Early Voting Starts On Monday, October 18th, 2010 by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS FOR:

HARRIS COUNTY • ON PAGE • 4

FORT BEND COUNTY • ON PAGE • 12

GALVESTON COUNTY • ON PAGE • 14

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS HARRIS • FORT BEND • GALVESTON

Houston-Area

Published By Aubrey R. Taylor • Serving The Houston Community Since 1998 •

Email: news@houston-businessconnections.com • OCTOBER SERIES

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCT. 18TH

DON’T FORGET! Why We Must Vote In The 2010 Mid-Term Elections FOCUS ON BUSINESS

By Ron E. Reynolds Special to Houston Business Connections

ENTERPRISE: Pete Havel, the Executive Director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, presented Congressman Kevin Brady with the Spirit of Enterprise Award during a Chamber of Commerce Meeting in Shenandoah. Havel commended Brady for fighting for small businesses in Congress.

OPINION

Mid-Term Elections are crucial for small businesses By U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (Republican-The Woodlands, Texas) Special to Houston Business Connections or small businesses, this election is about survival. New health care costs, threats of higher taxes, and reduced energy production have all converged to create an unprecedented economic uncertainty for small business. Republicans and Democrats in Washington hold vastly different views on taxes. Democrats believe Americans - especially those they consider wealthy - are not paying enough. Republicans believe Americans are paying too much and they, not the government, should have more control over the money they earn. SEE ARTICLE ON PAGE • 21

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW PROFILE: State Farm Independent Insurer and Insurance Relations Expert, Brandon Herndon, services his clients through education. SEE ARTICLE ON PAGE • 25

INSURANCE

TOP PHOTO: Pictured in the photo above is Democratic State Representative Elect Ron E. Reynolds and U.S. President Barack Obama. Reynolds is seeking to become the first African American to represent HD-27 in Fort Bend County since reconstruction. SEE ARTICLE BY REYNOLDS ON PAGE • 23

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW SPOTLIGHTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE LEFT PHOTO: Niyoka Campbell, PC is the Founder and President of Hollywood Financial Service, an Accounting firm located in Houston, TX that specializes in providing quality tax preparation and Accounting services to individuals and small businesses. A suite of customized accounting services, designed to meet the needs of new to mid-size businesses, are readily available and include bookkeeping, payroll, monthly and quarterly tax payments, sales tax filings, preparation of financial statements, and more. SEE ARTICLE ON PAGE • 29 ---------------------------------------RIGHT PHOTO: Democratic Civil Litigator Erica M. Graham is on the November 2010 Mid-Term ballot for Harris County Civil Court-at-Law Position #1. SEE PAGES 3 & 19 for more information. You also may view the sample ballot for Harris County inside this issue. --------------------------------SEE SAMPLE BALLOT FOR HARRIS COUNTY ON PAGE • 18

ADVERTISEMENT: PLEASE VOTE TO ELECT ERICA M. GRAHAM FOR HARRIS COUNTY CIVIL COURT-AT-LAW POSITION #1

THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

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EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCT. 18TH

DON’T FORGET!

THIS PROGRESSIVE SERIES IS PUBLISHED BY AUBREY R. TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS (PRESIDENT & CEO AUBREY R. TAYLOR -LOWER LEFT) AND SPONSORED IN PART BY BOUNDLESS TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. (PRESIDENT & CEO BRYAN POWELL-LOWER RIGHT) FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF URGING VOTERS IN TEXAS IN GENERAL AND HARRIS, FORT BEND, AND GALVESTON COUNTIES IN PARTICULAR TO VOTE EARLY IN THE 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION.

merica is at a crossroads. And many consider these to be times of crisis. But while some of us would like to move forward, there are many who would like for us to return to the way things used to be. I'm not sure about you, but my client Bryan Powell, (the president and CEO, of Boundless Technical Services, Inc.) and I would like to live a life with no borders or boundaries. So, while you peruse (Part-One) of the 2010 Houston Business Connections Newspaper Election Series. We ask you to consider doing your part to elect the right leadership during these critical times.

“How Important is it for us to get it right on election day?” “Hey, Aubrey, just how important is electing the right leadership during times of crisis?” Well, I'm glad you asked that question. That's exactly the question I asked some of the top political heavy-weights in Texas - just before the Historic 2008 Election which gave America, her first African American President. Here's a few of the responses I received. I’ll share many more with you in the October 8th, October 15th, October 22nd, and October 29th issues of Houston Business Connections Newspaper. If you would like to be included in one of the upcoming issues call: (832)212.8735. Also, remember that these comments were provided to me back in 2008. Here’s what they had to say just before the 2008 Presidential Election: Wallace B. Jefferson (i) - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? JUSTICE JEFFERSON: The public benefits from a steady hand during a time of crisis -someone dedicated to evaluating whatever emergency is presented, conferring with all affected, and then making clear decisions together with contingency plans for unanticipated complications. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Vince Ryan - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? RYAN: I believe that in times of crisis “great” leadership is necessary. Certainly, war is one example. My training and experiences in my twenty eight years in the U.S. Army Reserve, including Vietnam and Panama during Operation Just Cause, taught me much about leadership in times of crisis. Primarily, a leader in all circumstances must lead by example, especially in times of crisis. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Texas Democratic Chairman - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? CHAIRMAN RICHIE: It is clear Americans and Texans are currently suffering as we face multiple crises on different fronts. Whether it is dealing with economic, healthcare, or national security issues, good leadership is necessary for our society to get through these difficult times. Level headed leadership is crucial in order to see the predicament through the end and to make certain all possible scenarios have been played out. Politicians, like our current failed Republican leaders, who shoot from the hip and continue to ignore the best interest of our citizens while protecting their special interest friends, have forgotten their job description ¬ representing their constituents. I am confident our Democratic candidates will finally return responsible and sensible leadership to our government. MORE ON PAGE • 26 Houston Business Connections Newspaper is published by AUBREY R. TAYLOR. All right reserved. No articles may be copied, rewritten, published, or otherwise distributed without the prior written approval of the publisher. For special requests please call: (832)212-8735 or call the publisher directly at: (832)894-1352. OCTOBER ELECTION SERIES. 2•

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ABOUT GRAHAM: • Erica Graham is running for Harris County Civil Court-at-Law Position #1 to improve the civil justice system. • Erica Graham is a civil litigator in Houston for the past 12 years, Erica has worked for two nationally recognized law firms - Fulbright & Jaworski and Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman - and as counsel for Chevron. • Erica Graham has represented clients in both state and federal courts in Texas in litigation involving toxic tort and environmental law, employment law, personal injury law, oil and gas law and general commercial litigation. • Erica Graham has been recognized for doing high quality work preparing cases for trial, identifying settlement possibilities, benefiting client organizations, considering cost implications, and explaining complex legal options and technical issues to opposing counsel and clients. • Erica Graham also has a proven track record of collaborating and working productively with managers, clients, judges, opposing counsels, other attorneys, legal staff and juries. • Erica Graham believes the people of Harris County deserve judges who are committed to providing the best quality service they can to the people they serve. • Erica Graham believes the judiciary should reflect the community it serves and should emphasize fairness, impartiality, and a spirit of excellence. • Erica Graham is committed to customer service, running a well organized and efficient courtroom, minimizing docket backlog, and reducing the time between the filing of a case and its final adjudication. • Erica Graham believes that every citizen has a right to have his or her case heard before a fair and unbiased judge.

W W W. E M G R A H A M F O R J U D G E . C O M POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR BY THE ERICA GRAHAM CAMPAIGN, BESSIE B. NASH, TREASURER, P. O. BOX 440683, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77244, WHO IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS “As you may know on Friday, August 27, 2010, we experienced a devastating loss of our eSlate election equipment in a fire that destroyed our warehouse. Our office is working diligently to secure adequate election equipment to conduct the November 2, 2010 election with as little disruption to the citizens of Harris County as possible. We strongly encourage voters to cast their ballot during the Early Voting period beginning Monday, October 18 and ending Friday, October 29 or thru ballot by mail for those who are eligible.”

- Harris County Clerk's Office Beverly B. Kaufman Early Voting Hours of Operation: October 18th - October 22nd: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. October 23rd:7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. October 24th: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. October 25th - October 29th: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. CONTINUED ON PAGE • 6

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R.Taylor, would like to take a special moment to thank the individuals pictured above for their support and patronage toward this vision! PICTURED: (BACK ROW FROM-LEFT) TOBY GRUBBS, TERRA IT GROUP, ATTORNEY ERICA GRAHAM, BRYAN POWELL, BOUNDLESS TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC, (SECOND ROW FROM-LEFT) ATTORNEY RON REYNOLDS, MISSOURI CITY MAYOR, ALLEN OWEN, CRAIG BELL, GENESIS NATIONAL HEALTH CARE, INC., MICHELLE RODRIGUEZ, HSW FINANCIAL SERVICES, DR. JONITA REYNOLDS, (GCCSA) & VALENCIA BELL, GENESIS NATIONAL HEALTH CARE.

ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND! Early Voting begins on Monday, October 18th and Ends on Friday, October 29th! THIS IS NOT AN ENDORSEMENT OF ANY CANDIDATE IN ANY PARTICULAR RACE ON THE 2010 MID-TERM BALLOT. TO SEE THE SAMPLE BALLOT FOR HARRIS COUNTY GO TO PAGE • 18

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www.DamonCrenshawForJudge.com 3730 Kirby Drive, Suite 1200, #186 Houston, Texas 77098 Damon@DamonCrenshawForJudge.com

Tel: 713-528-5932

IMPORTANT DATES: October 4, 2010 - Last Day to Regiser to Vote October 18, 2010 - First Day of Early Voting October 26, 2010 - First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked)

October 29, 2010 - Last Day of Early Voting

Tuesday, November 2nd • General Election Damon Crenshaw has 24 years of legal experience representing people from all walks of life, small businesses and international business entities. Because he has counseled both plaintiffs and defendants, he will bring a sense of fairness and understanding to the bench. As Judge, he would be committed to fairness for all parties, regardless of status.

