faced over the years.

No man is an island. To accomplish anything in life we must accept God’s plan for us as individuals and a corporate body. And we must also embrace God’s vision as it continues to unfold during these trying times in America. Coming to this realization has liberated me and made me a free man in these United States of America. However, it has taken me some time to come to grips with the fact that my success and fulfillment in life can only be attained through my willingness to help others achieve their goals, hopes and dreams.

But, I’ve accepted my assignment.

What about you?”

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“LET’S WIN TOGETHER.”

Aubrey Taylor

Judge Peake

Judge Sandra Peake will be up for re-election in 2022.

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Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar Discusses What Freedom Means to Him With Aubrey

STATE OF TEXAS COMPTROLLER GLENN HEGAR: “Freedom is anyone’s opportunity to achieve their goals without fear of an oppressive government standing in their way. It’s the idea that you get to choose how to run your business, what religion to practice, what moral guidelines you want your children to follow, and many other personal decisions that government shouldn’t be regulating. It is about living in a society without over-burdensome and forced government mandates that try to dictate the details of daily life and instead is when an individual is the sole arbiter of their decisions.

In Texas, we have shown that the more liberty, or freedom, you give the people, the more likely they are to achieve success.

This is why Texas continues to lead the nation in fastest growing cities and job growth. As Americans, we are given the privilege to follow our dreams and are allowed to do so without fear of an oppressive government holding us back.”

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“In case you don’t know, Comptroller Hegar is a sixth generation Texan, who grew up farming land that has been in his family since the mid-1800s. His upbringing taught him the core values of character, honesty, integrity and hard work.

These are the same values that he and his wife, Dara, work to instill in their three young children: Julia, Jonah and Claire.”

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EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020, AND END ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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Judge Bert Richardson Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE BERT RICHARDSON: “I was raised in a military family and understand firsthand the sacrifices that others have made so as citizens of this State & Country we enjoy freedoms in many aspects of our lives that others throughout the world do not have.

At an early age my uncle (my father’s brother) was killed in a crash of a F-106 USAF fighter jet. Not long after that my father left for Vietnam and flew over 160 missions as a fighter pilot. During that year many of his fellow pilots did not return home from that war. I knew several of the children from those families. My brother recently retired from the USAF and is a veteran of over 300 air missions in the Middle-east conflicts with the Special Ops Squadrons. I have heard many stories of those brave soldiers he protected during his flights. Without such sacrifices throughout our Country’s history, we as American citizens would not enjoy the blessings to worship according to the dictates of our own conscience, or enjoy the many benefits and opportunities offered in our country to better ourselves through education, hard work and to support our families. I have lived overseas for over 10 years and am painfully aware of the fact that others do not have these great opportunities available to them.”

JUDGE BERT RICHARDSON TEXAS COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS - PLACE 3

Harris County Clerk Diane Trautman Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom DR. DIANE TRAUTMAN: “Freedom comes in many forms – the ability for each of us to practice our chosen faith, share our differing opinions, and vote for candidates that represent us.

Elections are one way we celebrate freedom beyond Independence Day, and I believe each citizen should earnestly exercise that right and responsibility in every election, large or small.”

DR. DIANE TRAUTMAN HARRIS COUNTY CLERK

Judge Angela Graves Harrington Discusses Freedom

JUDGE ANGELA GRAVES HARRINGTON: “Freedom is the absence of mental or physical enslavement.

Freedom is the ability to boldly walk into your destiny without being tied to the expectations or doubts of others. Freedom is the realization of one’s full potential and the right to exist in authenticity. Freedom is “an absolute equality of personal rights.” Freedom is, quite simply, being free.”

JUDGE ANGELA GRAVES HARRINGTON 246TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

Judge Genesis Draper Discusses What Freedom Means JUDGE GENESIS DRAPER: “Many of us think of freedom as being free from physical confinement, but true freedom is being free from oppression and having the opportunity to reach your full potential. Our right to assemble, right to vote, right to free speech and right to religion all serve one purpose…to guard against oppression.

As we celebrate Juneteenth and the physical freedom it granted, let us also celebrate the power in our voice, our vote and our values. It is the use of these tools that opens the doors of possibility for our children and our children’s children.”

JUDGE GENESIS DRAPER HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW #12

Judge Toria J. Finch Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE TORIA J FINCH: “Notwithstanding of the fact that the literal meaning of freedom is defined as the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved, when I think of what freedom means to me personally, I immediately think of sacrifices.

Freedom never stands alone in my mind, but it is accompanied with thoughts of longsuffering and sacrifices. Since the beginning of time, the freedoms that we at times carelessly possess, whether it is the freedom of physical liberties, the freedom of thought, the freedom of religion, the freedom to love, or the freedom to simply exist in a space and time without inequality or injustice, it all has been achieved at the expense of the many sacrifices of those that came before us, and the many women and men that continue to fight for us on the grand stages of the battlefields of the world and our local communities. Although, easily taken for granted, freedom is something that if we don’t continue to vigorously protect, we stand to lose, because unfortunately freedom is just not free.”

JUDGE TORIA J. FINCH HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW #9

Judge David C. Newell Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE DAVID C. NEWELL: “At the risk of stating the obvious, "freedom" means a lot of different things to different people. People find its meaning in the inspirational words of Martin Luther King, Jr. or maybe even a popular song. But one thing that I have observed about freedom is that people, including myself, do not seem to think specifically about what it means to them on a regular basis.

If you look at the dictionary definition it can mean the quality of being free as in the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action. It certainly means that to me as I often marvel at little things many of us take for granted such as the ability to catch a quick bite to eat at a fast-food restaurant. But I also see it quite often in the big things like the ability to vote for who will be my voice in passing the laws that will govern my daily life.

And that leads me to another definition of freedom, that of a political right. It is a great paradox that our freedoms are based upon our responsibilities as citizens of the United States to participate in the process of self-governance.

You can feel that responsibility not only in those little reminders such as a notice for jury duty, but also in the eyes of soldiers returning from foreign soil where they fought to bring freedom to others and preserve it for us at home.

So perhaps that is what freedom means most to me. Those dictionary definitions and real life examples serve as humbling reminders of how truly blessed I am to live in a country with so much freedom that I rarely have to question my access to it.

And they also serve to obligate me to exercise that freedom in a way that preserves that liberty for my family, my friends, and my fellow citizens.”

JUDGE DAVID C. NEWELL TEXAS COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS - PLACE 9

Judge Beau Miller Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE BEAU MILLER: “We have a complicated relationship with freedom in this country, because the Enlightenment values on which we were founded, while progressive at the time, only applied to land-holding men. Women, people of color, of differing cultural and economic backgrounds, of different sexual orientations, and people of diverse faiths all had to fight not just for liberty, but for basic equality. “We, the people”...., means everyone.

What freedom means to me is the upholding of laws that advance personal freedoms, and which embrace the joyous diversity we all share.

It is how a person acts that gives their true measure: acting without prejudice, discrimination, or harm, but acting with openness, generosity, and goodness.

