Houston Business Connections Newspaper©: Stephen Costello

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Friday, May 15, 2015

REQUEST: 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall and His Wife Saundra Are Asking for Our Prayers and Support

BEN AND SAUNDRA HALL ARE ASKING FOR OUR THOUGHTS, PRAYERS, VOTE AND SUPPORT AS BEN SEEKS TO BECOME MAYOR FOR THE CITY OF HOUSTON ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015

BEN HALL: "Join us in focusing on the things that matter to ALL Houstonians. I am asking for your prayers, your votes and your thoughts on how we can move Houston forward."

Attorney Ben Hall and his wife of 34 years Saundra recently released the above photo via facebook along with this statement: "Saundra and I love Houston, Texas and the opportunity it is given us to be a positive force in the lives of others. We want to continue that by giving back to a city that has given so much to us."

SUPPORT FOR BEN HALL'S 2015 BID FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON, TEXAS CONTINUES TO GROW

As you may already know, support for Ben Hall's 2015 candidacy for Mayor of Houston continues to grow -- especially in the Acres Homes area of Houston, Texas. Hall recently garnered the highly coveted endorsements from two well-known prominent ministers from the Acres Homes area. Dr. F.N. Williams, Sr., a legendary Acres Homes leader who walked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the civil rights struggle, and Reverend Charles Ingram are both standing with Ben Hall.

Dr. Williams said: “I have been impressed with Ben Hall for more than 20 years. He is a husband, father and great businessman. He is an excellent lawyer and will fight for the citizens like he does in court. I am confident he will make a superb Mayor and will continue to fight for all the people of Houston.”

Hall is also endorsed by Rev. Charles Ingram who insists that Ben Hall is the best choice for Houston. “He is independent enough to do the right thing and bring improvements, growth and businesses to the Acres Homes area that have been missing,” says Rev. Charles Ingram.

BEN HALL: “Thank you so much for the prayers, I am committed to move Houston forward.”

REV. CHARLES INGRAM: “We need more than good speeches. We want to see a mayor who wants to help the entire community. I believe Ben Hall is that person. That is why I am supporting him!.”

Attorney Ben Hall isn’t the only candidate in the race for mayor of Houston this year. However, he’s one of only two candidates asking for our vote, prayers and support at this time. The other candidate who is also asking for our vote, prayers, and support is Victoria Lane, a businesswoman with more than 40 years of experience. Other candidates expected to be in the Tuesday, November 3rd race for City of Houston Mayor are: Adrian Garcia, Sylvester Turner, Bill King, Marty McVey, Stephen Costello, and Chris Bell. Early voting will start on Monday, October 19, 2015 and end on Friday, October 30, 2015. You are strongly encouraged to consider the candidates who value and respect us when you go to the polls.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "We must become more active participants in the process of choosing the people who govern over us on the local, state, and federal level."

FINAL NOTES: Our "CELEBRATING FREEDOM AND LIBERTY" edition of Houston Business Connections Magazine will be released on Friday, June 19, 2015. This edition will highlight "JUNETEENTH" and "THE FOURTH OF JULY" holidays.

WE ARE STILL LOOKING FOR MORE PEOPLE TO FEATURE INSIDE THIS EDITION. A few of the key advertisers already signed up are: Attorney Ben Hall, Attorney Keryl L. Douglas, Attorney Farrah Martinez, Judge John Schmude, and Judge Loyd Wright.

CALL (832)212-8735 TO ADVERTISE!

Call Aubrey R. Taylor Communications at (832)212-8735 if you would like to be included in the next edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper.

PEOPLE: Support for the Ben Hall for Mayor of Houston Campaign Continues to Grow in Acres Homes As Both Dr. F.N. Williams, Sr., and Rev. Charles Ingram Have Endorsed Hall As The Best 2015 Candidate for Mayor

ATTORNEY BEN HALL IS ASKING FOR OUR PRAYERS, VOTE AND SUPPORT AS HE SEEKS TO BECOME MAYOR FOR THE CITY OF HOUSTON ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015

FEATURED PHOTO: 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall Was Recently Spotted Worshiping At New Life Church in Houston Texas as His Support Throughout the City of Houston Continues to Grow

Attorney Ben Hall is making his rounds. As you may already know, support for Ben Hall's 2015 candidacy for Mayor of Houston continues to grow -- especially in the Acres Homes area of Houston, Texas. Hall recently garnered the highly coveted endorsements from two well-known prominent ministers from the Acres Homes area. Dr. F.N. Williams, Sr., a legendary Acres Homes leader who walked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the civil rights struggle, and Reverend Charles Ingram are both standing with Ben Hall.

