A 2013 LEADERSHIP SERIES THOUGHT FROM AUBREY: "As Americans openly share their thoughts on the recent "NOT GUILTY" verdict in the case of George Zimmerman; Aubrey R. Taylor Communications, the publisher of Your Thought Matters Newspaper thought it would be a good idea to share thoughts from local and national leaders on this matter. Every thought matters and has value to us, so to this end, the thoughts shared are being solicited from leaders with varying viewpoints on the verdict. The thoughts we receive and publish as part of our "2013 LEADERSHIP SERIES" will be shared below and published inside Your Thought Matters Newspaper. And as always, you are urged and strongly encouraged to become an active participant in the process of choosing the leaders who govern over us. Finally, please peruse this page as a tool to assist you in the process of making a more informed voting decision in the 2013 City of Houston Mayoral Election to be held in Houston, Texas on Tuesday, November 5, 2013."
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| PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA |
Statement from U.S. President Barack Obama on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"The death of Trayvon Martin was a tragedy. Not just for his family, or for any one community, but for America. I know this case has elicited strong passions. And in the wake of the verdict, I know those passions may be running even higher. But we are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken. I now ask every American to respect the call for calm reflection from two parents who lost their young son. And as we do, we should ask ourselves if we’re doing all we can to widen the circle of compassion and understanding in our own communities. We should ask ourselves if we’re doing all we can to stem the tide of gun violence that claims too many lives across this country on a daily basis. We should ask ourselves, as individuals and as a society, how we can prevent future tragedies like this. As citizens, that’s a job for all of us. That’s the way to honor Trayvon Martin."
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Judiciary and Homeland Security Committee, released the following statement today:
“Today was a questionable day as it relates to the life of a young child. America’s justice system is often viewed as coddling and protecting our children, the most vulnerable members of our society. As someone who has devoted much of my public life to advocating for the protection of children, whether from gun violence, bullying at school and in cyberspace, drugs, and unhealthy foodstuffs, I am dismayed that the Florida judicial system did not recognize and value the life of young Trayvon Martin. Trayvon’s family and friends missed him on the day he was killed and they still miss him today. They are right to wonder why others seemed to attach so little value to his life.
“The federal government stands to serve justice in cases where there is much doubt as to whether justice was done by the local authorities. I expect to join with others in discussions with the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the killing of Trayvon Martin, who was but 16 years and 21 days old when he was shot to death. I am also calling for the Congress to hold oversight hearings regarding the treatment of the killing of a juvenile in the circumstances that occurred in Sanford, Florida as well as the manner in which the criminal justice system treats victims of gun violence, especially young black male victims like Trayvon Martin.
“Many mothers tonight are praying, as I am, hopeful that things remain calm but also hoping that justice for young Trayvon Martin will be pursued.
“To the the young people who have grown to see Trayvon Martin as themselves, we encourage you to continue to invest in improving your nation, working with people of all backgrounds who feel as you do – disappointed – but will join with you in the fight for justice.
“We are all Trayvon.”
Congresswoman Corrine Brown (5th Congressional District of Florida) expresses how she's Extremely Disappointed by Verdict in Trayvon Martin Case
(Washington, DC) With regard to the verdict in the Trayvon Martin case, Congresswoman Corrine Brown made the following statement:
"I am heartbroken and angered by the verdict in this decision. My prayers go out to the Martin family in their grief as they are faced to live with a justice system that has failed them, a system that did not exact even minimal punishment on the man who killed their 17 year old son.
This is a blatant example of our justice system being entirely broken. Along with the NAACP and other civil rights groups, I pledge to fight for the removal of Stand Your Ground laws here in Florida and across the nation, and do everything within my power as a Member of Congress to put an end to racial profiling. Last year, an innocent young man was killed in Sanford, Florida while returning from a 7-11 grocery store, and the perpetrator was not even convicted of a crime...clearly, there is something very wrong with a system of justice that legally sanctions such a heinous act.
Two cases involving Stand Your Ground laws in my congressional district highlight the hypocrisy and disparities in this law's interpretation. In this case, in Sanford, a white man shot a black teenager, Trayvon Martin, and the justice system ruled it was an act of self defense under Stand Your Ground. In Jacksonville, Marissa Alexander, a young black mother fired a warning shot because she feared another possible attack by her abusive husband, yet she was not allowed a stand your ground defense during her trial. If ever there were a case where Stand Your Ground should apply, it would have been that of Marissa Alexander.