As the Transcendentalist Theodor Parker so memorably said, who inspired Martin Luther King, Jr. and I believe his words now more than ever, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice”. Justice and the law are freedom.”

JUDGE BEAU MILLER 190TH CIVIL DISTRICT COURT -- HARRIS COUNTY

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Constable Herschel Smith Discusses What Freedom Means to Him CONSTABLE HERSCHEL SMITH: “When I think of freedom I imagine all the slaves and activists who fought and died for me. Now I have the freedom and right to act and speak as I want without physical hindrance or enslavement. One may ask are we really free though? I would say good question because in order to really be free we have to break chains from the inside by freeing our minds from bondage and be bold enough to take that first step. We have the right to stand up for ourselves and what we believe in. Standing up for ourselves allows our light to shine so that others can imitate that power. As a veteran who served in the U.S. Army, I have seen the good and indifferences in people of all dimensions. I now understand that we are so much more alike than different, but in most cases our circumstances determine the outcome of the choices we make. I am empowered because I have the ability to make choices and face the consequences of my decisions – which is my responsibility. Freedom for me begins from within. So, let’s start there and not allow anyone to take that away from you.”

CONSTABLE SMITH WALLER COUNTY - PRECINCT 3

Judge Kevin Patrick Yeary Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE KEVIN PATRICK YEARY: “Freedom is the power to act according to one's own judgment. It carries with it the duty to be responsible for one's own actions. It includes the ability to seek one's own path in life, the right to choose the good or the bad, and the ability to prosper or fail. It requires the will to accept consquences, be they good or bad.

Real freedom, understood properly and exercised appropriately, leads people to a sense of gratitude and to a spirit of charity and joy.”

JUDGE KEVIN PATRICK YEARY TEXAS COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS - PLACE 4

Judge Michelle Moore Discusses What Freedom Means JUDGE MICHELLE MOORE: “Freedom to me means being your true authentic self. It means to live life on your terms without restrictions or being confined to what others think you should be. Freedom to me means being able to pursue your dreams and make your own life choices without the fear of condemnation.”

JUDGE MICHELLE MOORE 314TH JUVENILE DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY

Attorney Chris Carmona Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

ATTORNEY CHRIS CARMONA: “Freedom is different things to different people depending on their background and what struggles they went through growing up.

For me, Freedom is having the ability to pursue any goal or dream I choose in a country that stands for building your own destiny. Freedom is the ability to be me without feeling that I will be persecuted for not fitting a typical mold of another.

Freedom is the ability to sleep at night without fear that injustices that occur else where around the world, don’t make it into our neighborhoods because of the sacrifices that our soldiers make to keep us safe. To me, Freedom is the essence of being an American.”

ATTORNEY CHRIS CARMONA FORMER CANDIDATE FOR HARRIS COUNTY ATTORNEY

Judge Sandra J. Peake Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE SANDRA J. PEAKE: “What does freedom mean to me? Freedom today looks much different to me than it used to. Freedom is a feeling of optimism, of the confidence that adversity can be overcome, that the people around you are able to define the dream of freedom for themselves individually, and, to be able to visualize, actualizing those dreams for themselves and their families. Freedom is reflected in a feeling of hope and empowerment in organizations that I am proud to me a member of as the organizations strive to serve the communities in which we live, raise our families, worship and work in. It also means that I can experience freedom in seeing progress. Improvements in our justice system, housing, educational achievements demonstrated by graduations at various levels, scholarship opportunities, employment opportunities, and a more equal playing field while competing for even greater opportunities. All of these things point to significant progress and greater freedoms for more people and improving the quality of life for all. Visible and steady progress towards these goals means freedom to me.”

JUDGE SANDRA J. PEAKE 257TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

Angelique Bartholomew Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

ANGELIQUE BARTHOLOMEW: “As an African American Female being asked what freedom means to me is a challenging question to address.

Freedom symbolizes a multitude of things. As a women, Freedom is the right to choose and control my own destiny, make choices and participate in society on any level without any ceiling. As an African American it means to be able to perform at my greatest potential and not worry that I will be judged or overlooked for my skin color and hair texture before having the chance to prove that I am great!

Freedom is not personalizing the many misconceptions that strangers or family members may have of who they envision me to be and being sure of who I AM. Being Free is in so many ways to, just be authentically you.

Freedom is continually breaking chains that have locked away my confidence; breaking my own invisible mental and emotional limitations.

Freedom is learning but even more important, unlearning the ways of the world. Being on the receiving end of growth and change. Even Rosa Parks road the back of the Bus before making History. Freedom to Me is making my mark in History.”

ANGELIQUE BARTHOLOMEW, JD VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MPACT STRATEGIC CONSULTING

Former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett Discusses Freedom

FORMER HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE ED EMMETT: “As a boy, I lived in East Texas. The son of an oil field worker and a housewife, I was the first in my family to graduate from college.

As a grown man, I have had the privilege of holding elected and appointed offices, and I have traveled the world. As I saw the world, I reflected upon my growth and realized that the one factor most responsible for my success was being born an American. The United States of America provides the fertile ground from which an East Texas boy can become educated and play on the world stage.

And if the United States provides the fertile ground for accomplishment and progress, it is the freedom given to each individual that nurtures their growth.

Every day, I am grateful that I was born an American.”

HONORABLE ED EMMETT FORMER HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE

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Congressman Kevin Brady Shares His Thoughts on Freedom

CONGRESSMAN KEVIN BRADY: “Freedom is everything. But what Freedom will never be is free. Freedom is a precious gift that our veterans and our fallen have secured for us and continue to secure for us.

Being an American is about being free.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior said “we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom.” He was so right that “a man can't ride you unless your back is bent.”

As Americans we must always stand proud and tall for freedom and against injustice. We must have faith to take the harder path with the greatest rewards. Being a servant leader will never be the easy path, but it is the most rewarding path.

Serving my constituents and my state in Washington, DC is an honor that I do not take lightly. It’s my duty to preserve freedom for all Americans. As Dr. King said “The time is always right to do what is right.” That time is now.”

CONGRESSMAN KEVIN BRADY UNITED STATES CONGRESSMAN FOR THE 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF TEXAS

Tracy Y. Scott Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

TRACY Y. SCOTT: “Freedom is unapologetically Black. William Madison McDonald, the first Black millionaire in Texas, died on July 4, 1950. In my opinion, he lived and died free. Mr. McDonald orchestrated, during an immediate post slavery era, wealth and built the Fort Worth Black business community including the first Black owned bank in Texas, Fraternal Bank. Mr. McDonald used a business model we should mirror today. He maintained three positions: business (entrepreneur) , politics (kingmaker) and a brotherhood (fraternalist).

Today, the same model works if applied with trust and integrity.

Freedom is when we (Black folks) create collective models that generate collective wealth, influence and power without allowing the guilt associated with healthy selfishness to block progress.

Today, we have more money, education and access than ever before. Freedom is in how we apply and unify all three privileges.

Freedom is Pro Black isn't Anti _______. Freedom is Black women and men seeing past society's narrative to shape and live our own existence. Freedom is Black women collectively owning our crafted "2 boxes checked" presence to lift and secure a place for Black men beside, behind and out front of us.

