Version 1 -- 2017 Year-End Review Edition -- Houston Business Connections Magazine

When all Hope Was Seemingly Lost...

Gloria Sanderson of Pioneer Bank Showed Up for the Smith Family! - P.12

J.J. WATT ANNOUNCES PLAN FOR HURRICANE HARVEY RELIEF FUND “WE SURVIVED!!!”

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Our mission is to provide after-school opportunities for middle-school aged children in the community to become involved in athletics, so that they may learn the character traits of accountability, teamwork, leadership, work ethic, and perseverance, while in a safe and supervised environment with their peers.

Given the flood in Texas we are also committed to assisting Houston and surrounding communities.

Thank you to everyone who donated their time and money.

The generosity and humanity shown was remarkable and will go a long way.

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J.J. WATT ANNOUNCES PLAN FOR HURRICANE HARVEY RELIEF FUND

Plan to include rebuilding homes, restoring child-care centers, providing food and professional medical care for Houston and surrounding areas

On August 27, I set out with a goal of raising $200,000 for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. In the three weeks that followed thanks to the unprecedented support and generosity of over 200,000 donors from across the country and around the world we raised over $37 million.

With such incredible support like this comes tremendous responsibility. I have spent the greater part of the last month and a half doing my due diligence and meeting with and speaking to as many resources as possible. While I understand the total recovery from Hurricane Harvey could require upwards of $200 billion, and this $37 million will not be able to help every single person as I so badly wish it could, I have made it my mission to ensure this money makes as large of an impact as possible.

Throughout this decision-making process, what mattered to me most was ensuring that the entirety of the funds would be utilized here in Houston and the surrounding areas for those who were affected most by Hurricane Harvey. With that in mind, I went to work with nonprofit organizations who have boots on the ground here in Houston and the surrounding affected areas to put the best plan in place and I am very excited to share that with you today. $30.15 million of the funds will be distributed amongst four strategic partners – Americares, Feeding America, SBP and Save the Children – to be deployed over the course of the next 18-24 months.

These funds will be used to rebuild homes, restore child-care cen-

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ters, provide food and address health needs of those affected most

by Hurricane Harvey in Houston and the surrounding areas. The remaining $7 million will be set aside for distribution in 2018 as we continue to assess and analyze the evolving relief efforts.

I have said it many times over the course of the past few months, but it bears repeating again: the most difficult times seem to bring out the best in humanity. I cannot thank everyone enough for their support and donations from across the country and around the world. You have truly shown what is possible when everyone bands together for one common cause.

While we are going to do some truly incredible things with this $37 million to make it stretch as far as possible, it is only one small step in the massive recovery effort that lies ahead. I encourage you to please continue to find organizations to donate to, whether they be some of the ones listed below or others. Houston will bounce back from this and we will rise up stronger than ever.

Sincerely,

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BENEFITING AGENCIES AMERICARES

Purpose: Address the physical and mental health needs of disaster survivors and restore health services to the most vulnerable in Houston and the surrounding areas. Americares has longstanding relationships with 26 community clinics in and around Houston, with which they work to provide medicine, supplies and other assistance. The funds provided to Americares will be used for medicines, mental health services, mobile medical services and medical supplies.

Contact Information: Donna Porstner, dporstner@americares.org Vicky Markham, vmarkham@americares.org

FEEDING AMERICA

Purpose: Direct support for Feeding America member food banks serving Southeast Texas – the Houston Food Bank, Coastal Bend Food Bank (Corpus Christi), Food Bank of the Golden Crescent (Victoria) and Southeast Texas Food Bank (Beaumont). Combined, these food banks serve people in need in 48 counties affected by Hurricane Harvey. In addition to the direct support for these four highly-affected food banks, the funds will provide mobile food pantries to help increase food distribution to people in need and help rebuild food distribution programs and agencies across the region. With the fund’s support, the Feeding America network will be there every step of the way to provide food and hope to those who have lost so much.

Contact Information: Zuani Villarreal, zvillarreal@feedingamerica.org

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SBP

Purpose: Returning homeowners to their homes following a disaster. The funds donated to SBP will go directly towards the rebuilding of hundreds of homes in Houston and the surrounding areas.

SBP is the national leader in long-term disaster recovery serving low-to-moderate income residents with a particular focus on the most vulnerable members of the community, including families with small children, the elderly, physically-challenged persons, veterans and under or uninsured individuals. SBP will also help train and support other organizations in the area, such as Team Rubicon, to implement SBP’s model for effective and efficient rebuilding.

Contact Information: Harveyaid@sbpusa.org

SAVE THE CHILDREN

Purpose: Support child-care, early-education and after-school program service restoration. Early results from assessments on the 4,500 child-care programs in the affected areas show that an estimated 1,400 child-care and early-learning sites have been damaged or destroyed. Save the Children will use the donated funds to directly restore, rebuild and provide support for these child-care centers and other services that families depend on across Houston, Beaumont, Port Arthur and the many other areas affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Contact Information: Eileen Burke, eburke@savechildren.org Sara Neumann, sneumann@savechildren.org

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“POWER TO THE PEOPLE”

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VERSION

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

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR

Jim Crane, Owner of the Houston Astros has been named our “Sports Team Owner” of the Year for 2017. SEE PAGE - 84

I would like to take this moment to thank Jim Crane, and the entire Houston Astros organization for making Houston a “Championship City” once again!

I would also like to thank “Mattress Mack” for showing the world what it means to be a loving and compassionate neighbor during times like these.

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

State Rep. Shawn Thierry (HD-146) has been named our Democratic State Representative of the Year for 2017. SEE PAGE - 74

“HOUSTONIAN”

of the Year for 2017!

MATTRESS MACK Jim McIngvale

State Rep. Borris L. Miles (Senatorial District 13) has been named our Democratic State Senator of the Year for 2017. SEE PAGE - 68

...BUT GOD!!!

HBC Magazine© Would like to Congratulate Gloria Sanderson on Being Named our Good Samaritan of the Year for 2017

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…BUT GOD!!!