BEN HALL: “Thank you so much for the prayers, I am committed to move Houston forward.”

REV. CHARLES INGRAM: “We need more than good speeches. We want to see a mayor who wants to help the entire community. I believe Ben Hall is that person. That is why I am supporting him!.”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "We must become more active participants in the process of choosing the people who govern over us on the local, state, and federal level."

CALL (832)212-8735 TO ADVERTISE!

Call Aubrey R. Taylor Communications at (832)212-8735 if you would like to be included in the next edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper.

PEOPLE: At-Large Council Member Stephen Costello Recently Discussed Mayor Annise Parker's Fiscal Year 2016 Budget

COUNCIL MEMBER STEPHEN COSTELLO DISCUSSES MAYOR ANNISE PARKER'S PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2016 BUDGET IN HIS COSTELLO CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER

CITY HAPPENINGS: Houston City Council At-Large Position 1 Member Stephen Costello Recently Sent Us This Update on Mayor Annise Parker’s Fiscal Year 2016 Budget

Greetings,

The mayor released her administration's proposed fiscal year 2016 budget on May 12, 2015. The tax-supported General Fund budget is $2.4 billion. Combined with self-supporting enterprise funds (airport, water and sewer) and other special funds, the city's overall budget is $5.1 billion. The General Fund budget increased $130 million over last year-over 90 percent of this increase due to contractually-mandated obligations (pensions, salaries) and required transfers. Property tax relief for seniors is included in the proposed budget as well as $2.8 million for body cameras for Houston police officers, salary increases for police, an additional $2 million for maintenance and renewal of city-owned facilities, and a $128 million transfer to street and drainage capital projects.

The Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee, which I chair, will hold a series of budget workshops open to the public beginning Tuesday, May 26, 2015. Department directors will review their budgets and answer questions from council members and interested citizens. The budget outlines the city's plan to spend your tax dollars, so please let me know your priorities. Plan to attend a workshop or email your questions to atlarge1@houstontx.gov.

It is an honor to serve you on City Council.

Sincerely,

Stephen C. Costello

Chair, Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "We must become more active participants in the process of choosing the people who govern over us on the local, state, and federal level."

CALL (832)212-8735 TO ADVERTISE!

Call Aubrey R. Taylor Communications at (832)212-8735 if you would like to be included in the next edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

FEATURED PEOPLE: Attorney Alfred Benoit, 2015 Mayoral Candidate Stephen Costello, 2015 Mayoral Candidate Adrian Garcia, Mayor Allen Owen, 2015 Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall, and Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman

ATTORNEY ALFRED BENOIT WAS ELECTED PRESIDENT-ELECT FOR HLA ON TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2015 AT THE HLA GENERAL BODY MEETING

CONGRATULATIONS: Attorney Alfred Benoit Has Been Elected President-Elect for the (HLA) Houston Lawyers Association

Attorney Alfred “Al” Benoit was elected President-Elect at HLA's last general body meeting of the 2014-2015 bar year. The meeting took place on Tuesday, May 12, 2015 at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law on the campus of Texas Southern University.

Alfred Benoit is the Owner and Principal Attorney of Benoit Law, PLLC. His practice focuses on corporate and business restructuring, private company acquisitions and dispositions, investor immigration issues, and Business Litigation issues.

Benoit has worked with clients in a wide range of industries including energy, technology, finance, franchise, and waste and recycling.

He holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. He received the degree back in 2004.

Benoit also graduated with honors from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 2008 where he earned his Juris Doctorate degree. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Texas and in the United States District Court in the Southern District of Texas. During law school, he honed his advocacy skills by participating and winning many oral advocacy competitions. He also studied International Law at the prestigious Cambridge University in Cambridge, England.

Benoit previously worked as an attorney for Haynes and Boone, LLP, a major Texas law firm, where he was surrounded by some of the brightest legal minds in Texas. This environment cultivated Alfred’s dedication to excellence.

