Every Vote Matters Version One of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

IS HE THE RIGHT CHOICE?

HOUSTON

IS SHE THE RIGHT CHOICE?

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! WHO’S BEST FIT TO LEAD AMERICA? *ALL READER ENDORSEMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:00PM ON 10/14/2016

DONALD TRUMP

HILLARY CLINTON P.03

EMAIL YOUR OPINION TO: AUBREYRTAYLOR@GMAIL.COM

THE RIGHT AND WRONG WAYS TO FILM THE POLICE - P.39

“As a citizen of the United States, you have a constitutional right to take photographs and record video of anything that is plainly visible from a public space. This includes federal buildings, transportation buildings, and, perhaps most importantly, police and government officials.” -- Mark Thiessen, Attorney

The 247th District Court: Welcome to Harris County’s User Friendly Family Court

EVERY VOTE WILL MATTER!

SEE FEATURE ON PAGE 2: This Court was recognized repeatedly in 2015 by the District Clerk’s Office for being the most efficient court in Harris County for e-filing. The Court’s Coordinator, Pamela Hunt, received the highly prestigious Inns of Court Professionalism Award in 2015, and both Judge Schmude and his Associate Judge, Paula Vlahakos, received impressive reviews in the latest Judicial Poll Results from the Houston Bar Association. Congratulations to Judge Schmude and the staff of the 247th District Court for a job well done.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

PROJECTED WINNERS ON THE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016 BALLOT

BRADY

BABIN

CARGILL

ELLIS

MILES

OLIVERSON

ALLEN

MURPHY

BOHAC

WILLIAMSON

JOHNSON

INSIDE: THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION & BILL OF RIGHTS! WALLE

THOMPSON

DUTTON

HERNANDEZ

ALVARADO

THIERRY

FARRAR

DELGADO

GREEN

WALKER

VARA

HARRIS COUNTY COURT NEWS

SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, EVENT INFO, AND CONCERNS TO: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com

The 247TH District Court:

Welcome to Harris County’s User Friendly Family Court!

W

hen Judge John Schmude took office as the Presiding Judge of the 247TH District Court of Harris County in January, 2015, he utilized his business and legal background to implement a series of sweeping, common sense reforms that have transformed a backlogged family District Court into one of the most user friendly and efficient courts in Harris County. And it’s clear that these reforms are being enthusiastically embraced by lawyers and litigants involved in family law matters.

One such reform that was intended to promote efficiency in the allocation of judicial resources is the Court’s new “Express Docket.” The Express Docket is designed specifically for lawyers and litigants who have a matter that requires less than five minutes of the Court’s time. The Express

Docket allows parties to get in and out of court very quickly first thing in the morning before the call of the main docket. This simple reform has succeeded in improving the flow of cases in an extremely busy District Court and in giving lawyers a tool that can be used to allow them to handle their clients’ needs in a far more efficient and lower cost manner. Greater efficiency in the administration of justice and lower costs for litigants – that sounds like a win-win to me!

Another change that was instituted by Judge Schmude pertains to uncontested cases and default judgments. Most courts have what is called an “Uncontested Docket”, which is designed to handle uncontested matters and default judgments.

Most Uncontested Dockets are set early in the morning during a relatively narrow window of time before the call of the Court’s morning docket. Beginning in January, 2015, the 247th District Court has allowed lawyers and litigants to handle uncon-

tested matters and defaults at any time while the court is in session and available.

This flexible approach has resulted in an improvement in the flow of cases and has given lawyers and litigants the ability to have their settlements and defaults handled at a time that is convenient for them.

Again, greater efficiency for the Court and improved flexibility for litigants – another win-win!

Additional reforms instituted by Judge Schmude include the setting of hearings on temporary orders within 28 days of filing whenever a temporary restraining order is accompanied by a Petition (more than tripling in many cases the speed that litigants can get into court); allowing lawyers and litigants the ability to reset trial dates based on the filing of a written agreement with the court for an agreed continuance when the case has been pending for less than a year; the imposition of sensible time limits in temporary orders hearings; and

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the utilization of pre-trial conferences designed to reduce the waste of judicial resources in any trial requiring more than four hours of the Court’s time.

With a lot of hard work and with the help of sensible reforms, the 247th District Court disposed of more than 4,000 cases in 2015 – more than any family District Court in Harris County. This Court was recognized repeatedly in 2015 by the District Clerk’s Office for being the most efficient court in Harris County for e-filing.

The Court’s Coordinator, Pamela Hunt, received the highly prestigious Inns of Court Professionalism Award in 2015, and both Judge Schmude and his Associate Judge, Paula Vlahakos, received impressive reviews in the latest Judicial Poll Results from the Houston Bar Association. Congratulations to Judge Schmude and the staff of the 247th District Court for a job well done. Keep up the good work!

THE PUBLISHER I

AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS

WHO’S BEST FIT TO LEAD AMERICA FORWARD?

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

READER POLL: Do you think Donald Trump (the Republican nominee) or Hillary Clinton (the Democratic nominee) is the best person to lead America forward? Check this box for neither!

aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com EMAIL YOUR OPINION BY 10/14/2016:

YOUR NAME:_____________________________________

YOUR EMAIL:_____________________________________

Donald Trump

2016 Republican Nominee

Hillary Clinton

2016 Democratic Nominee

“THE FREEDOM AND RIGHTS WE ENJOY AS AMERICANS MUST BE DEFENDED!”

“

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

by 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 travelled 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.

“

“

JUDGE ED EMMETT IS CURRENTLY THE COUNTY JUDGE FOR HARRIS COUNTY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM BACK IN 2014.

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

by 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.”

“

JUDGE KYLE CARTER IS CURRENTLY THE JUDGE FOR THE 125TH DISTRICT COURT IN HARRIS COUNTY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM.

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Please call one of these licensed Attorneys if you have a legal question, issue or concern!

Alfred Morris Benoit P: (713)963-8866 Bar Card Number: 24064883 TX License Date: 11/07/2008 Eartha Jean Johnson P: (713)864-9997 Bar Card Number: 10709365 TX License Date: 11/02/1990 Bethew Bertrand Jennings P: (832)524-8352 Bar Card Number: 24036843 TX License Date: 11/06/2002 Christopher Demerson P: (832)209-2201 Bar Card Number: 24066913 TX License Date: 11/06/2009 Latosha Lewis P: (832)426-7027 Bar Card Number: 24027452 TX License Date: 11/01/2000

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“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

BRADY

BABIN

CARGILL

ELLIS

MILES

OLIVERSON

ALLEN

MURPHY

BOHAC

WILLIAMSON

JOHNSON

WALLE

THOMPSON

DUTTON

HERNANDEZ

ALVARADO

THIERRY

FARRAR

DELGADO

GREEN

WALKER

VARA

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "I would like to thank all of the Conservative and Democratic candidates who are finding value our mission to educate and empower Harris County voters. Please be reminded that every vote will matter on Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in Harris County.

And finally, I am encouraging all registered voters to vote early from Monday, October 24, 2016 through Friday, November 4, 2016."

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 2

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, for District 2 — Ted Poe (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Pat Bryan (DEMOCRAT) and Christopher Hill (LIBERTARIAN). Congressman Ted Poe is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 7

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 7 — John Culberson (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by James Cargas (DEMOCRAT).Congressman Culberson is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 8

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 8 —

Kevin Brady (REPUBLICAN) is running for re-election unopposed.*No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Congressman Kevin Brady will be re-elected. ***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 9

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 9 — Jeff Martin (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Al Green (DEMOCRAT). Congressman Al Green is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 10

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 10 — Michael McCaul (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Tawana W. Cadien (DE-

MOCRAT) and Bill Kelsey (LIBERTARIAN). Congressman McCaul is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 18

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 18 — Lori Bartley (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Sheila Jackson Lee (DEMOCRAT).

Congresswoman Jackson Lee is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 22

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 22 — Pete Olson (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Mark Gibson (DEMOCRAT).

Congressman Pete Olson is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 29

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 29 — Julio Garza (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Gene Green (DEMOCRAT). Congressman Gene Green is the incumbent running for re-election in this race. N. Ruben Perez (LIBERTARIAN) is also in this race.***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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U.S. REPRESENTATIVE – DISTRICT 36

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for U.S. Representative, District 36 — Brian Babin is running for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Congressman Brian Babin will be re-elected. ***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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VOTE FOR ELAINE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 AND END ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016

“I value the vote of every voter in Harris County.” - Elaine

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“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.04

TEXAS RAILROAD COMMISSIONER

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian (REPUBLICAN), Grady Yarbrough (DEMOCRAT) and Mark A. Miller (LIBERTARIAN) will face off. This race does not have an incumbent.***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 3

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, Supreme Court, Place 3 — Debra Lehrmann (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Mike Westergren (DEMOCRAT) and two (LIBERTARIAN) candidates. Kathie Glass and Roberto Koelsch are the two Libertarian candidates in this race. Justice Debra Lehrmann is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 5

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, Supreme Court, Place 5 — Paul Green (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Dori Contreras Garza (DEMOCRAT) and Tom Oxford (LIBERTARIAN). Justice Paul Green is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT, PLACE 9

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, Supreme Court, Place 9 — Eva Guzman (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Savannah Robinson (DEMOCRAT) and Don Fulton (LIBERTARIAN). Justice Eva Guzman is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 2

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 2 — Mary Lou Keel is challenging Lawrence “Larry” Meyers (DEMOCRAT). Judge Meyers (formerly a Republican) is the incumbent running for re-election in this race. Mark Ash and Quanah Parker both (LIBERTARIAN) are also in this race.

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JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 5

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5 Scott Walker (REPUBLICAN), Betsy Johnson (DEMOCRAT) and William Bryan Strange (LIBERTARIAN) will face off. There is no incumbent in this race.

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JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 6 On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 6 – Michael E. Keasler (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Robert Burns (DEMOCRAT) and Mark W. Bennett (LIBERTARIAN). Judge Michael E. Keasler is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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MEMBER, STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, DISTRICT 6

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Member, State Board of Education, District 6 — Donna Bahorich (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by R. Dakota Carter (DEMOCRAT) and Whitney Bilyeu (LIBERTARIAN). Donna Bohorich is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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PUBLICAN) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Barbara Cargill will be re-elected. ***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016. “EVERY VOTE MATTERS!”

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STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 4

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Senator, District 4 — Brandon Creighton (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Jenn West (LIBERTARIAN). Senator Brandon Creighton is the incumbent running for re-election in this race. *No Democrat chose to run for this seat.

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STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 11

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Senator, District 11 — Larry Taylor (REPUBLICAN) is running for reelection unopposed.*No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, State Senator Larry Taylor will be re-elected.

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STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 13

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Senator, District 13 – Borris L. Miles (DEMOCRAT) is running unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat.

Former State Rep. Borris L. Miles replaced former State Senator Rodney Ellis on the Tuesday, November 8, 2016 ballot by winning a majority of the votes cast by a select group of Senate District 13 Democratic Precinct Chairs.

MEMBER STATE BOARD OF --------------------------------------------------------EDUCATION, DISTRICT 8 STATE SENATOR,

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Member, State Board of Education, District 8 — Barbara Cargill (RE-

DISTRICT 18

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the

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race for State Senator, District 18 — Lois W. Kolkhorst (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Kathie L. Stone (LIBERTARIAN). *No Democrat chose to run for this seat. State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 27

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative for House District 27 – Ron Reynolds (DEMOCRAT) is being challenged by Ken Bryant (REPUBLICAN). State Rep. Ron Reynolds is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 126

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 126 — Kevin Roberts (REPUBLICAN), Joy Dawson-Thomas (DEMOCRAT), and Eric B. Moquin (LIBERTARIAN) will face off.

There is no incumbent in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 127

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 127 — Dan Huberty (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Scott Ford (LIBERTARIAN). *No Democrat chose to run for this seat. State Rep. Dan Huberty is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 128

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 128 — Briscoe Cain (REPUBLICAN) will face off against Ken Lowder (LIBERTARIAN). *No Democrat chose to run for this seat.

Briscoe Cain defeated the incumbent in the Republican Party runoff election. ***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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VOTE FOR HILARY

ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 AND END ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016

“I VALUE YOUR VOTE AND SUPPORT!

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“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.06

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 129

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 129 — Dennis Paul (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Paul Netherland (LIBERTARIAN). *No Democrat chose to run for this seat. State Rep. Dennis Paul is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 130

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 130 — Tom Oliverson (REPUBLICAN) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Tom Oliverson will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 131

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 131 – Alma A. Allen (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Alma Allen will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 132

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 132 — Mike Schofield (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Phil Kurtz (LIBERTARIAN). *No Democrat chose to run for this seat.

State Rep. Schofield is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 133

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 133 — Jim Murphy (REPUBLICAN) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat.

State Rep. Murphy will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 134

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 134 — Sarah Davis (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Ben Rose (DEMOCRAT) and Gilberto “Gil” Vasquez (LIBERTARIAN). State Rep. Sarah Davis is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 135

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 135 — Gary Elkins (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Jesse A. Ybanez (DEMOCRAT). State Rep. Gary Elkins is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 137

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 137 — Kendall Baker (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Gene Wu (DEMOCRAT). Dan Biggs (LIBERTARIAN) is also in the race.

State Rep. Gene Wu is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 138

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 138 — Dwayne Bohac (REPUBLICAN) is run-

ning for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Republican candidate chose to run for this seat.

