HBC MAGAZINE©REPORTS
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
ELECTIONS MATTER! But when we fail to go to the polls to make our voices heard -- we are the ones who silence ourselves. When we fail to show up -- we are the ones who disenfranchise ourselves. When we fail to inform, inspire, and become politically engaged in a positive way -- we are the ones who suppress our own vote. In 2018 we must make it our business to become better informed, organized and energized. So in the spirit of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we at Houston Business Connections Magazine© will be promoting modern-day African American trailblazers in business, politics, entertainment, and ministry from now through Tuesday, November 6, 2018. But we won't stop there, we will also be promoting all the other "TRAILBLAZERS" who value, appreciate, respect, and ask for our vote, prayers, and support. So, this particular "NON-PARTISAN" campaign features some of the key 2018 African American Democratic and Republican candidates who are running for their respective party’s nomination in key “CONTESTED RACES” on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in Harris County, Texas. But it also features key candidates who are running for their party’s nomination “UNCHALLENGED” as well. Make no mistake about it, the Tuesday, November 6, 2018, Midterm Election is undoubtedly shaping up to be the single most important election in the history of our great nation! So every single vote will matter! And we assure you that every single vote will count!
...THE YEAR OF NOW IS HERE!
There’s no mistaking how big a role African Americans will play at the ballot box in Harris County, Texas on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. “The only question I have is how many African American candidates will actually make it through the nomination process in Harris County, Texas,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. “So, to help increase awareness, as part of our voter education, empowerment, and engagement drive, we’re proud to announce that we’re going to produce a “KEEPSAKE EDITION” of our magazine to remember this historic moment in our nation's history,” he says.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 2
J. Darnell Jones is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 2nd Congressional District of Texas against fellow Democrats Ali A. Khorasani, H.P. Parvizian, Silky Malik, and Todd Litton on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 7
Joshua A. Butler is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 7th Congressional District of Texas against fellow Democrats Alex Triantaphyllis, Ivan Sanchez, James Cargas, Jason Westin, Laura Moser, and Lizzie Panill Fletcher on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 9
Al Green is a modern-day African American trailblazer currently representing the 9th Congressional District of Texas. He is running for re-election unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. He will not face a Republican opponent on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, either.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 10
Tawana Walter-Cadien is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 10th Congressional District of Texas against fellow Democrats Kevin Nelson, Madeline K. Eden, Matt Harris, Mike Siegel, Richie DeGrow, and Tami Walker on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 18
Sheila Jackson Lee is a modern-day African American trailblazer currently representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. She is being challenged by fellow Democrat Richard Johnson.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 18
Richard Johnson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 18th Congressional District of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. Johnson is seeking to unseat Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 22
Letitia Plummer is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Margarita Ruiz Johnson, Mark Gibson, Sri Preston Kulkami, and Steve Brown in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 22
Mark Gibson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Margarita Ruiz Johnson, Letitia Plummer, Sri Preston Kulkami, and Steve Brown in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 22
Steve Brown is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for United States Congress for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Margarita Ruiz Johnson, Letitia Plummer, Sri Preston Kulkami, and Mark Gibson in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
Cedric Davis Sr. is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Governor of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 against fellow Democrats Grady Yarbrough, Adrian Ocegueda, Andrew White, James Jolly Clark, Jeffrey Payne, Joe Mumbach, Lupe Valdez, and Tom Wakely, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
Grady Yarbrough is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Governor of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Cedric Davis, Sr., Adrian Ocegueda, Andrew White, James Jolly Clark, Jeffrey Payne, Joe Mumbach, Lupe Valdez, and Tom Wakely, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
Michael Cooper is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Lieutenant Governor of Texas on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrat Mike Collier in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
RAILROAD COMMISSIONER
Chris Spellmon is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Railroad Commissioner on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrat Roman McAllen in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
PRESIDING JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 1
Maria T. Jackson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals for Place 1 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS, PLACE 7
Ramona Franklin is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals for Place 7 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 15
Damian Lacroix is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Senator for District 15 on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Hank Segelke, and John Whitmire in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. John Whitmire currently represents Senatorial District 15 in the Texas Senate.