COUNCIL MEMBER STEPHEN COSTELLO DISCUSSES MAYOR ANNISE PARKER'S PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2016 BUDGET IN HIS COSTELLO CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER

CITY HAPPENINGS: Houston City Council At-Large Position 1 Member Stephen Costello Recently Sent Us This Update on Mayor Annise Parker’s Fiscal Year 2016 Budget

Greetings,

It is an honor to serve you on City Council.

Sincerely,

Stephen C. Costello

Chair, Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee

UPCOMING EVENTS: 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Adrian Garcia Recently Sent us This Invitation to Attend His Upcoming Grassroots Rally Taking Place on Sunday, May 17, 2015

Aubrey --

Last Wednesday, I announced my candidacy for Mayor. I know there are many challenges facing our city, but I am willing to roll my sleeves up to address them. I hope you will join me.

This Sunday, I want to invite you to join me, my family, and fellow supporters as we kickoff the campaign together.

What: Grassroots Kickoff

When: Sunday, May 17th, 2:00 pm

Where: Moody Park Community Center

3725 Fulton

Houston, TX 77009

MAYOR ALLEN OWEN WILL BE RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE MAY 2016 CITY OF MISSOURI CITY MAYORAL ELECTION

CONGRATULATIONS: Missouri City, Texas Mayor Allen Owen is Now a Member of the FBI Family According to A Recent Facebook Status Update He Posted

Mayor Allen Owen never stops working for the people of Missouri City, Texas. This week he was in Washington D.C., attending the FBI Academy. And now, according to him, he's a member of the FBI family.

ABOUT THE FBI ACADEMY

The FBI Academy is a full-service national training facility—with conference rooms and classrooms, dorms, firing ranges, a gym and pool, a library, a dining hall, even a mock town.

The FBI Academy is located on 547 acres on a Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C. Much of the FBI’s training takes place at this location —from minting new agents and analysts to grooming law enforcement leaders from around the world. The Academy also serves as a premier learning and research center, an advocate for best practices throughout the global criminal justice community, and a place where lasting partnerships are forged among law enforcement and intelligence professionals worldwide.

ATTORNEY BEN HALL IS ASKING FOR OUR PRAYERS, VOTE AND SUPPORT AS HE SEEKS TO BECOME MAYOR FOR THE CITY OF HOUSTON ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015

FEATURED PHOTO: 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall Was Recently Spotted Worshiping At New Life Church in Houston Texas as His Support Throughout the City of Houston Continues to Grow

BEN HALL: “Thank you so much for the prayers, I am committed to move Houston forward.”

REV. CHARLES INGRAM: “We need more than good speeches. We want to see a mayor who wants to help the entire community. I believe Ben Hall is that person. That is why I am supporting him!.”

CONSTABLE RON HICKMAN HAS BEEN APPOINTED THE SHERIFF FOR HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS BY THE HARRIS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

CONGRATULATIONS: Republican Precinct 4 Constable Ron Hickman Named Harris County Sheriff; As Former Democratic Sheriff Adrian Garcia Runs for Mayor of Houston

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

The current Harris County Commissioner’s Court is mostly Republican, by a (4-to-1) margin. So appointing a Republican to serve as the new Harris County Sheriff should not have come as a surprise to anyone. Heck, if the commissioner’s court was governed by Democrats we may have very well seen a Democrat appointed as the new sheriff. But the good news is that Harris County Constable Ron Hickman is qualified, experienced and capable to serve as the highest ranking law enforcement officer for Harris County. But if you don’t like the choice, well, you can do something about that by voting him out of office in the Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Presidential Election. But for now, he’s the new Harris County Sheriff.

THE PEOPLE WHO MADE THE DECISION

The County Judge for Harris County is Judge Ed Emmett a Republican. The Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 1 is Commissioner El Franco Lee a Democrat. The Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 2 is Jack Morman a Republican. The Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 3 is Steve Radack a Republican. And the Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 4 is R. Jack Cagle a Republican. Again, if Sheriff Garcia runs for mayor of Houston, these individuals will be charged with selecting his replacement.