Art Smith dries the ink on a t-shirt he just printed at Super Bold Print Shop on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017, in Houston. The storefront T-shirt print shop's roof and walls were damaged in the floods in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. Their T-shirt drying machine left waterlogged and inoperable, heavily damaging their home and business. (Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle)

When all Hope Was Seemingly Lost…Gloria Sanderson of Pioneer Bank Showed Up! HBC MAGAZINE© REPORTS

We’re sure you’ve heard of the passage of scripture in James 2:14-17 which reads, “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food and one of you say to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” SEE PAGE - 14

Photo by: Kennedy Hall Phillis Wheatley High School Journalism Department/Photographer

YOU CAN HELP THE SMITH FAMILY TOO! Would you like to help Arthur J. Smith,Sr. and his wife Koffey in their recovery process in the aftermath of Harvey? If so, please call (832)258-5776 today!

And don’t forget to tell them that Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine© asked you to help them out! GOD BLESS YOU!

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When all Hope Was Seemingly Lost…

Gloria Sanderson of Pioneer Bank Showed Up! FAITH AT WORK

By now, most of you know that the struggle for Houstonians trying to recover in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey is still ongoing for many. Arthur J. Smith, Sr., his wife Darlene Koffey Smith, and their son, Arthur J. Smith, III are just one example of what families are going through as they struggle to keep the faith; hold out hope; and trust God. After putting thousands of dollars of their hard earned money into renovating their small building in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward, the pouring rains from Hurricane Harvey came along and threatened to put the Smith’s out of business for good. “The roof just wasn’t strong enough to hold up,” says Arthur J. Smith, Sr. as he discusses the challenges Super Bold City, a micro-factory for printing T-shirts faced following the storm. “Everything was just all messed up,” he says.

According to Smith, Hurricane Harvey’s relentless downpour of rain is what did the most damage to his building. “The rain, and after that, the moisture just took its toll and caused us to consider just throwing our hands up,” he says. “Everything we invested appeared to be lost forever.”

THE SBA SAID “NO”

After the storm was over Arthur J. Smith, Sr., and his wife Koffey began searching for help in all the usual places. They felt pretty confident that help would come by way of the (SBA) Small Business Administration. However, their hopes were quickly dashed when the SBA said, that they couldn’t help. “We filed for a $50,000 dollar SBA Loan, but was turned down,” he explains. “We thought all hope was lost after that…but a knock on the door changed it all.”

PIONEER BANK SAID “YES”

“Gloria Sanderson, the SVP,CRA/Fair Lending Officer is a perfect example of why it is vitally important for banks and other lending institutions to have caring people who value our community in positions of authority,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine©.

“From what I’ve been told, upon reading their story in the Houston Chronicle, titled: “Harvey abruptly changes economic fortunes, for better and worse” written by: Lydia DePillis and Collin Eaton back on Friday, September 29, 2017 – Gloria Sanderson felt compelled to act,” says Taylor. “She didn’t have to start calling around to try and find Art and Koffey. She could have just ignored their story (or waited for someone else to act) like most other people did,” explains Taylor. “But Gloria Sanderson isn’t that type of person – she truly cares about the community she’s dedicated to serving. It took some effort on her part, but she eventually found Arthur J. Smith and Koffey – and promised to help them!”

SANDERSON KEEPS PROMISE

Gloria Sanderson Bank: (281)632-1516 Cell: (281)222-7458

When everyone else said “NO” to Arthur J. Smith, Sr. and Koffey, the people at Pioneer Bank said “YES”. “On behalf of Houston Business Connections Magazine©, I want to personally thank Gloria Sanderson and Pioneer Bank for helping this fine, hardworking family by delivering $15,000.00 dollars by way of their “Small Business Recovery Grant Program” done in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas to help small businesses get back on their feet after Hurricane Harvey,” says Aubrey R. Taylor.

ART AND KOFFEY ARE TWO GRATEFUL PEOPLE

“On behalf of Super Bold City, Art, our son (Yung Giant) and myself (Koffey) we want to personally thank Pioneer Bank and Miss Gloria Sanderson for hearing our cry; noticing our need to be helped out financially, and taking action to help us reach our level of progress as a small business. We are working hard every day to continue to serve our under-served community/society after being affected by Hurricane Harvey ourselves. Miss Gloria Sanderson went above and beyond the call of duty. She went the extra mile for us, by traveling from Sugar Land, Texas to 5th Ward in search of helping us out. And to hear her say that she could not get the image of my husband Art printing that T-Shirt with a hole in the roof after seeing our story in the Houston Chronicle made us feel appreciative just to know that someone out there cared enough to help.”

GLORIA SANDERSON IS A TRUE PIONEER

“Pioneer Bank has a true gem in Gloria Sanderson,” says Aubrey R. Taylor. So, if your business has been negatively impacted by a natural disaster, such as Hurricane Harvey, Gloria Sanderson, the SVP, CRA/Fair Lending Officer is a great person to know. She can be reached directly at, (281)632-1516, or by cell at, (281)2227458. Her email address is, Gloria.sanderson@pioneer.bank if you have any questions. WAY TO GO GLORIA SANDERSON!

FIFTH WARD TEXAS Arthur J. Smith, Sr.

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

Darlene “Koffey” Smith

FROM TR ...TRIU “WE SURVIVED!!!”

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RAGEDY UMPH BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE©

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Photo credit: NOAA

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(DR-4332)

Texas Hurricane Harvey Incident Period: August 23, 2017 - September 15, 2017 Major Disaster Declaration declared on August 25, 2017

Individual Assistance Applications Approved: 349,413

Total Individual & Households Program Dollars Approved: $1,378,586,599.86

Total Public Assistance Grants Dollars Obligated: $481,047,765.48

Designated Counties (Individual Assistance):

Aransas, Austin, Bastrop, Bee, Brazoria, Caldwell, Calhoun, Chambers, Colorado, DeWitt, Fayette, Fort Bend, Galveston, Goliad, Gonzales, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Karnes, Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Newton, Nueces, Orange, Polk, Refugio, Sabine, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Tyler, Victoria, Walker, Waller, Wharton

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What to do After a Major Storm Like Hurricane Harvey

Returning home after a flood can be the most trying time. There is a lot to be aware of when getting back into your home, to ensure you are mitigating all potential issues. You can use the resources on this page to help you get back to normal.