STATE SENATOR, DISTRICT 17
Fran Watson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Senator for District 17 on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, against fellow Democrats Ahmad R. Hassan and Rita Lucido in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 126
Kevin Fulton is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 126 against fellow Republicans E. Sam Harless, and Gail Stanart on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 126
Undrai F. Fizer is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 126 against fellow Democrat Natali Hurtado on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
Undrai F. Fizer is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 126 against fellow Democrat Natali Hurtado on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 127
Reginald C. Grant Jr. is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 127 seeking to unseat fellow Republican Dan Huberty on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas. State Representative Dan Huberty is actually the incumbent running for re-election in this race.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 131
Alma A. Allen is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 131 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 139
Jarvis D. Johnson (right) is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 139 against fellow Democrat Randy Bates on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 139
Randy Bates (third from left) is a modern-day African American trailblazer seeking to unseat State Representative Jarvis Johnson on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 141
Senfronia Thompson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 141 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 142
Harold V. Dutton Jr., is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 142 against fellow Democrat Richard A. Bonton on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 142
Richard A. Bonton is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 142 to unseat State Representative Harold V. Dutton on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 146
Shawn Thierry is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 146 against fellow Democrat Roy Owens on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 146
Roy Owens is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for State Representative for District 146 to unseat State Representative Shawn Thierry on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE HD 147
Garnet F. Coleman is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for re-election in the race for State Representative for District 147 against fellow Democrat Daniel Espinoza on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
14TH COURT OF APPEALS DISTRICT, PLACE 3
Joseph R. Willie, II is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 3 against fellow Democrat Charles Spain on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
55TH DISTRICT COURT
Latosha Lewis Payne is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for District Judge for the 55th Judicial District Court against fellow Democrat Paul Simon on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
180TH DISTRICT COURT
DeSean Jones is a modern day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 180th Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
182ND DISTRICT COURT
Jesse McClure is a modern day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 182nd Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
246TH DISTRICT COURT
Angela Graves-Harrington is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for District Judge for the 246th Judicial District Court against fellow Democrat Charles Collins on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
246TH DISTRICT COURT
Charles Collins is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for District Judge for the 246th Judicial District Court against fellow Democrat Angela Graves-Harrington on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
257TH DISTRICT COURT
Sandra Peake is a modern-day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 257th Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
257TH DISTRICT COURT
Melanie Flowers is a modern day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 257th Judicial District Court against fellow Republican Alyssa Lemkuil on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
262ND DISTRICT COURT
Lori Chambers Gray is a modern-day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 262nd Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
263RD DISTRICT COURT
Charles Johnson is a modern day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 263rd Judicial District Court against fellow Republican Justin Keiter on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
270TH DISTRICT COURT
Dedra Davis is a modern-day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 270th Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
280TH DISTRICT COURT
Angelina D. A. Gooden is a modern day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 280th Judicial District Court against fellow Republicans George Clevenger, and Geric L. Tipsword on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
309TH DISTRICT COURT
Linda Marie Dunson is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for District Judge for the 309th Judicial District Court against fellow Democrat Kathy Vossler on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
311TH DISTRICT COURT
Germaine Tanner is a modern-day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 311th Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
313TH DISTRICT COURT
Tracy D. Good is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for District Judge for the 313th Judicial District Court against fellow Democrats John Stephen Liles, and Natalia Oakes on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
314TH DISTRICT COURT
Michelle Moore (center) is a modern-day trailblazer running for District Judge for the 314th Judicial District Court unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 2
Ronnisha Bowman is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 2 against fellow Democrat Harold J. Landreneau on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 3
Erica Hughes is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 3 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 4
Shannon Baldwin is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 4 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 7
Danval Scarbrough is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 7 against fellow Democrat Andrew A. Wright on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 9
Toria J. Finch is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 11