As Martin Luther King said, ‘The Arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’ However, it is not going to bend until everyone gets involved and becomes active in the fight for equality and equal protection under the law. We have made progress, but still have a long way to go.”
“Only two people know exactly what happened that night, and one of them can no longer speak. What we do know is that Trayvon Martin’s parents had to bury their son because George Zimmerman saw an unarmed, black teenager and viewed him as a threat. We also know that Zimmerman’s actions – the killing arising out of suspicion, unjustified fear, and stalking of an unarmed teenager – are apparently protected by Florida’s “self-defense” laws, including the infamous “Stand Your Ground” provision.“
A study conducted by Texas A&M University found that enacting Stand Your Ground laws result in more homicides. A further study conducted by the Urban Institute and PBS show a racial bias in Stand Your Ground laws: whites who kill blacks in Stand Your Ground states are 354% more likely to be found justified in their killing than those who killed another white person.
Rep. Coleman continued:
“Unfortunately, as of 2007, Texas is also a Stand Your Ground state. I was one of only 14 Representatives to vote against the law, and it was because I understand how it makes a target out of people of color, particularly young males like Trayvon Martin. His death was tragic but unfortunately quite predictable.
That is why I am fighting to change the law back to the more reasonable standard we had prior to 2007. My bill filed this past session, House Bill 3773, would reinstate the “duty to retreat” in most situations while preserving the right to defend oneself and one’s family. There would be no requirement to retreat if an individual is in his or her own home or if the deadly force were used to stop the commission of a serious crime. The 2007 law just went too far. My bill would balance the right to self-defense with public safety. We can have reasonable self-defense laws that do not also authorize armed and untrained individuals to seek out conflicts and then fire their gun when the situation deteriorates. We have a trained police force for a reason; we do not need people “playing cop.” As long as these laws are on the books, I’m afraid there will be more Trayvon Martins.”
Statement from State Rep. Sylvester Turner (HD-139 in Texas) on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"The parents of Trayvon Martin have every right to question why their son who was not doing anything wrong while walking home was shot and killed. When approached by an armed man whom he did not know, did Trayvon have the responsibility of running away or did this teenager have the right to defend himself against this adult aggressor? How did the victim (Trayvon) become the villain in the eyes of the law? Does an adult, contrary to the advice of law enforcement, have the right to confront a child, find himself in a battle, now fearing he may be in danger, have a right to pull his gun and shoot the child and claim self defense? This jury said "Yes", but my common sense says "No"."
Statement from former Houston City Attorney and 2013 Candidate for Mayor of Houston Ben Hall on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"I am disappointed with the Trayvon Martin verdict. There can be no satisfaction or celebration in that case. A 17 year old life has been taken. How could an innocent trip to buy candy turn into death? Parents and communities are left with q...uestions on all sides. We have a verdict indeed, but there remain nagging uncertainties about the story upon which that verdict is based. Death has robbed us of Trayvon's account of events -- silenced by a lone bullet to his heart.
I am also disappointed that the fatal events on that rainy night in Florida began simply by the way Trayvon looked. In a diverse world, we must insist that people be judged by what they do rather than how they look.
This case renews my commitment to the principles of acceptance, tolerance and diversity in our world. If elected Houston's next mayor, I will remain steadfast in ensuring that our law enforcement and forensic personnel continue to receive the necessary training, equipment and resources to protect the rights not only of the living but also the dead who can speak no more.
My prayers are with the families, communities, and this great country."
Statement from Mychal Massie a Hard Hitting Black Conservative on the Ugly Truth About Trayvon Martin
“There is one reason and one reason alone that Trayvon Martin is dead today and that reason is he attacked a man with a licensed firearm who used it. It’s not pretty – it’s not pleasant – but it’s true.
George Zimmerman did not jump (read attack) Martin. Just the opposite. Martin attacked him. All else notwithstanding, Martin jumped Zimmerman for no defendable reason, and he paid the ultimate price for his ill-conceived decision.