HOW WE GOT HERE

The moment Democratic Sheriff Adrian Garcia officially announced his intention to seek the mayor’s office he had to relinquish his position as Harris County Sheriff. Why? Well, based on Article 16, Section 65 of the Texas Constitution, certain officeholders are required to resign from their current office if they choose to run for another.

As it stands today, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, and Texas are the only states in the nation with a resign-to-run-law on the books.

Article 16, Section 65 of the Texas Constitution states:

(a) This section applies to the following offices: District Clerks; County Clerks; County Judges; Judges of the County Courts at Law, County Criminal Courts, County Probate Courts and County Domestic Relations Courts; County Treasurers; Criminal District Attorneys; County Surveyors; County Commissioners; Justices of the Peace; Sheriffs; Assessors and Collectors of Taxes; District Attorneys; County Attorneys; Public Weighers; and Constables.

(b) If any of the officers named herein shall announce their candidacy, or shall in fact become a candidate, in any General, Special or Primary Election, for any office of profit or trust under the laws of this State or the United States other than the office then held, at any time when the unexpired term of the office then held shall exceed one year and 30 days, such announcement or such candidacy shall constitute an automatic resignation of the office then held, and the vacancy thereby created shall be filled pursuant to law in the same manner as other vacancies for such office are filled.

ABOUT SHERIFF HICKMAN

The information below will help you get to know Ron Hickman, the newly appointed Harris County Sheriff a little better. This information was pulled from his website.

Constable Ron Hickman, recognized for his leadership qualities, innovation, and commitment to public service has recently been awarded the "National Constable of the Year" for his second time. On March 15th 2013 in a ceremony held in Sugarland Texas representatives from the board of directors from the National Constables and Marshals Association recognized Constable Hickman with their most prestigious awarded. He had previously won the National Constable of the Year award in 2007 and had also been recognized as Texas Constable of the Year in 2006 by the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas and in 2005 was recognized with their T. A. Vines Award.

Constable Hickman has been a leader in law enforcement technology and in deeply involved in providing these advancements for police officers across the county. He has been a pioneer in implementing laptops in patrol vehicles and is now developing applications for officers to use iPads and tablets as well. These additions increase the efficiency of officers in the field while leveraging the technology provides cost recovery and time savings to improve budgetary effectiveness.

Beginning with the Precinct 4 Constable's Office in 1983, he was quickly promoted to Sergeant over the Communications Office. The absence of computerization initiated a challenge that drove the search for serious improvements in automation for both the Constable's Office and the remainder of law enforcement in Harris County. Since that time, Constable Hickman has been an integral part of the leadership for technical advances in law enforcement and is constantly looking for new opportunities to enhance crime fighting technologies.

Attending the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute at Sam Houston State was a pivotal opportunity and immediately upon graduation in 1995 was asked to return as an instructor in Information Technology. Constable Hickman says, "Sharing experiences and offering guidance to other agencies is important as a participant in the brotherhood of policing." He taught from 1995 through 2000 as a faculty member for the Institute, sharing his technical experience with officers from across the State. More recently in 2010, Constable Hickman attended the FBI’s Law Enforcement Executive Development seminar (LEEDS) designed to provide senior law enforcement executives the opportunity to network and obtain instruction in legal issues, strategic planning, and employment law and police programs.

Active in supporting advances in technology in criminal investigations, Constable Hickman serves as Chair of the Local Executive Board for the Greater Houston Regional Computer Forensics Lab. He also serves as a member of the FBI’s National Advisory Committee for the regional computer forensics lab program out of its National Program Office in Quantico Virginia.

With a strong emphasis on the use of technology and progressive policing practices, Constable Hickman continues the practice of two way communication with community leaders and members of local neighborhoods. He also believes strongly in increasing professionalism through training and advancing educational opportunities for police officers. Ron graduated cum laude from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and encourages his command staff and supervisors to constantly seek more leadership training.

Ron was elected as Constable of Precinct 4 in November of 2000 and took Office January 1st, 2001. His goal is striving to meet the community’s needs while exceeding their expectations. He is most proud of being accessible to the community and actively involved in numerous community organizations. His wife Connie Hickman, also a part of the justice community, is a Justice of the Peace in another county and both have been active in the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas for many years.

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "We must become more active participants in the process of choosing the people who govern over us on the local, state, and federal level."

