December 3 , 2023
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
African-American News&Issues
Vol. 28, Issue 46
FREE
VOTE DEC 9
ENDORSEMENTS
“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
Chris Hollins (Controller), Carolyn Evans-Shabazz (City Council, District D), Mary Nan Huffman (City Council, District G), Mario Castillo (City Council, District H), Melanie Miles (City Council, At-Large #1), Nick Hellyar (City Council, At-Large #2), Richard Cantu (City Council, At-Large #3) Letitia Plummer (City Council, At-Large #4)
ALVIN D. BYRD, JR. 6/25/53 – 11/20/23
Jackie Pope, Velda Britt, Sharon Owens, Anthony W. Hall, Jr., Al Tervelon, Harry Johnson, Sr.
RAISES MORE THAN $600,000 The Lone Star Flight Museum was transformed into a Monte Carlo destination with a wash of coastal color and vibrant floral displays as operatic voices floated through the hangar. This year’s fundraising gala raised $620,000 to support the museum’s STEM-related programs, educational mission, and exhibits. and paid tribute to museum founder Robert L. Waltrip. The gala program also recognized Veteran’s Day and those who have bravely served our country. CenterPoint Energy, ConocoPhillips, and Bette and Ralph Thomas served as premier sponsors. Other key sponsors include Carolyn and Anthony Hall, Joan Skipper and Ed Peine, and the Strake Foundation. KPRC Channel 2 Meteorologist and Houston Newsmakers host Khambrel Marshall served as master of ceremonies. Gala co-chairs Kelly and
David Rose and Megan and Jason Ryan welcomed more than 500 guests and supporters for an evening that included a wine pull, big board auction, paddle raise, and a spirited live auction. LSFM President and Chief Executive Officer and retired Lt. Gen. Doug Owens (USAF) spoke about the achievements of the museum and exciting plans for the coming year, including new exhibits and hands-on experiences. A highlight of the gala was a tribute to the late Robert L. “Bob” Waltrip. A moving video showcased his business expertise, the love of his family, and his passion for aviation that led him to establish the Lone Star Flight Museum in 1985. With Waltrip family members looking on, daughter Holly Waltrip-Long spoke about her father’s incredible character, Jet Setters on pg. 3 strong spirit, and drive.
Born and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Texas’ hotbed for Public Servants such as Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Congressman Mickey Leland and many others. The son of a Shoemaker, Alvin David Byrd Sr. Alvin attended Crawford Elementary, E.O. Smith Jr. High and graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School in 1971.
Byrd on pg. 5
LAURENCE J. “LARRY” PAYNE 11/16/50 – 11/26/23
Laurence J. “Larry” Payne has 35 years of experience in public service, education and not-for-profit and religious leadership. Larry is recognized from City Hall to the White House with city, State and National leaders actively seek out his counsel in leadership, diversity, management, organization design, and strategic planning. Larry is President of The Educational Excellence Resource Group LLC.
Payne on pg. 5