George Zimmerman did not kill Martin because of the color of his skin, and it is a damnable lie to claim otherwise. George Zimmerman shot and killed Martin because Martin was attacking and beating him. The ugly truth is just that simple. To raise the specter of skin color and to clothe the event in vestiges of racialization and a zeitgeist of rampant racism is nothing more than an attempt to obfuscate that single, salient truth.” Click here to read the entire statement from Mychal Massie. According to his blog, Mychal S. Massie is the former National Chairman of the conservative black think tank, Project 21-The National Leadership Network of Black Conservatives; and a member of its’ parent think tank, the National Center for Public Policy Research. In his official capacity with this free market public policy think tank he has spoken at the U.S. Capitol, CPAC, participated in numerous press conferences on Capitol Hill, the National Press Club and has testified concerning property rights pursuant to the “Endangered Species Act” before the Chairman of the House Committee on Resources. He has been a keynote speaker at colleges and universities nationwide, at Tea Party Rallies, at rallies supporting our troops and conservative presidents; and rally’s supporting conservative causes across the country. He is an unapologetic supporter of our right to own and carry firearms.
Statement from businessman and 2013 Candidate for Houston City Council for District D Travis McGee on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"As a father I was very disturbed about the Trayvon Martin murder, but wasn't surprised by the verdict. I think anytime a grown man in his right mind stalks and kills a child commonsense should outweigh nonsense. In many ways history does repeat itself, because in 1955 a young man by the name of Emmett Till was not just murdered, he was also mutilated beyond recognition for merely admiring a white woman. Even though this particular event mobilized the civil rights movement 58 years later race is still playing a major role in our judicial system and society. I know Mr. Till didn't have a jury of his peers and neither did Trayvon Martin. Trayvon was actually murdered twice once by Zimmerman and then again in the Florida court room. I pray that this world we live in wouldn't see color, but instead just good and bad people. I can't began to imagine what the parents are going through on either side, but I pray for them."
Statement from businesswoman Tammi Durden on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"Today in 2013, in The United States Of America with all of the advances in technology, a plethora of opportunities, and with all of the money that is being made -- living better than we ever have before; what kind of people have we become? Have we really become a nation where human life is devalued and overlooked? A man can be imprisoned for killing a dog, but not for murdering a human being? A young man has lost his life at no fault of his own. A mother is without her child. A father no longer has his son. The world has been cheated of the unique and special gifts that only Trayvon Martin was born with to give to the world. What a tragedy and a shame. Who have we become?"
Statement from businessman Derrick Thomas McKinney on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"As I lay here & try to go to sleep I can’t help but feel really pissed off at the Not Guilty verdict.
I think the lack of effort from the head of DA’s office Angela Colley (I believe) was piss poor!!! Somehow she decided not to be the lead prosecutor in this case with an all women jury. But she sentenced an African American woman to 20 years in prison for firing a warning shot at an abusive husband. She was forced to press charges in the Zimmerman case & went after the maximum when there apparently wasn’t enough evidence or facts for that charge. Why did they not push the issue on manslaughter?" Click here to read the entire statement from Derrick Thomas McKinney. According to his website Mr. McKinney has been very instrumental in the success of several independent labels, National recording artist, and fashion companies. FUBU, FUBU Records, J Records, Up All Nite Music (Too $hort), State Property South, Akademiks Clothing, & Makavelli Branded to name a few.
Statement from businesswoman Jill Honeck on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"This is just not a race issue. It is a personal safety issue. I am sure Zimmerman never wanted to kill somebody. He really just did not have a choice and from everything I heard during the trial I would have done the same thing...I also am upset that people who disagree with the verdict believe they can go brake the law themselves to express that. I don't know how destroying your own community helps getting your opinion respected."
Statement from Dena Francois on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict in case of Florida vs. Zimmerman
"In my opinion there was another alternative, does anyone stop to ponder what would have happened if "GZ" George Zimmerman would have offered "TM" Trayvon Martin a ride home out of the rain or offered to call his parents or simply identified himself or ask TM for Id that is what neighborhood watch is suppose to do I also know damn well the DOJ would not give this issue the time of day had it not been for the peaceful protest of people calling for more actions also this case is bigger than race to me it is about a grown man that killed a teenager regardless of what he was doing grown ups should not kill kids I don't give a damn if they purple!"