EXPERIENCE • Graduate South Texas College of Law and Texas A&M University • 24 years of civil trial experience • Representation of both plaintiffs and defendants • Private practice involving matters of personal injury, workers’ compensation, consumer protection, products liability and general civil issues • Certified mediator presiding over varied civil matters • Member, Houston Bar Association and Houston Trial Lawyers Association

COMMITMENT • Life-long Democrat and Sustaining Member of the Harris County Democratic Party • Member of Harris County Democrats, Harris County Democratic Lawyers Association, Houston Black American Democrats, Harris County Tejano Democrats, Stonewall Democrats, Asian American Democrats of Texas, Heights Democrats Pol. ad. paid for by Damon Crenshaw for Judge Campaign, Damon Crenshaw Treasurer. In compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

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THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS CHOOSE ONE OF THESE LOCATIONS IF YOU'RE INSIDE THE LOOP: 1. Main Office: Harris County Administration Bldg. - 1001 Preston, 1st Floor, 77002 2. Moody Park: Moody Park Community Center - 3725 Fulton, 77009 3. Kashmere: Kashmere Multi-Service Center - 4802 Lockwood Dr., 77026 4. Downtown-East: Ripley House - 4410 Navigation Blvd., 77011 5. Southeast Houston: H.C.C.S. Southeast College, Learning Hub - 6815 Rustic, 77087 6. Palm Center: Justice of the Peace/Constable Entry - 5300 Griggs Road, 77021 7. Astrodome Area: Fiesta Mart, Inc. - 8130 Kirby Drive, 77054 8. Neartown: Metropolitan Mutli-Service Center - 1475 W. Gray, 77019 CONTINUED ON PAGE • 8

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R.Taylor, would like to take a special moment to thank the individuals pictured above for their support and patronage toward this vision! PICTURED FROM LEFT: KEVIN PRICE, HOST OF THE PRICE OF BUSINESS ON CNN 650AM, JOE JAWORSKI, OF THE JAWORSKI LAW FIRM & MAYOR OF GALVESTON, TX, KEN MIDDLETON, DIRECTOR OF CONVENTION SALES FOR THE HOUSTON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU, EDDIE HENRY, PRESIDENT OF THE EDDIE HENRY AGENCY, DAGNEE “DEE” MCKINNEY, OF THE LAW OFFICE OF DAGNEE MCKINNEY, PLLC, AND SEATED IS JASON MEDLOCK, PRESIDENT OF 3131 PROPERTIES, LTD.

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SANDRA

PEAKE DEMOCRAT

For Judge, 257th Family District Court

• Professional Memberships: State Bar of Texas, Houston Bar Association, Houston Lawyers Association, The Family Law Group • Licenses: State Bar of Texas, U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Northern Districts of Texas • Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence, University of Houston College of Law, B.A., University of Houston • Experience: 27 years private practice experience, certified mediator, past instructor, hearing examiner • Community: Blue Triangle Multi-Cultural Association, Delta Sigma Theta Public Service Sorority, Jack & Jill of America, Inc., Texas Spring Cypress Chapter, Links, Inc., volunteer and referral attorney for several non-profit organizations • Personal and Family: Married to David G. Peake, two children, Houston area residents for 35 years • VOTE SANDRA PEAKE FOR JUDGE, 257TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT!

ELECTION DAY IS TUES., NOV. 2ND! Early Voting begins on Monday, October 18th and Ends on Friday, October 29th!

For more information contact: Sandra J. Peake at: Email: Sandrapeake@aol.com I Tel: (713) 723-5082 • Fax: (713)723-5085

“I have practiced before these Courts for more than 27 years and am sensitive to the unique issues that arise in family law cases. I believe the citizens of Harris County deserve consistent application of the law, courtesy and fairness. I am up to the challenge of ensuring judicial excellence by ruling decisively and with impartiality.” SANDRA PEAKE CANDIDATE FOR JUDGE, 257TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT!

SANDRAPEAKEFORJUDGE.COM In voluntary compliance with the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. Political ad paid for by the Sandra J. Peake for Judge Campaign. David G. Peake Treasurer, 9660 Hillcroft, Suite 435, Houston, Texas 77096

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THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS CHOOSE ONE OF THESE LOCATIONS IF YOU'RE OUTSIDE THE LOOP: 9. Northeast Houston: Northeast Multi-Service Center - 9720 Spaulding, 77016 10. Galena Park: Galena Park Branch Library - 1500 Keene Street, Galena Park, 77547 11. Hobby Area: I.B.E.W. Hall #66 - 4345 Allen Genoa Road, Pasadena, 77504 12. Sunnyside: Sunnyside Multi-Purpose Center - 4605 Wilmington, 77051 13. S. Houston Area: Townwood Park - 3403 Simsbrook, 77045 14. SW. Houston: Bayland Park Community Center - 6400 Bissonnet (near Hillcroft), 77074 15. Near West Side: Tracy Gee Community Center - 3599 Westcenter Drive, 77042 16. Spring Branch: Trini Mendenhall Sosa Comm. Center - 1414 Wirt Road, 77055 17. Acres Homes: Acres Homes Multi-Service Center - 6719 W. Montgomery Road, 77091 18. North: Hardy Senior Center - 11901 West Hardy Road, 77076 CONTINUED ON PAGE • 10

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R. Taylor would like to thank TEXAS GOVERNOR RICK PERRY and other political candidates who’ve supported our vision over the years.

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Endorsed by Coalition of Democratic Elected Officials, Houston Black American Democrats, Harris County Tejano Democrats, Mexican American Bar Association of Houston, Pasadena Bar Association, Area 5 Democrats, Democracy of Houston, Black Minister's Association of Houston and Vicinity and Momentum PAC.

22 Years Litigation Experience in Family Law Experience in adoptions, child custody, child and adult protection, child support and spousal maintenance, divorces, serving as counsel for both petitioners and respondents from mediation through bench and jury trials. Member, Family Law Section of State Bar of Texas Member, Family Law Section of the Houston Bar Association Recipient, La Rosa Family Services Yellow Rose Award J.D. and B.B.A. - University of Houston

Married; Member, St Lukes United Methodist Church

Vote For Mary Kay Green On Tuesday, November 2nd Vote Early October, 18th - 29th!

IN VOLUNTARY COMPLIANCE WITH THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT. POL. ADV PD. FOR BY THE MARY KAY GREEN FOR JUDGE CAMPAIGN. P.O. BOX 774, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77270-7744

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THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

Call (832)212.8735 to advertise!

HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS CHOOSE ONE OF THESE LOCATIONS IF YOU'RE OUTSIDE BELTWAY 8: 19. Humble: Octavia Fields Branch Library - 1503 South Houston Ave., Humble, 77338 20. * Kingwood: Kingwood Branch Library - 4400 Bens View Lane, Kingwood, 77345 21. Wallisville Road: North Channel Branch Library - 15741 Wallisville Road, 77049 22. Baytown: Baytown Community Center - 2407 Market Street, Baytown, 77520 23. Pasadena: Harris County Courthouse Annex #25 - 7330 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, 77505 24. Clear Lake: Freeman Branch Library - 16616 Diana Lane, 77062 25. Alief: Henington-Alief Regional Library - 7979 South Kirkwood, 77072 26. West Houston: Lac Hong Square - 6628 Wilcrest Dr., 77072 27. Far W. Houston: Nottingham Park - 926 Country Place Dr., 77079 28. Far West/Katy: Franz Road Storefront - 19818 Franz Road, Katy, 77449 29. Bear Creek: Bear Creek Park Comm. Center - 3055 Bear Creek Dr. at Patterson Rd., 77084 30. Jersey Village: City of Jersey Village-City Hall - 16327 Lakeview Dr, Jersey Village, 77040 31. Tomball: Tomball Public Works Building - 501 B James St., Tomball, 77375 32. Cypress Creek: Champion Forest Baptist Church Multi-Purpose Building - 4840 Strack Road, 77069 33. Far North: Ponderosa Fire Station No. 1 - 17061 Rolling Creek Drive, 77090 34. Cypress: Cypress Top Park - 26026 Hempstead Highway, Cypress, 77429 35. George Bush Park: Glen Cheek Education Building - 16002 Westheimer Parkway, 77082 36. Lone Star College: University Park - Visitors Center - 20515 State Hwy 249, 77070 37. Crosby: Crosby ISD Administration Building - 706 Runneburg Road, Crosby, 77532

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 713 - 755 - 6965 OR VISIT: WWW.HARRISVOTES.COM

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R. Taylor would like to thank U.S. CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE and other political candidates who’ve supported our vision over the years..

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About Shawn Thierry’s Platform ur civil courtrooms directly affect the lives of American people and businesses every day. Everyone who steps into a courtroom deserves a just legal outcome. Open ears, impartiality and respect for the rule of law are the qualities and values which Shawn Thierry will bring to the bench. Lawyers and their clients will have a better opportunity for their cases to be heard in a fair and unbiased manner so that justice is served in each case. Shawn Thierry seeks to ensure that trial procedures, bench rulings, and final orders are applied according to the facts, and consistently with all relevant and binding case precedent. Shawn Thierry believes that balance is required to ensure that justice is achieved. Plaintiffs must have an open forum to present the facts of their case from the initial filing, to discovery, and closing argument. Defendants deserve a fair playing field to adequately defend themselves and refute the facts alleged against them in each case. Electing Shawn Thierry will help bring back the balance that is needed in our civil jurisprudence system. She will deliver justice by applying the law fairly to all the litigants who come before the court seeking redress and resolution. VOTE FOR SHAWN THIERRY ON

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND!

Early Voting begins on Monday, October 18th and Ends on Friday, October 29th! • 832.212.8735 • SERIES RELEASE DATES • OCT 1ST • OCT 8TH • OCT 15 TH • OCT 22ND • OCT 29 TH •

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THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

Call (832)212.8735 to advertise!

FORT BEND COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS University of Houston at Cinco Ranch Address: 4242 South Mason Road Katy, TX 77450

Missouri City Community Center Address: 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77459

Pecan Grove Baptist Church Address: 1727 FM 359 Road Richmond, TX 77469

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R. Taylor would like to thank MISSOURI CITY MAYOR ALLEN OWEN and STATE REPRESENTATIVE ELECT RON E. REYNOLDS for supporting this vision. The 2010 MIDTERM BALLOT for Fort Bend County will be included in the Friday, October 15th, edition of this series.

ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND! Early Voting begins on Monday, October 18th and Ends on Friday, October 29th!

First Colony Conference Center Address: 3232 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479

Sugar Land Methodist Church Address: 431 Eldridge Sugar Land, TX 77478-3111

Houston Community College at Sienna Address: 5855 Sienna Springs Way Missouri City, TX 77459

Randalls Grocery Store Address: 5800 New Territory Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479-5948

FBC Road and Bridge-Needville Address: 3743 School Street Needville, TX 77461

Chasewood Clubhouse Address: 7622 Chasewood Drive Missouri City, TX 77489

Lost Creek Park Address: 3703 Lost Creek Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479

Beasley City Hall Address: 319 South 3rd Street Beasley, TX 77417

Irene Stern Fulshear Community Center Address: 6920 Fulshear-Katy Road Fulshear, TX 77441

Meadows Place City Hall Address: One Troyan Drive Meadows Place, TX 77477

Cinco Ranch Branch Library Address: 2620 Commercial Center Blvd Katy, TX 77494-6407

Hightower High School Address: 3333 Hurricane Lane Missouri City, TX 77459

Aliana Clubhouse Address: 17122 West Bellfort Richmond, TX 77407-3300

Rosenberg Annex Building Address: 4520 Reading Road Rosenberg, TX 77471

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DEMOCRAT RON REYNOLDS SET TO BECOME THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN HD- 27 STATE REPRESENTATIVE SINCE RECONSTRUCTION

EARLY VOTING BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER, 18, 2010! • VOTE FOR RON REYNOLDS ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND!