Contact your insurance agent to file a claim. Your insurance agent can walk you through your options. Make sure to photograph the flood damage for documentation purposes.

What's the quickest way to apply for federal assistance? Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or VRS) or 800-462-7585 (TTY). Due to high demand, lines may be busy. Please be patient, and try calling in the morning or evening when call volume may be lower. To get help in person, find a Disaster Recovery Center near you with the DRC locator.

If asked, please complete and submit your SBA loan application. SBA offers low-interest, longterm disaster loans to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), private non-profits (such as churches and charities), homeowners, and renters.

If declined, applicants may be referred back to FEMA, possibly for Other Needs Assistance (ONA), which includes personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

FEMA may award certain grants that cover specific needs—such as childcare or medical and dental expenses caused by the disaster—that do not require you to apply for an SBA loan to be eligible.

If you cannot return to your damaged home due to long-standing floodwaters, you may be eligible for one month of expedited rental assistance from FEMA. You may also qualify for Critical Needs Assistance, a one-time payment to a displaced household to cover urgent disaster-related needs—such as food, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, gas for transportation and medical supplies.

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View from FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Virginia Task Force Two (VA-TF2) searching neigborhoods inside Houston for survivors after flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey.

Photo by FEMA News Photo - Aug 31, 2017

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www.disasterassistance.gov

Member of FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Nebraska Task Force One (NE-TF1) wades through waist high water removing survivors from a neighborhood impacted by flooding from Hurricane Harvey.

Photo by FEMA News Photo - Aug 30, 2017

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Members of FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Nebraska Task Force One (NE-TF1) go door to door in a neighborhood impacted by flooding from Hurricane Harvey.

Photo by FEMA News Photo - Aug 30, 2017

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Members of FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Nebraska Task Force One (NE-TF1) perform one of many water rescues in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

Photo by FEMA News Photo - Aug 30, 2017

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Members of FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Nebraska Task Force One (NE-TF1) comb a neighborhood for survivors impacted by flooding from Hurricane Harvey.

Photo by FEMA News Photo - Aug 31, 2017

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Please continue to give: www.breadoflifeinc.org

BEYONCÉ CARES ABOUT HOUSTON

Houston Business Connections Magazine© would like to thank Beyoncé and her entire BeyGOOD TEAM for their ongoing efforts to assist Houstonians in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. The BeyGOOD TEAM had boots on the ground helping Houstonians with the rebuilding process. In case you don’t know, a few of the things the BeyGOOD TEAM assisted with included: identifying families in need placed in shelters, finding them temporary housing solutions, and partnering with local organizations to replace their losses.

Please continue to give: www.breadoflifeinc.org

SPREAD THE WORD

Financial information for Bread of Life, Inc., and the Greater Houston Community Foundation is available by contacting each organization directly at: Bread of Life, Inc. 2019 Crawford Street Houston, TX 77002 Phone: (713) 659-3237

The Greater Houston Community Foundation 5120 Woodway Dr., Suite 6000 Houston,TX 77056 Phone: (713) 333-2200

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

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

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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

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

City Hall Annex

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

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

“Mike Knox Is Our Voice at Houston City Hall.”

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

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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 POL. AD PAID FOR BY MIKE KNOX CAMPAIGN

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

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

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

“Our Voice at Houston City Hall.”

POL. AD PAID FOR BY MIKE KNOX CAMPAIGN

‌BUT GOD!!!

Ramona Franklin currently serves as presiding judge of the 338th District Criminal Court in Harris County, Texas

Please excuse me Facebook friends as I reflect, praise and honor God publicly. A year ago today God allowed me to be elected and be given a new name...JUDGE RAMONA FRANKLIN. There are some people who know of my testimony to the bench. My last three years before winning the bench were the HARDEST year's for me financially. As a result of me running for a previous bench in Harris County in 2014, I was permanently removed from receiving work as a court appointed attorney. This was devastating to my finances...BUT GOD!!! My part-time job as an adjunct was very dismal and my law practice was slow...BUT GOD. I look back now and know that GOD was the only one sustaining me. People would say..."You are everywhere on the campaign trail." Little did they know I barely had enough gas in may car to make it home sometimes...BUT GOD!!!! Thank GOD for my loving parents, family and friends (prayer partners) who prayed for me and encouraged me when I wanted to give up and yes at times gave me money. For me becoming Judge of the 338th Criminal District Court means so much more to me....I have experienced GOD'S AMAZING GRACE first hand. I have experienced GOD take my 2 loaves and 5 fish and exponentially feed me BLESSINGS!!!

Despite many people telling me I could/would not win because I didn't have any money nor could I raise any money for my campaign, I used what I had. I never doubted what GOD could do!!!!

I thank GOD for my time of pruning, although it was very hard at times, my FAITH has grown even more. #Shebelievedshecouldsoshedid #ExcedlingAbundantlyAboveAll #TheRocksWillNotCryOutForMe #Grateful #MyTestimony #IDidntLookLikeWhatIWasGoingThrough

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Houston Business Connections Magazine© Would like to Congratulate State Senator Borris L. Miles on Being Named our Democratic State Senator of the Year for 2017

State Senator Borris L. Miles – Senatorial District 13

Hurricane Harvey Relief Supply Distribution 2017 Senator Borris L. Miles: District 13 Hometown: Houston Party: Democrat

A lifelong resident of Houston, Senator Borris L. Miles was elected to the Texas Senate in 2016 after serving four terms in the Texas House of Representatives. Miles is a successful businessman and developer, owning one of the largest insurance agencies

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in Texas and redeveloping two commercial blocks.