Statement from Wanda Cooper Johnson on the George Zimmerman "NOT GUILTY" verdict
"It appears the police failed to properly investigate the crime. It was one sided from the beginning. Zimmerman was not arrested. It also seems there was no real emphasis placed on why Zimmerman discharged his weapon killing a 17 year old child. Zimmerman broke the law picking a fight with Martin after the police told him to back off. So the police orders were worthless. This child's parents lived in this neighborhood and this was his home. And yes, he was profiled by Zimmerman. Did the apartment complex have an onsite security officer? Zimmerman was not representing the authorities therefore, he had no reason to stop, question, and arrest anyone let alone Martin. I believe this child was fighting for his life just like anyone else. I believe the prosecutors should have asked for a better jury selection. It just appears the prosecutors should have sought legal expertise before presenting their case. If this is Justice then what is injustice?"
We are extremely disappointed by the verdict in the case of State of Florida v. George Zimmerman. As lawyers we respect the rule of law, but in this instance the Zimmerman verdict sadly highlights the continued injustices Black Americans face in the U.S. legal system.
"The verdict," stated NBA President John E. Page "says an unarmed college-bound Black teen can be profiled, stalked, confronted and killed by an armed neighborhood watchman with hollow tip point bullets. We express our heartfelt condolences to Trayvon Martin's family on this tragic verdict. We also say 'Enough is Enough - It is NOT OK to kill our youth'."
The fact is the jury delivered a not guilty verdict. The TRUTH is justice has not been served. In these most challenging of times, we are called upon to act. We must move from outrage to action. It starts today with the NBA and YOU!
"Injustice anywhere," as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said "is a threat to justice everywhere." We have work to do to achieve justice for Trayvon Martin. As social agitators, the members of the NBA are continuing the struggle for "equal justice under the law" for Trayvon Martin. At the forefront of this struggle are NBA members Daryl Parks (Past NBA President) and Ben Crump, of the Tallahassee, Florida law firm Parks & Crump, LLC, that are representing Trayvon's family in advocating for "equal justice under the law." We proudly stand with them.
We urge the Department of Justice to act. The Department can still address the violation of Trayvon's most fundamental civil right - the right to life. Upon a thorough investigation of the matter, we expect the Department to vigorously pursue all appropriate claims.
We urge all lawyers to act. Join us in Miami, Florida on Saturday, July 27 and Monday, July 29 in a CALL TO ACTION to collectively address the affront to and devaluing of civil rights of all men and women regardless of race who have been unfairly served by the justice system. We must not allow anyone to succumb to violence at the hands of vigilantes who ferment the devaluing of human life. It is now time to stand up.
ABOUT THE NBA: The National Bar Association was founded in 1925 and is the nation's oldest and largest national network of predominantly African American attorneys and judges. It represents approximately 44,000 lawyers, judges, law professors and law students and has over 80 affiliate chapters throughout the United States and around the world. For additional information about the National Bar Association, visit www.nationalbar.org
Statement from the (NSA) National Sheriff's Association on the Florida Neighborhood Watch Tragedy
"For nearly four decades, the Neighborhood Watch Program (housed within the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA)) has worked to unite law enforcement agencies, private organizations, and individual citizens in a nation-wide effort to reduce crime and improve local communities.
The purpose of the Neighborhood Watch Program is to enable citizens to act as the “eyes and ears” within their community and alert law enforcement immediately when they notice suspicious activity. However, the Neighborhood Watch Program does not in any way, shape, or form advocate citizens to take the law in their own hands. The success of the program has established Neighborhood Watch as the nation’s premier crime prevention and community mobilization program. Visible signs of the program are seen throughout America on street signs, window decals, community block parties and service projects.
"The alleged action of a “self-appointed neighborhood watchman” last month in Sanford, FL significantly contradicts the principles of the Neighborhood Watch Program,” stated NSA Executive Director Aaron D. Kennard, Sheriff (ret.). “NSA has no information indicating the community where the incident occurred has ever even registered with the NSA Neighborhood Watch program.”
“The Neighborhood Watch Program fosters collaboration and cooperation with the community and local law enforcement by encouraging citizens to be aware of what is going on in their communities and contact law enforcement if they suspect something – NOT take the law in their own hands,” continued Executive Director Kennard. “The alleged participant ignored everything the Neighborhood Watch Program stands for and it resulted in a young man losing his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Trayvon Martin during this terrible time.”