CALL (832)212-8735 TO ADVERTISE!

Call Aubrey R. Taylor Communications at (832)212-8735 if you would like to be included in the next edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper.

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

CAMPAIGN NEWS: Ben Hall for Mayor of Houston, Carroll G. Robinson for City of Houston Controller Campaign Signs are Being Vandalized

ATTORNEY BEN HALL IS RUNNING FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON IN THE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015 CITY OF HOUSTON MAYORAL ELECTION

Click here to view “Part Three” of the “People Who Value Us” edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

CAMPAIGN NEWS: Contact Attorney Ben Hall If You Witness Someone Vandalizing His 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election Campaign Signs

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

According to 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall, someone has been vandalizing his campaign signs. As you may already know, Ben Hall has launched his second bid to become Houston’s mayor. He’s asking for our prayers, vote, and support on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. Early voting for the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election will be taking place from Monday, October 19, 2015 to Friday, October 30, 2015.

Here’s a short statement released by 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall via facebook:

“Unfortunately there's been damage to my campaign signs. If you see anyone cutting down my signs, please take pictures and let me know. Thank you in advance for your continuous support.”

You are strongly encouraged to contact Ben Hall at: (713)942-9600 if you witness anyone damaging his campaign signs. Also, it would be helpful if you could take a picture of the sign to be used as evidence.

A FEW OTHER CANDIDATES WHO MAY BE RUNNING FOR MAYOR OF HOUSTON

Other candidates expected to be in the Tuesday, November 3rd race for City of Houston Mayor are: Victoria Lane, Sylvester Turner, Adrian Garcia, Bill King, Marty McVey, Stephen Costello, and Chris Bell. The deadline for candidates to have their name placed on the ballot in the City of Houston is Monday, August 24, 2015. Early voting will start on Monday, October 19, 2015 and end on Friday, October 30, 2015. You are strongly encouraged to consider the candidates who value and respect us when you go to the polls.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

CAMPAIGN NEWS: Oliver Pennington has Dropped Out of the 2015 Race for Mayor of Houston to be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2015

CITY COUNCIL MEMBER OLIVER PENNINGTON (RIGHT) PICTURED WITH HIS WIFE, AND GRANDCHILDREN HAS WITHDRAWN FROM THE 2015 CITY OF HOUSTON MAYORAL RACE

Click here to view “Part Three” of the “People Who Value Us” edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

CAMPAIGN NEWS: Council Member Oliver Pennington Withdraws from the 2015 Race for Mayor of Houston, Texas

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

Please keep Beverly Pennington, wife of City Council Member Oliver Pennington in your prayers. We recently received a press release from the Oliver Pennington for Mayor Campaign detailing why he’s dropping out of the race for mayor.

OTHER CANDIDATES

Other candidates expected to be in the Tuesday, November 3rd race for City of Houston Mayor are: Victoria Lane, Sylvester Turner, Adrian Garcia, Bill King, Marty McVey, Stephen Costello, and Chris Bell. The deadline for candidates to have their name placed on the ballot in the City of Houston is Monday, August 24, 2015. Early voting will start on Monday, October 19, 2015 and end on Friday, October 30, 2015. You are strongly encouraged to consider the candidates who value and respect us when you go to the polls.

PRESS RELEASE: Oliver Pennington Withdraws from Race For Mayor

Houston, TX – Houston City Council Member Oliver Pennington announced today that he has decided to end his campaign for Mayor of Houston due to a medical diagnosis received by his wife Beverly.

Pennington said, “For nearly 47 years, Beverly has been the love of my life and I will be by her side as we walk through this situation. I will continue to serve the residents of District G until my term ends January 1, 2016. "

He went on to say, “I want to thank all of the volunteers and contributors who have tirelessly supported my campaign and want to encourage them to continue standing up for this great city we all love."

The Pennington family thanks the media for respecting their privacy during the coming months and also thanks their friends and supporters for their thoughts and prayers during this time.

SEND YOUR "POSITIVE" NEWS AND INFO TO US TODAY!

If you have a “POSITIVE” editorial, announcement, or upcoming event you would like to submit for consideration inside Houston Business Connections magazine or newspaper, email it to us today! Email“POSITIVE” information for consideration to us at: positivenewsandinfo@gmail.com. We will only consider “POSITIVE” news and information for publishing in this section.