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THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2010 • AUBREY R TAYLOR

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GALVESTON COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS GALVESTON COUNTY GENERAL, TRUSTEE & RECALL ELECTION NOVEMBER 2, 2010

Galveston Co. Mud District 12 Dickinson Community Center

Dates & Times To Vote In Galveston County: Monday, October 18th - Friday, October 22nd, 2010 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 23rd , 2010 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sunday, October 24th, 2010 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 25th - Friday, October 29th, 2010 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

2929 Highway 6, Suite 300 2714 Highway 3 Bayou Vista, Texas Dickinson, Texas

(Main Early Voting Polling Place)

Galveston County Justice Center 600 - 59th Street 2nd Floor Conference Room Galveston, Texas

EARLY VOTING BRANCH LOCATIONS Joe Faggard Community Center Carver Park 1750 Hwy 87 6415 Park Ave. Crystal Beach, Texas • Texas City, Texas

Greater St. Matthews Baptist Church Bacliff Community Center 6333 Hwy 6 4503 - 11th Street Hitchcock, Texas Bacliff, Texas

Environmental Health Center League City County Annex 1205 Oak 174 Calder Road, Front Entrance La Marque, Texas • League City, Texas

West County Building Friendswood City Hall 11730 Highway 6 910 S. Friendswood Dr. Santa Fe, Texas • Friendswood, Texas

Runge Park Clear Creek Intermediate School

Galveston County Courthouse Nessler Community Center

4605 Peck St. 2451 East Main St. Santa Fe, Texas • League City, Texas

722 Moody, 2nd Floor 2010 - 5th Ave. North Galveston, Texas • Texas City, Texas

A SPECIAL NOTE: Aubrey R. Taylor would like to thank GALVESTON MAYOR JOE JAWOARSKI for using Houston Business Connections Newspaper to achieve his dream!

ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND! Early Voting begins on Monday, October 18th and Ends on Friday, October 29th! THIS IS NOT AN ENDORSEMENT OF ANY CANDIDATE IN ANY PARTICULAR RACE ON THE 2010 MID-TERM BALLOT. SAMPLE BALLOT FOR GALVESTON COUNTY TO BE INCLUDED • OCT 15TH

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MONTHLY MESSAGE

BUILDING WINNING LIVES FOR A COMING LORD

Need someone to talk to about what you’re going through? Contact Bishop K.J. Brown @ (832)893.9424 - Senior Pastor, Zion Tabernacle Church

The Process of Winning! e applaud the successes of those that we consider winners in every conceivable area of life. But, it is imperative that we realize that anything worthwhile came by process and patience. The process of winning is filled with challenges and adversity. As I reflect upon my study of scripture there are principles to winning that stand out and mark a path for being a true winner. Purpose: If there is any single thing that drives me to keep on the path, purpose is the source that keep me directed. The discovery of why I'm here gave me “the what” I should be doing. Without purpose we have a tendency to wonder or go in circles; busy, but getting nowhere. Path: If you're on the right road you have a much greater chance of getting

where you should be than if you're going in the wrong direction. Preparation: When purpose and path are discovered education and experience will have to come. There are some valleys and some mountains along the journey. I've come to the point that rather than complain in valleys, I ask God what lessons are you teaching me in the valley? But, I always remember to celebrate on the mountains. Pursuit: Do not just plan to do it. You've got to do it! But be careful how you do it though, and that you don't “do others” as you pursue your goals. I'm afraid of persons who will do anything to pursue their goals. For some, that pursuit carries them to

dishonest means they believe are justified. Just remember you reap what you sow. Problems: In this life you will have problems. How you handle those problems is one of the biggest challenges of winning. 1.Refuse to accept failure. You are not a failure when you fail. You are a failure when you give up! 2. Keep going! I read a story that Colonel Sanders went to 1,000 places to sell his chicken recipe before he found that interested buyer. 3. Shake it off and step up. I always remember the story of the mule that fell in the hole and the farmer would throw dirt on him to bury him, but he would shake it off and put the dirt under his feet. As time went on the

more dirt he shook off and put under his feet, the more elevated he become until the point that he was out of the hole . What would have been his burial became his blessing! Pinnacle: Process brings you to pinnacle. Be the best that you can be. But remember to be yourself. Everyone's success is not the same story. ----------------------------------------------------

Be Blessed! Be Smart! And always remember…the Lord wants you to win!

Bishop K.J. Brown www.ztchurch.net BishopKJBrown@gmail.com

Bishop K.J. Brown is the Senior Pastor of Zion Tabernacle Church in Houston, Texas, along with his partner in life and ministry, Priscilla Guillory Brown. Contact the Bishop by calling (832)893-9424 16 •

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“280th Family District Court: Kathy Vossler, the Democratic candidate, is our choice for this open bench, which has been designated to handle family violence cases. Vossler has deep experience in the area of family violence law, both in private practice and as a student attorney for a legal aid clinic. The University of Houston Law graduate appears to have a passion for this sensitive area of the law, which she describes as having one foot in family law and the other in criminal law. In an area where lives literally can be at stake, we believe her commitment would make a telling difference.” - HOUSTON CHRONICLE

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION CANDIDATES & INITIATIVES SAMPLE BALLOT GENERAL AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS HARRIS COUNTY NOVEMBER 02, 2010 SAMPLE BALLOT GENERAL AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS, HARRIS COUNTY, NOVEMBER 02, 2010 --- NOTE: The Sample Ballot provides the order the contests and candidates will appear on the ballot. However, the Sample Ballot does not reflect how the official ballot will 'look' on the eSlate or mail-ballot.

Straight Party

Attorney General

Joan Huffman - (Republican Party)

Barbara Ann Radnofsky - (Democratic Party)

Phil Kurtz - (Libertarian Party)

Jon Roland - (Libertarian Party) Comptroller of Public Accounts Susan Combs - (Republican Party) Mary J. Ruwart - (Libertarian Party) Edward Lindsay - (Green Party) Commissioner of the General Land Office Jerry Patterson - (Republican Party) Hector Uribe - (Democratic Party) James L. Holdar - (Libertarian Party) Commissioner of Agriculture

Republican Party

Todd Staples - (Republican Party)

Democratic Party

Hank Gilbert - (Democratic Party)

Libertarian Party

Rick Donaldson - (Libertarian Party)

Green Party United States Representative, District 2

Railroad Commissioner David Porter - (Republican Party)

Ted Poe - (Republican Party)

Jeff Weems - (Democratic Party)

David W. Smith - (Libertarian Party)

Roger Gary - (Libertarian Party) Art Browning - (Green Party) Justice, Supreme Court, Place 3

Bob Townsend - (Libertarian Party)

Debra Lehrmann - (Republican Party)

Write-in__________________________

Jim Sharp - (Democratic Party) William Bryan Strange, III - (Libertarian Party)

Steve Mueller - (Republican Party) Michael W. Hope - (Libertarian Party)

Justice, Supreme Court, Place 5 Paul Green - (Republican Party)

Michael McCaul - (Republican Party)

Justice, Supreme Court, Place 9

Ted Ankrum - (Democratic Party)

Eva Guzman - (Republican Party)

Jeremiah "JP" Perkins - (Libertarian Party)

Blake Bailey - (Democratic Party) Jack Armstrong - (Libertarian Party) Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 2

Dan Huberty - (Republican Party) Joe A. Montemayor - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 128 Wayne Smith - (Republican Party) State Representative, District 129 John E. Davis - (Republican Party) State Representative, District 130 Allen Fletcher - (Republican Party) Joe Spencer - (Libertarian Party) State Representative, District 131 Alma A. Allen - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 132 Silvia Mintz - (Democratic Party) Michael Ryan - (Libertarian Party) State Representative, District 133 Kristi Thibaut - (Democratic Party) Alfred N. Montestruc - (Libertarian Party) State Representative, District 134 Ellen Cohen - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 135 Gary Elkins Republican Party State Representative, District 136

Sheila Jackson Lee - (Democratic Party)

Lawrence "Larry" Meyers - (Republican Party)

Beverly Woolley - (Republican Party)

Mike Taylor - (Libertarian Party)

J. Randell Stevens - (Libertarian Party)

Gerald W. "Jerry" LaFleur - (Libertarian Party)

Write-in___________________________ United States Representative, District 22 Pete Olson - (Republican Party) Kesha Rogers - (Democratic Party) Steven Susman - (Libertarian Party) Write-in__________________________ United States Representative, District 29 Roy Morales - (Republican Party)

State Representative, District 137 Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5 Cheryl Johnson - (Republican Party)

Brad Walters - (Libertarian Party) Governor Rick Perry - (Republican Party)

Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 6 Michael E. Keasler - (Republican Party) Keith Hampton - (Democratic Party) Robert Ravee Virasin - (Libertarian Party)

Kendra Yarbrough Camarena - (Democratic Party) Wesley Hamner - (Libertarian Party) State Representative, District 139 Sylvester Turner - (Democratic Party)

Lawrence A. Allen Jr. - (Democratic Party)

State Representative, District 140 Armando Lucio Walle - (Democratic Party)

State Senator, District 7

Kathie Glass - (Libertarian Party)

Lee Coughran - (Libertarian Party)

State Representative, District 141 Michael Bunch - (Republican Party) Senfronia Thompson - (Democratic Party)

Deb Shafto - (Green Party) State Senator, District 13 Michael Mauldin - (Republican Party) Rodney Ellis - (Democratic Party)

David Dewhurst - (Republican Party) Linda Chavez-Thompson - (Democratic Party)

Dwayne Bohac - (Republican Party)

Member, State Board of Education, District 4

Dan Patrick - (Republican Party)

Lieutenant Governor

Scott Hochberg - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 138

Bill White - (Democratic Party)

Write-in____________________________

Sylvia Spivey - (Republican Party)

Dave Howard - (Libertarian Party)

Gene Green - (Democratic Party)

18 •

State Representative, District 127

Sarah Davis - (Republican Party)

United States Representative, District 10

John Faulk - (Republican Party)

Casey McKinney - (Democratic Party)

Bill Moody - (Democratic Party) Tom Oxford - (Libertarian Party)

United States Representative, District 18

Patricia Harless - (Republican Party)

Jim Murphy - (Republican Party)

United States Representative, District 9 Al Green - (Democratic Party)

State Representative, District 126

Bill Callegari - (Republican Party)

United States Representative, District 7 John Culberson - (Republican Party)

State Senator, District 17

Greg Abbott - (Republican Party)

State Representative, District 142 Harold V. Dutton Jr. - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 143

State Senator, District 15

Scott Jameson - (Libertarian Party)

Bill Walker - (Republican Party)

Ana E. Hernandez - (Democratic Party) --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Herb Gonzales, Jr. - (Green Party)

John Whitmire - (Democratic Party)

HARRIS COUNTY BALLOT CONTINUED ON PAGE • 20

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Vote for Democratic Civil Litigator Erica M. Graham for Harris County Civil Court-at-Law Position #1

rica Graham is a native Houstonian, and a graduate of Lamar High School in HISD. She earned her bachelor's degree from Santa Clara University and graduated cum laude from Tulane Law School in 1997. While in law school, she interned for the Honorable Calvin Botley, a Federal Magistrate Judge here in Houston. She was selected for and participated on the National Moot Court Trial Team at Tulane.