Freedom is unapologetically Black.”

TRACY Y. SCOTT THE BLACK WOMEN’S PAC

Dr. Carla Brailey Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

DR. CARLA BRAILEY: “Harriet Tubman once said, “Home is where freedom is...” My parents migrated, as a newly married couple, to Houston from a small rural town called Abbeville in Louisiana. They were free to pursue opportunities and they found great opportunities in the form of employment and their first home. In my parent’s home, I remember growing up as a young girl feeling free to develop my intellectual potential and to be expressive with a voice. And when freedom transfers to our intellectual being, it finds our soul and spirit and nurtures peace and passion, love and legacy, heart and happiness, fire and fantasies, vulnerabilities and victories, and dreams and destiny. At the same time, freedom will manifest as a core attribute to develop our moral compass, to seek justice for humanity, and to recognize prejudice and bias.

In the end, it is freedom that advances our potential and guides our journeys. If we do not develop the strengths of freedom, both our minds and our souls are enslaved.”

DR. CARLA BRAILEY VICE CHAIR, TEXAS DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Judge Shannon Baldwin Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE SHANNON BALDWIN: “Freedom means the ability to have choices without restraint. Typically, I’ve always associated freedom of choice with education. The better education, the better your choices are and the more freedom you achieve. While that is true, I’ve learned that we still have a long way to go to achieve real freedom.

Our society must strive to achieve freedom of ALL of our marginalized communities.

We should eliminate homelessness, focus on mental health and wealth should not determine a person’s value. One’s sexual preference or identity should not be life threatening!

Your rights end where the next person’s rights begin!”

JUDGE SHANNON BALDWIN HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW #4

Councilwoman Martha Castex Tatum Discusses Freedom

COUNCILWOMAN MARTHA CASTEX TATUM: “Freedom is a beautiful and powerful word. The meaning of freedom for each person is shaped by their environment and their sphere of influence. My parents encouraged me to never stop learning and to value education and life lessons. I was encouraged to sacrifice and work hard during my early years so I would have a knowledge base leading me to recognize the importance of being free from enslavement of the mind, potential bad jobs, unhealthy relationships, unnecessary debt or anything that threatens your peace and hope. Freedom is also about knowing when to push and pull for yourself and others. It is the limitless thoughts that allow you to live without boundaries while being keenly aware that decisions have consequences. Freedom is my desire to inspire others to limitless thinking and the preservation of being free.

Freedom is a state of mind and we were chosen to be free. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

COUNCILWOMAN CASTEX-TATUM HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL MEMBER FOR DISTRICT K

Judge Sonya Heath Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE SONYA HEATH: “I am so blessed to be raised in our great Country. Being able to choose my elected officials who govern me, being able to run for office, all are part of what freedom means to me. The power to choose who I love, who I marry, and if I marry at all is important. To have a voice, to choose what I do for a living, what I do with my own body or where I go to school. Freedom is being able to raise my children in a free country. Freedom is also being able to practice my religion without any interference from the government. Being able to learn from and correct my mistakes. Each one of us are unique human beings with God-given talents. Freedom to be able to develop those talents, to become the person you see yourself to be. This is what freedom means to me.”

JUDGE SONYA HEATH 310TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY

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Former Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen Discusses What Freedom Means

HONORABLE ALLEN OWEN: “It has been said that freedom is a powerful word in and of itself. It can and does mean a lot of different things to different people.

In democracy and government it means having the right to speak, to act, to be independent, and to be yourself. I believe that I was given that freedom by our forefathers and by those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our Country and those still serving today. Freedom comes with sacrifices and is not to be taken lightly. I am fortunate to live in a Country that has freedoms. As we are seeing in today’s times, that is not true for everyone. Freedom to worship, to vote, to hold office, to own a home, get an education, and to live without the fear of persecution is freedom by definition alone. I pray that those freedoms will continue for many years to come and wish that other nations and countries had those same freedoms.

Maybe someday they will.”

HONORABLE ALLEN OWEN FORMER MAYOR OF MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS

Judge Scot “dolli” Dollinger Discusses What Freedom Means

JUDGE SCOT “dolli” DOLLINGER: “Freedom is living life without being mistreated by others and having equal opportunity to strive for happiness and to fulfill one’s destiny.”

JUDGE SCOT “dolli” DOLLINGER 189TH CIVIL DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

Trustee Danyahel Norris Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

DANYAHEL NORRIS: “The word “freedom” is generally defined as a lack of any restriction. In the social and personal context, it means so much more. In the social context, it means the ability for each person to pursue their dreams and passions, without any hindrances. I believe it’s what the founding fathers had in mind when they included the phrase “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration of Independence. While there are a variety of things that have derailed these plans for many in our society, like slavery, racism, poverty, and a variety of other factors, I believe it is the society we should strive to be. A society which removes any hindrances from citizens as they use their God-given abilities to make this world a better place.

Personally, the word freedom represents even more. It represents a long line of ancestors who came to this country several generations ago. Some willingly, and some in bondage. I think of my 4th great-grandmother, Judy Crocker, who was born a free negro around the same time and same county as Nat Turner. I think of my parents, who were the first generation in their families to go to college. I think of long conversations between myself and my wife, regarding the dreams we are still pursuing. Last, but not least, I think of my children’s dreams and aspirations, as they grow and prepare to make their mark on this world.”

TRUSTEE DANYAHEL NORRIS BOARD TRUSTEE AT HCDE POSITION 6, PRECINCT 1

Judge Ramona Franklin Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE RAMONA FRANKLIN: “Freedom reminds me of a beautifully handcrafted quilt. Each patch in the quilt symbolizes the uniqueness of one being permitted to live the way a person chooses to live without unlawful restraints. One patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom stands for one to live in the United States with the opportunity to lawfully speak his or her mind without being censored. Another patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom is the right of religion. The third patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom allows a woman the right to make decisions for her own body. The fourth patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom allows a law abiding citizen to live anywhere they desire to live. The fifth patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom is the ability to receive an education. The sixth patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom is the ability for one to think as one wants without constraints. The last patch that is crafted in the quilt of freedom is the right of choice. Freedom symbolizes the complete handcrafted quilt that has all of its unique and beautiful patches woven together.”

JUDGE RAMONA FRANKLIN 338TH DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

Burt Levine Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

BURT LEVINE: “Freedom isn’t free. It means the world to me. Freedom is what my father’s grandfather as a young man came here for 110 years ago from Minsk, Russia after Cossacks (East Europe terrorists) caused a Pogrom in their Jewish Ghetto burning homes and businesses, capturing him and putting him on a train to fight for the Czar. Freedom is what my mother’s father came here for 90 years ago from Bialystok, Poland before Nazis locked most of his family in their congregation, lit it on fire and killed them.

Freedom is what my wife’s father, grandfather and greatgrandfather fought for in the US Navy in World War I, World War II and Vietnam. It is why my father served in the US Navy in Vietnam and why I served in the Navy in the First Gulf War and later in the Texas Army National Guard.