So, State Rep. Dwayne Bohac will be re-elected. ***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 139

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 139 – Jarvis Johnson (DEMOCRAT) will be running for re-election unopposed. State Rep. Johnson won this seat in a “SPECIAL ELECTION” to finish out the remainder of the term left vacant by former State Rep. Sylvester Turner. State Rep. Jarvis Johnson then went on to defeat Kimberly Willis in the Democratic Party “RUNOFF ELECTION” held on Tuesday, May 24, 2016. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Jarvis Johnson will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 140

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 140 – Armando Lucio Walle (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Armando Lucio Walle will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 141

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 141 – Senfronia Thompson (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Senfronia Thompson will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 142

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 142 – Harold V. Dutton, Jr. (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Harold Dutton, Jr. will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 143

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 143 – Ana Hernandez (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Ana Hernandez will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 144

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 144 — Gilbert Pena (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Mary Ann Perez (DEMOCRAT). State Rep. Gilbert Pena is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 145

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 145 – Carol Alvarado (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Carol Alvarado will be re-elected.***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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CONTINUED ON - P.10

Vote Bruce Bain for the 164th District Court

The 164th District court needs Bruce Bain, an accomplished litigator, legal mediator and family man. As a business owner, he understands the value of time and efficiency and he’ll bring that to the 164th District Court. His broad base of experience will enable him to rule quickly on the wide variety of matters that come before a Civil District Court Judge.

Experienced Litigator

Apostle Cleaver and Bruce Bain

Accomplished trial attorney with over three decades of civil trial experience in both state and federal courts.

Experienced Mediator

A certified mediator with over 70 hours of mediation training.

Diverse Legal Experience

Includes commercial, toxic tort, insurance defense and subrogation, constitutional, personal injury, partnership, business, and real estate law.

BAINFORJUDGE.COM Business Owner

Councilman Michael Kubosh, his wife and Bruce Bain

Bruce has also been a businessman since 1992.

Bruce is currently a managing shareholder in Bain & Bain, PLLC, and formerly a shareholder/ partner in Soape, Brown, McDermott, P.C.

Pd. Pol. Ad by Bruce Bain Campaign for Judge, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Grant Dunwoody, Treasurer.

“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.08

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 146

Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat.

So Shawn Thierry will be elected as the next State Representative for House District 146.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 147

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 147 — Matt Murphy (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Garnet F. Coleman (DEMOCRAT).

State Rep. Coleman is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 146 – Shawn Thierry (DEMOCRAT) has replaced state Rep. Borris Miles on the ballot. *No Republican or

STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 148

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 148

– Jessica Cristina Farrar (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian candidate chose to run for this seat. So, State Rep. Farrar will be re-elected.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 149

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for State Representative, District 149 — Bryan Chu (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Hubert Vo (DEMOCRAT). State Rep. Hubert Vo is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 150 On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the

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race for State Representative, District 150 — Valoree Swanson will face off against Michael Shawn Kelly (DEMOCRAT). There is no incumbent in this race.***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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CHIEF JUSTICE, 1ST COURT OF APPEALS

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Chief Justice, 1st Court of Appeals — Sherry Radack (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Jim Peacock (DEMOCRAT). Judge Sherry Radack is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.***Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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CONTINUED ON - P.12

“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.10

JUSTICE, 1ST COURT OF APPEALS DISTRICT, PL .4

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 4 — Evelyn Keyes (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Barbara Gardner (DEMOCRAT). Judge Evelyn Keyes is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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bent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 80TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 80th Judicial District — Will Archer (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Larry Weiman (DEMOCRAT). Judge Larry Weiman is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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JUSTICE, 14TH COURT OF DISTRICT JUDGE, 125TH APPEALS DISTRICT, PL.2 JUDICIAL DISTRICT On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 2 — Kevin Jewell (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Candance White (DEMOCRAT). *There is no incumbent in this race. This seat was vacated by (REPUBLICAN) Justice Sharon McCally.

DISTRICT JUDGE, 151ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 151st Judicial District — Jeff Hastings (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Michael Engelhart (DEMOCRAT).

Judge Engelhart is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 152ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 152nd Judicial District

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 125th Judicial District — Sharon Hemphill (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Kyle Carter (DEMOCRAT). Judge Kyle Carter is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 127TH JUSTICE, 14TH COURT OF JUDICIAL DISTRICT APPEALS DISTRICT, PL.9 --------------------------------------------------------

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 9 — Tracy Elizabeth Christopher (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Peter M. Kelly (DEMOCRAT). Justice Christopher is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 11TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 11th Judicial District — Kevin Fulton (REPUBLICAN) will face off against Kristen Hawkins (DEMOCRAT).

There is no incumbent in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 61ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 61st Judicial District — Erin Elizabeth Lunceford (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Fredericka Phillips (DEMOCRAT).

Judge Elizabeth Lunceford is the incum-

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 127th Judicial District — Sarahjane Swanson (REPUBLICAN) is challenging R.K. Sandill (DEMOCRAT).

Judge R.K. Sandill is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 129TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 129th Judicial District — Sophia Mafrige (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Michael Gomez (DEMOCRAT).

Judge Gomez is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 133RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 133rd Judicial District — Cindy Bennett Smith (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Jaclanel McFarland (DEMOCRAT). Judge McFarland is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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

— Don Self (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Robert K. Schaffer (DEMOCRAT). Judge Schaffer is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 164TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 164th Judicial District — Bruce Bain (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Alexandra Smoots-Hogan (DEMOCRAT). Judge Smoots-Hogan is running for re-election in this race.

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CONTINUED ON - P.14

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

I began working at the Harris County District Attorney office in 1992. I believe that I was a strong asset for the citizens of Harris County as an Assistant District Attorney for 21 years prior to my election to the 337th District Court.

WHY VOTE FOR ME?

Thank you for taking a moment to visit my website at the address listed below to learn more about my re-election for Judge of the 337th District Court.

Elected in 2012, I have worked in the criminal justice system for the past 24 years. During that time, I have served in many leadership capacities. I bring strong conservative principles and many years of experience to the bench. I'm asking for your support again in 2016!

Please take a moment to review my biography and to sign my Endorsement page. Also, friend me on Facebook. I am keeping an active log from the campaign trail on my Facebook page and will post important campaign announcements there.

GET TO KNOW ME

I was born in Texas City and was one of eight children. At a young age, my father's job took my family and I to Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. During this time, I began swimming competitively at age 51/2. I eventually went on to represent Texas and the United States in the 1976 olympics in Montreal.

After competing in olympics I returned to Texas in high school where I graduated from Clear Lake High School and went on to complete college and law school at the University of Houston.

Throughout my athletic career and my career as a top prosecutor, my drive and determination have humbly been on display.

The same drive and determination that made me a young olympian and the same respected record I earned as a prosecutor and district court judge will continue to benefit the citizens of Harris County upon myre-election.

My accomplishments included: • Trying 148 criminal cases to a jury including murder, sexual assault, aggravated robbery and home invasion cases • A 12-year tenure as a felony district court chief supervising junior prosecutors in 4 District courts • Trying 10 capital murder cases to a jury • Six years as a felony chief in the white collar crime and public assistance fraud-special crimes divisions.

I have significantly reduced the pending caseload for the 337th District Court through diligence and hard work in an effort to provide a fair and speedy resolution of cases. I have also volunteered to preside over a mental health caseload, wherein I supervise mentally ill defendants who are on probation for criminal offenses and need assistance in connecting with community programs designed to prevent recidivism.

MY FAMILY

My husband and I, Tucker, reside in Houston. Renee has two grown children: Angela, a physician with the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and Christopher, a licensed attorney in Miami, Florida. Renee and Tucker are the proud grandparents of two year old Benjamin

and expect another grandchild in the fall.

Renee's parents, June and Jack Magee, reside in El Lago, Texas. Renee is a lifelong Republican and a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church.

TEAM USA

Renee put her pride in her country and her special talent on the world stage when she competed in the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal. Renee broke the glass ceiling for female swimmers in Texas. She was the first female Texas swimmer to make an Olympic team in an individual event. In April 2011, Renee was inducted into the Texas Swimming & Diving Hall of Fame.

Pd. Pol. Ad by Renee Magee Campaign, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act,

WWW.JUDGERENEEMAGEE.COM James Tucker, Treasurer

“PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “WE MUST BECOME MORE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS OF ELECTING OUR LEADERS.”

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.12

DISTRICT JUDGE, 165TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 165th Judicial District — Debra Ibarra Mayfield (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Ursula A. Hall (DEMOCRAT). Judge Mayfield is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 174TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 174th Judicial District — Katherine McDaniel (REPUBLICAN) and Hazel B. Jones (DEMOCRAT) will face off.

There is no incumbent in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 176TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 176th Judicial District — Stacey W. Bond (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Nikita “Niki” Harmon (DEMOCRAT). Judge Bond is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 177TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 177th Judicial District — Ryan Patrick (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Robert Johnson (DEMOCRAT). Judge Ryan Patrick is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 178TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 178th Judicial District — Phil Gommels (REPUBLICAN) and Kelli Johnson (DEMOCRAT) will face off. There is no incumbent in this race.**Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 179TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 179th Judicial District — Kristin M. Guiney (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Randy Roll (DEMOCRAT). Judge Guiney is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 215TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 215th Judicial District — Fred Shuchart (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Elaine Palmer (DEMOCRAT).

Judge Elaine Palmer is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 338TH HARRIS COUNTY JUDICIAL DISTRICT ATTORNEY On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 338th Judicial District — Brock Thomas (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Ramona Franklin (DEMOCRAT). Judge Thomas is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.*Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 339TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 339th Judicial District — Mary McFaden (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Maria T. (Terri) Jackson (DEMOCRAT). Judge Jackson is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

DISTRICT JUDGE, 333RD -------------------------------------------------------JUDICIAL DISTRICT DISTRICT JUDGE, 351ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 333rd Judicial District — Joseph “Tad” Halbach (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Daryl Moore (DEMOCRAT). Judge Halbach is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 334TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 334th Judicial District — Grant Dorfman (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Steven Kirkland (DEMOCRAT). Judge Dorfman is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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DISTRICT JUDGE, 337TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 337th Judicial District — Renee Magee (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Herb Ritchie (DEMOCRAT). Judge Magee is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Judge, 351st Judicial District — Mark Kent Ellis (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by George Powell (DEMOCRAT). Judge Mark Kent Ellis is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for District Attorney — Devon Anderson (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged

by Kim Ogg (DEMOCRAT). Devon Anderson is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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JUDGE, COUNTY CIVIL COURT AT LAW NO. 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Judge, County Civil Court at Law No. 1 — Clyde Raymond Leuchtag (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by George Barnstone (DEMOCRAT). Judge Clyde Leuchtag is the incumbent in this race.

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

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for County Attorney – Jim Leitner (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Vince Ryan (DEMOCRAT). Vince Ryan is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Sheriff — Ron Hickman (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Ed Gonzales (DEMOCRAT). Sheriff Ron Hickman is the incumbent running for reelection in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR COLLECTOR

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for County Tax Assessor-Collector — Mike Sullivan (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Ann Harris Bennett (DEMOCRAT). Mike Sullivan is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOL TRUSTEE POSITION 1, PRECINCT 2

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for County School Trustee, Position 1, Precinct 2 — George Moore (REPUBLICAN) and Sherri L. Matula (DEMOCRAT) will face off. There is no incumbent in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOL TRUSTEE POSITION 2, PRECINCT 4

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for County School Trustee, Position 2, Precinct 4 — Eric Dick (REPUBLICAN) and Marilyn Burgess (DEMOCRAT) will face off. There is no incumbent in this race.

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CONTINUED ON - P.16

MAKE THE WRIGHT CHOICE AGAIN...TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

FREEDOM...and Justice for ALL

Loyd Wright Judge Harris County Probate Court No. 1

Ed Emmett

Harris County Judge

LOYD WRIGHT

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

- JUDGE HARRIS COUNTY PROBATE COURT #1 -

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

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

EVERY VOTE MATTERS! EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 “PEOPLE OVER POLITICS”

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

PLEASE REMIND YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF VOTING!

CONTINUED FROM - P.14

COUNTY COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 1 – Rodney Ellis (DEMOCRAT) is running unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. Former State Senator Rodney Ellis replaced (now deceased) Commissioner El Franco Lee on the Tuesday, November 8, 2016 ballot by winning a majority of the votes cast by a select group of Precinct 1 Democratic Precinct Chairs.

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COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 3

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for County Commissioner, Precinct 3 — Steve Radack (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Jenifer Rene Pool (DEMOCRAT). Commissioner Steve Radack is the incumbent in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 1, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Place 1 — SaraJane Milligan (REPUBLICAN) and Eric William Carter (DEMOCRAT) will face off. There is no incumbent in this race. The incumbent (Democratic Judge Dale Gorczynski) did not run for re-election.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 2, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2, Place 1 – Jo Ann Delgado is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Judge Delgado will be re-elected.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 3, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3, Place 1 — Tom Zakes (REPUBLICAN) will face off against Joe Stephens (DEMOCRAT). There is no incumbent in this race. The incumbent (DEMOCRAT) Judge Mike Parrott did not run for re-election.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 4, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4, Place 1 — Lincoln Goodwin (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Vicky Printers Reynolds (DEMOCRAT). Judge Lincoln Goodwin is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 5, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Place 1 — Russ Ridgway (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by William “Bill” McLeod (DEMOCRAT). Judge Russ Ridgway is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 6, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 6, Place 1 – Richard C. Vara (DEMOCRAT) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Judge Vara will be re-elected. Early voting begins on Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 7, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Harris County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 7, Place 1 — Hilary Green is running for re-election unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Judge Green will be re-elected.