National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) is one of the largest associations of law enforcement professionals in the United States, representing more than 3,000 elected sheriffs across the nation, and a total membership of more than 20,000. NSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising the level of professionalism among sheriffs, their deputies, and others in the field of criminal justice and public safety. Throughout its seventy-two year history, NSA has served as an information clearinghouse for sheriffs, deputies, chiefs of police, other law enforcement professionals, state governments and the federal government. For more information on the NSA and the Neighborhood Watch Program, please visit www.sheriffs.org."
2). Ben Hall -- Click here to visit his website!
3). C.O. "Brad" Bradford -- Click here to visit his website!
4). Helena Brown -- Click here to visit her website!
5). Ellen Cohen -- Click here to visit her website!
6). Ed Gonzalez -- Click here to visit his website!
7). Brenda Stardig -- Click here to visit her website!
8). Assata Richards -- Click here to visit her website!
9). Ben Mendez -- Click here to visit his webiste!
10). Jack Christie -- Click here to visit his website!
11). Amy Peck -- Click here to visit her website!
12). Dave Martin -- Click here to visit his website!
13). Melissa Noriega -- Term-Limited -- Open Seat!!!
14). James G. Rodriguez -- Term-Limited -- Open Seat!!!
15). Andrew C. Burks Jr. -- Click here to visit his website!
16). Jerry Davis -- Click here to visit his website!
17). Al Hoang -- Click here to visit his website!
18). Larry V. Green -- Click here to visit his website!
19). Stephen C. Costello -- Click here to visit his website!
20). Ronald C. Green -- Click here to visit his website!
21). Mike Laster -- Click here to visit his website!
22). Don Sumners -- No website connection as of today!
23). Travis McGee -- Click here to visit his website!
24). Wanda Adams -- Term-Limited -- Open Seat!
25). David Robinson -- Click here to visit his website!
26). Roy Morales -- Click here to visit his website!
27). Bill Frazer -- Click here to visit his website!
28). Georgia D. Provost -- Click here to visit her website!
29). Michael Kubosh -- Click here to visit his website!
30). Ronald Hale -- Click here to visit his website!
31). Leticia Ablaza -- Click here to visit her website!
32). Mike Knox -- Click here to visit his website!
33). Eric Dick -- Click here to visit his website!
34). Rogene Gee Calvert -- Click here to visit her website!
35). Roland Chavez -- Click here to visit his website!
36). Robert Gallegos -- Click here to visit his website!
37). Jenifer Rene Pool -- Click here to visit her website!
38). Dwight Boykins -- Click here to visit his website!
39). Keith Caldwell -- Click here to visit his website!
40). Chris Carmona -- Click here to visit his website!
41). Graci Garces -- Click here to visit her website!
42). Oliver Pennington -- Click here to visit his website!
43). Brian Taef -- Click here to visit his website!
44). Trebor Gordon -- Click here to visit his website!
45). Lana Edwards -- No website connection as of today!
46). Victoria Lane -- No website connection as of today!
47). Al Edwards -- No website connection as of today!
48). James "Joe" Joseph -- No website connection as of today!
49). Larry McKinzie -- No website connection as of today!
50). Carolyn Evans Shabazz -- No website connection as of today!
MAYOR ANNISE D. PARKER
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES IN THE RACE FOR MAYOR: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for mayor of Houston: Annise Parker, Ben Hall, Don Cook, Victoria Lane, Michael Fitzsimmons, and Eric Dick. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
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| CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MAYOR ANNISE PARKER |
CONTROLLER RONALD C. GREEN
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES IN THE RACE FOR CONTROLLER: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for City Controller: Ronald C. Green, Don Sumners and Bill Frazer. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES IN THE RACE FOR DISTRICT A: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council District A: Helena Brown, Brenda Stardig, Amy Peck, Ronald Hale, and Mike Knox. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
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| CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON AMY PECK |
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT B
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES IN THE RACE FOR DISTRICT B: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council District B: Jerry Davis and James "Joe" Joseph. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT C
Houston City Council Member Ellen Cohen is currently serving her first term as the Houston City Council District C representative. Council Member Cohen will be running for re-election in the Tuesday, November 5, 2013 Mayoral Election in Houston.