Freedom is our ability to pray how much, and how we want, where we want, pledge allegiance to our Flag when and where we want, and to vote for who we want from whatever political parties we want or don’t want. It’s our ability to love our faith, family, free enterprise, and to build our business as we want, speak our mind and protect our family without fear from others.

Freedom isn’t free. It never will be.”

BURT AND SANDRA LEVINE TEXAS CAMPAIGNS

Dr. Karla Brown Discusses What Freedom Means to Her DR. KARLA BROWN: “Freedom is knowing, understanding, and accepting the sovereignty of God. It is living my "Best Life" according to His will knowing that obstacles are inevitable but not out of His control. And, open doors represent His grace. It is under standing that everything is working to manifest the best version of me. It is accepting that I am not in control of anything or anyone.

It is living in the moment, seizing opportunities, releasing rigid attachments to ideals, and enjoying the independence of it all...”

DR. KARLA BROWN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE PROMINENCE ON SOUTHMORE, INC.

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Dr. Cynthia Lenton Gary Discusses Freedom and What it Means to Her

DR. CYNTHIA LENTON GARY: “According to the dictionary, freedom is the act of being free or at liberty instead of being in confinement or under physical restraint. In January of 1941, Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed what freedom means to him during his State of the Union Address. He said that every American has four basic freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from want and freedom from fear. However, in my opinion, Nelson Mandela stated it better. He said, “For to be free is not merely to cast off ones’ chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Freedom entitles us to quality of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It presents us with opportunities that were nonexistent for our ancestors. I can recall being in the fifth grade; my parent, my siblings and I went to visit my uncle in Fort Polk, Louisiana. My sister was a baby at the time, and she needed more milk. We stopped at a store and on the door was a sign that read, “COLOREDS ENTER IN THE BACK”. That sign worried me because in my heart I thought because we were living in America, a country known as the land of the free, the owner of that store should not have been allowed to put that sign up. From that day, I was determined to pursue a field of study that very few African American considered. I received my bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/ Mathematics and worked as a Chemist for many years.

As an African American female, and a citizen of the United States, I was able to receive a quality education that resulted in a bachelors, a masters and a doctorate degree. The lack of confinement and the lack of being restrained by racism and inequality also gave me the opportunity to be the first African American female to service on Missouri City council, the first African American female appointed to Fort Bend Independent School District board of trustees and it gave me the opportunity to service on the board of directors of the Houston Galveston Area Council (H-GAC). I have been blessed with many other opportunities that would not have existed had I not been free. As the mother of sons, I can proudly say that freedom of education and opportunity is why all my sons are college graduates who are working to pursue their dreams to ensure a successful future. I thank GOD for the most important characteristic of our lives and that’s FREEDOM.”

DR. CYNTHIA LENTON GARY FORMER FBISD TRUSTEE/ MISSOURI CITY COUNCILWOMAN

Judge LaShawn A. Williams Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

JUDGE LASHAWN A. WILLIAMS: “I cannot help but think of Freedom in two contexts: one as a free black woman, descendent of slaves; and the other as having freedom of thought and spirit... both essential to who I am and how I live. As a free black woman in what I consider to be the best country in the world, I appreciate what it took to create our system of government, for me to be an elected official now, to love whom I choose, to care for my body as I choose, and to be able to worship the God I serve in the way that I choose. So I am conscious of protecting all that has been won, lost and yet to be, in the name of freedom in the world. In terms of my freedom of mind and spirit, I try to live my life free from mindsets that restrict or vex my spirit. As we celebrate Independence Day, I do so gratefully and fully appreciating that I am entirely free! We cannot celebrate freedom without Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said: “Power without love is reckless and abusive, and love without power is sentimental and anemic…Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.”

Therefore we are free to love, fight for justice and pursue “power correcting everything that stands against love”...and I would add freedom.”

JUDGE LASHAWN A. WILLIAMS HARRIS COUNTY CIVIL COURT AT LAW #3

State Rep. Mary Ann Perez Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

STATE REP. MARY ANN PEREZ: “Freedom means something different to all of us, but for me—the definition is very clear. Freedom is the ability to adequately provide for my children, having the right to make my own choices, and being entrusted to hold leadership roles within my community. Freedom, to any individual, is a hardsought goal and the ability to achieve it by whatever means necessary. Freedom is not found without struggle, determination and sacrifice but it is a fight that’s worthy of the journey. Freedom is having the capacity to enrich your community and be involved in the electoral process.”

STATE REP. MARY ANN PEREZ HOUSE DISTRICT 144 - STATE OF TEXAS

State Rep. Senfronia Thompson Discusses What Freedom Means to Her With Aubrey R. Taylor

STATE REP. SENFRONIA THOMPSON: “In the United States, freedom is heralded throughout our land because of the liberation from the British, the freedom granted to slaves after the Civil War, and our sovereignty as a nation after various battles. For me, freedom is more than being emancipated on paper. It is about being free in all aspects of life. It is about being free from the control of another.

We know freedom is not free. Many have paid the price for the rights and comforts that we possess today, and we must ensure that the rights we have attained are not eroded.

I want my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other families, to grow up without being judged by the color of their skin, who they love or where they grew up. As a state representative, that is why I am so passionate about making laws that protect the lives of all Texans.

I want us to celebrate our own expressions of religion without fear of bombings or retaliation because our beliefs may differ from the convictions of others. I want us to be able to express our love, our speech, our thoughts, as well as our votes without suppression.

Ideologically, we are free, but we must continue to fight for the preservation of our freedom.”

STATE REP. SENFRONIA THOMPSON TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - DISTRICT 141

Manish Seth Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

MANISH SETH: “I am free to ….” those are powerful words.

We are fortunate to live in a country in which not only can we state those words but we can act upon them as well. I am reminded of this daily, when I watch the news and see people in other countries who do not have the freedom to live life to the fullest and enjoy the freedoms we have in the United States. I appreciate that we have the privilege to be ourselves and do what makes us happy.

Freedom to me is the ability to be who we are and to be the best we can be.

My parents came here from India so that their kids would be free to learn in good schools, free to make friends of their choice, and free to choose the careers of their own choosing. I was fortunate in that I had the opportunity to attend a university in which I could make choices and follow my interests and passions. Whether it was helping with student campaigns, run for office of student organizations, or choose the field of study that was most appropriate for me, I had the freedom to pursue my dreams. It didn't stop there for me.

The freedoms provided in our country have allowed me to follow my dreams and work in an industry where I am able to impact lives and help others to achieve their dreams as well.

While being able to choose your own professional path is important, our freedoms also allow us to meet people of different backgrounds and discuss our differences. We live in a great country in which we have the freedom to have different thoughts and ideas but still come together. Freedom allows us to be us, and we can continue to say, “we are free to…”

MANISH SETH CANDIDATE FOR STATE REP. HD-27

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Precinct Chairwoman LaShelle Scott Discusses Freedom

PRECINCT CHAIR LASHELLE SCOTT: “Freedom means the ability to explore and create with endless roads. Do I believe African Americans have achieved freedom? Yes and no, while we have made significant gains we are still a great distance from being free. Our ancestors have provided a foundation: the end of slavery, Civil Rights and segregation. However we are reminded at various points in current affairs that we are not free. The mass incarceration of our people; our voting rights still being challenged; housing discrimination and being profiled by those who should be protecting us must be eradicated. We will not achieve freedom until the total liberation of African Americans in this still very much racist society achieved.”