Monday, February 16, 2015

Victoria Lane Says "NO" on the Subject of Should Men and Women Be Able to Use the Same Public Restrooms in Houston

The views expressed on this page are those of the person expressing them only. None of the individuals pictured on this page are connected to any other person or view featured by anyone else on this page in any way, shape, or form unless otherwise noted.

Victoria A. Lane is a 2015 Candidate Running for Mayor of the City of Houston in the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election

Aubrey R. Taylor

Publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine

I recently had a phone conversation with Victoria Lane a 2015 candidate running for mayor of Houston in the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election. I’m not going to share the complete conversation in this particular article. However, with her permission I will share her thoughts on whether men and women should be allowed to use the same public restrooms in Houston, Texas. I’m sharing this portion of our interview, because many of the readers of Houston Business Connections Magazine are concerned about the “HERO” Ordinance passed by a 11 to 6 margin by Mayor Annise Parker (Houston’s openly-gay) mayor and several other Houston City Council Members back on Wednesday, May 28, 2014.

ABOUT VICTORIA A. LANE

Victoria a. Lane was born in Cebu City, Philippines. Victoria immigrated to the United States when she was 16 years old. She studied nursing and business administration at the Southwestern Adventists College in Texas. After college she served as a senior marketing executive for a Home Health Care Agency. Shortly thereafter, she founded VL Investments which offers tax consultancy accounting, and financial planning services. Lane has been in business for more than 40 years; and is an active volunteer with her church and the community at large. She is a past treasure for the Houston Area Community Service organization. Lane has a passion for public service that can be traced back to her political pedigree. She has an uncle and a cousin who were elected as Mayors of big cities in southern Philippines.

Victoria A. Lane plans to bring “Good Governance” and “Moral Leadership” to Houston’s City Hall if elected on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. She also plans to Reduce Houston’s Debt; Make Houston the Tourism Capital of the South; Modernize and repair streets; Improve the Education System; Employ local contractors for City government projects; make Houston more environmentally friendly; and Equip all HPD Officers with body cameras.

Here's how the current Houston City Council Members and Mayor Annise Parker Voted on the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May, 28, 2014:

BRENDA STARDIG voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Brenda Stardig currently represents DISTRICT A on Houston's City Council. She will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

JERRY DAVIS voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Jerry Davis currently represents DISTRICT B on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

ELLEN COHEN voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Ellen Cohen currently represents DISTRICT C on Houston's City Council. She will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

DWIGHT BOYKINS voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Dwight Boykins currently represents DISTRICT D on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

DAVE MARTIN voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Dave Martin currently represents DISTRICT E on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

RICHARD NGUYEN voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Richard Nguyen currently represents DISTRICT F on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

OLIVER PENNINGTON voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Oliver Pennington currently represents DISTRICT G on Houston's City Council. He will be running for Mayor of Houston on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

ED GONZALEZ voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Ed Gonzalez currently represents DISTRICT H on Houston's City Council. He is term-limited and cannot run for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

ROBERT GALLEGOS voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Robert Gallegos currently represents DISTRICT I on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

MIKE LASTER voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Mike Laster currently represents DISTRICT J on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

LARRY GREEN voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Larry Green currently represents DISTRICT K on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

STEPHEN COSTELLO voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member Stephen Costello currently represents At-Large Position 1 on Houston's City Council. He is term-limited and cannot run for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

DAVID ROBINSON voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member David Robinson currently represents At-Large Position 2 on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

MICHAEL KUBOSH voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member David Robinson currently represents At-Large Position 3 on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

C.O. "BRAD" BRADFORD voted FOR the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member C.O. "Brad" Bradford currently represents At-Large Position 4 on Houston's City Council. He is term-limited and cannot run for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

JACK CHRISTIE voted AGAINST the "Equal Rights Ordinance" back on May 28, 2014. Council Member David Robinson currently represents At-Large Position 5 on Houston's City Council. He will be up for re-election on Tuesday, November 3, in the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

Favorable Jury Verdict Should Result in Victory for Voters and Religious Liberty!