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT C: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council District C: Ellen Cohen and Pedro "Pete" Sosa. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT D
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT D: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council District A: Georgia Provost, Travis McGee, Dwight Boykins, Assata-Nicole Richards, Larry McKinzie, Lana Edwards, Anthony T. Robinson, and Keith Caldwell. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT E
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT E: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (District E) Member Dave Martin in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT F
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT F: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (District F) Member Al Hoang in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT G
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT G: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council (District G) Council Member: Oliver Pennington and Brian Taef. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT H
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT H: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (District H) Member Ed Gonzalez in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT I
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT I: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council District I: Graci Garces, Leticia Gutierrez Ablaza, Robert Gallegos, and Ben Mendez. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT J
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT J: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (District J) Member Mike Laster in the 2013 Mayoral Election. . If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT K
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR DISTRICT K: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (District K) Member Larry V. Green in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 1
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR AT-LARGE POSITION 1: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (At-Large Position 1) Stephen Costello in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 2
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR AT-LARGE POSITION 2: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council (At-Large Position 2) Council Member: Andrew C. Burks, Jr., Trebor Gordon, Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and David Robinson. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 3
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR AT-LARGE POSITION 3: Here are a few of the names you could see on the 2013 Mayoral Election ballot in the race for Houston City Council (At-Large Position 3) Council Member: Chris Carmona, Michael Kubosh, Roy Morales, Roland Chavez, Rogene Gee Calvert, and Jenifer Rene Pool. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 4
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR AT-LARGE POSITION 4: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (At- Large Position 4) C.O. “Brad” Bradford in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 5
POSSIBLE CANDIDATES FOR AT-LARGE POSITION 5: At this time we have not heard of anyone challenging Houston City Council (At- Large Position 5) Jack Christie in the 2013 Mayoral Election. If you are a candidate running for this seat email your biography and campaign photo to: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com.
MAYOR ANNISE PARKER - CONTRIBUTOR
Mayor Annise Parker has spent many years in service to the people of Houston, with six years as a City Council member and six years as City Controller. She is the first person in Houston's history to hold the offices of council member, controller and mayor. This is her second term as mayor; and she is seeking re-election to a third in the 2013 Mayoral Election to be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 in the City of Houston.
 Mayor Annise Parker and her life partner Kathy Hubbard have been together for more than 20 years and are advocates for adoption, with two adopted daughters and a son. |
Mayor Annise Parker Shares A Few Thoughts About How She Goes About Selecting The Best Candidate
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “As a voter, how do you go about selecting the person who is the best candidate in any given election? And what are a few of the characteristics you look for in a leader?”
MAYOR ANNISE PARKER: “It is wrong to run for office just to be in politics; elected officeholders should want to work toward change that will improve the lives of those they represent. I have often said that my job is the best job available because I have the opportunity everyday to truly impact our great city and its residents for the better. When I am personally deciding which candidates to support in an election, obviously, I look for someone who shares my views and positions on the issues. I also look for someone who is passionate, exhibits leadership qualities and is motivated to serve.
Leadership is not simply taking the reigns and getting the job done. A leader also has to be willing to listen to different points of view, flexible enough to change course when the original path proves unworkable or will create an undesirable outcome. And a leader must be willing to compromise. They need to be genuinely concerned about their constituents, and about improving the area they will represent. Ultimately, however, a leader needs to be able to generate consensus through a cooperative approach and stand strong even when the final decision may not be politically popular.”
Annise Parker
The 61st Mayor of Houston, Texas
MAYOR PRO-TEM BRADFORD - CONTRIBUTOR
Vice Mayor Pro-Tem C.O. "Brad" Bradford
Vice Mayor Pro-Tem C.O. Bradford at a “Community Partnership Breakfast” at the South Union Church of Christ. Bradford is currently serving his second term in office. He will be on the Tuesday, November 5, 2013 Mayoral Election ballot seeking re-election to his third and final term as the At-Large Position #4 Council Member for the City of Houston.
Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Bradford Shares a Few Thoughts on How He Goes About Identifying The Best Candidate
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “As a voter, how do you go about selecting the person who is the best candidate in any given election?”
VICE MAYOR PRO-TEM BRADFORD: “Who is the best candidate will surely, and properly so, vary from voter to voter. As a voter, I am concerned with someone who brings experience, training and education to the arena. Many of the issues facing our city, state and nation today are complex and multifaceted. The demand for services constantly increases and public resources seem to dwindle. Our population is more and more diverse with high, varied expectations. Therefore, it is my belief that managing the financial and human resources, along with capital assets entrusted to public officials today requires in-depth knowledge and skills.”
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “What are a few of the characteristics you look for in a leader?”