A fighter for the people, Miles was first elected to the House in 2006 and became a leading progressive voice. His legislative initiatives included increased funding for HIV testing, giving second chances to individuals by making it easier to seal their juvenile records, creating an ombudsman office for the juvenile justice department, and creating economic development opportunity districts in his community.

For his work, Miles’ recognitions included being named “Star of the Legislative Session” by the Texas Classroom Teachers Association, “Champion of Women’s Health” by Planned Parenthood and an “Urban Agriculture Leader” by the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.

Active in his community, Miles conceived the Hip Hop 4 HIV concert series, which was adopted by the CDC, and has given his time to organizations like the Urban League and the Houston Sickle Cell Association. Miles’ non-profit, the TexStars Foundation, has awarded more than 100 scholarships to pay for the college education of African-American men.

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Capitol Address The Honorable Borris L. Miles P.O. Box 12068 Capitol Station Austin, TX 78711 (512) 463-0113 (TEL)

District Address The Honorable Borris L. Miles 5302 Almeda, Suite A Houston, TX 77004 (713) 665-8322 (TEL)

District Address The Honorable Borris L. Miles 2440 Texas Parkway, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77489 (281) 261-2360 (TEL)

State Senator Borris L. Miles – Senatorial District 13

Hurricane Harvey Relief

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Supply Distribution 2017

State Senator Borris L. Miles – Senatorial District 13

Hurricane Harvey Relief

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Supply Distribution 2017

Houston Business Connections Magazine© Would like to Congratulate State Rep. Shawn Thierry on Being Named our Democratic State Representative of the Year

HEROES 4 HARVEY “HOPE FLOATS AFTER HARVEY”

Houston Business Connections Magazine© would like to thank State Representative Shawn Thierry for truly caring about the people she was elected to serve. Her Heroes 4 Harvey-- “HOPE FLOATS AFTER HARVEY” event was a tremendous success. In case you don’t know, State Rep. Shawn Thierry took an unfinished retail space and transformed it into:"Thierry's Threads & More Store". This store was exclusively stocked with items for families impacted by the Hurricane Harvey flooding. According to her team, each family received $1,000 bonus bucks to spend on items of their choice. At the end of the event, they were able to leave with brand new and consignment apparel, shoes, jackets, lingerie, cabinets of health & hygiene supplies, towels, sheets, pillows, diapers toys, car seats, and much more! Some of those who attended participated in complimentary makeovers, shoe shines, and were provided with volunteers/personal shoppers to assist them with building new wardrobes. Each family also left with a $250 VISA gift card. Families in attendance enjoyed a catered barbecue lunch, face painting for kids, and were offered resources and information on FEMA assistance. “THANKS to our “GO FUND ME DONORS” who helped make this possible! It was such a blessing to be a blessing to others!,” says State Rep. Thierry.

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SHAWN THIERRY -HD-146-

SHAWN THIERRY -HD-146Houston Business Connections Magazine® Would like to Congratulate State Rep. Shawn Thierry on Being Named our Democratic State Representative of the Year for 2017

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State Representative Shawn Thierry represents House District 146, a district that covers numerous communities in the Southeast and Southwest parts of greater Houston.

Representative Thierry is a native Houstonian as well as a life-long resident of House District 146. Ms. Thierry spent her early childhood in the South Park community. She is the proud product of the public education system as she attended Patt Neff Elementary in the Sharpstown community. Her family subsequently relocated to the Fondren Southwest neighborhood (also in HD146) where she attended Welch Middle School and graduated from Westbury Senior High School. Ms. Thierry was admitted to Howard University in Washington, DC and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Management and a minor in Business Administration. She went on to receive her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the renowned Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in 1996. She has practiced law at the law firms of Jackson Walker, LLP and Wickliff & Hall, PC. Ms. Thierry is presently the proud solo practitioner of her own law firm, Law Offices of Shawn Thierry.

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Shawn takes pride in her upbringing and comes from a very close-knit and hardworking family. She currently resides in the Northfield community of HD 146 with her daughter, Klaire Bijou. She enjoys cooking, reading, and most of all, giving encouragement to others who need support. Ms. Thierry deeply believes in giving back to her community and has volunteered and served on the boards of various professional, civic and charitable organizations. Shawn has been a member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church for thirty-five years.

From representing the rights of injured victims, employees, to assisting children and families needing legal recourse, Ms. Thierry is a strong advocate for protecting the interest of the underserved. Shawn possesses a stellar body of professional and community work and is known for her sharp negotiating skills.

Shawn cites that her personal life creed from the quote of Erma Bombeck, "When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and I could say, 'I used everything that you gave me.'"

Attorney Thierry looks forward to shaping good public policy on behalf of her constituents and being a formidable legislator in the great state of Texas.

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*Fantastic News!*

“I am so pleased to be named one of the top 12 members of the House of Representatives to receive an A+ score from the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, one of Texas' strongest environmental organizations.

It is an honor to receive this recognition for my dedication and perseverance to critical environmental issues. I will continue to fight for clean air and water for our communities, to protect our natural resources, wildlife, and continue to advocate for environmentally sound transportation and energy alternatives. Thank you for the A+ grade!�

Shawn Thierry

State Representative Shawn Thierry represents House District 146, a district that covers numerous communities in the Southeast and Southwest parts of greater Houston.

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Houston Business Connections Magazine© Would like to “Thank” the Good Folks at Suit Mart for Helping State Representative Shawn Thierry to help her Constituents in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey

STATE REPRESENTATIVE SHAWN THIERRY: “We participated in a great event with the incredible owners of Suit Mart, Reverend James Nash, the NBRPA Retired Players Association, & Council Member Mr. Michael Kubosh.

Suit Mart opened their doors for hours to allow families to come in and shop for free as part of their ongoing efforts to help Houston recover from Hurricane Harvey. My dad even came with “MY TEAM” to meet some of his basketball legends. It was another great day in District 146!”