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HARRIS COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 8, PLACE 1

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 8, Place 1 — Holly Williamson (REPUBLICAN) is running for re-election unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Judge Williamson will be re-elected.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 1 On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 1 — Joe Danna (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Alan Rosen (DEMOCRAT). Constable Alan Rosen is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 2

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 2 — Daniel Vela (REPUBLICAN) is challenging Christopher (Chris) Diaz (DEMOCRAT).

Constable Diaz is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 3 On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 3 — Dan

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

Webb (REPUBLICAN) is facing off against Sherman Eagleton (DEMOCRAT). There is no incumbent running in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 4

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 4 — Mark Herman (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Jeff McGowen (DEMOCRAT).

Constable Mark Herman is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 5

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 5 — Ted Heap (REPUBLICAN) is running for this seat unopposed. *No Democrat or Libertarian chose to run for this seat.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 6

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 6 — Richard “Rick” Gonzales (REPUBLICAN) will face off against Silvia Trevino (DEMOCRAT).

There is no incumbent running in this race.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 7

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 7 – May Walker (DEMOCRAT) is running for reelection unopposed. *No Republican or Libertarian chose to run for this seat. So, Constable May Walker will be re-elected.

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HARRIS COUNTY CONSTABLE, PRECINCT 8

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016 in the race for Constable, Precinct 8 — Phil Sandlin (REPUBLICAN) is being challenged by Heather Perry (DEMOCRAT).

Constable Phil Sandlin is the incumbent running for re-election in this race.

PEOPLE ENDORSING KENDALL L. BAKER

Dr. Steve Hotze is the CEO of Campaign for Houston. He is responsible for helping to defeat the dangerous HERO Ordinance.

Bishop Anthony Wright is currently the Jurisdictional Prelate for Family Life International Fellowship. He’s also a valued team member.

Attorney Jared Woodfill is the Former Chairman of the Harris County Republican Party. He is also responsible for helping to defeat the dangerously written HERO Ordinance.

www.bakerfortexas.com POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY KENDALL L. BAKER CAMPAIGN

Bill Calhoun is a noted African American Conservative and Chairman of Texas Federation for Republican Outreach has endorsed Kendall L. Baker in the race for State Representative for House District 137.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 17

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 19

FREEDOM Constitution of the United States

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

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Adapted from S.PUB.103-21 (1994), prepared by the Office of the Secretary of the Senate with the assistance of Johnny H. Killian of the Library of Congress, providing the original text of each clause of the Constitution with an accompanying explanation of its meaning and how that meaning has changed over time.

Introduction

Written in 1787, ratified in 1788, and in operation since 1789, the United States Constitution is the world’s longest surviving written charter of government. Its first three words – “We The People” – affirm that the government of the United States exists to serve its citizens. The supremacy of the people through their elected representatives is recognized in Article I, which creates a Congress consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives.

The positioning of Congress at the beginning of the Constitution reaffirms its status as the “First Branch” of the federal government.

The Constitution assigned to Congress responsibility for organizing the executive and judicial branches, raising revenue, declaring war, and making all laws necessary for executing these powers. The president is permitted to veto specific legislative acts, but Congress has the authority to override presidential vetoes by two-thirds majorities of both houses. The Constitution also provides that the Senate advise and consent on key executive and judicial appointments and on the ratification of treaties.

For over two centuries the Constitution has remained in force because its framers successfully separated and balanced governmental powers to safeguard the interests of majority rule and minority rights, of liberty and equality, and of the central and state governments. More a concise statement of national principles than a detailed plan of governmental operation, the Constitution has evolved to meet the changing needs of a modern society profoundly different from the eighteenth-century world in which its creators lived.

This annotated version of the Constitution provides the original text (left-hand column) with commentary about the meaning of the original text and how it has changed since 1789 (right-hand column).

Preamble

ORIGINAL TEXT: We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. EXPLANATION: The Preamble explains the purposes of the Constitution, and defines the powers of the new government as originating from the people of the United States.

Article I Section 1

ORIGINAL TEXT: All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.

EXPLANATION: The Constitution divides the federal government into three branches, giving legislative powers to a bicameral (two chamber) Congress.

Section 2

ORIGINAL TEXT: The House of Representatives shall be composed of Members chosen every second Year by the People of the several States, and the Electors in each State shall have the Qualifications requisite for Electors of the most numerous Branch of the State Legislature.

EXPLANATION: The House of Representatives was intended to be "the people's house." Its members were elected directly by the voters in the states, and the entire House would have to stand for election every two years.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Person shall be a Representative who shall not have attained to the Age of twenty five Years, and been seven Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State in which he shall be chosen.

EXPLANATION: Representatives need to be 25 years old (compared to 30 for senators), and 7 years a citizen (compared to 9 years for senators). They must be residents within their states at the time of their election, but do not necessarily have to live within their districts.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole Number of free Persons, including those bound to Service for a Term of Years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other Persons. The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law direct. The Number of Representatives shall not exceed one for every thirty Thousand, but each State shall have at Least one Representative; and until such enumeration shall be made, the State of New Hampshire shall be entitled to chuse three, Massachusetts eight, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations one, Connecticut five, New-York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Carolina five, and Georgia three.

EXPLANATION: Membership in the House is apportioned according to the population of the states. Every state must have at least one House seat. Larger states will have many more representatives. Every ten years, after the census has been taken, House districts are reapportioned to reflect their changing population. For many years the House increased its size as the nation’s population grew, but in 1911 the number of representatives was fixed at 435 (together with non-voting delegates representing several territories and the District of Columbia). Words in italics indicate provisions that were later dropped from the Constitution. The 13th amendment abolished slavery and the 14th amendment provided that representation would be determined according to the whole number of persons in each state, not by the “three-fifths” of the slaves. Since American Indians are now taxed, they are counted for purposes of apportionment.

ORIGINAL TEXT: When vacancies happen in the Representation from any State, the Executive Authority thereof shall issue Writs of Election to fill such Vacancies. EXPLANATION: Vacant House seats must be filled by election. For the Senate, state governors may fill vacancies.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The House of Representatives shall chuse their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment.

EXPLANATION: Representatives choose their presiding officer, the Speaker, from among the membership of the majority party. Other elected officers, such as the chaplain, clerk of the House, sergeant at arms, and doorkeeper, are not members of the House. Impeachment is the power to remove federal officers.

The House initiates the process by voting to impeach, which then refers the matter to the Senate for a trial.

Section 3

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature thereof, for six Years; and each Senator shall have one Vote.

EXPLANATION: Each state has two senators, regardless of the size of its population. Originally, senators were chosen by state legislatures. In 1913 the 17th amendment provided that senators would be directly elected by the people.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Immediately after they shall be assembled in Consequence of the first Election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three Classes. The Seats of the Senators of the first Class shall be vacated at the Expiration of the second Year, of the second Class at the Expiration of the fourth Year, and of the third Class at the Expiration of the sixth Year, so that one third may be chosen every second Year; and if Vacancies happen by Resignation, or otherwise, during the Recess of the Legislature of any State, the Executive thereof may make temporary Appointments until the next Meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such Vacancies.

EXPLANATION: From the beginning, senators were divided into three groups for staggered elections, so that one-third of the seats are filled every two years. The italicized parts, regarding the filling of vacancies, were altered by the 17th amendment.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Person shall be a Senator who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty Years, and been nine Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State for which he shall be chosen.

EXPLANATION: As with representatives, the Constitution fixes the qualifications a person must meet to be eligible to be a senator.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Vice President of the United States shall be President of the Senate, but shall have no Vote, unless they be equally divided.

EXPLANATION: As the presiding officer of the Senate, the vice president may vote only to break a tie.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Senate shall chuse their other Officers, and also a President pro tempore, in the Absence of the Vice President, or when he shall exercise the Office of President of the United States.

EXPLANATION: Except for the Vice President, the Senate elects its own officers. The President pro tempore is usually the longest-serving member of the majority party. Other elected officers include a chaplain, secretary of the Senate, and sergeant at arms, who are not senators.

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

CONTINUED ON - P.22

CALL THE LAW OFFICE OF KERYL L. DOUGLAS AT (713)819-9945 WITH YOUR LEGAL QUESTION

NEED AN EXCEPTIONAL LEGAL MIND WORKING FOR YOU? .CALL KERYL L. DOUGLAS

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3730 Kirby Drive, Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098 Phone: 713-819-9945

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KERYL L. DOUGLAS www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 21

Constitution of the United States

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER I 957 NASA PARKWAY #251 I HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058 I PHONE: (832)212-8735 CONTINUED FROM - P.20

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Senate shall have the sole Power to try all Impeachments. When sitting for that Purpose, they shall be on Oath or Affirmation. When the President of the United States is tried, the Chief Justice shall preside: And no Person shall be convicted without the Concurrence of two thirds of the Members present.

EXPLANATION: Once the House votes to impeach, the Senate conducts a trial to determine whether to convict or acquit. A two-thirds vote is necessary to remove the individual from office. The chief justice of the United States presides over the impeachment trial of a president.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Judgment in Cases of Impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from Office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any Office of honor, Trust or Profit under the United States: but the Party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to Indictment, Trial, Judgment and Punishment, according to Law. EXPLANATION: Convicted persons can be barred from holding future office, and may be subject to criminal trial in the courts.

Section 4

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or alter such Regulations, except as to the Places of chusing Senators.

EXPLANATION: Federal elections are conducted by the individual states, although Congress has gradually enacted laws that regulate those elections. The 17th amendment made the treatment of the election of senators and representatives the same.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress shall assemble at least once in every Year, and such Meeting shall be on the first Monday in December, unless they shall by Law appoint a different Day. EXPLANATION: The 20th amendment changed this provision for the convening of Congress from the first Monday in December to the 3rd of January.

Section 5

ORIGINAL TEXT: Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business; but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide.

EXPLANATION: The House and Senate decide whether their members are qualified to serve and have been properly elected, and determine any disputed elections. One-half plus one of each house is necessary to make a quorum to conduct business.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour, and, with the Concurrence of two thirds, expel a Member.

EXPLANATION: The Senate and House each sets its own rules, disciplines its own members, and by a twothirds vote can expel a member. Censure and lesser punishments require only a majority vote.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Each House shall keep a Journal of its Proceedings, and from time to time publish the same, excepting such Parts as may in their Judgment require Secrecy; and the Yeas and Nays of the Members of either House on any question shall, at the Desire of one fifth of those Present, be entered on the Journal.

EXPLANATION: The Senate and House each publish journals listing bills passed, amendments offered, motions made, and votes taken. In addition to these journals, Congress publishes an essentially verbatim account of its debates, called the Congressional Record.

Videotapes of floor proceedings are deposited at the National Archives.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Neither House, during the Session of Congress, shall, without the Consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other Place than that in which the two Houses shall be sitting.

EXPLANATION: This section was included to prevent either chamber from blocking legislation through its refusal to meet. Each chamber takes very seriously its in-

dependence of the other body. To avoid having to ask the other chamber for permission to adjourn, the Senate and House simply conduct pro forma (as a matter of form) sessions to meet the three-day constitutional requirement.

No business is conducted at these sessions, which generally last for less than one minute.

Section 6

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the Treasury of the United States. They shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their Attendance at the Session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other Place.

EXPLANATION: The “speech or debate” clause is a basic protection of members of Congress in a government of separated powers. Inherited from the British parliament, the right prevents executive oppression of the legislature, and here protects members from criminal or civil liability in the performance of their legislative responsibilities.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Senator or Representative shall, during the Time for which he was elected, be appointed to any civil Office under the Authority of the United States, which shall have been created, or the Emoluments whereof shall have been encreased during such time; and no Person holding any Office under the United States, shall be a Member of either House during his Continuance in Office.

EXPLANATION: To preserve the separation of powers, no member may be appointed to an executive or judicial office that was created or accept a salary that was increased during the term to which that senator or representative was elected, nor may anyone serving in Congress simultaneously hold office in any other branch of government.

Section 7

ORIGINAL TEXT: All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills.

EXPLANATION: The House, directly elected by the people, received authority to originate all tax bills. The Senate, however, can amend a tax bill, and the support of both houses is necessary for the bill to become law.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Every Bill which shall have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate, shall, before it become a Law, be presented to the President of the United States: If he approve he shall sign it, but if not he shall return it, with his Objections to that House in which it shall have originated, who shall enter the Objections at large on their Journal, and proceed to reconsider it. If after such Reconsideration two thirds of that House shall agree to pass the Bill, it shall be sent, together with the Objections, to the other House, by which it shall likewise be reconsidered, and if approved by two thirds of that House, it shall become a Law. But in all such Cases the Votes of both Houses shall be determined by Yeas and Nays, and the Names of the Persons voting for and against the Bill shall be entered on the Journal of each House respectively. If any Bill shall not be returned by the President within ten Days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall be a Law, in like Manner as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their Adjournment prevent its Return, in which Case it shall not be a Law. EXPLANATION: The “presentment clause” describes the only way that a bill can become law: it must be passed in identical form by both Houses and it must be signed by the president or passed by a two-thirds vote of Congress over the president’s veto. If, while Congress is in session, the president does not sign a bill, it automatically becomes law. If Congress has adjourned or is in recess, the president can “pocket veto” the bill – in a sense, simply putting it in his pocket, unsigned. Congress cannot override bills that have been pocket vetoed.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Every Order, Resolution, or Vote to which the Concurrence of the Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except on a question of Adjournment) shall be presented to the President of the United States; and before the Same shall take Effect, shall be approved by him, or being disapproved by him, shall be repassed by two thirds of the Senate and House of Representatives, according to the Rules and Limitations prescribed in the Case of a Bill.