CHAIRWOMAN LASHELLE SCOTT HARRIS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PRECINCT #559

TRAVIS MCGEE: “Freedom means a lot of things to a lot of different people, but freedom should mean the same for all people. When I think of freedom I think of affordable housing, livable wages -- innocent until proven guilty. I think of fair, quality, equitable education with options of affordable higher education. I think of a better quality of life for every man, woman, and child regardless of their race, color, or creed without the fear of deportation. Freedom is transparent leadership for “We the People” vs. “Sellout” or dictatorship for everything, but “We The People.” Freedom is the right to be afforded a fair trial in a court of law regardless of one’s economic, geographic or demographic status. Freedom is representation equal to taxation. Freedom is a world without racism, classism or anything else that discriminates and/or causes division among us. Freedom is a judicial system that is for all people vs. continuous injustice for “just us”. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor it must be demanded by the oppressed.”

TRAVIS MCGEE COMMUNITY LEADER/ACTIVIST -- HARRIS COUNTY

Oscar Gonzales Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

OSCAR GONZALES: “My first reflection is that I come from poverty and struggle.

My maternal side was from Mexico. My maternal grandfather built his home with his own hands in 5th Ward. He was a proud man who didn't believe in accepting handouts; worked all his life as a longshoreman. He raised his children after my grandmother passed away. He was a Conservative Democrat, if you can believe those existed back then. I learned a lot from him.

My paternal side is Native. My dad’s family worked the farms and fields, picking cotton and watermelons. My dad believes in hard work too.

I spoke English and Spanish, and in the 70's I was beat up for that.

I learned to question everything because that was the battle cry of the Hippies during the 60's and 70's.

Freedom to me is, being raised in poverty, and having the freedom to achieve and surpass the dreams and expectations you have for yourself.

As a child I feared and admired Police. However, I dreamed of being an officer one day. So, I applied for the Sheriff’s Department at the age of 25-years old, and was accepted a year later, near my 26th birthday.

My acceptance made me the very first Peace Officer on either side of my family. However, my only nephew also became a Peace Officer, but he unfortunately passed away two days before his 25th birthday.

I served the citizens of this great city, state, and country, for a couple months short of 30 years. I want you to know that it was indeed an honor and privilege to serve.”

OSCAR GONZALES THE FIRST PEACE OFFICER IN HIS FAMILY

Carey Lashley Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

CAREY LASHLEY: “Many members of my family moved from New Orleans to California in the 70’s to create a better future for themselves. I was born in California and then my family moved to Houston, Texas in 2001 seeking better opportunities and growth. Freedom to me means, we always have the opportunity to “Energize and Empower” not only ourselves, but, our community. Freedom to me means we always have the opportunity to “Educate Ourselves” and our community. As far as I am concerned, true freedom is realized when we Energize, Empower and Educate ourselves, our family, and our community.”

CAREY LASHLEY CANDIDATE FOR STATE REP. HD-131

Community Leader Travis McGee Discusses What Freedom Means

Former State Rep. Gary Elkins Discusses What Freedom Means

FORMER STATE REP. GARY ELKINS: “Freedom is defined as the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Therefore our first amendment to the U.S. constitution is the foundation of our political and religious freedom. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Ayn Rand said, “Intellectual Freedom cannot exist without political freedom; Political Freedom cannot exist without economic freedom; A free mind and a free market are corollaries”.

I believe that it is necessary for people to know my world view because our world view is what defines our beliefs about Freedom.

I possess a Judeo-Christian world view. I believe like our founding fathers that all men are created equal and are endowed with inalienable rights that come from God and not the State. So my world view is that our rights are granted to us by God Almighty, and not the state (i.e. government).

I believe that men should be free to make good decisions and bad decisions without interference from government. In today’s political environment, government tries to protect people from their bad decisions. In a free society, men who make bad decisions will suffer the consequences of those decisions and hopefully learn from them and not repeat them. When government interferes and tries to keep people from suffering the consequences of their bad decisions, then they never learn from their mistakes.”

GARY ELKINS FORMER STATE REPRESENTATIVE HOUSE DISTRICT 135

Sheree Harris-Fisher Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

SHEREE HARRIS FISHER: “Freedom is an absolute right to be uninhibited, unlimited and unapologetic in expression -- whether expression of thought or emotion. Freedom is empowering, shameless, and fearless. Without it, people remain bound to other people’s expectations of them, suppressed by conformity, and stunted by the limits created by the doubts and fears in their own minds. Freedom is power. The more freedom a person has, the more powerful they are in several aspects. The most important aspect relates to self. Freedom gives people power to be their authentic selves.”

SHEREE HARRIS-FISHER POLITICAL STRATEGIST/CONSULTANT

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Justice Ken Wise Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUSTICE KEN WISE: “Freedom means the ability to achieve whatever you want and live however you want based on your own talent and willingness to work hard.

The United States of America was founded on this ideal.

Our founders desired a society with a very limited government designed only to protect the nation and foster the commerce that would help everyone succeed. Our founders wanted to avoid a big government, which restricts freedom. Our founders want to avoid oppressive and voluminous laws, which restrict freedom. I pray for a return to the idea that each of us can succeed if we respect each other, work hard and develop our talents.”

JUSTICE KEN WISE TEXAS 14TH COURT OF APPEALS -- PLACE 7

Judge Lucia G. Bates Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE LUCIA G. BATES: “Freedom to me means that I can express myself and opinions while exercising diplomacy. Having the freedom to pursue positions that have been historically unheard of and unattainable. Freedom allows me to enhance my creativity and appreciate my uniqueness, unabashed.

Freedom also means overcoming obstacles despite lacking what others perceive as absolute, allowing me to continue my daily responsibilities of serving my community while being compassionate and keeping my integrity intact. Freedom allows me to compete with myself and always remembering who paved the way to make my impossibilities possible.”

JUDGE LUCIA G. BATES HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 3, PLACE 2

Judge Steven Kirkland Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE STEVEN KIRKLAND: “Whenever, I ponder that question, I hear the voice of Barbara Jordan rumbling across the prairie. I had the good fortune to hear Ms. Jordan mark the Sesquicentennial of the battle at San Jacinto. It was a sunny morning in March, and her voice echoed across the battleground, her words…

“Freedom, that was what it was all about, freedom…We are revolutionaries, we Texans...we Americans, born of revolution. Born of a desire for the God-given right of the individual...be he brown, white, yellow...to live his own life as he chooses. ...While I will never be as eloquent as she, I will build on what she offered that morning. I find freedom in many places and ways.