Erica is the mother of a five-year old son, and is an active member of The Church Without Walls in Houston, where she participates in the music ministry and a mentoring ministry for teenage girls. She is also an active member of the Houston Bar Association and The Downtown Group, and volunteers for organizations committed to improving her community. Her volunteer activities include helping build a house for Habitat for Humanity, working for several of DePelchin's annual toy drives, sponsoring children through the Houston Bar Association's Adopt an Angel program, and doing pro bono legal work for the Houston Volunteer Lawyers Association and Lone Star Legal Aid. • Erica Graham is running for Harris County Civil Court-at-Law Position #1 to improve the civil justice system. • Erica Graham is a civil litigator in Houston for the past 12 years. Erica has worked for two nationally recognized law firms - Fulbright & Jaworski and Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman - and as counsel for Chevron. • Erica Graham has represented clients in both state and federal courts in Texas in litigation involving toxic tort and environmental law, employment law, personal injury law, oil and gas law and general commercial litigation. • Erica Graham has been recognized for doing high quality work preparing cases for trial, identifying settlement possibilities, benefiting client organizations, considering cost implications, and explaining complex legal options and technical issues to opposing counsel and clients. • Erica Graham also has a proven track record of collaborating and working productively with managers, clients, judges, opposing counsels, other attorneys, legal staff and juries. • Erica Graham believes the people of Harris County deserve judges who are committed to providing the best quality service they can to the people they serve. • Erica Graham believes the judiciary should reflect the community it serves and should emphasize fairness, impartiality, and a spirit of excellence. • Erica Graham is committed to customer service, running a well organized and efficient courtroom, minimizing docket backlog, and reducing the time between the filing of a case and its final adjudication. • Erica Graham believes that every citizen has a right to have his or her case heard before a fair and unbiased judge. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IMPORTANT 2010 ELECTION DATES: October 4, 2010 - Last Day to Regiser to Vote October 18, 2010 - First Day of Early Voting October 26, 2010 - First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked)

October 29, 2010 - Last Day of Early Voting

Vote Tuesday, November 2nd!

• General Election •

www.emgrahamforjudge.com POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR BY THE ERICA GRAHAM CAMPAIGN, BESSIE B. NASH, TREASURER, P. O. BOX 440683, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77244, WHO IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION CANDIDATES & INITIATIVES CONTINUED FROM • 18 State Representative, District 144

District Judge, 183rd Judicial District

District Judge, 269th Judicial District

Ken Legler - (Republican Party)

Vanessa Velasquez - (Republican Party)

Dan Hinde - (Republican Party)

Rick Molina - (Democratic Party)

Michael Gomez - (Democratic Party)

Katie Kennedy - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 184th Judicial District

District Judge, 270th Judicial District

Clifford Messina - (Libertarian Party) Joel West - (Green Party) State Representative, District 145 Carol Alvarado - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 146 Borris L. Miles - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 147 Garnet F. Coleman - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 148 Fernando Herrera - (Republican Party) Jessica Cristina Farrar - (Democratic Party) State Representative, District 149

Jan Krocker - (Republican Party)

Brent Gamble - (Republican Party)

Jay W. Burnett - (Democratic Party)

Bob Thomas - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 185th Judicial District

District Judge, 280th Judicial District

Susan Brown - (Republican Party)

Lynn Bradshaw Hull - (Republican Party)

Vivian King - (Democratic Party)

Kathy Vossler - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 189th Judicial District

District Judge, 281st Judicial District

Bill Burke - (Republican Party)

Sylvia Matthews - (Republican Party)

Ursula A. Hall - (Democratic Party)

Donna Roth - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 190th Judicial District

District Judge, 295th Judicial District

Patricia J. Kerrigan - (Republican Party)

Caroline E. Baker - (Republican Party)

Olan Boudreaux - (Democratic Party)

Paul Simon - (Democratic Party)

Jack O'Connor - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 208th Judicial District

Family District Judge, 308th Judicial District

Hubert Vo - (Democratic Party)

Denise Collins - (Republican Party)

James Lombardino - (Republican Party)

Loretta Johnson Muldrow - (Democratic Party)

Bruce Kessler - (Democratic Party)

State Representative, District 150 Debbie Riddle - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 209th Judicial District

Family District Judge, 309th Judicial District

Brad Neal - (Democratic Party)

Mike McSpadden - (Republican Party)

Sheri Y. Dean - (Republican Party)

Eric M. Holdt - (Libertarian Party)

Kathy Cheng - (Democratic Party)

Bill Rice - (Democratic Party)

Chief Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District

District Judge, 228th Judicial District

Family District Judge, 310th Judicial District

Sherry Radack - (Republican Party)

Marc Carter - (Republican Party)

Lisa Millard - (Republican Party)

Morris Overstreet - (Democratic Party)

Harris Wood - (Democratic Party)

Judy Dougherty - (Democratic Party)

Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 4 Evelyn Keyes - (Republican Party) Michael Gomez - (Democratic Party) Justice, 1st Court of Appeals District, Place 8, Unexpired Term

District Judge, 230th Judicial District Belinda Hill - (Republican Party) Garland "Mack" McInnis - (Democratic Party) District Judge, 232nd Judicial District

Michael Massengale - (Republican Party)

Mary Lou Keel - (Republican Party)

Robert Ray - (Democratic Party)

Greg Glass - (Democratic Party)

Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 2

District Judge, 234th Judicial District

Sharon McCally - (Republican Party)

Reece Rondon - (Republican Party)

Norma Venso - (Democratic Party)

Tanner Garth - (Democratic Party)

Family District Judge, 311th Judicial District Denise Pratt - (Republican Party) Deborah Wright - (Democratic Party) Family District Judge, 312th Judicial District David Farr - (Republican Party) Robert Hinojosa - (Democratic Party) Family District Judge, 313th Judicial District Glenn Devlin - (Republican Party) Natalie Oakes - (Democratic Party) Family District Judge, 314th Judicial District

Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 5, Unexpired Term Martha Hill Jamison - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 245th Judicial District Roy L. Moore - (Republican Party)

Tracy Elizabeth Christopher - (Republican Party) Tim Riley - (Democratic Party) District Judge, 55th Judicial District

Family District Judge, 315th Judicial District District Judge, 246th Judicial District

Michael "Mike" Schneider - (Republican Party)

Jim York - (Republican Party)

Keith Branch - (Democratic Party)

Sherri Cothrun - (Democratic Party) District Judge, 247th Judicial District

Jeff Shadwick - (Republican Party)

Bonnie Crane Hellums - (Republican Party)

Dion Ramos - (Democratic Party)

Mary Kay Green - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 113th Judicial District

District Judge, 248th Judicial District

John Donovan - (Republican Party)

Joan Campbell - (Republican Party)

Christina Bryan - (Democratic Party)

Jim Sullivan - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 157th Judicial District

Judy Warne - (Republican Party)

Shawn Thierry - (Democratic Party)

Sandra Peake - (Democratic Party)

County Judge Ed Emmett - (Republican Party) Gordon Quan - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Court at Law No. 1 R. Jack Cagle - (Republican Party) Erica M. Graham - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Court at Law No. 2 Jacqueline Lucci Smith - (Republican Party) Cheryl Elliott Thornton - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Court at Law No. 3 Linda Storey - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 262nd Judicial District

Marc Brown - (Republican Party)

Denise Bradley - (Republican Party)

Darrell Jordan - (Democratic Party)

Tom Berg - (Democratic Party)

District Judge, 182nd Judicial District

20 •

District Judge, 257th Judicial District

Randy Wilson - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 180th Judicial District

David Longoria - (Democratic Party)

Janiece Horn - (Democratic Party)

Wally Kronzer - (Democratic Party) Justice, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 9

John F. Phillips - (Republican Party)

Damon Crenshaw - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Court at Law No. 4 Roberta Lloyd - (Republican Party)

District Judge, 263rd Judicial District

Jeannine Barr - (Republican Party)

Jim Wallace - (Republican Party)

Bruce Mosier - (Democratic Party) --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brandon Dudley - (Democratic Party)

Alvin Nunnery - (Democratic Party)

HARRIS COUNTY BALLOT CONTINUED ON PAGE • 22

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Mid-Term Elections are crucial for small businesses By Congressman Kevin Brady (Republican-The Woodlands, Texas) Special to Houston Business Connections

or small businesses, this election is about survival. New health care costs, threats of higher taxes, and reduced energy production have all converged to create an unprecedented economic uncertainty for small business. Republicans and Democrats in Washington hold vastly different views on taxes. Democrats believe Americans - especially those they consider wealthy - are not paying enough. Republicans believe Americans are paying too much and they, not the government, should have more control over the money they earn.

I won't support any measure that does not keep the 2001 and 2003 tax relief fully in place, period. I sincerely don't know how Democrats in Congress can seriously believe the way to jumpstart our stalled economy is to heap new taxes on the very professionals and small businesses most critical to a recovery. It just doesn't make economic sense. And given their track record, it's hard for any American, especially a small business owner or entrepreneur to believe that President Obama and Speaker Nancy Pelosi will use any tax hikes to reduce the debt. Millions more Americans are out of work since Democrats began 'transforming' America with their trillion dollar stimulus plan, federal government takeover of health care and moratoria on drilling for American energy. The ban on deepwater drilling and de facto ban in the shallow water where the government is holding back permits are having a ripple affect on small businesses throughout our region. While the administration seems to be celebrating that they have only 'temporarily' killed 8,000-12,000 jobs, the American people know that when you stop drilling, people stop working and businesses struggle to survive. Allamon Tool Company, a family owned business in Montgomery, Texas was forced to lay off more than half their workforce because the moratoria have meant a 70% loss of monthly revenue. Houston's Seahawk Drilling has idled 4 rigs and reduced their work force by 25%. Blackhawk Specialty Tools has lost 80% of their revenues. Arena Energy in The Woodlands has laid off 75% of their workers. Houston's Hercules Offshore has idled 173 rig workers and frozen any new hiring. As they explained to me, each drilling rig is the catalyst for jobs - a floating factory. In addition to the 100 workers each rig employs directly, another 400 workers rely on the rigs for their livelihoods - supply boat crews, equipment manufacturers, helicopter pilots, truckers, and grocery store owners. 15 of Hercules' 46 available shallow water rigs are now idle as lack of permits for new shallow water wells are slowing but surely shutting down these floating factories one-by-one. It's hard to believe that many businesses can survive 6 months without revenue yet many are being forced to do just that thanks to administration's drilling ban. One out of every 4 Texas jobs is energy related and most are targets for Washington Democrats. On top