By Jared Woodfill

2015 Candidate for Republican Party of Texas Chairman

Great news...the jury returned a verdict that should allow the people to vote on Mayor Parker's Unequal Rights Ordinance. Over the past eight months, a coalition of pastors and community leaders have worked together to repeal Mayor Annise Parker's pro-LGBT so-called "Equal Rights Ordinance." A lawsuit was filed (Woodfill v Parker) after Parker and her legal team invalidated the petitions of approximately 55,000 Houstonians who sought a referendum vote on Parker's Unequal Rights Ordinance.

"The Mayor's lawyers went to extraordinary lengths to discredit, demean, denigrate and disqualify as many petitions and signatures as possible. Thankfully, in spite of an incredible amount of detail presented and even oft repeated by the city's attack team, our God has again raised His standard of justice," stated Dr. F.N. Williams, lead plaintiff for the pastors of the No UNequal Rights Coalition and Senior Pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church as well as President of Houston Ministers Against Crime.

During the two week trial, the Mayor and her legal team of fifteen lawyers attempted to use the power of government to intimidate and threaten those who opposed her LGBT agenda, including attacking pastors, citizens, and even my family.

"We are thankful that the God of justice stood with this David again against the Goliath of the machinery of city government in the hands of those like Annise Parker intent on serving her personal agenda even at the cost of voting rights of the people," added Pastor Hernan Castano, an influential Hispanic pastor and network leader as well as one of the "Houston Five" subpoenaed by the Mayor.

Judge Robert Schaffer will now apply the ruling to the almost 55,000 individuals who signed the petition. I am confident he will conclude we had the requisite 17,269 signatures necessary for the people to vote on this issue.

I want to thank all of you who have been praying over this case. I also want to thank the Houston Area Pastor Council and the thousands of grassroots activists across the country who stood with us as we fought for religious liberty and voting rights!

Jared Woodfill

THIS IS NOT A PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT.

# # # #

By Aubrey R. Taylor

Publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine

Looking Ahead to the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2015 for the 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election. And I am looking forward to a record turnout, clean competitive races, and hopeful that we get a mayor who is committed to representing our entire city – not special interest groups.

FRIENDLY REMINDER

Don't forget to do all the research you can on the 2015 candidates running for City of Houston Mayor, City of Houston Controller, and Houston City Council in the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election.

Best regards,

Aubrey R. Taylor
Publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine
957 NASA PARKWAY #251
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058-3039
P: (832)212-8735
C: (832)894-1352
EMAIL: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com
BLOG: www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

"According to an ABCNews/Beliefnet Poll 83 percent of Americans identify themselves as Christians. So to this end, it makes perfect sense for us to get Christians engaged, empowered, informed, and excited about the process of choosing those who govern on the local, state, and federal levels in America. So don't forget about what Proverbs 29:2 teaches us: "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." -- AUBREY

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"The candidates below are asking for our prayers, vote, and support in the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election. The individuals featured below are not connected to one another unless otherwise noted. To discuss your inclusion on this page, call (832)212-8735 and ask for Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Aubrey R. Taylor Communications, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine."

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"Ben Hall is a 2015 Candidate for City of Houston Mayor. Hall is asking for our prayers, vote, and support in his bid to become only the second African American to serve as Houston's mayor."

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"Victoria Lane is a 2015 Candidate for City of Houston Mayor. Lane is asking for our prayers, vote, and support in her bid to become only the third female mayor for the City of Houston."

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"Carroll G. Robinson is a 2015 Candidate for City of Houston Controller. Robinson is asking for our prayers, vote, and support in his bid to become only the second African American to serve as City of Houston Controller."

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Click here to view this edition of Houston Business Connections Newspaper

Houston Business Connections Newspaper is published by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications. So to discuss your inclusion call (832)212-8735 and ask for Aubrey R. Taylor, the president and CEO of Aubrey R. Taylor Communications.

WHAT WE'RE ALL ABOUT

"Our mission is to assist people of faith with identifying "LEADERS" in Education, Corporate America, Business, Elected Public Offices, and Ministry who value our lives, support, patronage, and vote. I believe we can make America even better by accomplishing this stated mission together. And I furthermore believe we can all win by finding creative ways to support one another as we work together to pursue our personal and professional endeavors in 2015 and beyond." -- AUBREY R. TAYLOR