EXPLANATION: This clause prevents Congress from circumventing the previous clause by calling a bill something else. All it means is that any “order, resolution, or vote” that has the force of law must be passed in the manner of a bill.

Section 8

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States; EXPLANATION: Section 8 begins the enumerated powers of the federal government delegated to Congress. The first is the power to tax and to spend the money raised by taxes, to provide for the nation’s defense and general welfare. This section was supplemented by the 16th amendment, which permitted Congress to levy an income tax.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To borrow Money on the credit of the United States; EXPLANATION: Congress can borrow money through the issuance of bonds and other means. When it borrows money, the United States creates a binding obligation to repay the debt and cannot repudiate it.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes; EXPLANATION: The “commerce clause” is one of the most far-reaching grants of power to Congress. Interstate commerce covers all movement of people and things across state lines, and every form of communication and transportation. The commerce clause has permitted a wide variety of federal laws, from the regulation of business to outlawing of racial segregation. The “Indian commerce clause” has become the main source of power for congressional legislation dealing with Native Americans.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States; EXPLANATION: Acts of Congress define the requirements by which immigrants can become citizens. Only the federal government, not the states, can determine who becomes a citizen. Bankruptcy laws make provisions for individuals or corporations that fail to pay their debts.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures; To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States; EXPLANATION: These clauses permit Congress to coin money and to issue paper currency. By extension, under its ability to enact laws “necessary and proper” to carry out these powers (as stated at the end of Article 1, Section 8), Congress created the Federal Reserve System to regulate the nation’s monetary supply.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To establish Post Offices and post Roads; EXPLANATION: The postal powers embrace all measures necessary to establish the system and to insure the safe and speedy transit and prompt delivery of the mails. Congress may also punish those who use the mails for unlawful purposes.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries; EXPLANATION: Copyright and patent protection of authors and inventors are authorized by this clause, although it uses neither word.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To constitute Tribunals inferior to the supreme Court; EXPLANATION: The Constitution provides only for a Supreme Court, and left it to Congress to create lower (“inferior”) courts, and to set their jurisdictions and duties.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To define and punish Piracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offences against the Law of Nations; EXPLANATION: Every sovereign nation possesses these powers, and Congress has acted under this authority from the beginning.

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OPINIONS I

QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

EMAIL OPINIONS TO: AUBREYRTAYLOR@GMAIL.COM PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Please call one of these licensed Attorneys if you have a legal question, issue or concern!

Allie R. Booker P: (713)292-2225 Bar Card Number: 24071071 TX License Date: 12/10/2009

Danyahel Norris P: (713)313-1182 Bar Card Number: 24057372 TX License Date: 11/02/2007 Crystal Henderson P: (713)874-1750 Bar Card Number: 24050742 TX License Date: 11/04/2005 James Matthew Douglas P: (713)313-7352 Bar Card Number: 06044000 TX License Date: 09/18/1970

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

JUDGE WESLEY WARD IS CURRENTLY SERVING AS JUDGE FOR THE 234TH DISTRICT COURT IN HARRIS COUNTY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

“

by Wesley Ward

Freedom is opportunity, choice, and duty. It is our God-given (not government-allowed) freedom to live, become educated, vote, speak, and work how we choose. But it is not all take and no give, for with our freedom comes duty, our responsibility to protect that freedom and to nourish it by living it. “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,” said Nelson Mandela.

Freedom is fragile. Freedom must always be guarded, because there are always those who would seek to restrict our freedoms. As Ronald Reagan said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not passed to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”

As Judge of Texas’ 234th District Court, I fight everyday to protect our freedom, through fair and equal enforcement of the law. Because freedom can only exist through the rule of law -- the backbone of our democracy, and the safeguard of our liberty.

For me, on a personal level, freedom is on the back of a horse, on a high bluff looking west, with the rising sun at my back, my wife and my children around me, looking out across the endless vista of opportunity that America gives to the world.

DeMonica Gladney P: (832)625-3787 Bar Card Number: 00787545 TX License Date: 11/05/1993

Morris Lee Overstreet P: (936)857-5327 Bar Card Number: 00000046 TX License Date: 10/21/1975 Gary E. Alfred P: (713)464-5201 Bar Card Number: 24011214 TX License Date: 07/22/1999 Debra Hatter P: (713)951-5658 Bar Card Number: 24029007 TX License Date: 02/01/2001 Gene Watkins P: (713)224-5113 Bar Card Number: 24058954 TX License Date: 11/06/2009 Jermecia Ann Beachem P: (713)831-6862 Bar Card Number: 24066906 TX License Date: 11/06/2009 Noelle Gabrielle Hicks P: (713)981-0900 Bar Card Number: 24068766 TX License Date: 09/03/2009

“

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Constitution of the United States

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER I 957 NASA PARKWAY #251 I HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058 I PHONE: (832)212-8735 CONTINUED FROM - P.22 ORIGINAL TEXT: To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water; To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years; To provide and maintain a Navy; To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces; EXPLANATION: The “war powers” are defined here and in Article 2, Section 2. Congress declares war, while the president wages war. However, presidents have committed U.S. forces leading to conflict without congressional declaration of war in Korea, Vietnam, and other places, provoking national argument over the meaning of these powers. Congress’ control of funding the military provides another check on the executive branch.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions; EXPLANATION: To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress; Under these provisions, the right of the states to maintain a militia, including what is now the National Guard, is always subordinate to the power of Congress. In 1795 Congress first gave the president authority to call out the militia to suppress insurrections. Presidents employed this power to enforce federal law during desegregation disputes during the 1950s, and later during the civil disturbances in various cities during the 1960s

ORIGINAL TEXT: To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings;—And EXPLANATION: This clause enables Congress to govern the District of Columbia. Congress has now delegated that power to a locally elected government, subject to federal oversight. Congress also governs forts, arsenals, and other places obtained from the states for the federal government’s purposes.

ORIGINAL TEXT: To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof.

EXPLANATION: The “elastic clause” enlarges legislative power by enabling Congress to use any means it thinks reasonable to put these powers into action. This clause also authorizes Congress to enact legislation necessary to carry out the powers of the other branches, for example to organize and reorganize the executive branch.

Section 9

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a Tax or duty may be imposed on such Importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each Person.

EXPLANATION: This obsolete provision was designed to protect the slave trade from congressional restriction for a period of time.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.

EXPLANATION: Habeas corpus is a judicial device by which jailed people may require their jailer to justify their imprisonment to a court. It is a fundamental safeguard of individual liberty, and the Supreme Court has interpreted it to give federal courts review over state court convictions and to enforce federal constitutional guarantees. It is generally accepted that only Congress has the power to suspend habeas corpus. President Abraham Lincoln’s suspension of the right during the Civil War met with strong opposition.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Bill of Attainder or ex post facto Law shall be passed.

EXPLANATION: A bill of attainder is a legislative act declaring the guilt of an individual or a group of persons and punishing them. Only the courts may determine whether one has violated a criminal statute. An ex post facto law declares an act illegal after it has been committed, or increases the punishment for an offense already committed.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Capitation, or other direct, Tax shall be laid, unless in Proportion to the Census or enumeration herein before directed to be taken.

EXPLANATION: Direct taxes are poll or “head” taxes and taxes on land. The Supreme Court once held that income taxes were unconstitutional direct taxes, a result overturned by the 16th amendment.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Tax or Duty shall be laid on Articles exported from any State.

EXPLANATION: To prohibit discrimination against any states or regions, Congress cannot tax goods exported from a state to foreign countries or those that move between states.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another; nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another.

EXPLANATION: Congress cannot favor one state against another while regulating trade.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time.

EXPLANATION: The departments and agencies of the executive branch may not spend any money that Congress has not appropriated, or use federal money for any purpose that Congress has not specified.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State.

EXPLANATION: This clause was designed to end the aristocratic tendencies that the American Revolution had been fought against. Federal officials must turn over to the government all but minimal gifts from foreign nations.

Section 10

ORIGINAL TEXT: No State shall enter into any Treaty, Alliance, or Confederation; grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal; coin Money; emit Bills of Credit; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts; pass any Bill of Attainder, ex post facto Law, or Law impairing the Obligation of Contracts, or grant any Title of Nobility.

EXPLANATION: These provisions protect national powers from state incursions.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No State shall, without the Consent of the Congress, lay any Imposts or Duties on Imports or Exports, except what may be absolutely necessary for executing its inspection Laws: and the net Produce of all Duties and Imposts, laid by any State on Imports or Exports, shall be for the Use of the Treasury of the United States; and all such Laws shall be subject to the Revision and Control of the Congress.

EXPLANATION: States may not interfere with the international trade of the United States.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No State shall, without the Consent of Congress, lay any Duty of Tonnage, keep Troops, or Ships of War in time of Peace, enter into any Agreement or Compact with another State, or with a foreign Power, or engage in War, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent Danger as will not admit of delay.

EXPLANATION: States cannot levy tonnage duties, which are taxes charged for the privilege of entering, trading in, or remaining in a port. States may come together to work on common problems, such as pollution of a river passing through several states, but the agreements or compacts they reach are subject to congressional consent.

Article II Section 1

ORIGINAL TEXT: The executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. He shall hold his Office during the Term of four Years, and, together with the Vice President, chosen for the same Term, be elected, as follows: EXPLANATION: This clause provided the title of the chief executive and defined the term of office. It says nothing about reelection. George Washington established a two-term tradition, which was not broken until Franklin D. Roosevelt won a third and fourth term. The 22nd amendment now limits presidents to two terms.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Each State shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors, equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress: but no Senator or Representative, or Person holding an Office of Trust or Profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector.

EXPLANATION: The Constitution established an electoral college as a compromise between direct popular election of the president and election by Congress. The method of selecting electors was left to the states. Electors are now chosen by popular vote.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Electors shall meet in their respective States, and vote by Ballot for two Persons, of whom one at least shall not be an Inhabitant of the same State with themselves. And they shall make a List of all the Persons voted for, and of the Number of Votes for each; which List they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the Seat of the Government of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the Senate shall, in the Presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the Certificates, and the Votes shall then be counted. The Person having the greatest Number of Votes shall be the President, if such Number be a Majority of the whole Number of Electors appointed; and if there be more than one who have such Majority, and have an equal Number of Votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately chuse by Ballot one of them for President; and if no Person have a Majority, then from the five highest on the List the said House shall in like Manner chuse the President. But in chusing the President, the Votes shall be taken by States, the Representatives from each State having one Vote; a quorum for this Purpose shall consist of a Member or Members from two thirds of the States, and a Majority of all the States shall be necessary to a Choice. In every Case, after the Choice of the President, the Person having the greatest Number of Votes of the Electors shall be the Vice President. But if there should remain two or more who have equal Votes, the Senate shall chuse from them

by Ballot the Vice-President.

EXPLANATION: This clause was superseded by the 12th amendment, after the election of 1800 in which Thomas Jefferson and his running mate, Aaron Burr, received identical votes and both claimed the office. After many votes, the House of Representatives chose Jefferson, and soon thereafter the amendment was speedily approved.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress may determine the Time of chusing the Electors, and the Day on which they shall give their Votes; which Day shall be the same throughout the United States.

EXPLANATION: Congress has enacted legislation requiring that presidential elections (the selection of electors) occur on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November every four years. Electors gather to vote on the Monday after the second Wednesday in December. The two houses of Congress convene to count the electoral ballots on the following January 6.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that Office who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty five Years, and been fourteen Years a Resident within the United States.

EXPLANATION: This clause requires that in order to take the oath of office a president must be 35, a resident

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OPINIONS I

QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

EMAIL OPINIONS TO: AUBREYRTAYLOR@GMAIL.COM PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Please call one of these licensed Attorneys if you have a legal question, issue or concern!

Elverine F. Jenkins P: (713)358-5260 Bar Card Number: 24049821 TX License Date: 05/04/2007 Dwayne Jerel Simpson P: (832)916-0702 Bar Card Number: 24090392 TX License Date: 05/01/2014 Sandra Peake P: (713)723-5082 Bar Card Number: 15679800 TX License Date: 12/30/1982 Steven Kirkland P: (832)372-2888 Bar Card Number: 11522200 TX License Date: 06/15/1990 Lalla Victoria Morris P: (281)940-3019 Bar Card Number: 24088095 TX License Date: 11/01/2013

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

HISD TRUSTEE JOLANDA JONES IS CURRENTLY THE HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEE REPRESENTING DISTRICT IV. SHE WAS ASKED TO SHARE HER OPINION ON FREEDOM BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR, PUBLISHER OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS.

“

by HISD Trustee Jolanda Jones

Freedom is not the existence that the majority of African-Americans, Latinos and poor people experience. Freedom is the right to have equal opportunity to the American Dream. The opportunities include but are not limited to having access to: 1) quality, affordable and safe public education; 2) safe and affordable housing; 3) affordable healthcare; 4) affordable and healthy food, including fruit and vegetables; 5) employment that pays a living wage and without wage theft; 6) fair policing without racial profiling and excessive force; 7) a prison system that is not the equivalent of modern day slavery; and 8) government that allocates resources equally. Likewise freedom includes the right to be who you are and love who you love. There is more to freedom but these are some of the most fundamental tenets.