of the drilling bans and strict new regulations, people employed by these small business Speaker Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Reid owners and all the people who hope those and President Obama are also pursuing new businesses just might need a new employee. taxes on American produced energy. If the engine of our prosperity grinds to a halt Americans understand that all new taxes over this looming tax bomb, where will our will end up financing more wasteful spending fragile economy be then? and further expansion of our bloated governSmall business owners have good reason ment. They know that taxing the wealthy to be worried, they've read the tax provisions in doesn't mean Donald the Democrat's health care bill Trump or Bill Gates, and they know what the who have small armies January 1st end to the 2001 of tax accountants to find and 2003 tax relief bills will every deduction, shelter mean to their business's very and loophole, will sudsurvival. They understand that denly pick up the tab for Washington Democrats have Washington's outrageous championed policies that have spending. Americans made the situation for them know it means small worse not better. They also businesses -- like our don't believe claims that any Mom and Pop stores, tax hikes will be used to family owned restaurants U.S. CONGRESSMAN reduce the debt, because and local salons who file they've seen the astronomical KEVIN BRADY their business taxes on spending and ballooning debt their personal 10-40's -that has occurred since will have to dig deeper to pay Uncle Sam. Speaker Nancy Pelosi took over the House. A good chunk of President's highly toutIt's not just income and investment taxes ed stimulus was spent on things that have that will go up dramatically come New Year's absolutely nothing to do with creating permaDay, the estate tax will also roar back from the nent jobs for Americans. The stimulus funded death with a vengeance making it nearly imposa turtle crossing in Florida, studies on exotic sible for small business owners to pass their ants and how monkeys react to businesses down to their children cocaine, replacing windows in the and grandchildren. This is especially OPINION closed Mt. St. Helen's Visitors troubling for minority owned busiCenter which has no plans to reopen and nesses which have rapidly become one of the building sidewalks to ditches. What it didn't fastest growing small business sectors. do was create jobs, because we've lost hunAverage Americans seeking economic dreds of thousands of payroll jobs since the hope have lost confidence in Washington stimulus was enacted. Democrats because they have been disappointTo pay for all these new projects and the ed time and time again. The national jobless new health care bureaucracy, this government rate has stayed in the mid-to-high 9% range needs to raise a lot of money and they've and 6.2 million Americans have been out of zeroed in on business as the pot of gold at the work for more than half a year now. A majoriend of their spending rainbow. The problem ty of economists expect very slow growth for with their plan is heaping more taxes on the the remainder of 2010 and 2011 on top of last small businesses so critical to our nation's econ- week's second quarter growth revision down omy recovery is the wrong path to prosperity. to a sluggish annual rate of 1.6 percent. When I hear the President and The way I see it enough is enough. The Congressional Democrats say they have to President isn't willing to shake up his ecoincrease taxes on the wealthy so they pay nomic team and Washington Democrats seem their fair share, I immediately think of all the determined to continue their class warfare

policies hoping 'soak the rich' will energize their voters in November. Instead of trying to place blame, Americans want their Congress to stop trying to tax and spend our way back to prosperity. Americans want government off the backs of small businesses and entrepreneurs, because they want them to create jobs and spur this economy forward. The American people deserve better from Washington. In the last fourteen months of the 'economic recovery,' our unemployment rate was higher that it was when the recession apparently ended and 329,000 more payroll jobs were lost. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than a million Americans have simply given up hope for a job. Clearly we are not spending our way back to prosperity, Instead we keep digging a deeper ditch for our job creators to attempt to climb out of. To me, this mid term election is all about record amounts of government spending, debt, keeping taxes low and getting out of the way of the very people who know how to create jobs. The American Dream is best achieved when there are fewer - not more -government mandates, regulations and taxes. There is a stark difference between the philosophies of the two parties. Democrats believe more government - and more taxes to pay for that government - is the solution. Republicans believe our small businesses and entrepreneurs are the solution, but they are being held back by Washington policies. I believe the American people will make a change in November and side with the American Dream. ------------------------------------------------------Congressman Kevin Brady is the Senior House Republican on the Joint Economic Committee and a senior member of the House Ways & Means Committee. He represents the 8th district of Texas which runs from Houston's northern suburbs all the way to the Louisiana border. A former Chamber of Commerce executive and member of the Texas Legislature, Brady has been named a Hero of the Taxpayer and a small business champion for his efforts. He commutes to work in Washington so he and his wife, Cathy, can raise their sons, Will and Sean, here in Texas.

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION CANDIDATES & INITIATIVES CONTINUED FROM • 20 Judge, County Criminal Court No. 1

Judge, County Probate Court No. 4

Paula Goodhart - (Republican Party)

Christine Riddle Butts - (Republican Party)

Beverly D. Melontree - (Democratic Party)

Tammy Manning - (Democratic Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 2

District Clerk

Bill Harmon - (Republican Party)

Chris Daniel - (Republican Party)

Mary Connealy Acosta - (Democratic Party)

Loren Jackson - (Democratic Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 3

County Clerk

Natalie Fleming - (Republican Party)

Stan Stanart - (Republican Party)

Judith Snively - (Democratic Party)

Ann Harris Bennett - (Democratic Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 4 John Clinton - (Republican Party) Alfred G. "Al" Leal - (Democratic Party)

Don Cook - (Green Party) County Tax Assessor-Collector, Unexpired Term Don Sumners - (Republican Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 5

Diane Trautman - (Democratic Party)

Margaret Stewart Harris - (Republican Party) Alfred "Bud" Valdez - (Democratic Party)

County Treasurer Orlando Sanchez - (Republican Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 6

Billy Briscoe - (Democratic Party)

City of Houston Special Election City of Houston, PROPOSITION NO. 1 CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION: Relating to the Creation of a Dedicated Funding Source to Enhance, Improve and Renew Drainage Systems and Streets. Shall the City Charter of the City of Houston be amended to provide for the enhancement, improvement and ongoing renewal of Houston's drainage and streets by creating a Dedicated Pay-As-You-Go Fund for Drainage and Streets? (FOR OR AGAINST) City of Houston, PROPOSITION NO. 2 CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION: Relating to Residency Requirements for District Council Office for the November 2011 General Election. Shall the City Charter of the City of Houston be amended to provide that for the general election to be held in November 2011, and for the purpose of redistricting, the required period of residency to file for the office of District Council Member shall be reduced from 12 months to 6 months preceding the election day? (FOR OR AGAINST)

Larry Standley - (Republican Party) Denise Spencer - (Democratic Party)

County School Trustee, Position 1, Precinct 2 Marvin Morris - (Republican Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 7

Mike Rose - (Democratic Party)

Pam Derbyshire - (Republican Party) Shelia Acosta - (Democratic Party)

County School Trustee, Position 2, Precinct 4 Angie Chesnut - (Republican Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 8 Jay Karahan - (Republican Party) Eugene Newsom - (Democratic Party)

County Commissioner, Precinct 2 Jack Morman - (Republican Party) Sylvia R. Garcia - (Democratic Party)

City of Houston, PROPOSITION NO. 3 CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION: An Amendment to the City Charter Relating to the Use of Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement Systems (Red Light Cameras). Shall the City of Houston continue to use red light cameras to enforce state or local laws relating to traffic safety? (FOR OR AGAINST) City of Baytown Special Election - City of Baytown PROPOSITION 1: The initiative ordinance limiting the use of traffic law photomonitoring devices within the city. (FOR OR AGAINST)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 9 Analia Wilkerson - (Republican Party) Juanita Jackson Barner - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Criminal Court No. 10 Sherman A. Ross - (Republican Party) Lori Chambers Gray - (Democratic Party)

County Commissioner, Precinct 4 Jerry Eversole - (Republican Party) Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 1, Place 2 David M. Patronella - (Democratic Party) Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 2, Place 2 Phillip Webb - (Republican Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 11

George E. Risner - (Democratic Party)

Diane Bull - (Republican Party) Mark Diaz - (Democratic Party)

Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 3, Place 2 Don Coffey - (Democratic Party)

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 12 Robin Brown - (Republican Party) Cheryl Harris Diggs - (Democratic Party)

Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 4, Place 2 Tom Lawrence - (Republican Party) Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 5, Place 2

Judge, County Criminal Court No. 13 Don Smyth - (Republican Party)

Jeff Williams - (Republican Party) Mary Ann Bryan - (Libertarian Party)

Dennis Slate - (Democratic Party) Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 6, Place 2 Judge, County Criminal Court No. 14 Mike Fields - (Republican Party) Lee Harper Wilson - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Criminal Court No. 15 Jean Spradling Hughes - (Republican Party)

Armando V. Rodriguez - (Democratic Party) Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 7, Place 2 Zinetta A. Burney - (Democratic Party Justice of the Peace, Precinct No. 8, Place 2 Louie Ditta Republican Party

Toni Martinez Ingversen - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Probate Court No. 1 Loyd Wright - (Republican Party) Kathy Stone - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Probate Court No. 2 Mike Wood - (Republican Party) Joellen Snow - (Democratic Party) Judge, County Probate Court No. 3 Rory Robert Olsen - (Republican Party) Priscilla Walters - (Democratic Party)

22 •

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City of Nassau Bay Special Election - City of Nassau Bay PROPOSITION 1: The reauthorization of the local sales and use tax in the City of Nassau Bay, Texas, at the rate of one-fourth of one percent to continue providing revenue for maintenance and repair of municipal streets. (FOR OR AGAINST) City of Spring Valley Village, Texas BOND ELECTION - City of Spring Valley Village, Texas PROPOSITION I: THE ISSUANCE OF $18,060,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND THE LEVYING OF A TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF FOR STREET AND ROAD REPAIRS, IMPROVEMENTS AND EXTENSIONS, AND RELATED DRAINAGE, INCLUDING SPECIFICALLY REPAIRS, IMPROVEMENTS, AND EXTENSIONS AT MERLIN DRIVE, LUPTON DRIVE, THE CEDARWOOD SECTION 2 AREA, THE BRACHER AREA, THE TERESA-BEN HUR AREA, PECH/CEDARBRAKE OUTFALLS AREA, THE HILLDALE/BADE/ADKINS AREA, THE VOSS ROAD AREA, SPRING OAKS EAST, SPRING OAKS WEST, BURKHART ROAD, CAMPBELL ROAD, BINGLE ROAD, AND IN BRIGHTON PLACE SUBDIVISION, AND THE MISCELLANEOUS AREAS WITHIN THE CITY. (FOR OR AGAINST) City of Spring Valley Village, Texas PROPOSITION II: THE ISSUANCE OF $3,100,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND THE LEVYING OF A TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF FOR WATER SUPPLY AND SANITARY SEWER REPAIRS, IMPROVEMENTS AND EXTENSIONS, INCLUDING SPECIFICALLY REPAIRS, IMPROVEMENTS, AND EXTENSIONS AT MERLIN DRIVE, LUPTON DRIVE, THE CEDARWOOD SECTION 2 AREA, THE BRACHER AREA, THE TERESA-BEN HUR AREA, THE HILLDALE/BADE/ADKINS AREA, THE VOSS ROAD AREA, SPRING OAKS EAST, SPRING OAKS WEST, BURKHART ROAD, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS AREAS WITHIN THE CITY. (FOR OR AGAINST) City of Spring Valley Village, Texas PROPOSITION III: THE ISSUANCE OF $700,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND THE LEVYING OF A TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF FOR THE PURPOSE OF WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED FOR SURFACE WATER CONNECTIONS. (FOR OR AGAINST) -------------------------------------------------------------------------HARRIS COUNTY BALLOT CONTINUED ON PAGE • 24