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Houston Business Connections Magazine © Would Like to take this moment to Congratulate Jim Crane, Owner of the Houston Astros on Being Named Our 2017 Business Owner of the Year

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Jim Crane Owner and Chairman

On Nov. 17, 2011, when Major League Baseball unanimously approved the purchase of the Houston Astros by a group headed by Houston businessman Jim Crane, a new era of Astros baseball began.

As the new Owner and Chairman, Jim Crane hit the ground running upon taking control of the Astros by immediately putting his plan to rebuild the franchise into place. As a highly successful businessman in Houston and former standout college pitcher, Jim has the credentials to make the Astros a winning team both on and off the field.

From the start, Jim has been clear about his goals: to make the Astros a ballclub that can have sustained success at the Major League level by building a top-notch farm system, and to provide Astros fans with an outstanding experience at Minute Maid Park.

As a Houstonian, Jim shares the same passion for the Astros as their fans and is dedicated to bringing those fans the World Series championship they deserve.

The Astros have also supported several of MLB's diversity initiatives under Jim's leadership. In May of 2014, the Astros hosted MLB's eighth annual Civil Rights Game and ancillary activities, a series of events developed by MLB to pay tribute to

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those who fought for equal rights for all Americans both on and off the field.

The Astros also hosted the 2013 Diversity Summit, MLB's sports employment and business opportunity career and trade fair, as well as the 2012 and 2013 Urban Invitational, a nationallytelevised collegiate baseball tournament designed to give HBCUs and their baseball programs national exposure. Houston also hosted the 2013 Breakthrough Series, a collegiate and professional scouting showcase featuring a diverse group of some of the top high school players in the country.

The Early Years

Jim hails from St. Louis, MO, where he became a loyal, spirited fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. As a teenager, he caddied for members of the Cardinals team at local golf clubs and parked cars for patrons at Cardinals games. Jim was impressed by the caring, family atmosphere on the Cardinals team and the team's close ties with the local community. He has carried these values forward throughout his life in business, philanthropic and personal relationships.

Passion for the Game As a young man, Jim put his innate passion for baseball into action at Central Missouri State University (now the University of Central Missouri), where he was a standout pitcher for the Mules from 1973-76 under the late, revered coach, Robert Tompkins. He had a four-year record of

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21-8 with an earned-run average of 2.42, and ranks first in career complete games (23), first in career shutouts (7) and third in career strikeouts (215). Jim still holds the Mules' single-game strikeout record with 18, and in 1997, was inducted into the Central Missouri State University Athletic Hall of Fame.

Jim was the primary underwriter of a $1.2-million renovation in 1998 of the old Mules' Field on the University of Central Missouri campus. On January 21, 1998, the facility was renamed the James R. Crane Stadium/Robert N. Tompkins Field in honor of Jim and his beloved coach. Jim continues to contribute to the college annually to provide athletic scholarships for Mules baseball. At the annual NCAA convention in San Diego in January of 2014, Jim served as a keynote speaker and was also honored as a member of the NCAA 40th Anniversary Tribute Team for Division II athletes.

Jim earned a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial safety from Central Missouri State University in 1976. This led to a losscontrol job evaluating commercial risks for an insurance company and then a move to Houston in 1982, where he entered the freight forwarding business.

Success in the Business World

In March of 1984, at the age of 30 and with $10,000 borrowed from his sister, Jim founded Eagle USA Airfreight (EGL, Inc.). In his first office located in Houston with a sole employee, Jim handled the loading and trucking himself. The company made money in its first month, and Jim ultimately built it into an organization of more than 10,000 employees with 400-plus facilities in 139 countries.

EGL was named one of Houston's "Best Places to Work," and reached #599 on the Fortune 1000 list during Jim's tenure. Jim has been the recipient of a long list of awards and honors for his entrepreneurial activities and business successes. The company was acquired in an LBO transaction in August 2007.

In August of 2008, Crane formed Crane Worldwide Logistics (CWL), a premier global provider of customized transportation and logistics services. CWL continues to grow rapidly with

experienced members of Crane's management team and sales force at the helm.

Jim is the owner of Champion Energy Services, which ranks in the top five nonutility-affiliated retail electric providers in the United States and among the top 20 retail electricity companies in the nation and is also CEO and President of Crane Capital Group, Inc. Jim's love of baseball is unabated, and he has added the game of golf to his athletic endeavors. He acquired the Floridian, a private golf resort in Palm City, Florida in 2010.

Giving Back

As Astros Owner and Chairman, Jim has embraced the opportunity to give back to the City of Houston and beyond. One of his first initiatives was the creation of the Astros Community Leaders program, which is a collaboration between the Houston Astros, Houston-based corporations, the City of Houston, Mayor Annise Parker and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department. This ambitious endeavor will contribute approximately $18 million to the city over a five year period to refurbish youth baseball and softball fields in disadvantaged neighborhoods throughout the city. Additional features include player and coaching clinics, complimentary tickets to Astros home games, equipment and special visits from Astros players and front office personnel. As of early 2015, 18 different fields have opened at Diez, Sunnyside, Moody, Ingrando, Melrose, Hidalgo and Denver Harbor Parks as part of the Community Leaders program.

Jim personally developed the Community Leaders program, which offers corporations the opportunity to partner with the Astros and the Astros Foundation to become part of a team that will improve several city neighborhoods through the game of baseball.

"Baseball was very important to my own development," said Jim. "Playing baseball made me a lot more confident and comfortable in my ability to achieve things. I'd like to be able to help more kids get the opportunities I had through baseball."

Free Summer Baseball & Softball Camps

- ALL CAMPS HELD AT ASTROS YOUTH ACADEMY -

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

In case you don’t know, the Astros Youth Academy hosted free summer baseball and softball camps for boys and girls ages 7-17 earlier this year. Camps ran from June 5-July 14. All camps were free and were individual, week-long sessions. The camps were held at the Youth Academy and were strictly baseball/softball instructional activities. Kids who atteded the camps had to be interested in one of the two sports.