Whether it is hiking up Emory Peak in Big Bend or riding a bike along Buffalo Bayou, sitting in quite contemplation in a Buddhist temple or singing hymns in a Baptist church, holding my partner’s hand as we walk down the beach or playing ball with my nephew, casting a ballot, or reading a good book. For me, the freedom to choose my own destiny means the freedom to explore new ideas without fear of reprisal or retribution and to use those ideas to build my life. As Congresswoman Jordan so eloquently put it, that is what our revolutions were about.”

JUDGE STEVEN KIRKLAND 334TH CIVIL DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY

Judge Sedrick T. Walker Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

JUDGE SEDRICK WALKER: “At its core, freedom means the ability to speak your mind and live your life as you see fit. However, in our constantly evolving society, the notion of freedom applies in so many different areas. The pursuit of achieving freedom for everyone is a centuries-old battle that continues today. As a criminal court judge, I deal with the issue of freedom in its most literal sense on a day-to-day basis. As we pause to celebrate our freedoms, I believe it’s important that we reflect on the steps our ancestors took to fight for the liberties we currently enjoy.”

JUDGE SEDRICK T. WALKER II HARRIS COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW #11

Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

DR. PRETTA VANDIBLE STALLWORTH: “Freedom is Catharsis – LIBERATION! The greatest challenge in public service is the freedom and courage to stand up for what is just, fair, and right. As public servants we must have freedom and courage to speak on behalf of the people. A good public servant must be the voice of the people, must address the needs of the populace, and must remain steadfast in the work of community relief.

As a public servant I choose to exercise my blood-bought freedom by engaging in catharsis for my community. I choose courage - to liberate my people. While I’ve chosen to liberate my people, I’ve come to the full realization that my choice comes at a great price. My chosen path makes me a moving target, a political pariah if you will. However, being a moving target does not matter to me. I believe the work of community relief must be done, and I’m committed to doing it. The needs of the populace must be addressed, and I’m making it my mission to address them.

Choosing the path of public service requires freedom and courage. Freedom and courage bring about catharsis (the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong repressed emotions) in my opinion. Catharsis is necessary for the education of the community. Education leads to the liberation of the minds of the people.”

DR. PRETTA VANDIBLE STALLWORTH HCC BOARD TRUSTEE -- DISTRICT IX

Judge Linda Dunson Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE LINDA DUNSON: “Freedom means being truly unshackled. Unshackled so that my mind can dream dreams; Unshackled so that opportunity is an open door; Unshackled so that I can embrace humanity in all of its gore; Unshackled so that I am seen instead of looked at; Unshackled so that I am not one of a few; Unshackled so that I can love freely; Unshackled so that I may serve my God without offending; Unshackled so that wealth, health and justice are not kept from me; Unshackled so that "all men are created equal" is a truth instead of an ideal; Unshackled so that the chains are forever shattered to the point that I don't ever even remember being shackled…

That's FREEDOM.” JUDGE LINDA DUNSON 309TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT - HARRIS COUNTY

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Judge Nikita Harmon Discusses What Freedom Means to Her

JUDGE NIKITA HARMON: “No idea is more fundamental to me as an American and as an individual than freedom. Freedom means the power or right to act, speak, or think freely without governmental hindrance or restraint. It means that you can have your own opinion and that you can share that opinion with other people even if they don’t agree with you.

Freedom does not mean the absence of authority or the right to do whatever one pleased—far from it. However, it entails the privileges enumerated in the Bill of Rights—freedom of speech, the press, assembly, and religion.”

JUDGE NIKITA V. HARMON 176TH DISTRICT COURT HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

Orlando Sanchez Shares His Thoughts on Freedom FORMER HARRIS COUNTY TREASURER ORLANDO SANCHEZ: “Freedom means the liberty to live one's life in a country that, as a matter of law, protects our God given natural rights. As a refugee from communism, the USA means freedom for me.”

ORLANDO SANCHEZ FORMER HARRIS COUNTY TREASURER

Philip Owens Discusses What Freedom Means to Him

PHILIP OWENS: “Freedom is more than an idea, it is an ideal. The Declaration of Independence begins with the fundamental truth that “we are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights -- life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. Jefferson and the Founding Fathers recognized that no man or Government can take away what God has given.

These are rights we have not just at the beginning of our nation’s life or when we may become a citizen. But something that we are given at our individual creation and even more so at the beginning of the creation of life itself. Consider that at the very beginning of man, and at the beginning of our life, we have the freedom to live a free life in pursuit of what makes us happy. America itself was founded upon that notion. In fact, these freedoms are so important that brothers went to war with brothers to ensure every American had these.

I take that notion and the ideal of freedom very seriously and very personally.

For me, freedom is not only my right, but the right of others. And it’s my duty to protect those rights; because, if freedom can be taken from someone else, it can be taken from me. Now people may forfeit their right to freedom by violating the rights and freedoms of others; but that is the consequence of their choosing.

Government itself should protect our rights, but not interfere with or limit them. That’s why I think as we celebrate freedom we must also recognize the responsibility of being free. It is our duty to protect those rights by the wise exercising of them. But we cannot protect people from the outcome of poor choices by protecting or compensating them for making poor choices.

Freedom means that I can make my life better by taking advantage of those rights, but not by taking advantage of others or their rights.

Nelson Mandela said: “For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

PHILIP OWENS POLITICAL CONSULTANT/STRATEGIST

Dr. Rhonda Skillern Jones Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

HISD TRUSTEE RHONDA SKILLERN JONES: “Freedom is POWER. It is a state of mind and body, an individual's mental and physical power to act, speak and think without hindrance, restraint or control. It is our right as Americans granted by the Constitution and protected by our brave sisters and brothers in the military. Freedom means every person regardless of their beliefs, affiliations, physical presentation, affinities and or life station can and must have full self governing authority over their life and life choices. It is the ability to define ourselves and live in our truth unabashedly and without conforming to prescribed constraints. The goal of freedom is independence and the key is education.

America must ensure it lives up to its promise of freedom by ensuring each and every person is afforded the opportunity to exist independently on their own terms and provided the education to do so.

My freedom comes from the confidence my parents instilled in me to be unafraid to live my life bold and unafraid. My mother set an example of what it is to exercise your freedom as a black woman in this country. My father raised me with the fortitude to stand up to infractions against my rights. They never stopped reinforcing that education in this country makes the difference in one's ability to experience freedom in its purest form. I live in those principles and pass them down to my own children and those around me. If freedom is to be realized, it must be actively exercised.”

DR. RHONDA SKILLERN JONES HISD BOARD TRUSTEE FOR DISTRICT II

Former Judge Grant Dorfman Discusses What Freedom Means

FORMER JUDGE GRANT DORFMAN: “Freedom is the natural state of Man, gifted to us by God as a cornerstone of our covenant. Freedom allows us to explore and develop our God-given talent and to become whatever our ability and hard work can conspire to achieve. But like the covenant more generally, our inheritance of freedom entails responsibilities too.