Sedrick T. Walker, II is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 11 against fellow Democrat Gus Saper on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO.14
Michael Fields is a modern day trailblazer running for re-election in the race for Judge, County Criminal Court at Law No.14 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 15
Kris Ougrah is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 15 against fellow Democrat Tonya Jones on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW NO. 15
Tonya Jones is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 15 against fellow Democrat Kris Ougrah on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CIVIL COURT AT LAW NO.1
Clyde Raymond Leuchtag is a modern day trailblazer running for Judge, County Civil Court at Law No. 1 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Republican Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CIVIL AT LAW NO. 3
LaShawn A. Williams is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Judge, Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3 unopposed on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
DISTRICT CLERK
Kevin Howard is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County District Clerk against fellow Democrats Marilyn Burgess, Michael Jordan, and Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
DISTRICT CLERK
Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County District Clerk against fellow Democrats Marilyn Burgess, Michael Jordan, and Kevin Howard on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CLERK
Nat West is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Clerk against fellow Democrats Diane Trautman, and Gayle Young Mitchell on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY CLERK
Gayle Young Mitchell (with sunglasses) is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Clerk against fellow Democrats Diane Trautman, and Nat West on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY SCHOOL TRUSTEE, POSITION 3, AT LARGE
Elvonte Patton is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County School Trustee for Position 3, At Large against fellow Democrats Josh Wallenstein, and Richard Cantu on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
COUNTY SCHOOL TRUSTEE, POSITION 6, PRECINCT 1
Danyahel (Danny) Norris is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County School Trustee for Position 6, Precinct 1 against fellow Democrats John F. Miller, and Prince E. Bryant II on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 3, PLACE 2
Lucia Bates is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3, Place 2 seeking to unseat fellow Democrat Don Coffey (the current Justice of the Peace) on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 7, PLACE 2
Audrie Lawton is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, Place 2 against fellow Democrats Cheryl Elliott Thornton, Ray Shackelford, and Sharon M. Burney on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 7, PLACE 2
Cheryl Elliott Thornton is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, Place 2 against fellow Democrats Audrie Lawton, Ray Shackelford, and Sharon M. Burney on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 7, PLACE 2
Ray Shackelford is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, Place 2 against fellow Democrats Audrie Lawton, Cheryl Elliott Thornton, and Sharon M. Burney on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRECINCT 7, PLACE 2
Sharon M. Burney is a modern-day African American trailblazer running for Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, Place 2 against fellow Democrats Audrie Lawton, Cheryl Elliott Thornton, and Ray Shackelford on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in the Democratic Party Primary in Harris County, Texas.
...THE YEAR OF NOW IS HERE!
In case you don’t already know, 2018 HAS BEEN LABELLED AS THE YEAR OF NOW BY HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE© and it’s going to be a pivotal election year for Texas voters. For one reason, this is the last time Texas voters will be able to vote a straight-party-ticket in the Lone Star State. Not only that, the local Harris County Democratic Party and Republican Party have both fielded one of the most diverse and competitive slates of candidates that they've ever assembled in the history of their respective parties. So, Houston Business Connections Magazine© would like to take this moment to congratulate all of the candidates listed on this page for answering the call to service. Let the fight for territory begin...
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "All candidates listed on this page are afforded the same opportunity to be included in any Houston Business Connections Magazine products in the upcoming Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Primary Election. Please be advised that absolutely "NO ENDORSEMENTS" will be made by Houston Business Connections Magazine© in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018. However, our plan is to introduce our diverse "OPEN-MINDED" readership to the candidates who value, respect, and are asking for their vote, prayers, and support. If you have any questions about our mission, objective or an ongoing campaign, please call (832)212-8735 or (281)788-3033 today!
Aubrey R. Taylor, the president, and CEO of Aubrey R. Taylor Communications is the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. Taylor has more than 26-years of experience in marketing branding, public relations and political consulting. He’s publicly promoted Republican and Democratic candidates in statewide elections and in local municipalities throughout the Lone Star State. He’s also publicly promoted (through his publications) such corporations and institutions as Shell Oil, The City of Houston, Texas Southern University, Prairie View A&M University, Chevron, Waste Management, Nationwide Insurance, Momentum Jaguar/BMW, State Farm Insurance, and Allstate Insurance to name a few. A visionary in his own right, Taylor has also helped many incumbent Democrats and Republicans to hold onto their seats amidst stiff challenges from political rivals -- but he’s also played strategic roles in developing strategies to help his clients unseat more than a few incumbents as well. His private group of “nonpartisan” HBC Magazine© Readers has assisted him with picking the best candidates to recommend in “PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS” and “MIDTERM ELECTIONS” on a regular basis. In case you don’t remember, back in the Tuesday, November 8, 2016 “PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION” his “nonpartisan” group of Houston Business Connections Magazine© Readers made “RECOMMENDATIONS” in sixty-seven (67) races on the ballot in Harris County, Texas. The Houston Chronicle (EDITORIAL BOARD) made endorsements in the same sixty-seven (67) races.
NEED A MEDIA PARTNER?