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Why We Must Vote In The 2010 Mid-Term Elections By Ron E. Reynolds Special to Houston Business Connections

he current state of the US economy makes the 2010 Midterm Elections the most important election of this century. Every election has important issues, but this November will determine whether we return to the failed policies of the GOP or continue to dig America out of the mess created by the last Republican administration. Voter turn out is generally higher in Presidential elections, yet with 80% of eligible adults registered in America, less than half are expected to cast a ballot this November. The stakes are too high for us to sit back and wait for the next Presidential elections to vote. Even though Obama will not be on the ballot until 2012; we must vote with the same energy as we did in 2008. In the US House of Representatives, the overall national vote by itself does not directly determine the election outcome since that vote is spread out over 435 districts. Many districts are highly competitive while others currently are not. Given the Democrats' majority status (257 seats), the Republicans need to pick up 39 seats to take over the majority. Based on the high unemployment rate and President Obama's declining approval ratings it is highly possible that Republicans in the next election could win enough seats necessary for them to become the majority party. The Tea Party has energized the Republican Party and they seem to have the momentum going into the mid-term elections. Right now the Democrats are the majority party in the United States Senate. The Republicans need to pick up 10 seats to retake the Senate. Losing control of the Senate is not totally out of the question. To be sure, the White House plans to continue to shape the mood of voters by touting its accomplishments, blaming Republicans for unprecedented filibustering, and railing against the Bush failed policies. The question is, will that be

enough to sway angry American elections will decide the balance of voters in November. power in the state house. Right now, In Texas, the top of the ticket there are 73 Democrats and 77 features a highly contested goverRepublicans in the Texas House of nor's race between Representatives. There are OPINION incumbent Governor many contested races and Rick Perry (R) and formany incumbents fighting to mer Houston Mayor Bill White (D). hold onto their seats. As we all know, This race has generated national the next legislative session will be interest and seems to be fairly close. consumed by redistricting, along with Polls show there is an anti-incumthe biennial budget, a voter ID bill, a bent sentiment with a large percentpossible immigration debate, and a age of voters. potential challenge to Joe Straus for On the local level, the mid-term the Speaker's gavel. However, redis-

tricting is probably the most pertinent issue as Texas is expected to gain four congressional seats--four times as many as any other state! Lastly, there are numerous judicial races that will decide who sits on the bench of our judiciary. Either way you look at it, these midterm elections are the most important elections of this century. I strongly urge you to stay engaged and get out and VOTE!

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HARRIS COUNTY 2010 MID-TERM ELECTION CANDIDATES & INITIATIVES CONTINUED FROM • 22 Channelview Independent School District Board of Trustee Election Channelview ISD Trustee, Position No. 4 Patrick Lacy Channelview ISD Trustee, Position No. 5 Rolando Ramirez Channelview ISD Trustee, Position No. 6 J. Kyle Campbell

Huffman ISD School Trustee, Position No. 2 Bruce W. Johnson Jacob Godoy Huffman ISD School Trustee, Position No. 3

Kathy Zigmont E.B. Garcia

Crosby Independent School District, General Election Crosby ISD Trustee, Position 1

Deborah Jensen Huffman ISD School Trustee, Position No. 6, UNEXPIRED TERM Matt Dutton

Katy Independent School District, Bond Election

Ruben Leal JoAnn Crawford Crosby ISD Trustee, Position 3 John Lindsey

Katy ISD, PROPOSITION: THE ISSUANCE OF $459,795,000 SCHOOL BUILDING BONDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, ACQUISITION AND EQUIPMENT OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS IN THE DISTRICT (INCLUDING THE REHABILITATION, RENOVATION AND IMPROVEMENT THEREOF) AND THE PURCHASE OF THE NECESSARY SITES FOR SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND THE PURCHASE OF NEW SCHOOL BUSES, AND THE LEVYING OF THE TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF. (FOR OR AGAINST)

Klein ISD School Board Trustee Election Klien ISD Trustee, Position 6 Paul Lanham Mark D. Taylor Larry Allen

Crosby ISD Trustee, Position 6

Johanna Ramos Dawson

Dan Kasprzak Cedric Patterson, Jr. Will Locke

Scott Brittain Ruth Watson Spring ISD Trustee, Position 2 Steven E. Mills Calvin K. Tang Nicole Murray

Tanya Shaye Eagleton Crosby ISD Trustee, Position 2

Spring ISD Trustee, Position 1 Lora Lee Hedrick

Ray Burt

Channelview ISD Trustee, Position No. 7 Dowen Sims

Spring Independent School District General Trustee Election

Kein ISD Trustee, Position 7 Steven E. Smith

Spring ISD Trustee, Position 3 Sean M. Perrodin Justine Durant Tomball ISD Trustee Election Tomball ISD Trustee, Position 1 Kathy Handler Tomball ISD Trustee, Position 2 David H. Zuhlke Michael J. Pratt William A. Harris Tomball ISD Trustee, Position 3 John E. McStravick Tomball ISD Trustee, Position 4 Mark Lewandowski

Waller-Harris Emergency Services District No. 200 Election

W. R. (Rick) Mann

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD General Election Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Trustee, Position 5 Bill Henderson John Ogletree Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Trustee, Position 6 Brad West Don Ryan Kay Smith Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Trustee, Position 7 Scott Adams Bob R. Covey

Kevin Weido James B. Robinson

North Forest Independent School District School Board Election North Forest ISD Trustee, Position 6 Carolyn Bullard-Williams Henry McGowen North Forest ISD Trustee, Position 7

Sheldon Independent School District Trustee Election Sheldon ISD Trustee Position 4

Houston ISD Trustee, District 8 (Unexpired Term)

Sheldon ISD Trustee Position 5

Fred R. Rivas, Jr.

Dorothy Olmos

Ken Coleman

Judith Cruz

Michael Davis

Juliet Kathy Stipeche

Debra Gilstrap

Cheryl Moodie Roberto Centeno

Sheldon ISD Trustee Position 6 Ed Lipscomb Shane Schultz

Huffman Independent School District School Trustee Election Huffman ISD School Trustee, Position No. 1 Becky Streetman

24 •

Kollye W. Kilpatrick Larry Coleman Tommy Albert Gary Ferguson Tom Garbett Darwin Hargrave, Sr. Shannon Barron Hollis H. Ulbricht

Horace Williams, Jr.

Houston ISD Trustee Special Election

Peter B. Schwethelm

Waller-Harris Emergency Services District No. 200, Board of Emergency Services Commissioners Vote for None, 1, 2 or 3

Sheldon ISD Trustee Position 7 Fedora Alfred LaShonda M. Jackson-Dean Debbie Kolacny

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Beechnut Municipal Utility District, MAINTENANCE TAX ELECTION Beechnut Municipal Utility District, Proposition: SHALL THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BEECHNUT MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT BE AUTHORIZED TO ASSESS, LEVY, AND COLLECT AN ANNUAL AD VALOREM TAX ON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN SAID DISTRICT NOT TO EXCEED FIFTY CENTS ($0.50) ON EACH ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR ($100.00) VALUATION THEREOF, TO SECURE FUNDS FOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PURPOSES, INCLUDING FUNDS FOR PLANNING, CONSTRUCTING, ACQUIRING, MAINTAINING, REPAIRING, AND OPERATING ALL NECESSARY LAND, PLANTS, WORKS, FACILITIES, IMPROVEMENTS, APPLIANCES, AND EQUIPMENT OF THE DISTRICT AND FOR PAYING COSTS OF PROPER SERVICES, ENGINEERING, AND LEGAL FEES, AND ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS, INCLUDING PARTICULARLY (BUT NOT BY WAY OF LIMITATION) SECTION 49.107 OF THE TEXAS WATER CODE, AS AMENDED? (FOR OR AGAINST)

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NEED TO GET NOTICED? Campaign, Business Help Is Just A Telephone Call Away Today ocial Media has completely changed the World. It has changed how we socialize, obviously, but it has also changed how we do business. Politics, and the way individuals' campaign, is also being affected. What would have once required a press release to share information with the public can now be accomplished through the use of Social Media pages.

The opportunities afforded to politicians via this medium are virtually limitless. The ability to share photos, news feeds, video clips, and other relevant personal and campaign related information has allowed voters to interact with politicians in ways that were not possible 20 years ago. This can obviously help candidates build relationships, garner support, and disseminate relevant information to the masses at any time, not just through the more traditional media formats. If you have ever used social media sites, such as Facebook, you have probably seen how someone can post something on their 'wall' and have it easily misunderstood or misinterpreted, so this media format comes with new chal-

lenges, as well. I believe the power of social media is the fact that the politician can choose specifically what will be posted, and when, and allow voters to comment. This allows the politician, just like a business owner, to better understand the needs of voters in their particular district. I feel another powerful use of social media is consistent messaging. This allows the politician to continually replay the message they wish to convey, as well as utilizing videos, photos, sharing other links, and essentially 'branding' themselves on a consistent basis. Politicians could use this strategy to further reach the public with information regarding fundraisers and other events by creating an Event and inviting everyone. This 'call to action' can make a huge difference in getting voters to participate in these types of events, and allows the politician to better interact with voters on a personal level. Social media can also help alleviate the problems typically associated with typical mainstream media, such as the fact that politicians are often separated geographically from their constituents, due to the nature of the position. This gap can cause a sense of disassociation, which further causes discontent among voters. Having a more personal connection with a politician via social media actively engages voters in day-today operations, which will garner support - not only during the campaign, but after the election. When voters feel a personal connection to their elected representatives, they are much more likely to support them. Social media has changed the way we work, the way we socialize, the way we do business, and now the way we choose political candidates. I would say this qualifies as changing the World as we know it.

Bryan Powell President & CEO Boundless Technical Services, Inc 2616 South Loop West Ste. 525 Houston, Texas 77054

832.203.5811 www.boundlesstechnical.com

IN NEED OF INSURANCE? The Coverage You Need Is A Telephone Call Away Today tate Farm Independent Insurer and Insurance Relations Expert, Brandon Herndon, services his clients through education. The path to his current career began with his search to find something he was passionate about, and would allow him to be of service to other people while affording him the

opportunity to have complete control over his own success. Born in Lansing, Michigan, Brandon moved to Las Vegas with his family at age 13. There he excelled in high school football, basketball and baseball. During college at Southern University in Baton Rouge, where he was a member of Alpha Phi fraternity, he became Marketing Club President, participated in the Black Executive Exchange program and secured an internship at Adidas. After graduating, Brandon worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative for seven years before speaking with a friend who is a State Farm agent in Irving, Texas. After their conversation, he realized that being an independent State Farm agent was a career move that would allow him to have control over the success of his career, and allow him to keep close ties with the community. From his Houston office located at 9659 S. Gessner, Houston, TX 77071 Brandon works on a platform to help people in the community by providing personalized insurance consultations, which affords his clients and other community members to really understand the purpose of the insurance they continued on page, P.30 pay for.