VICE MAYOR PRO-TEM BRADFORD: “Leaders need to be able to inspire! Transforming a vision into a plan and subsequent implementation is no easy task. Leaders understand that reward is attached to performance and that anything worth having isn’t easy to get. Leaders demonstrate that it is nice to be important, but more important to be nice. And, at the end of the day, when it is all said and done, it is not going to matter how many degrees we have, what titles or what positions we’ve held. The question is going to be, ‘what have you done to help others?’ Leaders have a love for humanity and a passion to make a difference for the greater good of all.”
C.O. “Brad” Bradford
Vice Mayor Pro-Tem
Houston City Council, At Large Position 4
COUNCIL MEMBER BURKS - CONTRIBUTOR
Andrew C. Burks, Jr., is the Position 2 At-Large Houston City Council Member
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Council Member Andrew C. Burks, Jr. Shares A Few Thoughts About How he Goes About Selecting The Best Candidate & What He Looks For In A Leader
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “As a voter, how do you go about selecting the person who is the best candidate in any given election? And what are a few of the characteristics you look for in a leader?”
COUNCIL MEMBER BURKS: “Our leaders should share our goals and values. When I am personally deciding who to vote for, I look for the candidate who best understands my needs and the aspirations of the community. Strong leaders listen to the people they represent, understand their concerns and aspirations and form a plan to deliver a solution. Successful candidates should be able to empathize with their voters and proactively work to solve the problems brought to their attention. Our neighbors who are hands-on and involved in the community make the best leaders.
Leadership is about more than just making decisions and giving speeches – it is about listening. Selecting a candidate who takes time out of their schedule to visit with you or an organization you are a part of goes a long way. I look for candidates who can roll up their sleeves and accomplish their goals. This takes hard work, perseverance and a willingness to find common ground. On Election Day, the candidate who understands the needs of the community with a plan to improve the lives of all he or she represents earns my vote.”
Andrew C. Burks Jr.
Houston City Council At-Large Position 2
COUNCIL MEMBER COHEN - CONTRIBUTOR
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| Ellen Cohen is the District C Representative on Houston's City Council |
Council Member Ellen Cohen Shares A Few Thoughts On How she Identifies the best Candidate
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: “As a voter, how do you go about selecting the person who is the best candidate in any given election? And what are a few of the characteristics you look for in a leader?”
COUNCIL MEMBER COHEN: “As both an elected official and a long-time voter, I have become familiar with both sides of the coin when it comes to choosing between political candidates. The question of who will represent you at the local, state, and federal level of government could not be more critical, so it is important to be well-informed about the candidates and the issues.
I believe all politics is local, so when selecting a representative, my first step is to research the issues the elected official will actually be voting on, and find out what each candidate’s views are on those specific issues. I am drawn to leaders that are passionate about these local issues and pragmatic about problem-solving. Grandstanding about challenges is no substitute for a solid plan of action, so the ability to think critically is also imperative to me.
As a Council Member and a former State Representative, I have found that another trait essential to good governance is the ability to work with those whose opinions differ from your own. Without the ability to build a consensus, a lawmaker will come to a stalemate in office.
Ultimately, I vote for candidates who share my viewpoint, are passionate about local issues, and are able to implement effective solutions for bettering their community.”
Ellen Cohen
Houston City Council District C
SEND YOUR CAMPAIGN PHOTOS TO: yourthoughtmatters@gmail.com
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
Above: On the Campaign Trail with 2013 Candidate for Houston Mayor -- Ben Hall
HERE'S A LITTLE ABOUT BEN HALL
Born into a family of meager financial means, Benjamin Hall, III has experienced firsthand the struggle that accompanies difficult economic times. Ben also encountered challenges in the academic world, where teachers doubted his ability to rise above his humble beginnings and achieve higher education; however, he knew he had the potential to succeed and refused to compromise his goals. In 1975, Ben enrolled at the University of South Carolina, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1977, with honors. His thirst for knowledge and desire to help others led him to continue his education at Duke University; obtaining a Master of Divinity degree in 1979 and a Ph.D. in 1985. Others might have stopped at that point, but Ben saw a real opportunity to help underrepresented communities as an attorney. In 1986, Ben earned a law degree from Harvard Law School and began working at the Vinson & Elkins law firm in Houston, Texas. He went on to serve as the City Attorney for the City of Houston in Mayor Bob Lanier’s administration.