If you are a candidate running for public office in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Party Primary, or Republican Party Primary and need a strategy, branding, or marketing assistance, please call (832)212-8735, or (281)788-3033 today!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS
957 NASA PARKWAY #251
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058-3039
PHONE: (832)212-8735
CELL: (281)788-3033
CONGRATULATIONS TO PRETTA VANDIBLE STALLWORTH -- WINNER OF OUR "COMEBACK KID AWARD" FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Meet Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth
"COMEBACK-KID AWARD WINNER"
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth is a trailblazer committed to celebrating the life, legacy, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In case you don’t know her, she’s the newly elected Vice Chair and HCCS Board Trustee for District IX. “A trailblazer is someone who blazes a trail to guide others,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine©. “What I love most about Pretta is her poise, calmness under pressure and work ethic,” he says. “I will never forget the morning when I was sitting at her dining room table with her (discussing strategy) shortly after the Tuesday, November 7, 2017, General Election…if you don’t remember, Pretta trailed the Republican front-runner Eugene “Gene” Pack heavily by several percentage points,” Taylor explains. Eugene Pack had 3,527 votes, David Jaroszewski, another Republican in the race had 1,661, and Pretta VanDible Stallworth only had 3,180 votes. To most political pundits it looked as if Eugene Pack was in firm control of the race heading into their Saturday, December 9, 2017, Runoff Election. However, Pretta wasn't having any of it! “I’m going to win!” is what Pretta VanDible Stallworth proclaimed. “And that's exactly what she went out and did,” says Taylor. “Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth’s come-from-behind-victory with "VERY LITTLE FUNDS" by gaining more than 71.87% of the vote was legendary,” declares Taylor. "In essence, Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth has given every candidate running for office in the upcoming Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic and Republican Primaries a path to follow," explains Taylor. "So in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., she serves as a shining example and beacon of hope to everyone hoping to achieve their dream in 2018."
CONGRATULATIONS TO LINA HIDALGO – WINNER OF OUR “TRAILBLAZING WOMAN OF COLOR AWARD” FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Meet Lina Hidalgo
"TRAILBLAZING WOMAN OF COLOR AWARD WINNER"
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Keep a close eye on this "TRAILBLAZING WOMAN OF COLOR" in 2018. Born in Colombia at the height of the drug war, Lina Hidalgo and her family arrived in Houston knowing pretty much nobody according to her. However, she seized nearly every opportunity made available to her and was able to attend great public schools and world-class universities in her opinion. What Lina wants most is to “HARNESS THE POWER OF HARRIS COUNTY” and for every Harris County resident to have a fair chance to succeed -- like she was afforded. If duly-elected on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, in the Midterm Election taking place in Harris County she plans to use the attention that comes with leading the third largest County (in the most powerful country in the world) to stand up for underserved communities in Harris County on issues like immigration and bail reform. A strong believer that every vote matters, Lina feels like 2018 is the perfect time for Harris County voters to elect fresh new leadership. But there's a little problem, Lina has chosen to challenge one of the most powerful elected officials in all of Harris County – Judge Ed Emmett. But hey, she’s already gotten a break -- initially, Lina was facing a Democratic Primary challenge from fellow Democrat Mike Nichols on Tuesday, March 6, 2018; but Nichols withdrew from the race. Now, the only thing standing between our “TRAILBLAZING WOMAN OF COLOR” and her date with destiny is a showdown with Judge Ed Emmett on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. But unseating one of the most powerful men in all of Harris County won’t be easy. We say this because you have to keep in mind that only one woman has ever been duly-elected to Harris County Commissioners Court. And the current Commissioners Court is comprised of only men. So, to be sure, in this “YEAR OF NOW” Lina Hidalgo at the very least has a puncher’s chance to break through – but other people of color will have to turn out for her in overwhelming numbers for her to have a shot at unseating Judge Ed Emmett.
"A TRAILBLAZING WOMAN OF COLOR"
Get this, last year in Virginia, New Jersey, and other states, progressive women, and women of color made history up and down ballots. Right here in Harris County, progressive candidates showed pure dominance as they pretty much ran-the-table in HISD Board Trustee and HCCS Board Trustee races. In Boston, six women of color were elected to Boston’s city council. And over in Virginia, Danica Roem became the first openly transgender person ever to be elected to serve in the state legislature by beating a 13-term incumbent. Could Lina Hidalgo be the one? Only time will tell -- so keep a close eye on this “GREAT WOMAN OF COLOR” on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 in the Midterm Election for Harris County, Texas.