To that end, for the afore-referenced communities true freedom does not exist. You judge a country by its treatment of its most vulnerable residents. By that standard we still have a long way to go. We must continue to demand freedom in our political, educational, housing, healthcare and prison systems. We will be much closer to freedom when we fix these broken systems....

Kenyon Kirkpatrick Moore P: (832)639-0835 Bar Card Number: 24064250 TX License Date: 05/05/2010 Latheina Monique Gonzalez P: (713)993-7153 Bar Card Number: 24040988 TX License Date: 11/06/2003 Martin Wickliff, Jr. P: (713)750-3110 Bar Card Number: 21419900 TX License Date: 09/24/1973 Takasha L. Francis P: (713)588-4459 Bar Card Number: 24035861 TX License Date: 04/08/2004 Travis Alexander Torrence P: (713)241-1294 Bar Card Number: 24051436 TX License Date: 11/04/2005 Reshard JuQuin Alexander P: (832)458-1756 Bar Card Number: 24068428 TX License Date: 11/04/2011

“

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Constitution of the United States

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within the United States for 14 years, and a natural-born citizen. This last requirement raises the question of whether someone born to American parents outside of the United States would be eligible to hold the office.

ORIGINAL TEXT: In Case of the Removal of the President from Office, or of his Death, Resignation, or Inability to discharge the Powers and Duties of the said Office, the Same shall devolve on the Vice President, and the Congress may by Law provide for the Case of Removal, Death, Resignation or Inability, both of the President and Vice President, declaring what Officer shall then act as President, and such Officer shall act accordingly, until the Disability be removed, or a President shall be elected.

EXPLANATION: The 25th amendment superseded this clause regarding presidential disability, vacancy of the office, and methods of succession.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The President shall, at stated Times, receive for his Services, a Compensation, which shall neither be encreased nor diminished during the Period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive within that Period any other Emolument from the United States, or any of them.

EXPLANATION: To preserve the president's independence, Congress can neither raise nor lower the president's salary during his term. Nor can a president accept any other pay.

ORIGINAL TEXT: Before he enter on the Execution of his Office, he shall take the following Oath or Affirmation:—"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

EXPLANATION: The Constitution prescribes the oath that presidents must take. By contrast, Congress by statute created the oath taken by other federal officials, including the vice president.

Section 2

ORIGINAL TEXT: The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Offices, and he shall have Power to Grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.

EXPLANATION: As Commander in Chief, the president controls the military forces. Presidents have also cited this power as extending to their control of national and foreign policy in war and peacetime. Congress may not restrain the president's power to pardon, except in impeachment cases.

ORIGINAL TEXT: He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by Law: but the Congress may by Law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the Heads of Departments.

EXPLANATION: The Constitution gives the Senate a share in foreign policy by requiring Senate consent, by a two-thirds vote, to any treaty before it may go into effect. The president may enter into "executive agreements" with other nations without the Senate's consent, but if these involve more than minor matters they may prove controversial.

The president must also submit judicial and major executive branch nominations to the Senate for its advice and consent. The Constitution makes no provision for the removal of executive officers, which has remained largely at the discretion of the president.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The President shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the Senate, by granting Commissions which shall expire at the End of their next Session.

EXPLANATION: When the Senate is not in session, and therefore unable to receive nominations, the presi-

dent may make recess appointments. The Senate will then consider the nomination when it returns to session.

Section 3

ORIGINAL TEXT: He shall from time to time give to the Congress Information on the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient; he may, on extraordinary Occasions, convene both Houses, or either of them, and in Case of Disagreement between them, with Respect to the Time of Adjournment, he may adjourn them to such Time as he shall think proper; he shall receive Ambassadors and other public Ministers; he shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed, and shall Commission all the Officers of the United States.

EXPLANATION: The duty to deliver to Congress an annual address, known as the State of the Union message, is the basis of the president's legislative leadership.

Presidents have frequently summoned Congress into "extra" or "special" sessions, but they have never exercised the power to adjourn Congress. The law enforcement function has been a source of the president's control over the executive branch, however the laws that the president is to execute are the laws that Congress passes, and those laws constrain as well as empower the chief executive.

Section 4

ORIGINAL TEXT: The President, Vice President and all Civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.

EXPLANATION: Impeachment is the ultimate power of Congress to deter and to punish abuse of power by officers of the executive and judicial branches. Federal judges constitute the greater number of impeached and convicted officers. President Andrew Johnson won acquittal by a single vote, and President Richard Nixon resigned before he could be impeached. President Bill Clinton was impeached by the House and acquitted by the Senate.

Article III Section 1

ORIGINAL TEXT: The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office.

EXPLANATION: This clause identifies the third branch of our separated government, empowering the courts to decide cases and limiting them to the exercise of a certain kind of authority. The Constitution makes no mention of judicial review, the right of the Supreme Court to declare federal and state laws unconstitutional. The Court asserted this right in the case of Marbury v. Madison in 1803 and on more than 120 occasions since then.

For the sake of independence, justices and judges are given life tenures, subject only to removal by impeachment, and a guarantee that their salaries cannot be reduced.

Section 2

ORIGINAL TEXT: The judicial Power shall extend to all Cases, in Law and Equity, arising under this Constitution, the Laws of the United States, and Treaties made, or which shall be made, under their Authority;—to all Cases affecting Ambassadors, other public ministers and Consuls;—to all Cases of admiralty and maritime Jurisdiction;—to Controversies to which the United States shall be a Party;—to Controversies between two or more States;—between a State and Citizens of another State;—between Citizens of different States;—between Citizens of the same State claiming Lands under Grants of different States, and between a State, or the Citizens thereof, and foreign States, Citizens or Subjects.

EXPLANATION: The use of "cases" and "controversies" emphasizes the nature of the judicial power. These

words encompass the concepts of adversity between parties, and require that litigants must have suffered injury sufficient to invoke the power of a federal court.

ORIGINAL TEXT: In all Cases affecting Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, and those in which a State shall be Party, the supreme Court shall have original Jurisdiction. In all the other Cases before mentioned, the supreme Court shall have appellate Jurisdiction, both as to Law and Fact, with such Exceptions, and under such Regulations as the Congress shall make.

EXPLANATION: Certain cases may be brought directly to the Supreme Court without having been heard by another court. Under statute, the Supreme Court also exercises appellate review, that is the right to review the decisions of a lower federal or state court.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Trial of all Crimes, except in Cases of Impeachment, shall be by Jury; and such Trial shall be held in the State where the said Crimes shall have been committed; but when not committed within any State, the Trial shall be at such Place or Places as the Congress may by Law have directed.

EXPLANATION: Anyone accused of a crime has a right to a trial by jury, except in the case of impeachments.

This right was further defined and strengthened by the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th amendments.

Section 3

ORIGINAL TEXT: Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court.

The Congress shall have Power to declare the Punishment of Treason, but no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of Blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attainted.

EXPLANATION: This clause limits Congress' ability to define treason or to set its punishment, as a means of preventing political "offenders" from being charged as traitors. At least two witnesses must testify in court that the defendant committed a treasonable act.

Article IV Section 1

ORIGINAL TEXT: Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State. And the Congress may by general Laws prescribe the Manner in which such Acts, Records and Proceedings shall be proved, and the Effect thereof.

EXPLANATION: Each state is required to recognize the laws and records (such as licenses) of other states and to enforce rights in its own courts that would be enforced in other state courts.

Section 2

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States.

EXPLANATION: States must treat the citizens of other states equally, without discrimination.

ORIGINAL TEXT: A Person charged in any State with Treason, Felony, or other Crime, who shall flee from Justice, and be found in another State, shall on Demand of the executive Authority of the State from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having Jurisdiction of the Crime.

EXPLANATION: The governor of a state in which a fugitive is found must return the fugitive to the state demanding custody.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Person held to Service or Labour in one State, under the Laws thereof, escaping into another, shall, in Consequence of any Law or Regulation therein, be discharged from such Service or Labour, but shall be delivered up on Claim of the Party to whom such Service or Labour may be due.

EXPLANATION: This clause, applicable to fleeing

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OPINIONS I

QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

EMAIL OPINIONS TO: AUBREYRTAYLOR@GMAIL.COM PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Please call one of these licensed Attorneys if you have a legal question, issue or concern!

Shelly M. Davis P: (713)349-9299 Bar Card Number: 24050487 TX License Date: 11/04/2005 Maynard Samuel Daffin II P: (713)621-8673 Bar Card Number: 24072057 TX License Date: 05/05/2010 Summer McElroy P: (713)228-9130 Bar Card Number: 24042610 TX License Date: 04/17/2014 Phyllis Yvette Young P: (713)220-8168 Bar Card Number: 24033495 TX License Date: 11/02/2001

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

JUSTICE KEN WISE IS CURRENTLY JUDGE OF THE FOURTEENTH DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS, PLACE 7 IN TEXAS. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

“

by 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.

Tracie Janelle Jackson P: (713)482-1529 Bar Card Number: 24053020 TX License Date: 04/27/2006

R.J. Blue P: (281)368-6967 Bar Card Number: 24038772 TX License Date: 05/05/2003 Phillip Scott Larmond P: (888)451-4554 Bar Card Number: 24081834 TX License Date: 11/01/2013 Michael Teague P: (281)953-3541 Bar Card Number: 24048833 TX License Date: 05/05/2005 Allette B. Williams P: (713)666-5151 Bar Card Number: 21510820 TX License Date: 11/02/1990 Andre Ligon P: (713)662-2500 Bar Card Number: 00797840 TX License Date: 12/05/1996 Athill Muhammad P: (713)589-6404 Bar Card Number: 24039078 TX License Date: 05/05/2003

“

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Constitution of the United States

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Section 3

slaves, is now obsolete.

ORIGINAL TEXT: New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union; but no new State shall be formed or erected within the Jurisdiction of any other State; nor any State be formed by the Junction of two or more States, or Parts of States, without the Consent of the Legislatures of the States concerned as well as of the Congress.

EXPLANATION: By acts of Congress, newly settled or newly acquired areas will be admitted as states on an equal status with those states already in the Union.

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress shall have Power to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States; and nothing in this Constitution shall be so construed as to Prejudice any Claims of the United States, or of any particular State.

EXPLANATION: Congress has charge of the public lands within the states, which in the West constitutes an enormous amount of land. Congress also governs acquired territories, which today include Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa.

Section 4

ORIGINAL TEXT: The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.

EXPLANATION: Under this provision, Congress has authorized presidents to send federal troops into a state to guarantee law and order.

Article V

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress, whenever two thirds of both Houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose Amendments to this Constitution, or, on the Application of the Legislatures of two thirds of the several States, shall call a Convention for proposing Amendments, which, in either Case, shall be valid to all Intents and Purposes, as Part of this Constitution, when ratified by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several States, or by Conventions in three fourths thereof, as the one or the other Mode of Ratification may be proposed by the Congress; Provided that no Amendment which may be made prior to the Year One thousand eight hundred and eight shall in any Manner affect the first and fourth Clauses in the Ninth Section of the first Article; and that no State, without its Consent, shall be deprived of its equal Suffrage in the Senate.

EXPLANATION: The Constitution may be amended in two ways. The standard device, used for all amendments so far, is for both houses of Congress to pass by two-thirds vote a proposal, which they send to the states for ratification, either by state legislatures or by conventions within the states. An amendment is ratified when three-fourths of the states approve. The Constitution also authorizes a national convention, when two-thirds of the states petition Congress for such a convention, to propose amendments, which would also have to be ratified by three-quarters of the states.

Article VI

ORIGINAL TEXT: All Debts contracted and Engagements entered into, before the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the United States under this Constitution, as under the Confederation.

EXPLANATION: The new federal government assumed the financial obligations of the old government under the Articles of Confederation.

ORIGINAL TEXT: This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution or Laws of any state to the Contrary notwithstanding.

EXPLANATION: The "supremacy clause" is the most important guarantor of national union. It assures that the Constitution and federal laws and treaties take precedence over state law and binds all judges to adhere to that principle in their courts.

State and federal officials, whether legislative, executive, or judicial, must take an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. No religious test, either an avowal or a repudiation of any religious belief, shall ever be required of any public officeholder in the United States.

The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.

Article VII

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same.

EXPLANATION: The Constitutional Convention met under the Government of the Articles of Confederation, which required unanimous assent of all 13 states to change any provisions of the Articles. Nevertheless, the Constitution mandated that the new government would go into effect when nine of the 13 states acted affirmatively.

Amendment I (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: 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.

EXPLANATION: The first ten amendments comprise the Bill of Rights. The first amendment protects religious freedom by prohibiting the establishment of an official or exclusive church or sect. Free speech and free press are protected, although they can be limited for reasons of defamation, obscenity, and certain forms of state censorship, especially during wartime. The freedom of assembly and petition also covers marching, picketing and pamphleteering.

Amendment II (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

EXPLANATION: Whether this provision protects the individual's right to own firearms or deals only with the collective right of the people to arm and maintain a militia was long debated until the Supreme Court ruled in 2008 that the amendment protected individuals’ right to possess firearms unconnected to any service in a militia.