The French philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau famously wrote of his time that "Man is born free, but he is everywhere in chains." As a public official, I tried to be mindful always that government should be the servant of the people and never their master. I believe that is what our Founders intended, and the basis upon which they built our Constitution. And I believe that all of us have a special role and duty as citizens to police our government and ensure that it strives always to work within the limits imposed by the Constitution and our laws, so that Ronald Reagan's words remain true: "We are a nation that has a government -- not the other way around."

HONORABLE GRANT DORFMAN FORMER JUDGE FOR THE 334TH CIVIL DISTRICT COURT

Kathy Blueford Daniels Shares Her Thoughts on Freedom

KATHY BLUEFORD DANIELS: “Freedom means not being imprisoned or enslaved -- mentally or physically.

To believe that blacks, browns, and LGBTQ+ people receive equality. That everyone is able to achieve prosperity and greatness without hindrance or judgment from others. Freedom means assurance that our black and brown children are provided equal educational opportunities as children attending suburban schools. Freedom means our legal system and the religious beliefs of others does not “continue” to the minimize Constitutional Rights of those based on skin color or economic status. Freedom also means picking up the baton from those who bled and died for future generational opportunities. As a Gold Star aunt, I know freedom is not FREE!” KATHY BLUEFORD DANIELS COMMUNITY/CIVIC LEADER

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INTERVIEW Featured

Freedom is a gift of God Says Justice Jeff Brown AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What does freedom mean to you?

JUSTICE JEFF BROWN: “Freedom is a gift of God. Government can help secure and protect our freedom, but it’s not the source of our freedom. And government can just as easily deprive us of our freedom. God intends for us to live freely—to worship Him as our conscience directs us, to speak fearlessly against oppression and tyranny, and to be free to work and provide for our families. Living freely is the only way each of us can become the complete person God wants us to be. But freedom cannot be taken for granted; it must be protected and nourished. Perhaps Ronald Reagan said it best: “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.

We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Why are you proud to be an American?

JUSTICE JEFF BROWN: “I’m proud to be an American because our country is an exceptional place. It’s a place where big dreams can come true for those willing to work hard to achieve them.

Being an American is not about belonging to one ethnicity; it’s about buying into a collection of ideas about how people should live their lives: freely, dutifully, and according to the rule of law. And I’m proud to be an American because more often than not, America has stood up for goodness and decency and fair play. America and Americans are far from perfect, but we are exceptional because of the ideals we strive to realize, both for ourselves and the whole world.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “I would like to take this moment to personally thank Justice Jeff Brown for honoring our request to share his thoughts on “FREEDOM’ and what it means to him with the readers of Houston Business Connections Newspaper©”

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “It’s imperative that we make it our business to elect the “BEST-QUALIFIED” candidates who value “US” whenever we go to the polls to cast our ballot.”

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MEET TEXAS SUPREME COURT JUSTICE JEFF BROWN

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JUSTICE JEFF BROWN

Texas Supreme Court — Place 6

Jeff Brown has been a judge since 2001, serving at all three levels of the Texas judiciary. He has served on the Supreme Court of Texas since his appointment by Gov. Rick Perry in 2013. In 2014, he won a statewide election to retain the seat. Before reaching the high court, Jeff served six years each as a trial judge and an appellate justice.

A sixth-generation Texan, Jeff was born and raised in Dallas County and grew up the son of a 35-year Dallas police officer. Jeff received a B.A. in English from the University of Texas at Austin and his law degree, magna cum laude, from the University of Houston. While in law school, Jeff served as Chief Note & Comment Editor of the Houston Law Review.

After law school, Jeff worked as a law clerk on the Supreme Court of Texas, first for Justice Jack Hightower, a Democrat, then for Justice Greg Abbott, a Republican (Jeff is just the fourth person to serve as a law clerk on the Supreme Court of Texas and later become a justice on the Court). Jeff then worked for Baker Botts in Houston. He had a diverse civil-litigation practice, trying jury cases throughout Southeast Texas. He is board-certified in civil trial law.

In 2001, Gov. Perry appointed Jeff to the 55th District Court. From the beginning, Jeff was consistently ranked near the top of the Houston Bar Association’s judicialevaluation polls. During his six years on the trial bench, Jeff won an opposed election in 2002, was unopposed in 2006, and received two judge-of-the-year awards.

In 2007, Gov. Perry appointed Jeff to the Fourteenth Court of Appeals. As an appellate justice, Jeff authored hundreds of opinions. He also remained at or near the top of the bar poll. In 2011, Jeff was named Appellate Judge of the Year by the Texas Association of Civil Trial & Appellate Specialists. He won opposed elections to keep his seat in 2008 and 2012. In 2013, Jeff’s colleagues chose

him to serve as interim chief justice of the court.

Jeff is co-editor of the Texas Rules of Evidence Handbook, an 1,100-page scholarly treatise published

by O’Connor’s. An elected member of the American Law Institute, Jeff serves as an adviser for the Restatement of the Law Third, Conflicts of Laws. Jeff has been published in several law reviews and journals and is a frequent speaker on law and ethics. He is on the editorial board of The Advocate, the quarterly journal of the State Bar of Texas’ Litigation Section, and the board of the

Houston Law Review, having recently served as chairman. He has worked as an adjunct law professor at the University of Houston and taught constitutional law at the National Judicial College. He is also a longtime member of The Federalist Society and a frequent speaker at the society’s events.

In 2009, Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson appointed Jeff to the state's Multi-District Litigation Panel. He also served on the State Bar’s Pattern Jury Charge Committee. He is a trustee of the Texas Supreme Court Historical Society.

While serving on the court of appeals, Jeff also volunteered every Monday afternoon as a judge for Harris County's STAR Drug Court ("Success Through Addiction Recovery"). STAR is a program for non-violent felony offenders who suffer from drug addiction. Through a combination of intensive drug treatment, community supervision, and accountability to the courts, STAR turns drug-addicted offenders into productive citizens.

Jeff is active in his community. He serves on the advisory board of LifeHouse, a Christian maternity home for unwed expectant mothers, and on the board of the Texas Historical Foundation. In recognition of his professional accomplishments and community service, the Texas Young Lawyers Association named Jeff Outstanding Young Lawyer of Texas in 2006 and the Texas Jaycees named him one of Five Outstanding Young Texans in 2008.

At age 16, Jeff became an Eagle Scout. A longtime adult volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, Jeff received the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award from the National Eagle Scout Association in 2016.

In 2016, Jeff was also presented the Rosewood Gavel Award by St. Mary’s University School of Law. It is awarded annually to an outstanding jurist in recognition of his or her contribution to our system of constitutional democracy.

Jeff and his wife, Susannah, a high-school English teacher, live in Kyle, Texas, and have three children: Kathleen, a recent graduate of the University of Texas at Austin; Rob, a student at the University of Texas; and Gus, in high school. They attend The Journey Church in Buda.

Justice Brown’s term ends December 31, 2024.

As his wife, Susannah, holds the Sam Houston Bible, Justice Jeff Brown takes his oath from Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Hecht.

WWW.TXCOURTS.GOV

Composed of the chief justice and eight justices, the Supreme Court of Texas is the court of last resort for civil matters in the state. The Supreme Court is in Austin, immediately northwest of the state Capitol.