For more information about the next camps, please contact the Astros Youth Academy office at 281-260-9166 or email uya@astros.com.

Coming to Houston on January 19, 2018

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

The Astros Foundation Fundraising Events

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

The Astros Foundation Mission

Harnessing the passion of baseball fans to enrich our community.

The Astros Foundation Mission Statement

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

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Seven-time Grammy winner,

Ms. Gladys Knight -The Empress of Soul

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www.galleryfurniture.com

Brenham Living Room Group

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

Mattress Mack Says

Order today before 10PM and Gallery Furniture will deliver to your home TODAY. Anywhere in the Greater Houston area!

We have a broad range of financing available for all types of credit.

Unparalleled, Same Day Delivery Across Houston

Not only does Gallery Furniture deliver your furniture TODAY throughout the Houston area, satisfaction surveys tell us we offer the best furniture delivery experience in town.

Your furniture will be unwrapped, placed where you want it, and all packing material removed. Need another piece moved too? No problem!

We'll even haul away your old furniture.

Gallery Furniture now offers nationwide, white-glove delivery on select items. No matter where you are, every Gallery Furniture delivery is handled with the same level of attention and care.

Community Focus

Gallery Furniture is more than just a furniture store. We are proud members of the community with a 33-year tradition of supporting the city of Houston.

For more than 20 years, Gallery Furniture has given away house-fulls of furniture to families in need during our Christmas giveaway.

Gallery Furniture has supported education through Teacher's Lounge Makeovers, and recently gave away $5000 Teacher's Lounge Makeovers to twenty schools throughout the Houston area.

Gallery Furniture supports the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, the Peace of Mind Foundation and other charitable efforts throughout the year.

Houston Business Connections Magazine © Would Like to take this moment to Congratulate Mattress Mack on Being Named Our “Houstonian” of the Year

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Our “Houstonian” of the Year for 2017

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HBC MAGAZINE© REPORTS

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

North Freeway Location 6006 North Freeway Houston, TX 77076 281-810-9746

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

MATTRESS MACK CAME TO THE RESCUE OF HARVEY EVACUEES

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

Jim McIngvale doesn’t have to be told or asked to step-up-to-theplate for Houstonians in need. When Hurricane Harvey’s floodwaters turned parts of Houston into a bayou, Mattress Mack opened two of his furniture stores as temporary shelters to help evacuees.

It’s clear that Mattress Mack understands the true meaning of Luke 12:48 which states: “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” -- KJV

MATTESS MACK CARES ABOUT HOUSTON In an effort to help rebuild Texas in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Gallery Furniture and Mattress Mack will be donating a house full of brand new furniture to an affected family every week starting October 8th through Christmas 2017.

If you know a family who has been impacted by Hurricane Harvey and the related flooding, please fill out the following form to nominate them as recipient, or send an email to volunteer@galleryfurniture.com, explaining their situation.

Additionally, if you or someone you know are in need of free house clean up in relation to Hurricane Harvey, please visit

www.galleryfurniture.com/rebuild-tx to sign up for assistance.

Thank you and God bless.

www.galleryfurniture.com/free-furniture-for-harvey

LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

THRIVING SMALL BUSINESS, EMPOWERED WORKERS, HEALTH CARE FOR ALL

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

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

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

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DR. LETITIA PLUMMER VALUES US...

“SPECIAL MESSAGE” - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE©

LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

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

I quickly learned that managing a small business is one of the toughest things you can do — and I was hooked.

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

Being self-employed has helped me develop a well-rounded perspective on the challenges faced by middle income families today.

I am confronted by the flaws in our health care system not only in my work, but in my family. On a personal level, I’m a single mother with three sons, and I’ve found it difficult to find affordable, adequate coverage through the private plans available to small employers like me.

My mother is a cancer survivor who suffers from several chronic conditions that saddle her with high out-of-pocket medical expenses not adequately covered by Medicare. My father continues to work to maintain supplemental insurance to cover the gap, unable to retire and enjoy his golden years.

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LETITIA PLUMMER FOR UNITED STATES CONGRESS 2018

I am confronted by the flaws in our health care system not only in my work, but in my family.

As a business owner, I consider it my personal responsibility to ensure my employees receive a living wage; that I’m able to provide them with retirement packages and good health care plans that meet their families’ needs. It’s something I’ve struggled with from the very beginning, and rising costs have only made it worse. This is the kind of pressure that discourages people from starting their own business today, leaving many Americans dependent on market whims and bottom lines from a handful of multinational corporations that dominate every industry.

The heart of the American dream is the ability to control your own destiny. We need legislation that empowers people to innovate and forge new paths. That’s why we need a system like Medicare for All that provides universal health care benefits to everyone, and takes that pressure off of small businesses.

If I didn’t have to provide health insurance for myself or my employees, I could afford to hire more staff or expand my practice to serve more patients.

The heart of the American dream is the ability to control your own destiny. We need legislation that empowers people to innovate and forge new paths.

I know I’ve been lucky. I chose a great career, and I was born at a time when a middle class girl fresh out of college could launch a company, then build up a business to be able to overcome the inevitable bumps in the road. The opportunities available to young people or people trying to change careers today are not the same as those I or my parents had.

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

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

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

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

I’ve watched middle class and working families like ours get squeezed from every side by a political process that’s left their lives hanging in the balance.

It’s time to restore the promise of the future. As your representative in TX-22, and together with my fellow BNC candidates, we will overcome the obstacles of our broken political process and make Congress work for real people again.

DR. LETITIA PLUMMER VALUES US...

“SPECIAL MESSAGE” - HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE©

This is not a paid Political Advertisement. This promotional space is being published as an example of how our “MULTI-PAGE” branding promotionals will look inside our “2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT EDITION” of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. Call (832)212-8735 for more information.

Or feel free to call Aubrey R. Taylor, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine© directly at (281)788-3033 to discuss your inclusion.