Amendment III (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

EXPLANATION: This virtually obsolete provision was in response to anger over the British military practice of quartering soldiers in colonists' homes.

Amendment IV (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

EXPLANATION: Applying to arrests and to searches of persons, homes, and other private places, this amendment requires a warrant, thereby placing a neutral magis-

Amendment V (1791) trate between the police and the citizen.

ORIGINAL TEXT: No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

EXPLANATION: Indictment by a grand jury requires the decision of ordinary citizens to place one in danger of conviction. Double jeopardy means that when one has been convicted or acquitted, the government cannot place that person on trial again. The self-incrimination clause means that the prosecution must establish guilt by independent evidence and not by extorting a confession from the suspect, although voluntary confessions are not precluded. Due process of the law requires the government to observe proper and traditional methods in depriving one of an important right. Finally, when the government seizes property to use in the public interest, it must pay the owner fair value.

Amendment VI (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.

EXPLANATION: Defendants in criminal cases are entitled to public trials that follow relatively soon after initiation of the charges. Witnesses must be brought to the trial to testify before the defendant, judge, and jury. Defendants are also entitled to compel witnesses on their behalf to appear and testify.

Amendment VII (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

EXPLANATION: Mistrustful of judges, the people insisted on the right to jury trial in civil cases. The minimum level, $20, is so low today that it would burden the federal judiciary, so various devices have been developed to permit alternative resolution of disputes.

Amendment VIII (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

EXPLANATION: Neither bail nor punishment for a crime are to be unreasonably severe. The "cruel and unusual punishments" clause has been the basis for challenges to the death penalty.

Amendment IX (1791)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

EXPLANATION: Failure of the Constitution to mention a specific right does not mean that the government can abridge that right, but its protection has to be found elsewhere.

Amendment X (1791)

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OPINIONS I

QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

EMAIL OPINIONS TO: AUBREYRTAYLOR@GMAIL.COM PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS!

Please call one of these licensed Attorneys if you have a legal question, issue or concern!

Benjamin Lewis Hall P: (713)942-9600 Bar Card Number: 08743745 TX License Date: 05/008/1987 Farrah Martinez P: (713)853-9296 Bar Card Number: 24044396 TX License Date: 11/04/2005 Ivy V. Ricketts P: (713)666-7098 Bar Card Number: 16882350 TX License Date: 11/07/1986 Melvin Houston P: (713)212-0600 Bar Card Number: 00793987 TX License Date: 11/03/1995

WHAT FREEDOM MEANS TO ME...

RONALD C. GREEN WAS THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN ELECTED CITY CONTROLLER IN HOUSTON’S HISTORY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

“

by Former City Controller Ronald C. Green

On the most essential level, freedom is the intrinsic right to choose for yourself what you will do with your life. Within the confines of a society’s laws, an individual is free to pursue a chosen livelihood and personal pleasures such as marriage and volunteerism in the community. Freedom brings certain responsibilities, I think, such as participation in the affairs of one’s community, and it also may involve the duty to protect the freedom we are given through service to our country. One needs only to imagine living in a country or society where freedom is denied to realize what a hardship that would be. I am also mindful of the past, and the struggles that millions of Americans faced in gaining true freedom in our land, the cost they paid.

James Goodwille Pierre P: (832)224-6539 Bar Card Number: 24001608 TX License Date: 04/04/2002

Keryl L. Burgess Douglas P: (713)819-9945 Bar Card Number: 24060880 TX License Date: 11/07/2008 Joyce A. Raynor P: (713)988-5533 Bar Card Number: 00789572 TX License Date: 05/06/1994 Richard Tomlinson P: (713)652-0077 Bar Card Number: 20123500 TX License Date: 11/12/1979 Ron Harris P: (832)971-6900 Bar Card Number: 24036732 TX License Date: 11/06/2002 Shawn N. Thierry P: (713)988-1904 Bar Card Number: 00797545 TX License Date: 11/01/1996 Levi James Benton P: (713)521-1717 Bar Card Number: 00783638 TX License Date: 11/06/1992

“

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Constitution of the United States

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ORIGINAL TEXT: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

EXPLANATION: The federal government is the recipient of constitutionally delegated powers. What is not delegated remains in the states or in the people.

Amendment XI (1795/1798)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by Citizens of another State, or by Citizens or Subjects of any Foreign State.

EXPLANATION: When the Supreme Court held in the 1793 case Chisholm v. Georgia that a state could be sued in federal court under Article III of the Constitution, this amendment was rapidly adopted by both houses of Congress. It provided that states could only be sued in state courts. Ratification was completed on February 7, 1795, when the Amendment gained approval of threefourths of the States. Official announcement of ratification came on January 8, 1798.

Amendment XII (1804)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Electors shall meet in their respective states and vote by ballot for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an inhabitant of the same state with themselves; they shall name in their ballots the person voted for as President, and in distinct ballots the person voted for as Vice-President, and they shall make distinct lists of all persons voted for as President, and of all persons voted for as Vice-President, and of the number of votes for each, which lists they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate;—The President of the Senate shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the certificates and the votes shall then be counted;— The person having the greatest Number of votes for President, shall be the President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed; and if no person have such majority, then from the persons having the highest numbers not exceeding three on the list of those voted for as President, the House of Representatives shall choose immediately, by ballot, the President. But in choosing the President, the votes shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having one vote; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two-thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to a choice. And if the House of Representatives shall not choose a President whenever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the fourth day of March next following, then the Vice-President shall act as President, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of the President—The person having the greatest number of votes as Vice-President, shall be the Vice-President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed, and if no person have a majority, then from the two highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall choose the Vice-President; a quorum for the purpose shall consist of two-thirds of the whole number of Senators, and a majority of the whole number shall be necessary to a choice. But no person constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the United States.

EXPLANATION: After the disputed election of 1800, this amendment required separate designation of presidential and vice presidential candidates, each of whom must meet the same qualifications for eligibility as the president.

Amendment XIII (1865)

Section 1. Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.

Section 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation did not apply to slavery in the states that had not seceded. To abolish slavery entirely, Congress proposed this amendment, which also gave Congress

specific authority to enforce the amendment by legislation.

Under these provisions, Congress has legislated against slavery-like conditions, such as peonage.

Amendment XIV (1868)

Section 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.

No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Section 2. Representatives shall be apportioned among the several States according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not taxed. But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of electors for President and Vice President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twentyone years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State.

Section 3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

Section 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned.

But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.

Section 5. The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.

EXPLANATION: In the Dred Scott decision of 1857, the Supreme Court had said that African-Americans were not citizens. This amendment declared that every person born or naturalized in the U.S. was a citizen. The amendment's "due process" clause has had enormous constitutional importance, since the Supreme Court has used it to apply most of the Bill of Rights to the states. The amendment also establishes that all citizens are entitled to "equal protection of the laws," the provision which the Supreme Court cited in Brown v. Board of Education in 1954, ruling school segregation unconstitutional.

Amendment XV (1870)

Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: This amendment was designed to protect the right of African-Americans to vote and has served as the foundation for such legislation as the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Amendment XVI (1913)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.

EXPLANATION: In 1895 the Supreme Court had declared a federal income tax law unconstitutional. This amendment reversed that decision and authorized a tax on income.

Amendment XVII (1913)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, elected by the people thereof, for six years; and each Senator shall have one vote. The electors in each State shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the State legislatures.

When vacancies happen in the representation of any State in the Senate, the executive authority of such State shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies: Provided, That the legislature of any State may empower the executive thereof to make temporary appointments until the people fill the vacancies by election as the legislature may direct.

This amendment shall not be so construed as to affect the election or term of any Senator chosen before it becomes valid as part of the Constitution.

EXPLANATION: The original system of having state legislatures elect U.S. senators began to break down with the growth of political parties in the mid-19th century. Disagreements between and within parties produced deadlocks that delayed state legislative business and left states without their full Senate representation, often for lengthy periods. This amendment provides for senators to be elected the way members of the House are—by direct election of the people.

Amendment XVIII (1919)

Section 1. After one year from the ratification of this article the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors within, the importation thereof into, or the exportation thereof from the United States and all territory subject to the jurisdiction thereof for beverage purposes is hereby prohibited.

Section 2. The Congress and the several States shall have concurrent power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Section 3. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.

EXPLANATION: The "noble experiment" of Prohibition was instituted by this amendment, only to be repealed 14 years later by the 21st amendment.

Amendment XIX (1920)

ORIGINAL TEXT: The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: The Constitution has never prohibited women from voting and for many years before the adoption of this amendment women did vote in several states. The 19th amendment established a uniform rule for all states to follow in guaranteeing women this right.

Amendment XX (1933)

Section 1. The terms of the President and Vice President shall end at noon on the 20th day of January, and the terms of Senators and Representatives at noon on the 3d day of January, of the years in which such terms would have ended if this article had not been ratified; and the terms of their successors shall then begin.

Section 2. The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such meeting shall begin at noon on the 3d day of January, unless they shall by law appoint a different day.

Section 3. If, at the time fixed for the beginning of the term of the President, the President elect shall have died,

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OPINIONS I

WHAT WHAT FREEDOM FREEDOM QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, EVENT INFO, AND CONCERNS TO: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com

R

MEANS TO ME...

AMONA 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.”

ATTORNEY RAMONA FRANKLIN - A FEW OF HER PRACTICE AREAS ARE: BUSINESS, CRIMINAL, FAMILY, and PERSONAL INJURY.

J

MEANS TO ME...

UDGE DAN HINDE: “Freedom means opportunity—the opportunity to succeed, to chase your dreams, to find your calling and answer it, to live, to learn, and to grow, unencumbered by the shackles of class. It means we have the opportunity to rise to any height—President, Governor, CEO, star athlete, celebrity, community leader—regardless of your starting point in life. But freedom also means the opportunity to err and to fall short.

Essentially, freedom gives us the opportunity to be Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena”—to strive valiantly, to do great deeds, and, yes, to fail.

But to borrow again from Roosevelt, freedom means that we have the opportunity to fail while daring greatly, that we are not consigned forever to the fate of those “cold and timid souls” who know neither success nor failure.

But as is often said, freedom is not free. We enjoy such great opportunity because of the hard work, dedication, blood, and sacrifice of so many men and women who preceded us, giving, as Lincoln said, the last full measure of devotion, so that we—their heirs—might enjoy the freedom they earned. In turn, we owe it to our children to pass on this freedom so that they may enjoy the opportunity to dare greatly and reach for their dreams as well.”

JUDGE DAN HINDE CURRENTLY SERVES AS JUDGE FOR THE 269TH CIVIL DISTRICT COURT IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “PLEASE SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US, AND OUR COMMUNITY

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Constitution of the United States

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER I 957 NASA PARKWAY #251 I HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058 I PHONE: (832)212-8735 CONTINUED FROM - P.30 the Vice President elect shall become President. If a President shall not have been chosen before the time fixed for the beginning of his term, or if the President elect shall have failed to qualify, then the Vice President elect shall act as President until a President shall have qualified; and the Congress may by law provide for the case wherein neither a President elect nor a Vice President elect shall have qualified, declaring who shall then act as President, or the manner in which one who is to act shall be selected, and such person shall act accordingly until a President or Vice President shall have qualified.

Section 4. The Congress may by law provide for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the House of Representatives may choose a President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them, and for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the Senate may choose a Vice President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them.

Section 5. Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article.

Section 6. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission.

EXPLANATION: This so-called "Lame-Duck" amendment reduced the previous four-month period between the November elections and the March 4 starting date of congressional and presidential terms. This ended the custom, when both terms expired on the same day, that required outgoing presidents to sit outside the Senate chamber waiting to sign last-minute legislation. Also, under this amendment, if a presidential election were thrown into the House of Representatives following a deadlock in the January 6 counting of electoral ballots, that decision would be made by a newly elected House rather than one set to go out of existence on March 4.

Amendment XXI (1933)

Section 1. The eighteenth article of amendment to the Constitution of the United States is hereby repealed.

Section 2. The transportation or importation into any State, Territory, or possession of the United States for delivery or use therein of intoxicating liquors, in violation of the laws thereof, is hereby prohibited.

Section 3. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by conventions in the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.

EXPLANATION: In repealing Prohibition, this was the only amendment that the states ratified by conventions rather than by legislatures.

Amendment XXII (1951)

Section 1. No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once. But this Article shall not apply to any person holding the office of President, when this

Article was proposed by the Congress, and shall not prevent any person who may be holding the office of President, or acting as President, during the term within which this Article becomes operative from holding the office of President or acting as President during the remainder of such term.

Section 2. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission to the States by the Congress.

EXPLANATION: George Washington established the custom of presidents serving no longer than two terms. Following Franklin D. Roosevelt's election to third and fourth terms, this amendment set a future limit at two terms.

Amendment XXIII (1961)

Section 1. The District constituting the seat of Government of the United States shall appoint in such manner as the Congress may direct: A number of electors of President and Vice President equal to the whole number of Senators and Representatives in Congress to which the District would be entitled if it were a State, but in no event more than the least populous State; they shall be in addition to those appointed by the States, but they shall be considered, for the purposes of the election of President and Vice President, to be electors appointed by a State; and they shall meet in the District and perform such duties as provided by the twelfth article of amendment.

Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: In authorizing the creation of a federal district as seat of government, the Framers made no provision for the suffrage rights of persons who resided there. This amendment for the first time, effective with the 1964 election, gave District of Columbia residents the opportunity to vote for three presidential electors.

Amendment XXIV (1964)

Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.

Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: The poll tax was the last surviving instance of a property qualification for the suffrage, and it was in effect, at the time of the adoption of this amendment, in only five States. The amendment was offered as a removal of another obstacle to the right to vote.

Amendment XXV (1967)

Section 1. In case of the removal of the President from office or of his death or resignation, the Vice President shall become President.

Section 2. Whenever there is a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, the President shall nominate a Vice President who shall take office upon confirmation by a majority vote of both Houses of Congress.

Section 3. Whenever the President transmits to the Presi-

dent pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, and until he transmits to them a written declaration to the contrary, such powers and duties shall be discharged by the Vice President as Acting President.

Section 4. Whenever the Vice President and a majority of either the principal officers of the executive departments or of such other body as Congress may by law provide, transmit to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives their written declaration that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, the Vice President shall immediately assume the powers and duties of the office as Acting President.

Thereafter, when the President transmits to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that no inability exists, he shall resume the powers and duties of his office unless the Vice President and a majority of either the principal officers of the executive department or of such other body as Congress may by law provide, transmit within four days to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives their written declaration that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office. Thereupon Congress shall decide the issue, assembling within fortyeight hours for that purpose if not in session. If the Congress, within twenty-one days after receipt of the latter written declaration, or, if Congress is not in session, within twenty-one days after Congress is required to assemble, determines by two-thirds vote of both Houses that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, the Vice President shall continue to discharge the same as Acting President; otherwise, the President shall resume the powers and duties of his office.

EXPLANATION: This amendment clarifies the Constitution's previously ambiguous language about presidential succession, explicitly confirming the long-standing custom that when a president dies in office the vice president becomes president, rather than acts as president.

If the vice presidency becomes vacant, the president may nominate a new vice president, subject to the confirmation of both the House and Senate. The amendment also provides procedures for replacing a president who becomes incapacitated.

Amendment XXVI (1971)

Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age.

Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

EXPLANATION: During the Vietnam War, this amendment lowered the voting age in federal and state elections to 18, the same age at which young men could be drafted for military service.

Amendment XXVII (1992)

ORIGINAL TEXT: No law varying the compensation for the services of the Senators and Representatives shall take effect, until an election of Representatives shall have intervened.

EXPLANATION: More than two hundred years after it was proposed as part of the original Bill of Rights, this amendment prohibited members of Congress from receiving an increase in salary until after the next election had

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “PLEASE SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US, AND OUR COMMUNITY

Real World, Real Talk With Dr. D. Z. Cofield

Airs Sunday Nights, 6PM (CST) 32 n HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER - www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

OPINIONS I

WHAT WHAT FREEDOM FREEDOM QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

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MEANS TO ME...

USTICE 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.”

JUSTICE JEFF BROWN CURRENTLY SERVES AS A JUDGE ON THE TEXAS SUPREME COURT FOR PLACE, 6 IN TEXAS. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

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MEANS TO ME...

OUNTY 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 CURRENTLY SERVES AS THE COUNTY TREASURER FOR HARRIS COUNTY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “PLEASE SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US, AND OUR COMMUNITY

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OPINIONS I

WHAT WHAT FREEDOM FREEDOM QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

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MEANS TO ME...

UDGE BERT RICHARDSON: I was raised in a military family and understand firsthand the sacrifices that others have made so as citizens of this State and 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 CURRENTLY SERVES AS JUDGE FOR THE TEXAS COURT OF APPEALS FOR PLACE 3. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

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MEANS TO ME...

UDGE JEFF SHADWICK: Freedom is the right and power to act, but really freedom comes with a duty and responsibility to self and others. Freedom must be exercised and fought for by each generation to prevent a loss of freedom and slide into tyranny.

JUDGE JEFF SHADWICK CURRENTLY SERVES AS JUDGE FOR THE 55TH DISTRICT COURT IN HARRIS COUNTY. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “PLEASE SUPPORT PEOPLE WHO VALUE US, AND OUR COMMUNITY

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

OPINIONS I

WHAT WHAT FREEDOM FREEDOM QUESTIONS BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR

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MEANS TO ME...

OMPTROLLER 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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MEANS TO ME...

TTORNEY FARRAH MARTINEZ: “Freedom is living without restraint or hindrance from others. It is the right we have in this great country to make choices for ourselves and for our family. Freedom reminds me of the sacrificial work that other people do to keep me free; freedom keeps me humble and allows me to appreciate the immeasurable gift that is invaluable and it reminds me of how expensive of a gift it truly is. Freedom reminds me to cherish life and not to take this life we have here in American for granted. Freedom reminds me that to whom much is given much is required. Freedom reminds me to go out every single day and give it my best because it came at immeasurable price.”

ATTORNEY FARRAH MARTINEZ: At Farrah Martinez PLLC, we

are dedicated to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve through experienced, aggressive and smart representation.

My Personal Guarantee

I guarantee effective and aggressive representation for you and your loved ones. My experience, dedication and aggressive representation will get you the results you deserve. I provide injury and accident representation in Houston and throughout Texas. I do not get paid, unless you win.

You do not pay any out of pocket personal injury lawyer fees .

GLENN HEGAR CURRENTLY SERVES AS THE TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS. HE WAS ASKED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR TO SHARE HIS OPINION ON FREEDOM.

I treat you with respect. Whether your injuries are small or you lost a loved one, we go to bat against the insurance companies with vigor and determination. It is not wrong to ask for the money you deserve for your injury.

Before you try to handle the claim on your own, call me. I can help.

Contact Farrah Martinez Personal Injury & Accident Lawyer -- Injury and Accident Representation at (713) 853-9296.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 35

1001 Texas Avenue, Suite 1400 Houston, Texas 77002

(713) 853-9296

PRACTICE AREAS:

› Construction Accidents › Insurance Bad Faith › Medical Malpractice

› Motor Vehicle Accidents › Personal Injury

› Products Liability › Slip & Fall

› Workers’ Compensation & Personal Injury

Don't wait another minute. Set up an appointment for a free consultation today. Call (713) 853-9296.

Personal Injury Attorney

At Farrah Martinez PLLC, we are dedicated to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve through experienced, aggressive and smart representation.

Farrah understands that when you or a loved one are injured in an accident, that you want your case handled by a lawyer that understands justice matters. She has that small town personality that people genuinely like, matched with vigor, tenacity and dedication to achieve big city results. Farrah will fight to get you the results you deserve. Personal Injury Consultations are Free.

My Personal Guarantee

I guarantee effective and aggressive representation for you and your loved ones. My experience, dedication and aggressive representation will get you the results you deserve. I provide injury and accident representation in Houston and throughout Texas. I do not get paid, unless you win. You do not pay any out of pocket personal injury lawyer fees .

I treat you with respect. Whether your injuries are small or you lost a loved one, we go to bat against the insurance companies with vigor and determination. It is not wrong to ask for the money you deserve for your injury. Before you try to handle the claim on your own, call me. I can help.

Contact Farrah Martinez Personal Injury & Accident Lawyer -- Injury and Accident Representation at (713) 853-9296.

www.injurylawyerHOU.com

Explanation of the New Voting Rules in Texas HELPFUL VOTING INFORMATION

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Dear Friends,

less, they are also acceptable.

I want to thank my former The new rules also allow: colleague, now Congressman Marc Veasey, valid voter registration certificate; certified birth certificate; for being the lead plaintiff current utility bill; in this case. I’m proud bank statement; that all the work we did — government check; paycheck; and any other government battling in the courts and document that displays your name and an talking with the Departaddress as proof of who you are. ment of Justice — has fiWhen using that method of proof you nally paid off. Now, every must also complete and sign a reasonable voter can vote by showimpediment declaration. This form will be ing their voter registration provided to you if you shall need it at the card or one of many other polling location.

Additionally, the reasonableness of documents as proof of your impediment to obtaining the previwho they are. ously required ID shall not be questioned

Explanation of the New Voting Rules in Texas

To ensure you can vote this November, you need to make sure you are registered.

If you have voted in the past, and still live in the same location and have not changed your name, you are most likely already registered to vote. But, if you are unsure whether or not you are registered, you can visit: www.harrisvotes.com If you are not yet registered to vote or need to make a change, you can fill out the voter registration form online by visiting www.harrisvotes.com. However, after filling out the form, you will need to print it out and mail it to the address on the form (address varies based on your location).

When you go to vote, you will need a document that verifies who you are. Any of the previous allowable IDs are still good. Additionally, under the new rules, if any of those IDs have been expired for four (4) years or

by election officials.

Polling locations are subject to change each election, and I promise to send you polling location information when it comes time to vote. But, as a reminder during the early voting process, you can vote at any location in the county that you are registered to vote in. This is why I highly encourage you when the time comes to vote — to vote early.

In addition to having more flexibility in location, early voting is available on the weekend and, the lines are also usually shorter.

Please forward this message on to your friends and family in Texas so they too can know and understand the new voting rules in Texas.

As always, feel free to contact my office at (512) 463-0720 regarding the voting process.

In service I remain,

State Rep. Senfronia Thompson Texas House District 141 www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 37

Eric William Carter is the Right Choice for Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1, on Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Eric William Carter, a native Houstonian, graduated from Strake Jesuit. He earned a B.A. in Political Science from The University of Texas and completed U.T.’s Business Foundations Program.

Eric received his Juris Doctorate from the South Texas College of Law.

Public and Private Sector Legal Experience

While in college, he served as Legislative Aide to a former Texas State Representative and clerked for the House Committee on General Investigating and Ethics.

Eric is currently a named partner of The Carter Law Firm. He began his legal career by jointly managing a docket of 4000+ cases and trying hundreds of Medical Fee Dispute Resolution cases before the State Office of Administrative Hearings in Austin, Texas. He went on to build his litigation practice by assisting individuals, families and small

businesses manage various types of disputes.

His practice takes him to various courts including Justice Courts, State and Federal District Courts, and State Appellate Courts. Eric’s cases cover commercial and business litigation, fraud and negligence actions, contractual disputes, personal and business torts, federal SEC regulations, real estate transactions, landlord/tenant actions, and more. His experience includes representing both plaintiffs and defendants.

The cases he finds especially gratifying are his appointments as Guardian Ad Litem. Entrusted to act as an agent of the State District Courts, he is committed to work for the benefit of injured children in Harris County.

Focused on Community

Freemason and a member of the Arabia Shrine Temple, he remains dedicated to those who need help the most: injured children.

With his brother, District Judge Kyle Carter, he participates in a judicial outreach program called Judges at Work in Schools (JAWS), which is designed to bring the courtroom to the classroom and educate Houston’s youth about the judicial system.

Personal Life and Family

Eric is the youngest son to Eric G. Carter, a trial lawyer, and Rev. Dr. Suzan Orr Carter. His brother, Kyle Carter, currently presides over the 125th Civil District Court of Harris County, Texas.

Community service, for Eric, began at an early age. He worked with his parents, volunteering through his local church, to repair flood damaged homes. As a teenage member of the Amigos de las Américas -- a community health-promotion program serving Central and South America -- he travelled to La Maravilla, Costa Rica to work for two months. For his efforts, he received a Presidential Student Service Award from President Bill Clinton.

Eric continues to work for the Houston community.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Wesley Community Center, a center with the mission of "helping people help themselves and each other" in the Near Northside, Houston. As a

Eric is married to Dr. Lauren K. Shepard, a Board Certified Pediatrician from Sugar Land, Texas.

www.ericwilliamcarter.com

P o l i t i c a l A d v e r t i s i n g p a i d f o r b y t h e E r i c W i l l i a m C a r t e r C a m p a i g n , M e l a n i e C a r t e r, Tr e a s u r e r.

HELPFUL LEGAL INFORMATION

THE RIGHT AND WRONG WAYS TO FILM THE POLICE

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their reaction will be neutral or positive.

Many officers try to order people to stop recording or put their devices away. Stay cool and calm. This helps to defuse the situation rather than aggravate it, which decreases the chances of your stop going off the rails.

BY MARK THIESSEN

As a citizen of the United States, you have a constitutional right to take photographs and record video of anything that is plainly visible from a public space. This includes federal buildings, transportation buildings, and, perhaps most importantly, police and government officials.

Unfortunately, too many law enforcement officers wish this weren’t the case and try to stop people from recording them in public spaces. Sometimes officers go so far as harassing, detaining, or even arresting people using their cameras or phones to record them in public.

At Thiessen Law Firm, we believe firmly that it is important for individuals to know their rights. While police wear body armor to protect themselves from the public, the public needs to be able to protect themselves from police.

WHEN YOU CAN RECORD

During a traffic stop, your rights are intact so long as you are still in an outdoor, public space. In fact, it is in your best interest and benefit to record your interaction with the officer. Documenting the actions of law enforcement helps both you and your lawyer by providing you with a completely objective record of the stop. Taking video of your interaction preserves the truth and holds the police accountable for their actions.

STAY COOL

How police react to being recorded usually depends on the individuals involved and how common it is in the area.

The more common it is, the more likely

If an officer confronts you for recording their interaction with another person, you can simply respond with open-ended questions, such as, “What am I suspected of?” or “Am I being detained, or am I free to continue documenting?” Doing so is a great tool for disarming an officer. In particular, “Am I being detained?” gives the officer a choice between knowingly violating your rights or not interfering with your right to record.

QUICK TIPS TO REMEMBER

If you’re stopped or wish to record public police activity to preserve the facts, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind: On private property, the owner determines your right to record. If you disobey, they can order you off the property or have you arrested for trespassing.