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Brandon Herndon President & CEO State Farm Independent Insurer 9659 S. Gessner Dr. Houston, Texas 77071

832-431-4222 www.herndoninsuranceTx.com

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How Important is it for us to get it right on election day? Patrick Dixon Libertarian Party Chairman TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? CHAIRMAN DIXON: I doubt anyone would argue that leadership is not important at any time, but it is also necessary in order to prevent a crisis before it occurs. It is at times of crisis that the temptation for a leader to become a dictator grows. A great leader has followers that sincerely believe in the mission instead of being coerced to support a mission under threat. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Tommy Thomas - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? FORMER HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF THOMAS: Good leadership during times of crisis is especially important because the qualities good leaders possess give others confidence, provide direction and ease concerns related to the crisis. Good leaders possess many important qualities: a.) Honesty and integrity. b.) The ability to inspire others. c.) A vision for the future and the know-how to get the job done. d.) Qualifications and experience. e.) Good communication and organizational skills. f.) Ability to delegate. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Adrian Garcia - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? SHERIFF GARCIA: Good leadership is always critical not just during a crisis. However, the public and employees need to know that they have someone they can follow when they most need direction. Leadership should be visible and engaged, making the most difficult decisions. I saw this in Mayor Bill White during and after Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Ike. Effective leadership makes citizens feel protected before, during and after a critical incident. An effective leader needs to be respected and supported, and I am honored that the three main employee groups of the Sheriff's Office have endorsed my candidacy and NOT their boss. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Alex Cresswell - Libertarian Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? CRESSWELL: Good leadership is critical during times of crisis. In a crisis situation there is a huge pressure to respond, and respond strongly, however if there is not strong leadership the response will simply be dictated by popular opinion, and not by the principles that our country was founded upon. A perfect illustration of this is 9/11 and the passage of the PATRIOT Act. This act a reaction based out of fear, and is a threat to the fundamental freedoms established by our constitution. Had there been strong leadership in Congress, this bill would never had even made it to the floor for a vote. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Trey S. Fleming - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? FLEMING: Crucial. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Alfred N. Montestruc - Libertarian Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? MONTESTRUC: Good leadership is always important, especially in times of crisis. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Pat Lykos (i) - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? HARRIS COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY LYKOS: Leadership is vital to swift assessment, rapid response, optimizing use of resources, adaptation to changing circumstances and minimizing collateral damage in controlling a crisis. Leaders should always demonstrate a calm confidence and be decisive. The effective enforcement of our criminal laws is essential to keeping the social fabric intact, which is based upon law and order and the rule of law. As Drucker said, “Leaders do the right things and managers do things right.” Good leaders hold themselves accountable first, and then their subordinates. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------C. O. "Brad" Bradford - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? BRADFORD: Good leadership is essential to the successful operation of any entity during a time of crisis, especially in a governmental organization that has the responsibility of protecting the public, such as the Harris County District Attorney's Office. That office requires a leader with strength, integrity and sound judgment. During a crisis, a leader's character is put to the ultimate test and their ability to lead must be an example for all who follow, uniting others to work for the greater good of all. A leader must be able to recognize the source of the crisis, ascertain available resources and then

26 •

determine the most appropriate solution; then he or she must be strong and wise enough to efficiently and effectively implement that solution. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Charles L. Earley - Libertarian Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? EARLEY: Good leadership is extremely important in times of crisis. We see many of our leaders fail because they are indebted to special interests rather than the citizens of the State of Texas. They frequently make decisions that make matters worse. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Chris Bell - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? FORMER CONGRESSMAN BELL: Strong leadership in a crisis is critical. A vast majority of Texans are dissatisfied with the lack of leadership they see in the state legislature on vital issues such as school funding, health care reform and spending transparency. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Grant Harpold - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? HARPOLD: Bad leadership will make a crisis worse. Thus, good leadership is critical. We had a crisis in Harris County before, during and after Hurricane Ike. Our county government and our citizens performed well because we had good leadership at the top. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Mike Jackson (i) - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? SENATOR JACKSON: Good leadership is crucial in times of crisis. We saw how smoothly the Hurricane Ike evacuation was handled by our local emergency management officials and we were therefore able to avoid massive amounts of loss of life because of it. As a leader you sometimes have to know when to get in front of a camera and when that isn't necessary. For the most part, my work during the Hurricane focused on providing some of our local jurisdictions the state resources they needed during the aftermath because our local authorities did such a fabulous job.

Steve Radack (i) - Republican - Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? COMMISSIONER RADACK: Good leadership is always vital during a crisis. But we must put the word “crisis” in perspective. Harris County consists of nearly 4 million residents. It is safe to say that every second there is someone experiencing a crisis in their life. It could be one of the thousands of children abused annually, or a senior citizen struggling to pay the light bill while facing a mountain of medical expenses. It could be one of the hundreds of thousands of people treated at the Harris County Hospital District each year. Leaders come in all shapes and forms. As a leader, my best work is to make sure other leaders in the community have the tools they need to help all these people 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. The people of Harris County are dynamic and challenges are always present. Leaders, like those on Harris County Commissioners Court, find a way to make sure the community has the tools to deal with whatever confronts the people we serve. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Dexter Handy - Democrat -Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? HANDY: Good leadership is absolutely necessary during times of crisis. When lives, livelihoods, safety, security, or infrastructures are at risk, a good strong leader must take control of the situation. As a former military leader I have the ability to quickly identify the critical problem areas, assess alternative approaches to fixing the problems, develop working solutions, pull together the right team to fix the problems, and make it happen. As a leader, I am also aware of communicating the solutions to the community affected, and taking measures to calm the fears of the people adversely affected. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Diane Trautman Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? TRAUTMAN: I believe that we need ethical leaders today and especially in times of crisis. Ethical leaders are accountable, accessible, and authentic servant leaders. They put the needs of others before their own needs or advancement. In times of crisis, people depend on their leaders to inspire and comfort them.

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Joe Jaworski (i)- Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? GALVESTON MAYOR JAWORSKI: Leadership is critical during these uncertain times because the solutions to the challenges we face require broad public support to be effective. In fact, I would argue that what we have today isn't a crisis in the economy or in the health care system or in the insurance system - what we have today is a crisis of leadership. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Steve Host - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? HOST: Good leadership is vital at all times - during times of crisis and of prosperity. Effective leaders make decisions with integrity and character and are responsive to, as well as put, the needs of others above their own. They are driven by their will to serve and their ability to make a positive difference in our world.

Cliff Messina - Libertarian Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? MESSINA: Good leadership is the difference between success and failure.

Dora Olivo (i) - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? STATE REP. OLIVO: Very important. But at any time, whether in crisis or calmer times, the most effective leaders are those who retain a spirit of selflessness and concern for the common good.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------Dale Wainwright (i) - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? Justice Wainwright chose not to answer this question. However, when asked whether the Honorable Justice considered himself a leader he replied: “A leader has the integrity to do the right thing for the right reason and the courage to do so when political expediency would suggest a different course.” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Ed Emmett (i) - Republican Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE EMMETT: Leadership is critical during times of crisis, but effective leadership is born of preparation. The best leader with great instincts and skills will only be successful if he is prepared. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

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----------------------------------------------------------------------------Dorothy Olmos - Republican Speaks: . TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? OLMOS: The importance of good leadership during crisis is to uphold the value system of brotherhod/sisterhood and to be aware of the effectiveness of the Strategic plans that are put in place, in order to convey and deliver the correct rules and regulations setforth during a crisis. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Michael Skelly - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? SKELLY: Good leadership is critical in a time of crisis. In light of our energy crisis and financial crisis, it's important that we have people with a background in business and with a depth of energy expertise to lead us through these challenges.

David Mincberg - Democrat Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? MINCBERG: Good leadership is always important, but absolutely essential during times of crisis. It is imperative that the County Judge provides vision, guidance, and leadership to Harris County as we now face the critical issues of providing for the next one million residents of Harris County. Harris County needs a business leader who understands budgets, taxes and requires accountability from people who do business with Harris County.

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Drew Parks - Libertarian Speaks: TAYLOR: How important is good leadership during times of crisis? PARKS: Good leadership is essential in time of crisis, but more important is where the leader is leading. There are plenty of good leaders who lead entire nations into tyranny. So "change" isn't necessarily a good thing if the leader leads us astray. Both the Republican and Democrat parties' solution for our economic crisis is more socialism. This is the wrong direction for a free market - this change is bad.

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October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

quently accompanied by financial abuse, in which the victim is prevented from working, or forced to turn over his or her paycheck to the abuser, or is prevented from getting a raise or promotion because of acts by the abuser. Sometimes the abuser causes the victim to lose his or her job. Many times the abuser will excessively monitor the victim's finances. Some people believe that domestic violence only occurs in situations where the victims and/or abusers are poor and uneducated. Nothing could be further from the truth. Domestic violence occurs with people of every race, It seems that we should already be religion, education level, income aware, since lately we see a story of tragedy bracket, zip code, gender, gender almost every week - a man kills his wife or preference, ethnicity, country of girlfriend; a woman stabs her ex-boyfriend; origin, age group and walk of life. It hapthree children are murdered by their father pens every day in Harris County, often to as they sleep. Elderly parents murdered by people we know and love. A victim of their son. All of these cases, we are told, domestic violence may be a successful, eduare domestic violence. These stories grab cated, accomplished professional who is in our attention, and make us wonder - Why charge of large staffs, or large budgets, and did this happen? How could anybody do seems to have everything going for them. A that to someone they once loved? perpetrator, on the outside, may look like the But it does happen. In Texas in 2009, BY KATHY VOSSLER perfect mate. 139 women died as a result of domestic vioSo, October is National Domestic Violence Special to Houston Business lence. Domestic violence also claimed the Awareness Month. Some time during this lives of men and children who are not counted Connections Newspaper month, try and find one of the many events in that number. that are being held to help raise awareness. And in addition to the cases that ended in fatality were Wear a purple ribbon. Be more mindful of the signs of abuse, thousands of non-fatal domestic violence incidents. Most with your friends, family and co-workers. And be aware that if never make it to the news. A percentage of those were reported to police; most were not. Some of those incidents resulted in a trip to the hospital for treatment of the injuries; a majority did not. A portion of those incidents resulted in a legal action being filed; many did not. In many of the incidents that occur every day in Harris County, nobody - not even the perpetrator of abuse or the victim of abuse - identifies it as 'domestic violence'. Often it is seen as an isolated incident, an outburst, and all history of similar incidents or incidents leading up to it, are set aside. Indeed, there are often many warning signs and incidents that lead up to an ultimate act of domestic violence tragedy. By learning about domestic violence, we can spot the warning signs, and identify the behavior, recognize the incidents, and see the pattern of abuse, and by doing so, we can help to reduce or eliminate the chances that this will happen with us or those around us. That is the reason for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. So, what is Domestic Violence? Domestic Violence is sometimes called Family Violence, and it involves members of the same 'family'. But 'family' includes more than most people normally think of as family members. A family member is someone who is related, by blood or marriage, or who lives in the same household, or someone with whom you have a child. It also includes someone with whom you have or had a dating relationship. A family member can be an ex-spouse or a current or ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend. When most people think of Domestic Violence, they think of bruises and black eyes. They think of broken ribs and hospital trips. It can mean all of these things, but it also exists when none of these are true. Domestic Violence can mean pushing, shoving, pulling hair. It can be physical abuse, or sexual abuse, or the threat of physical or sexual abuse. Domestic violence can involve the use of a weapon, but no gun or knife is needed for domestic violence to exist. Domestic violence can include stalking and harassment. With technology, it has become common in domestic violence cases for the perpetrator of abuse to call incessantly, or send text messages or e-mails, one after the other. It quite frequently involves monitoring of computer activity. The victims of abuse often feel isolated, because their abuser has pulled them away from their family, and driven a wedge between them and their friends. Domestic Violence, really, is about control. The perpetrator of Domestic Violence seeks to control his or her victim. It often begins with verbal abuse, in which the victim is made to feel inferior - fat, or stupid, or ugly. It can include emotional abuse, where the victim is on edge, not knowing whether the abuser will come home in a good mood or a bad mood, and always having to walk on eggshells, because everything will depend on the abuser's mood. It is fre-