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DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

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

www.jamescargas.com

It’s not about left or right, it’s about right or wrong.

DEAR HBC MAGAZINE READERS:

I’m running for US Congress in Texas’ 7th District because we deserve representation that reflects our values.

Houstonians want Congress to expand access to health care, stand up to discrimination, invest in science and research, and build an economy that gives all hardworking Americans the opportunity to succeed.

The stakes have never been higher, and we need someone who is ready to do the job from day one. I worked on Capitol Hill before the Tea Party, Culberson and Trump corrupted it. Now, I’m running for Congress to stand up to Trump when he ignores the Constitution and to ensure that the promise of America belongs to all of us.

I hope you’ll join me.

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

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS IN THE TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

Astros Manager & Coaches

#14 A.J. Hinch

#26 Manager

Alex Cora

#39 Bench Coach

Dave Hudgens

#56 Hitting Coach

Brent Strom

#8

Pitching Coach

Gary Pettis

#48

Third Base Coach

“MY MISSION�

Get more African American youth interested in playing the game of baseball in America.

Assist urban communities with identifying people who value us locally and nationally.

Help business, political, civic, ministry and community leaders with their outreach to urban communities.

Rich Dauer

#52

First Base Coach

Craig Bjornson

#55 Bullpen Coach

Alonzo Powell

#85

Assistant Hitting Coach

Javier Bracamonte

#96

Bullpen Catcher

Carlos Munoz Bullpen Catcher

MEET “OUR” HOUSTON ASTROS State Representative Shawn Thierry and Astros Pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.

Astros Roster & Staff Pitchers #

#47

#53 #44

#36

#60

#46 #43 #31

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Chris Devenski

R/R 6'3" 210lbs

11/13/90

Ken Giles

R/R 6'2" 205lbs

9/20/90

Luke Gregerson

L/R 6'3" 205lbs

5/14/84

Will Harris

R/R 6'4" 250lbs

8/28/84

Dallas Keuchel

L/L 6'3" 205lbs

1/1/88

Francisco Liriano

L/L 6'2" 225lbs

10/26/83

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

10/2/93

Collin McHugh

6/19/87

R/R 6'2" 190lbs

SALUTE TO THE “2017 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS”

#50

#59 #41

#35

Charlie Morton

R/R 6'5" 235lbs

11/12/83

Joe Musgrove

R/R 6'5" 265lbs

12/4/92

Brad Peacock

R/R 6'1" 210lbs

2/2/88

Justin Verlander

R/R 6'5" 225lbs

2/20/83

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Juan Centeno

L/R 5'9" 195lbs

11/16/89

Evan Gattis

R/R 6'4" 270lbs

8/18/86

Brian McCann

L/R 6'3" 225lbs

2/20/84

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Catchers #

#30 #11

#16

Designated Hitter #

#15

Name

Carlos Beltran

S/R 6'1" 215lbs

4/24/77

Infield #

#27 #2

#1

#10

Name

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Jose Altuve

R/R 5'6" 165lbs

5/6/90

Alex Bregman

R/R 6'0" 180lbs

3/30/94

Carlos Correa

R/R 6'4" 215lbs

9/22/94

Yuli Gurriel

R/R 6'0" 190lbs

6/9/84

B/T Ht Wt

DOB

Derek Fisher

L/R 6'3" 205lbs

8/21/93

Marwin Gonzalez

S/R 6'1" 205lbs

3/14/89

Cameron Maybin

R/R 6'3" 215lbs

4/4/87

Josh Reddick

L/R 6'2" 195lbs

2/19/87

Outfield #

#21 #9 #3

#22

Name

George Springer # Name

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

FRONT OFFICE STAFF

#4

R/R 6'3" 215lbs

Position

9/19/89

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

Rep. Thierry Gives Special Salute to Houston Astros!

"Only two months after Hurricane Harvey devastated our city and state, the Houston Astros have proven that patience, passion, and perseverance always pay off." - State RepresentativeShawn Thierry

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

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

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

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

Mayor Allen Owen has been a lifelong Houston Astros fan.

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

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

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“On a personal note - I have resumed breathing! Yeah Baby! ASTROS #Earnedit!”

-- Councilman Mike Knox is the Houston City Councilmember for At-Large Position #1.

Councilman Mike Knox is “Our Voice at Houston City Hall”.

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

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

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

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REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

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

“POWER TO THE PEOPLE” Aubrey R. Taylor’s

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“PEOPLE WHO VALUE US!”

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE®

“2017 YEAR-END REVIEW EDITION PREVIEW” -- CALL (832)212-8735 FOR MORE INFO

Judge Loyd Wright Wendy Bould Wright

Governor Greg Abbott

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS IN THE TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

A “ P U B L I C S E R VA N T ” W H O VA L U E S O U R V O T E

FREEDOM...AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.

INTEGRITYFEXPERIENCEFDILIGENCE

LOYD WRIGHT

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

JUDGE HARRIS COUNTY PROBATE COURT #1

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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

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

Dear HBC Magazine© Readers After months of speaking with many neighbors and members of the community, I am honored to announce my decision to enter the Democratic Primary race for Texas House, District 27.

After months of analyzing the state of my community, I learned that our community is starved for real leadership. Families in our community deserve a community with robust economic development and an advocate for all the unique challenges they face. I am running to be a fierce advocate and to do what's right for my entire community, not only a select few.

"Doing What's Right!"

Our campaign is about including all of our neighbors in the district and addressing the issues that are important to you and not a select few.

Fighting for you and your concerns is the only thing that matters!

For the past 12 years, Wilvin Carter has demonstrated a personal commitment to public service throughout Fort Bend County, Texas.

Mr. Carter earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Berea College and a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University. After law school, Mr. Carter served as an Assistant Attorney General with the Texas Office of Attorney General in its Law Enforcement Defense Division. While working with the Office of Attorney General, Mr. Carter cultivated his affinity for fighting for individuals within the courtroom. As a result, Mr. Carter accepted a position as an Assistant District Attorney with the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, where he fought to protect victims and their safety against those that committed criminal acts within the Fort Bend County community.