Police do not have the right to prevent you from recording in public.

On top of that, they definitely do not have the right to seize your device or delete images or video.

Know your device. Be familiar with its functions and how to access them quickly.

Stay calm and polite. Never resist an officer physically. You do not want a charge for “assault” or “resisting arrest.”

The key takeaways here are that you have the right to film the police in a public space, and they do not have the right to stop you or delete your documentation. If you find yourself facing criminal charges, you don’t want to get lost in the legal system. Mark Thiessen and his team at Thiessen Law Firm are among the most aggressive criminal attorneys in Houston. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights. Whether you’re facing charges of DWI, possession, theft, or any other criminal charge, contact us today for a free consultation.

ABOUT MARK THIESSEN

Mark Thiessen was born and raised in Houston, Texas. His mother is still a practicing dentist in Houston and his father a local radiologist. Mr. Thiessen attended the Village School and St. Francis Episcopal Middle School before graduating from the Kinkaid School in 1996. While at the Kinkaid School, Mr. Thiessen won state in advanced acting and was captain of the tennis team. Mr. Thiessen then attended and graduated from Texas Chris-

tian University in 2000 with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Marketing.

While at TCU, Mr. Thiessen was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity and on the dean’s list.

He then came back home to Houston and continued his education at South Texas College of Law(STCL) in Houston.

While attending STCL, Mr. Thiessen was active in mock trial, various law societies and intramural football. He also studied International Criminal Law at the University of Malta during the Summer of 2001. Additionally, Mr. Thiessen studied abroad at the BPP Law School in London, England and at the University of Hawaii. Studying in these unique legal environments required Mr. Thiessen to adapt to various social, cultural, ethnic and economic groups, which is evident in his personality today.

After graduating from law school, Mr. Thiessen practiced civil law for three years in cases ranging from admiralty and maritime issues at Bell, Ryniker & Letourneau to toxic tort and personal injury claims at Brown Sims, P.C. He still maintains many close connections in the civil world. In January 2006, though, he followed his true calling to the criminal court room and became a skilled trial lawyer.

Trichter & Murphy, P.C., hired Mr. Thiessen as an associate in January 2006, where he worked for over five years.

There, he studied under one of the foremost legal authorities in Texas.

Although his practice includes all areas of criminal defense, Mr. Thiessen maintains an emphasis on DWI and drugs or controlled substances. The trial of a DWI case dictates that on any given date, a trial lawyer must be not only well-versed in Rules of Evidence, case law pertaining to DWIs and constitutional law, but also numerous areas of science such as anatomy, physiology, toxicology, chemistry, computer science, biology and physics. A DWI case is the most difficult legal case to try because of the quality of adverse political sentiments against alleged drunk drivers such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), much of the offense being videotaped and field sobriety tests that have become scientifically standardized. Also, many DWIs become more difficult when they are coupled with accidents that re-

quire accident reconstruction knowledge; injuries that occurred in accidents that require a working knowledge of anatomy, physiology and medicine; and chemical testing that requires breath, blood and urine. Clearly, for the skilled DWI trial lawyer, the defense of a citizen accused of DWI is intensely complex and requires a great deal of legal and scientific preparation. DWI defendants are unique in the criminal justice system and no greater opportunity exists for an innocent person to be convicted than with a DWI charge.

Mr. Thiessen prides himself in being an aggressive trial lawyer. If the district attorney will not bargain or justice will not be served by allowing the client to plead guilty, Mr. Thiessen will aggressively, passionately and professionally represent you in trial. He has a strong reputation as a trial lawyer and works hard to maintain that status. Mr. Thiessen is also the youngest criminal Super Lawyer in Texas for 2013.

Fearlessness in the courtroom is a byproduct of Mr. Thiessen’s normal routine. Outside the courtroom, he is an avid competitor in Brazilian jiu jitsu and muay thai. He is a member of BRAZIL-021 School of Jiu Jitsu and has won medals at the Atama Open, Abu Dabai Combat Club, Fight to Win, IBJJF Houston International Open and the Grappler’s Quest Tournament. He is also a member of Team Hoger Muay Thai and is a 2010 Warrior Dash finisher. Mr. Thiessen is also 2012 Color Runfinisher and two time 2013 Tough Mudder finisher.

If you have a case and want an attorney who does not back down, then you must call Mr. Thiessen at 713-864-9000.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 39

EVENTS I

WOMEN CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

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Mayor Sylvester Turner Addresses Sold-Out Crowd Hosted by the Women Contractors Association

DISTINGUISHED ELECTED OFFICIALS: State Rep. Ana Hernandez, State Rep. Mary Ann Perez, Mayor Sylvester Turner, WCA President Natalie Tobias, Mayor of Galena Park Esmeralda Moya and Houston City councilman Robert Gallegos. Photography Credit Quy Tran Photography

The Women Contractors Association (WCA) an organization committed to the advancement of women in the construction arena through education, support and networking recently featured Mayor Sylvester Turner as a keynote speaker to a sold-out and standing-room only crowd. The event held on Thursday, August 4th at Maggiano’s featured the Office of Business Opportunity (OBO) Director Carlecia Wright who introduced the Mayor.

Mayor Turner gave a stellar speech and emphasized the great working relationships between the OBO and the Women Contractors Association.

Specifically, the Office of Business Opportunity is committed to creating a competitive and diverse business environment in the City of Houston by promoting the growth and success of local small businesses, while working with or-

ganizations like WCA. The sold-out luncheon drew many VIPs including State Representative Ana Hernandez, State Representative Mary Ann Perez, Houston City Councilman Robert Gallegos, Galena Park Mayor Esmerelda Moya, METRO President and CEO Tom Lambert, Houston First Corporation Chairman David Minceberg and Political Analyst Jacquie Baly. *About WCA— The Women Contractors Association (WCA) was founded in 1996 in Houston, Texas. A small group of women joined together to ensure that the City of Houston and other Texas agencies did not eliminate women owned businesses from minority participation goals.

WCA has continued to support women in construction since its inception, through education, support and networking.

Mayor Sylvester Turner and President Natalie Tobias

Jacquie Baly and OBO Director Carlecia Wright

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

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

City Hall Annex

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

“Mike Knox Is Our Voice!”

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

Meet Mike Knox

Mike Knox is a native Houstonian. He married his high school sweetheart in 1977 and they have raised one son; who now serves the city as a Houston Police Officer.

Mike Knox obtained an Associate of Arts degree from the Houston Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston – Downtown while working as a Houston Police Officer.

Mike has a long history of honorable public service.

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

Mike authored a book entitled Gangsta in the House; Understanding Gang Culture, which was published in 1995. This book added to the knowledge base on gang culture and was recognized in 2001 by the National Gang Research Center who awarded it the prestigious “Thrasher” award.

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

Shortly after publishing his book in 1995, Mike began a consulting business

focused on helping law enforcement, schools districts, and communities understand and deal with street gangs and violent youthful offenders.

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

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

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

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

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WWW.MIKEKNOX.ORG

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

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EVENTS I

COMMUNITY EXCHANGE BREAKFAST

...MORE than a BREAKFAST

SEND YOUR NEWS, PRESS RELEASES, OPINIONS, THOUGHTS, EVENT INFO, AND CONCERNS TO: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com

CALL 713.292.3436 to RSVP!

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP EXCHANGE BREAKFAST THREE DECADES OF SERVICE

ABOUT CHARITY PRODUCTIONS

CHARLES X. WHITE Founder of Charity Productions

Charity Productions began in 1984 and received its tax exempt status (501c 3) 1988, our services are primarily delivered on an outreach format. Charity has maintained offices on the northeast side of Houston five years (Tidwell and Mesa Rd) as well as having offices for over twenty two years in the southeast area Scott, Reed Rd. and currently office at 8607 MLK for the past twelve years. Charity Productions is staffed by volunteers and uses contracted services when funded by contract or grant. Charity has service footprints with several major initiatives’ with the City of Houston Health Department and Municipal Courts, Harris County Emergency Management, Harris County Juvenile Probation, Red Cross (southeast and northeast branches), Beaumont and Port Arthur PDs and the Texas Youth Commission dating back to 1987.

Three decades of services and training services with clients such as: Dallas, Silsbee, Beaumont, Port Arthur, Galena Park, Texas City, Pasadena and Houston ISD’s (providing parent engagement, dropout prevention and gang intervention programs). Police Departments includes Beaumont, Port Arthur, City of Houston, University of Houston, Metro, Jefferson County and Houston Community College Police Academies (providing cultural diversity classes). Short term services were provided for City of Houston Municipal Courts pilot program (1993), (1991-1994, An Academy for Parents in Education) with Judges George Risner, (Galena Park, TX.), Molly Mannes (Pasadena, TX.), Paul Brown (Beaumont, TX.), Richard Scott (Austin, Tex.), and Patrick Doyle, (Galveston, TX). Charity Productions served as a Consultant Parent Engagement provider for HISD (1995200). Currently, Charity is under contract with the City of Houston Health Department and Tekoa Academy of Accelerated Studies STEM School, Port Arthur 2003-present.

OUTREACH AND CHANGE

Charity has hosted, broadcasted and convened cutting edge conferences, seminars, symposiums, and workshops related to social, educational, youth, civic, health, job readiness and law enforcement issues dating back to 1988/90 Urban Survival in the 21st Century 1988 – Urban Survival in the 21st Century Social Issues Conference 1990. From 1987 to 1991 Charity hosted seventy local and regional workshops on gang intervention community strategies, in conjunction with every federal law and local enforcement agency responsible for gang enforcement and education, including Galveston and Golden Triangle. In January 2001 (Houston Chronicle) Charity was commissioned by Mayor Lee Brown, to initiate a scientific special needs study that identified barriers for the special needs community as well as stakeholders with resources in during times of disasters. Charity Productions has participated in collaborations with University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, Houston Community College Central, University of Texas Health Science Center and Texas A&M and MDC/University of North Carolina with the Millennium Neighborhood Project and a FEMA funded project on coastal cities and vulnerable populations respectfully.

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

PLACE YOUR AD IN THIS SECTION FOR AS LITTLE AS $40 DOLLARS

AUBREYRTAYLOR.BLOGSPOT.COM

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3401 Corder Street, Houston, Texas 77021 Telephone:713.748.6024

DeAndre Sam, President/CEO, is the second generation owner of A-Rocket with over 25 years of moving business experience.

-----------------------------------------Email: arocket@arocket.com

Patriot Group Strategies is a premier political consulting firm located in Houston, Texas. We specialize in campaign strategy, radio and TV advertisement and direct mail. Our firm has a history of producing effective and hard hitting ads. For a sample of our work send us a message. Our firm has expertise in targeting minority voters throughout the country.

PatGroupStrategies@att.net PatriotGroupStrategies@consultant.com Justin R. Jordan, CEO & Founder Patriot Group Strategies 11115 Sagevalley Dr Houston, Texas 77089 713.256.5756 Houston 202.641.8502 Washington, D.C

Patriot Group Strategies 11115 Sagevalley Dr Houston, Texas 77089 PatGroupStrategies@att.net 713-256-5756 202-641-8502

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 43

PLACE YOUR AD IN THIS SECTION FOR AS LITTLE AS $40 DOLLARS

AUBREYRTAYLOR.BLOGSPOT.COM

CALL 832.212.8735 TO DISCUSS YOUR INCLUSION IN THIS SECTION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE

JOSHUA BULLARD “When winning, is the only option.”

Political Consulting Jury Consultant Government/ Contracts

832.258.7511 P.O. Box 667481 Houston, Tx 77266

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

WWW.FAIRANDIMPARTIALJUSTICE.COM "It is a tremendous honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve the families of Harris County as Judge of the 247th District Court.

Thank you for your support!" - Judge Schmude

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

John Schmude for Judge Campaign, In compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Valoree Swanson, Treasurer.

www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER n 45

“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.�- Proverbs 31:9

MEET JUDGE KYLE CARTER

Kyle Carter has served as judge of the 125th District Court since his election in 2008.

In his time on the bench Judge Carter has made it a rule that everyone who enters the 125th District Court is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

Judge Carter has been honored by his colleagues to serve as chair to the Civil Court Committee on Special Dockets, as well as the Civil Court Board of Judges.

Judge Carter has also conducted numerous speaking engagements across the State of Texas as well as to out of state audiences. Judge Carter has spoken to the State Bar of Texas, the American Association for Justice, as well as the Houston Trial Lawyers Association.

Most importantly, Judge Carter believes in community service and outreach, and actively participates in numerous charitable organizations. Judge Carter is most proud to work with students, and enjoys speaking at schools and educating youth on a host of different topics from government and civics to career opportunities.

Prior to taking the bench Judge Carter served as a trial lawyer with the Carter Law firm for over 8 years, working on cases with a variety of subject matters including commercial litigation, transactional law, corporate formalities and business development, securities litigation, personal injury and corporate compliance. Additionally, Judge Carter is honored to have served as general counsel to the Legislative Committee on General Investing and Ethics for two sessions, as well as the Legislative Committee on Urban Affairs.

Judge Carter, the son of a Methodist minister and a trial lawyer, is married to his lovely wife Melanie of 8 years, and they have 3 beautiful children together. Judge Carter is a native Houstonian and a graduate of Strake Jesuit, The University of Texas at Austin, and South Texas College of Law.

VOTE FOR KYLE

ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH EARLY VOTING WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 AND END ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016

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.