Cadillac to Increase Super Cruise Compatible Highway Network

70,000 additional miles to be available for hands-free driving by Q4 2019

Cadillac is expanding the availability of Super Cruise™1 to an additional 70,000 miles of compatible, divided highways in the United States and Canada.

This expansion will make the industry’s first true hands-free driver assistance feature available on more than 200,000 total miles of compatible highways by the fourth quarter of 2019.

To date, Super Cruise has been available on more than 130,000 miles of limited-access freeways. The expansion builds on Super Cruise’s unique combination of precision LiDAR map data, highprecision GPS, a state-of-the-art Driver Attention System and a network of camera and radar sensors. Some of the divided highways added will include limited intersections and traffic control devices. In the cases of railroad crossings, pedestrian crossings, stoplights or stop signs, Super Cruise will alert drivers to take back control of the vehicle. As always, it remains important for drivers to stay engaged and vigilant at all times while Super Cruise is engaged.

To enable the expanded functionality, an enhancement to the Super Cruise system will be available to 2018 and 2019 model year Cadillac CT6 owners through their Cadillac dealer. Following the completion of the system enhancement, the new, additional map miles will be sent to customer vehicles over the air throughout the summer and fall.

In addition to the mileage expansion, the software update will also include performance improvements, enhancements to increase Super Cruise availability and enhancements to the Driver Attention System.

“We are constantly working to make

2019 Cadillac CT6 with Super Cruise engaged.

Super Cruise the most beneficial system for our customers,” said Mario Maiorana, Super Cruise chief engineer.

“Expanding our offering of compatible highways will allow people the ease and convenience of traveling handsfree more often.”

Last year, Cadillac made updates to its Super Cruise driver assistance feature based on customer feedback, including making Super Cruise activation easier for the driver and adding dynamic lane offset so that a CT6 with Super Cruise activated can adjust slightly over in its lane for driver comfort when passing large vehicles. Gauge cluster messages were also added, to inform drivers why Super Cruise may be not be available in certain instances.

Customers have traveled 2.5 million

miles using Super Cruise since its launch.

Super Cruise is currently available on the 2018 and 2019 model year Cadillac CT6 and will be available on the 2020 model year CT6 later this year. Super Cruise will be available on Cadillac’s all-new CT5 sedan next year.

For further information about Super Cruise and its operation, please visit www.cadillac.com/supercruise.

Even while using the Super Cruise driver assistance feature, always pay attention while driving and do not use a hand-held device. Visit cadillacsupercruise.com for compatible highways and more information. Requires active OnStar plan, active Wi-Fi Hotspot, working electrical system, cell reception and GPS signal.

Katie Downey Coordinator, Advanced Technology Communications Mobile 313-421-9024 katlynn.downey@gm.com

CADILLAC CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Phone 1-800-333-4223 Contact Us | @Cadillac Cadillac Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33169 Detroit, MI 48232-5169

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “In case you don’t know, Cadillac is a division of the American automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM) that designs and builds luxury vehicles.”

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832.212.8735

Cadillac Eases the Stress of Public Parking with New Embedded Parking Capability

Drivers Can Now Find, Book and Pay for Parking from the In-Vehicle Touchscreen Eligible Cadillac drivers can enjoy the convenience of locating, reserving and paying for parking from their invehicle touchscreen before reaching their destination, bringing a new level of luxury to every drive. The new parking capability, powered by ParkWhiz (an Arrive brand), is now included in Cadillac Marketplace1, the industry’s first in-vehicle commerce platform.

“Cadillac’s new parking experience in Marketplace enables drivers to enjoy the journey without wondering where they will park when they reach their destination,” said Scott Goddard, Marketplace line of business leader, Cadillac. “This is another example of how Cadillac is integrating technology that elevates the driving experience.”

To use the new parking capability through Marketplace, users first need to set up a ParkWhiz account online or through the ParkWhiz mobile app. The account will include preferred payment method and vehicle details such as make, model and license plate number. Once it’s set up, users can link their ParkWhiz account within Marketplace to find nearby parking options, see details about the lot or garage, book parking and access their entry/exit parking pass with just a few taps on the in-vehicle touchscreen. ParkWhiz has thousands of spaces available in more than 250 cities across the U.S. “As every driver knows, parking is a core component of the driving experience. In fact, people often spend the same amount of money on parking each month as they do on gas, but with more frequent transactions,” said Dan Roarty, president and COO of Arrive, ParkWhiz’s parent company. “We are thrilled to power parking in Cadillac vehicles, making it simpler for their drivers to reach their destinations.”

General Motors launched Marketplace in December 2017 in connected Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles and has added new merchants to continue to make every drive more productive and enjoyable. Marketplace works independently of the driver’s mobile device and is available on nearly 325,000 properly equipped model year 2017 and newer Cadillac vehicles.

Valid offers can vary. For latest offers, check Marketplace through the vehicle mobile app or your vehicle’s infotainment system (if available). Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective third-party owners and used under agreement.

(Photo by John F. Martin for Cadillac)

Eligible Cadillac drivers can enjoy the convenience of locating, reserving and paying for parking from their in-vehicle touchscreen before reaching their destination, bringing a new level of luxury to every drive.

Katie Minter Cadillac Communications Mobile 313-505-7547 katie.minter@gm.com Stephanie Lang Assistant Manager, OnStar and Connectivity Communications Mobile 313-515-1192 stephanie.lang@gm.com

CADILLAC CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Phone 1-800-333-4223 Contact Us | @Cadillac Cadillac Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33169 Detroit, MI 48232-5169

www.cadillac.com

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com “Just in case you don’t already know, Cadillac's bold and innovative range of prestige vehicles appeal to those who dare to drive the world forward.”

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CADILLAC CROSSOVERS & SUVS Cadillac crossovers and SUVs are as versatile as they are iconic.

XT4

CONFIDENT, SPIRITED AND CONNECTED

A Cadillac vibrant in design and purpose, like the people who drive it. Meet the crossover made for a generation of crossovers.

XT5

BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED UTILITY

A confident, streamlined stance. An ingenious cabin as spacious as it is beautifully crafted. The XT5 makes a statement wherever it goes.

XT6

DRIVE IT TO BELIEVE IT

Imagined through innovation. Engineered to stand out.

Make your move into three rows of finely crafted comfort with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features designed to give you peace of mind. The first of its kind: the Cadillac XT6. Available mid-2019.

ESCALADE

THE ORIGINAL ICON OF ARRIVAL

Make a declaration on the subject of automotive design.

Distinguished, unmistakable, iconic. The Escalade is impossible to ignore.

ESCALADE ESV

AMBITION ON A GRAND SCALE

Unmistakable design. Precision craftsmanship. A powerful command of the road. And up to 121 cubic feet of cargo space.† The Escalade ESV is everything a luxury SUV should be, and more.

© 2019 GENERAL MOTORS

FIND A CADILLAC CROSSOVER & SUV NEAR YOU www.cadillac.com