In 2007, Mr. Carter entered private practice as a solo practitioner. He is the founder and owner of The Law Offices of Wilvin J. Carter P.C., where he protects individuals’ legal interests in the

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areas of criminal defense and civil litigation. As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Carter has successfully and favorably disposed of hundreds of cases on behalf of his clients through pre-trial settlements and jury trials. As a civil plaintiff’s attorney, Mr. Carter prosecutes matters involving personal injury, breach of contract, and premise liability on behalf of individuals who are victims of individuals’ negligent or wrongful actions.

In addition to serving as a zealous advocate for his clients, Mr. Carter has worked to advance the legal community by training future lawyers and promoting professionalism within the Fort Bend County community. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston Clear Lake where he teaches Criminal Law to both undergraduate and graduate students. He is also active in a number of legal associations. He is the current President of the Fort Bend Criminal Bar Association; the Criminal Justice Chair for the NAACP of Missouri City and Vicinity Branch; an active member of the Fort Bend Bar Association, the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the State Bar of Texas and the United States Federal Courts.

Mr. Carter regularly volunteers within the larger Missouri CitySugar Land community in the father’s auxiliary of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., 100 Black Men of America, Inc., and the Greater Houston Black Chamber.

Mr. Carter is married to his lovely wife Tameika Carter, and they have two wonderful kids. The Carters are members of the Fort Bend Church, where Mr. Carter teaches Sunday school lessons as a member of the Children’s Ministry.

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I am running for the position of Texas State Representative HD27 for the following reasons:

“I have successfully advocated for my clients in courtrooms throughout Texas for over 10 years and now I want to successfully advocate on behalf of my neighbors in the areas of criminal justice reform, education, mental health issues, improved economics, environmental segregation, and other issues that are important to you!” -- ATTORNEY WILVIN CARTER

www.cartertxstaterep.com This is not a paid Political Advertisement. This promotional space is being published as an example of how our “MULTI-PAGE” branding promotionals will look inside our “2017 HISTORICAL DOCUMENT EDITION” of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. Call (832)212-8735 for more information.

Or feel free to call Aubrey R. Taylor, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine© directly at (281)788-3033 to discuss your inclusion.

ATTORNEY SANDRA J. PEAKE is a Democrat who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Democratic Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

ATTORNEY MELANIE FLOWERS is a conservative who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

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REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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

John Schmude Judge 247th District Court

A “ P U B L I C S E R VA N T ” W H O VA L U E S O U R V O T E

www.fairandimpartialJustice.com

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

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

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

MIDTERM ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

JUDGE WESLEY WARD is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. He will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

FORMER JUDGE ALYSSA LEMKUIL is a conservative who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

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BUTTS

JUDGE CHRISTINE RIDDLE

HARRIS COUNTY PROBATE JUDGE COURT NO. 4

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

Christine

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

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS IN THE TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

ELECTION DAY - TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

A “ P U B L I C S E R VA N T ” W H O VA L U E S O U R V O T E

Experience ~ Integrity ~ Dedication

JUDGE KATHERINE CABANISS is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

JUDGE LINDA STOREY is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

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A “ P U B L I C S E R VA N T ” W H O VA L U E S O U R V O T E

RENEE MAGEE

FAIR I HONEST I HARD-WORKING

TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

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

I bring strong conservative principles and many years of experience to the bench. I am asking for your support again in 2018.”

Terry Lowry

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

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

Endorsement Steven F. Hotze, M.D.

CEO, Conservative Republicans of Texas Publisher, CRTXNEWS

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

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

RECOMMENDED BY A“SELECT” NON-PARTISAN GROUP OF HBC MAGAZINE© READERS IN THE TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

Gary Polland

Editor-in-chief, Texas Conservative Review

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

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

JUDGE RORY OLSEN is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. He will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

JUDGE THERESA CHANG is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. She will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

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JUDGE JAY KARAHAN is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. He will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

JUDGE BRENT GAMBLE is a conservative judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. He will be on the ballot in the 2018 Republican Primary in Harris County. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 and end on Friday, March 2, 2018. Election Day voting will take place on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Lone Star State. *ABOVE AD DESIGN PUBLISHED AS AN EXAMPLE ONLY!

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JUDGE ELAINE PALMER is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Elaine Palmer will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Palmer gains the Democratic nomination she will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

JUDGE KYLE CARTER is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Kyle Carter will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Carter gains the Democratic nomination he will then (presumably) run for reelection in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

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*COURT MOVED DUE TO HURRICANE HARVEY

JUDGE KELLI JOHNSON is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Kelli Johnson will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Johnson gains the Democratic nomination she will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

*COURT MOVED DUE TO HURRICANE HARVEY

JUDGE MARIA T. JACKSON is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Maria T. Jackson will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Jackson gains the Democratic nomination she will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

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JUDGE LARRY WEIMAN is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Larry Weiman will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Weiman gains the Democratic nomination he will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

JUDGE MIKE ENGELHART is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support.The next time Judge Mike Engelhart will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Engelhart gains the Democratic nomination he will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

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JUDGE MICHAEL GOMEZ is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Michael Gomez will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Gomez gains the Democratic nomination he will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

*COURT MOVED DUE TO HURRICANE HARVEY

JUDGE RAMONA FRANKLIN is a Democratic judge who values “OUR” vote, prayers and support. The next time Judge Ramona Franklin will be on the ballot is on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Democratic Primary. If Judge Franklin gains the Democratic nomination she will then (presumably) run for re-election in the Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. *Straight-Ticket voting “WILL NOT” be allowed in TX in 2020.

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WAY TO GO ASTROS!

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

#HistoryEarned #WorldSeriesChamps.”

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

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

Meet the Honorable Jacquie Baly

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

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

She also lectured on public policy and urban politics at the University of Houston for over 8 years.

www.balyprojects.com