Through his legal practice, Ben has applied the principles of courage, tenacity and justice that he learned as a young man; speaking out on behalf of those who need a strong voice to champion their causes. In 2000, Ben founded the nationally recognized Hall Law Firm. Additionally, Ben has served the Houston community through his numerous pro bono efforts on behalf of groups, corporations and individuals in need of representation.
Ben is grateful for his professional successes, but also recognizes his personal blessings. He describes his family as his greatest treasure. Ben and Saundra, his wife of 31 years, have two sons. The entire Hall family remains committed to serving the Houston community.
Leadership with Vision
Houston is a great city – rich in diversity, talent and potential. Our collective future can be brighter than our past.
Houston needs a mayor who is more than a manager; it needs a world-class leader with vision. We also need a leader with the energetic ability to tackle broad issues and implement meaningful change. Rome was not built in a day, but it also was not built by tinkering with food carts and small matters. We have a choice to make in November between mere management and leadership with vision.
Houstonians believe in fair play for all. This is one of our great strengths. We also believe in the power of fresh ideas and forward-looking policies. We believe that government should not act as a barrier to success, but as a catalyst to achieve it. Government must be business-friendly, while still protecting our prized individual liberties. Through the application of new technologies, entrepreneurial governance, and innovative leadership, Houston can expand its position as a global business capital.
Ben Hall on Crime
Criminal conduct will not be tolerated in Houston! Criminals will be arrested and punished to the fullest extent of the law. For those offenders convicted of non-violent crimes, I will seek to have them give back to our community by mowing overgrown lots and cleaning illegally dumped trash from streets and waterways. Those non-violent criminals should actively pay their debt to society, rather than sit idly in jail, watching television at the additional expense of taxpayers.
Ben Hall on Education
Our future as a world-class city depends on a superb educational system and no one – especially not a mayor – can remain silent on this pressing issue. As mayor, I will use my office to set a tone of excellence in education and will work to achieve that goal through collaborative efforts with area school districts. We have the teachers, staff and civic leaders to turn around any real or perceived issues with educating the next generation of Houstonians. I believe city government has a responsibility to assist school districts in increasing the number of educational opportunities for students. As mayor, I will work with Houston’s school districts to help them create the best educational experience for our students, advancing pragmatic city/school district initiatives to integrate education with real world business experiences. This will be a top priority item for my administration.
Ben Hall on Transportation
Houston’s transportation issues can only be fully addressed through a combination of planning and transit options. Automotive travel is here to stay, but we must also promote shared transit ridership through expanded high-occupancy vehicle lanes, better bus access, smart rail options, and other transit innovations. Additionally, Houston’s city government must plan and work with TXDOT to coordinate travel patterns through and around the city. Better transportation practices and policies do more than reduce congestion on the highways; they also assist with air quality issues, making Houston safer and even more enjoyable.
Ben Hall on Downtown
Our downtown is a vibrant business district with an impressive array of world-class companies, restaurants, and hotels. I envision an active downtown where more people will want to live, work and play. At the same time, I hope to channel the energy of that bustling city center to attract a greater number of international conventions and increase the level of downtown tourism. My administration will actively encourage the development of a thriving downtown shopping and entertainment center by fostering innovative public-private partnerships. In that way, we will work to encourage the development of a larger retail business footprint downtown.
Ben Hall on Infrastructure/Road Repairs
Houston’s roads must be repaired and upgraded immediately! A Hall administration will implement the latest technologies available to allow citizens to self-report road problems and track the city’s response and repairs in real-time on your computers or cell phones. We will also explore new technologies to fortify roadway repairs and end the costly practice of repeatedly refilling the same potholes. Repairing city roads will be job-one-on-day-one of the Hall administration.
Ben Hall on Drainage
As a city that has always stood at the forefront of engineering and science, Houston has the capacity to develop a cutting-edge drainage system that can handle surface water. Flooding should not be a recurring problem in this world-class city. By challenging the current approach and employing innovative drainage solutions, we will dramatically improve the way we handle storm water and flooding in our city.
Ben Hall on Diversity
In Houston, we find people from every continent, ethnicity and belief system. We applaud our respective heritages and are all made better by the great span of our cultures and diversity. As Mayor, I will continue the proud tradition of showcasing the impressive intercultural acceptance that has made Houston strong.