CONGRATULATIONS TO JUDGE ED EMMETT – WINNER OF OUR “GREAT HUMANITARIAN AWARD” FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Meet Harris County Judge Ed Emmett
"GREAT HUMANITARIAN AWARD WINNER"
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: A humanitarian is simply someone who seeks to promote human welfare. And in Harris County, Texas Judge Ed Emmett is a man who always stands up for every Harris County resident without respect to their ethnicity, political affiliation, or their socio-economic status -- which is the way it should be. Finding common ground isn't always easy, but Judge Emmett almost always finds it. In the current political climate we’re living in, this isn't always a popular thing to do. But Judge Ed Emmett continues to do it without any regard for his political future or possible retribution from his own party. What I love most about Judge Ed Emmett is that he pretty much does his business in a “NON-PARTISAN” fashion. Remember Hurricane Katrina, back in 2005? Remember when he received thousands of evacuees (who happen to be black) into our city with open arms? Remember how three years after the storm he was still fighting for our people and imploring us to call them our neighbors? Rather than sending our people away, Judge Ed Emmett fought to have them fully integrated as our neighbors – and not victims. Judge Ed Emmett is a “PUBLIC SERVANT” every Harris County resident can be proud of. As a matter of fact, over the years, he’s demonstrated to the entire world how quickly and efficiently the Texas Gulf Coast can bounce back from major catastrophes. Remember Rita, Ike, and Harvey? Enough said, meet our “GREAT HUMANITARIAN AWARD” winner:
ABOUT JUDGE ED EMMETT
"In times of crises, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett is the person you’ll see making the necessary moves to keep all Harris County residents safe." -- AUBREY R. TAYLOR
"In times of crises, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett is the person you’ll see making the necessary moves to keep all Harris County residents safe." -- AUBREY R. TAYLOR
Edward M. Emmett became Harris County Judge on March 6, 2007.
A member of the Texas House of Representatives from 1979 to 1987, Judge Emmett was chairman of the Committee on Energy, a member of the Transportation Committee, and represented the state on numerous national committees relating to energy and transportation policy.
In 1989, President George H. W. Bush nominated Emmett as a Commissioner at the Interstate Commerce Commission. After being confirmed unanimously by the United States Senate, Judge Emmett served on the commission for three years.
Judge Emmett has received international recognition for his work in transportation and logistics policy. He was named Transportation Person of the Year by Transportation Clubs International and one of the Top 20 Logistics Professionals by Logistics Forum.
County Judge Emmett, working with the county commissioners, manages the nation's third-largest county. He also is director of Harris County's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, chairman of the Harris County Juvenile Board and chairman of the Conference of Urban Counties Policy Committee.
Judge Emmett attended Bellaire High School. He graduated from Rice University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and from the University of Texas at Austin in 1974 with a Master of Public Affairs degree.
Judge Emmett has received numerous awards and honors, including Distinguished Alumnus of Rice University, the Distinguished Public Service Award from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, and the Presidential Call to Service Award.
Judge Emmett and his wife, Gwen, have been married for 42 years and have four children and 13 grandchildren.
Adrian Garcia, Democratic Candidate for Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 2 is endorsed by the Honorable Carroll G. Robinson over Daniel Box, Ken Melancon, Roger Garcia, and Sammy Cosados on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in the Democratic Primary
Adrian Garcia kicking off his 2018 run for Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 2 at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church.