hroughout October, various agencies will be holding events to bring people together and provide education about Domestic Violence in an effort to raise awareness of the issue. And all month long, you will see people wearing purple ribbons to draw attention to it.

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Illustration by Sangeeta Pasrija

someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, they are not likely to just blurt out that fact for everyone to hear. They may even deny it, because they are embarrassed to be in that situation. Find a way to help them know that they are not alone, and that they have other options. Have them seek help from professionals who understand. Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse: 713-224-9911 National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 Houston Area Women's Center: 713-528-6798 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------Kathy Vossler is a family lawyer who practices in Harris County, Texas. She is the Democratic nominee for the 280th District court, Harris County's new and only Domestic Violence court. *SEE ADVERTISEMENT ON PAGE • 17

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Have Financial Services Needs? Call Mrs. Niyoka Campbell Today! Hollywood Financial Service, 4302 Kelly St., Suite A, Houston, Texas 77026! Phone: Office:(713) 633-3344

Businesswoman Niyoka Campbell poised, prepared, ready to grow iyoka Campbell, PC is the Founder and President of Hollywood Financial Service, an Accounting firm located in Houston, TX that specializes in providing quality tax preparation and Accounting services to individuals and small businesses. A suite of customized accounting services, designed to meet the needs of new to mid-size businesses, are readily available and include bookkeeping, payroll, monthly and quarterly tax payments, sales tax filings, preparation of financial statements, and more. Mrs. Campbell's business is well-known to residents and local business owners, quickly becoming a staple in the community.

Mrs. Campbell conceived Hollywood Financial Service in 2009, creating a solid business plan with its focus on bring quality service, integrity and competency to the tax and accounting industry; after a successful, legal separation that allowed her to gain full independence from a local franchisor to which she successfully owned and operated three loca-

tions for three years, prior. Mrs. Campbell has 14 years of extensive, diverse Accounting and Tax Preparation knowledge ranging from complex and analytical roles supporting Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 and Interpreting Tax Law, to basic preparation of financial statements, general accounting functions and tax preparation. Her diverse, professional experience includes working as Controller for a small Technology firm, as a General Ledger Accountant for two companies - the largest privately held family owned Construction Management Company in construction and real estate industry and an African-American CPA & Consulting firm known as one of the top 20 largest firms in Houston. Mrs. Campbell played a vital and instrumental role as the sole Fixed Asset Accountant for the largest environmental service company in the world, with more than 300,000 employees in over 67 countries and annual revenue of 39.2 billion. As a recognized, integral entrepreneur with an aggressive thirst for knowledge and networking, Mrs. Campbell is a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA), National Society of Accountants (NSA), National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) and a Texas Certified Notary Public with goals of confirming an affiliation with the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance & Accounting (ALPFA) and National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). As a wife, a mother, dedicated professional business woman and an advocate for her service communities, Mrs. Campbell is relational to both individual and small business audiences. She ascertains the struggles, concern, and difficulty in balancing personal and professional responsibilities. As an individual, she understands the importance of receiving quality, respectful, and competent service from businesses to which she patronizes with her hard earned resources. As a passionate business owner, she recognizes the duties, responsibilities, and the importance of receiving consistent, reliable, and responsive assistance with matters that are important to daily operations and future goals. As a grass roots Connoisseur of tax preparation for the underserved and an advocate of the her immediate service communities, she aspires to a beacon of light to the youth - young and old - with a message that “God Can, if You Will…” despite past, present, or future circumstances, demographics, temporary unsatisfying successes, failures, or your DNA; HOPE! Ideals such as this are the bases of her loyal clientele and business success. Niyoka Campbell's goal for Hollywood Financial Service is to build a solid, successful business with prospects of franchising her quality brand - a vehicle that will bring distinction, integrity and competency back into the tax preparation and accounting profession; allowing dedicated and dependable entrepreneurs who are passionate about accounting and tax preparation to reach their professional and personal goals.

Hollywood Financial Service Contact Information: 4302 Kelley St., Suite A Houston, Texas 77026 Office: (713)633-3344 Fax: (713)633-3388 Website: www.hollywoodtaxservice.com

Hours of Operation: *M-F 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. *Sat. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sun. CLOSED * Hours of operation are for peak season and is subject to change to “By Appointment Only” during non-peak season, please call for more information.

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ADVERTISE HERE! THE BUSINESS CONNECTIONS SHOWCASE is a monthly platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Aubrey R. Taylor Communications makes every effort to check the authenticity of our advertisements, we accept no responsibility or liability for the contents therein. The advertiser assures that advertisements will not contain any matter that is libelous or violates any person's right of privacy or constitutes copyright infringement or is otherwise contrary to law. The advertiser assumes all responsibility in connection with the advertisement placed in this publication. Aubrey R. Taylor Communications shall be held harmless from any claim, loss, damage (including reasonable attorneys' fees) that may be incurred or suffered for any reason including but not limited to a breach of any kind associated with advertisers included in this section. What are you waiting for? Call today to get started! Advertising in this section is an excellent way to promote your business in 2009!

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Set Your Appointment Today!: advertise@houston-businessconnections.com CONTINUED FROM PAGE • 25 •BRANDON HERNDON PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW ARTICLE Currently, he is educating the community through his Eight Tips about Insurance during Hurricane Season article which fulfills the following themes: Theme No.1: You could be vulnerable. Even those who have insurance can be left unprotected. Just like people without renters or homeowners insurance, and those who live in a flood zone without flood insurance, those without an insurance policy that specifically covers natural disasters will not be compensated for loss and/or damages. Theme No. 2: Failure to Plan is a Plan of Failure. While it is too late to prepare after a hurricane has already hit your area, it is great to be proactive about insurance coverage, safety and an evacuation plan of action months before hurricane season arrives in your region. Although ideas such as keeping cans of gas in a safe area and stocking shelves with can goods and bottles of water may seem like jumping the gun to some, it is better to be over prepared than under prepared.

company will send out an adjustor to assess damages, it is recommended that you keep your own record of loss and damage by taking pictures and video taping the area while doing a walk through. Theme No. 8: Oh, the Benefits of Flood Insurance. Having flood insurance this hurricane season can prove to be advantageous to you. If you wisely elect to get flood insurance, the policy will cover structures up to $250,000, and personal property up to $100,000. For non-residential buildings, you will be covered up to $500,000 for the structure, and $500,000 for

contents. Without flood insurance, you will be responsible for replacing and repairing all property, including furniture, appliances and office equipment. During the entire hurricane season, Brandon is motivating proactive behavior by providing knowledge through free consultations and by supplying his hurricane tips to media outlets. Brandon is also committed to earning a relationship with the community through charity and community involvement. After recruiting and training a competent team of professionals, he continues his mission by involving his office in local non-profit community

K. Johnson Realty is a premiere real estate firm that sells homes in Houston, Texas and surrounding areas. During your home search it's important you choose a Real Estate Company that can help you through the process and provide personalized service.

Theme No. 3: Disaster Supplies. Prepare for a hurricane with items such as bottled water and foods that do not require the use of electricity. For canned good, make sure to have a hand-held can opener handy. Keep documents such as ID's, social security cards and birth certificates in a dry, secure place that you will be able to quickly grab in the case of an emergency exit. A safe amount of cash should be kept on hand since in emergency situations, such as hurricanes, some stores and gas stations only accept cash due to power outages, long lines or a breakdown in technology. Theme No. 4: To Evacuate or to Not Evacuate. Now that is the Question. Mandatory evacuation warnings are not to be taken lightly, hence the word, mandatory. Meteorologists, storm trackers and state officials work together to supply people with updated warnings and necessary precautions. Fear or emotional attachments should not get in the way of honoring an evacuation warning. Theme No. 5: Here is a list of Do's And Don'ts. Check it Twice. Do adhere to the rules put in place by officials and media reporters relaying their messages. If a curfew is set by officials, respect it for your safety. Do save your generators for use when night falls, and use natural sunlight during the day to brighten your house. This will save on gas usage. If you see a power line down, do not assume it is dead. Do stay away from down lines and report them to Centerpoint as soon as possible.

K. Johnson Realty is that company. Real Estate Is Our Business. As the Owner of K. Johnson Realty, I have 18 years of financial experience which includes 8 years in real estate. I Love My Job!! Assisting clients with their real estate needs is my passion.

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Theme No. 6: Now What? A Post-Disaster Plan. Now that the storm has calmed and the immediate dangers have surpassed, it is time to handle some important business. Important numbers to have for after a hurricane include 911, evacuation assistance 211, City of Houston Office of Emergency Management 713-884-4500, Red Cross 713-526-8300, Centerpoint Energy 1800-332-7143, Centerpoint Gas 1800-752-8036, and Entergy 1800-368-3749. You should also know all of your insurance agency's contact information. Theme No. 7: Determining your Loss and Damage. After you have reported your damage, a claim representative will contact you, usually with a 24-hour turnaround. Though your insurance

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events, such as Breast Cancer Awareness, Childhood Obesity Awareness and Houston's Summer Basketball Camp for youth. His current goals are to continue educating the community about proactive measures available to keep businesses, families and actions protected, and to serve the community that helps his business thrive. -------------------------------------------------------For more information about his current hurricane initiative, or to request a free consultation, contact Brandon Herndon at 832431-4222, or via email at Brandon.Herndon.rv4s@statefarm.com.

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