CONGRATULATIONS TO JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT -- WINNER OF OUR "REPUBLICAN JUDICIAL TRAILBLAZER AWARD" FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Meet Probate Judge Loyd Wright
PICTURED ABOVE WITH GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "To be sure, Judge Loyd Wright is a trailblazer in the Republican Party. Remember, a trailblazer is anyone who blazes a path for others to follow. For any of you who don't know, I almost died from a pulmonary embolism (blood clot) on my lungs back in 2014. The blood clot was discovered shortly before the start of early voting. I ended up spending two weeks in the hospital and thought that my life and the publishing of my "2014 ELECTION GUIDE FOR HARRIS COUNTY" was doomed. Throughout this period it was Judge Loyd Wright who would not let me quit on the project. It was Judge Loyd Wright who inspired me to get better and get back into the fight. Once released from the hospital, several other Republicans joined Judge Loyd Wright in his effort to support my "2014 ELECTION GUIDE FOR HARRIS COUNTY". No, they didn't give me a million dollars or anything like that -- but they did what they could. Paul Simpson, the Harris County Republican Party Chairman, even placed an advertisement for the Harris County Republican Party in the guide to help make it a tremendous success. Congressman Kevin Brady, a pro-family, pro-small business conservative representing the 8th Congressional District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives also supported our "2014 ELECTION GUIDE FOR HARRIS COUNTY". In case you don't know, Congressman Kevin Brady is Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee -- considered by many to be the most powerful committee in Congress with jurisdiction over taxes, health care, Social Security, Medicare, international trade, and welfare. Other distinguished Democratic and Republican Judges who found value in being a part of our "2014 ELECTION GUIDE FOR HARRIS COUNTY" were as follows: Democratic Judge Kyle Carter (125th District Court), Democratic Leader Carroll G. Robinson (Former Houston City Council Member and HCCS Board Trustee), Republican Judge Jay Karahan (Harris County Criminal Court at Law No 8), Republican Judge Christine Riddle Butts (Haris County Probate Court No. 4), Republican Judge Wesley Ward (234th District Court in Harris County), Republican Judge Theresa Chang (County Civil Court at Law No. 2), Republican Judge Brent Gamble (270th Civil District Court in Harris County), Republican Judge Linda Storey (Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3), Republican Judge Katherine Cabaniss (248th District Court in Harris County), and Republican Judge Rory Olsen (Harris County Probate Court No. 3). And oh, every one of the honorable and distinguished judicial leaders who found value in our "2014 ELECTION GUIDE FOR HARRIS COUNTY" also found themselves on the winning side on Election Day!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Judge Maria T. Jackson is the only candidate in the race for Presiding Judge, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 1 who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Attorney Linda M. Dunson is the only candidate in the race for Judge, 309th District Court in Harris County, Texas who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Attorney Tracy D. Good is the only candidate in the race for Judge, 313th District Court in Harris County, Texas who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Dr. Letitia Plummer is the only candidate in the race for United States Congress for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Mr. Javed is the only candidate in the race for United States Congress for the 29th Congressional District of Texas who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "At this time Attorney Audrie Lawton is the only candidate in the race for Judge, Harris County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, Place 2 who values our vote, prayers, and support. Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements in the Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Democratic Primary, however, we respectfully ask you to consider supporting candidates who respect and appreciate our support! God bless America!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "If you are a candidate in need of grassroots campaign organization and management or door-to-door canvassing you may want to call the Honorable Jew Don Boney Jr. at (281)702-9988 today. JEW DON CAN HELP DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS WITH THEIR OUTREACH TO MINORITY COMMUNITIES! "Most Houstonians know I have been a public servant my entire adult life. I have always joined in the fight to restore civic confidence and alleviate the growing frustration with our political leadership. Over the years I have shared with many Houstonians the disappointment experienced at the hands of self-serving politicians and I feel the pain and frustration of voters in many of our most distressed and poorest communities while at the same time believing in the hope for the future. Too often, our people have lost confidence in elected officials and given up on the idea of how good governance can have a positive impact on their lives," says Jew Don Boney."
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "I have known Judge Renee Magee for years. Yes, she's a Conservative. But she's also someone who values our vote, prayers, and support. For as long as I've known her, she's always been willing to ask every Harris County voters for their vote and support -- even when it hasn't been popular to do so! While we at Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements this year. I would like to take this moment to remind you that Judge Renee Magee is someone who all Harris County voters without respect to race, gender, political affiliation, or socio-economic status should get to know.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "I have known Judge John Schmude and his entire family for many years. He and Kelly are two of the most down-to-earth people you would ever want to meet. It isn't popular for a Conservative Judge to have a continuous presence inside an African American owned publication like Houston Business Connections Magazine©, however, without any fear Judge John Schmude has true to his convictions as a believer and Minister of Justice for the 247th Family District Court in Harris County, Texas. Nope, we will not be endorsing him or any other candidates this year. However, please be reminded that Judge John Schmude is a fair judge who treats everyone who enters his courtroom equally without respect to their race, gender, political affiliation, or socio-economic status!
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "If you are a candidate in need of graphic design, video and post production editing, marketing and advertisement, digital marketing, or help with your social media stratety you may want to call the Strategy Creative Group, L.L.C. at (713)429-1713 today.
AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "I have known Judge Christine Riddle Butts for many years. Yes, she's a Conservative Judge -- but she's someone who believes that it's her mission to rule in the best interest of families. But don't take my word for it -- these are her own words: "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." While we at Houston Business Connections Magazine©. will not be making any endorsements this year. I can assure you that Judge Christine Riddle Butts would be high on the list of our "NON-PARTISAN READERSHIP BOARD". She's truly someone who values every Harris County voter without respect to race, gender, political affiliation, or socio-economic status. If you ever have the pleasure of crossing paths with her, you'll see exactly what I mean!"
WE'RE PREDICTING A RECORD TURNOUT IN 2018
In case you aren’t aware, Democrats won the straight-ticket voting contest in Harris County, Texas back in 2016, 2012, and 2008. And Republicans won the straight-ticket voting contest in Harris County, Texas back in 2014 and 2010. So with that said, the 2018 Democratic and Republican nominees are about to be selected in Harris County, Texas – and it’s imperative that each party selects the best-qualified slate of candidates who can win in November. With that said, the Harris County Democratic Party has assembled the most competitive field of candidates in the history of their party. And not to be outdone, the Harris County Republican Party has put together a stellar field of candidates themselves. According to Paul Simpson, the Harris County Republican Party Chair, his party has assembled the most diverse slate of candidates that they’ve ever put forth. But will it be enough to avoid a repeat of the crushing countywide defeats the Harris County Republican Party suffered back in the 2016 Presidential Election? Well, it’s too early to tell – but you can bet your bottom dollar that the turnout on Tuesday, November 6, 2018, will be historic.
2018 IS THE LAST YEAR FOR STRAIGHT-TICKET-VOTING IN TEXAS
In case you don’t already know, this will be this last time Texas voters will be able to vote a straight-party-ticket in the state of Texas. What can you do? You are strongly encouraged by Houston Business Connections Magazine© to remind everyone you come into contact with between now, and Tuesday, November 6, 2018, about the historic battle that’s about to go down in the Lone Star State.
A LOOK BACK AT THE 2016 STRAIGHT-TICKET VOTING NUMBERS
Back on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, the Harris County Democratic Party won the straight-ticket voting battle over the Harris County Republican Party. In case you don’t remember, 472,030 Democrats voted a straight ticket, compared to only 401,663 Republicans. The voter turnout was 61.33% -- as only 1,338,898 of the 2,182,980 registered Harris County voters (at the time) went to the polls.
A LOOK BACK AT THE 2014 STRAIGHT-TICKET VOTING NUMBERS
Back on Tuesday, November 4, 2014, the Harris County Republican Party won the straight-ticket voting battle over the Harris County Democratic Party. In case you don’t remember, 254,006 Republicans voted a straight ticket, compared to only 210,018 Democrats. The voter turnout was 33.65% -- as only 688,018 of the 2,044,361 registered Harris County voters (at the time) went to the polls.
A LOOK BACK AT THE 2012 STRAIGHT-TICKET VOTING NUMBERS
Back on Tuesday, November 6, 2012, the Harris County Democratic Party won the straight-ticket voting battle over the Harris County Republican Party. In case you don’t remember, 406,991 Democrats voted a straight ticket, compared to only 404,165 Republicans. The voter turnout was 61.99% -- as only 1,204,167 of the 1,942,566 registered Harris County voters (at the time) went to the polls.
A LOOK BACK AT THE 2010 STRAIGHT-TICKET VOTING NUMBERS
Back on Tuesday, November 2, 2010, the Harris County Republican Party won the straight-ticket voting battle over the Harris County Democratic Party. In case you don’t remember, 290,355 Republicans voted a straight ticket, compared to only 240,479 Democrats. The voter turnout was 41.67% -- as only 798,995 of the 1,917,534 registered Harris County voters (at the time) went to the polls.
A LOOK BACK AT THE 2008 STRAIGHT-TICKET VOTING NUMBERS
Back on Tuesday, November 4, 2008, the Harris County Democratic Party won the straight-ticket voting battle over the Harris County Republican Party. In case you don’t remember, 391,488 Democrats voted a straight ticket, compared to only 343,919 Republicans. The voter turnout was 62.81% -- as only 1,188,731 of the 1,892,656 registered Harris County voters (at the time) went to the polls.
