February 2006 Houston Business Connections Newspaper by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Houston

Community News & Business Reports

Published By Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Proudly Serving The Houston Community Since 1998

• Email: news@houstonbusinessconnections.com • FEBRUARY 2006

Get to know Alfred “Al” Bennett

READY TO SERVE

District 146 may be up for grabs as well-known Father, Husband, and local businessman seeks to take over seat held by Edwards. Businessman Alfred H. Bennett recently announced he is a “Serious Candidate” for State Representative, District 146 – the seat currently held by Al Edwards. Bennett from his Law Offices located in Houston’s historic Third Ward area, told Houston Business Al and Tanyel Bennett with their two children.

Please see ALFRED “AL” BENNETT, P.20

SOLD OR NOT? Business Connections

REPORTS

Headlines

FCC spokesperson says nothing in records at this time regarding sale of KCOH 1430AM DETAILS ON PAGE • 11

REMARKABLE RECORD

A Special Message for Houstonians

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

The time is now for change in District 147

“Big” George sued for $50 million (Houston)- Former boxing champion George Foreman along with an international law firm are being sued for $50 million. The plaintiffs are alleging they were hired to launch a line of George Foreman Foreman steaks, and that Foreman and the international law firm have defrauded them. GreatMeals USA Inc., filed the lawsuit recently in Superior Court and the claims include, fraud, breach of contract and interference with contract against Foreman. The other parties being sued along with Foreman are Traurig LLP and John C. Kirkland who is a partner in the law firm. GreatMeals USA Inc., is a Washington, D.C.-based company and is claiming to have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to reach a $37 million licensing deal with the Home Shopping Network to only have Foreman refuse to do any promotions. The company says this caused the entire deal to collapse. Foreman also has filed a lawsuit of his own recently. According to published reports, Foreman, who had a profit sharing deal to act as spokesperson for a company bearing his name, contends the company introduced products under his name, which he did not approve. The company, George Foreman Foods filed for bankruptcy in November 2003.

From: Cheryl Y. Armitige Candidate For State Representative District 147

METRO bus operator Charlie Kennedy is seen here holding his certificate signed by recently re-elected Houston Mayor Bill White.

Champion Operator Honored At Recent Metro Board Meeting If you ride METRO routes 5 taken first place in 2003 in Las Vegas. Kashmere Gardens/Southmore or 77 To honor Kennedy’s accomplishLiberty/MLK, chances are ment METRO has assigned good that you have met him his own bus, which bears champion bus operator his signature and a sign on the Charlie Kennedy. side of the vehicle. A METRO operator for METRO’s President and 15 years, Kennedy took CEO Frank Wilson second place in the recent acknowledged Kennedy’s International Bus Roadeo most recent accolade in Dallas – beating out 68 recently at a meeting of the Wilson other top-notch operators Board of Directors and prefrom around the country sented him with a certificate and Canada. To get to Dallas, signed by Houston Mayor Bill White. Kennedy won first place in the local While most of us were busy preparcompetition. This is the second time Kennedy has stood on the winner’s Please see KENNEDY, P.3 podium at the international level having

As in many Districts the new frontier for District 147 is Economic and Business Development. Yet, as experienced by other Districts we must maintain the integrity of our neighborhoods and the quality of life people both desire and deserve. Our community, schools, and health care services need resources. Preventative Please see CHERYL ARMITIGE, P.6

INDEX Publisher’s Message.............................................2 NABA presents second installment of $60,000 pledge to Howard University’s Center for Accounting Education ...........................................4 PBS series to trace Black family trees through genealogy, DNA analysis, to premier in Feb. .......5 It’s Getting Lonelier At The Top ............................7 Thomas, Thomas & Thomas, P.C. Named Emerging 10 Winner .............................................8 Seven Ways to Get a Jump Start on Your Taxes...................................................................12 Bennett, Edwards,and Miles’ “Feature Race” poll results and see what people are saying ............14

Cheryl Thompson Draper resigns as Port of Houston official Houston Business Connections Reports (Houston)-Cheryl Thompson-Draper has denied making the derogatory remark she was accused of making at a May 2005 International Association of Ports and Harbors convention in Shanghai.

Thompson-Draper claims she resigned because the accusation would hurt the commission’s ability to carry out port business. Jim Edmonds the Port Authority Chairman who claims he heard Thompson-Draper refer to the perform-

ance of a band at the Shanghai convention as “jungle bunny music,” was urging the resignation of his fellow commission member. Thompson-Draper was first appointed a Commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority by a unanimous vote of Harris

County Commissioners Court in June of 2000. All Port Commissioners serve the public without being monetarily compensated. Thompson-Draper was only the Please see THOMPSON-DRAPER, P.20

TO VIEW HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS ONLINE VISIT: www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

NEWS Publisher’s Message

Ex-Felons can vote in upcoming election provided they meet the Feb. 6, 2006 deadline to register Houston Business Connections Reports (Houston) - Mark your calendars and don’t miss these deadlines. If you plan to vote in the March 2006 Primary Election, you must register to vote by Monday, February 6, 2006. The last day to apply for a ballot by mail has already passed. Early voting for the March primary starts on Tuesday, Feb. 21, and ends on March 3, 2006. The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2006. Beware of misinformation and know your rights. If you have had trouble with the law in the past, this does not prohibit you from voting. It’s a common misconcep-

HHP

tion that ex-felons can’t vote in the state of Texas. Most ex-felons don’t even know that they have a right to vote. “This needs to fixed and it begins with each and every one of us,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlight Publishing, the publisher of Houston Business Connections. If someone you know has a felony conviction, let him or her know this does not prohibit him or her from participating in the election process. Yes, it is true that Texans with felony convictions once could not vote in the lone star state. However, we can thank President George W. Bush for enacting legislation to eliminate the waiting period that use to exist. There use to be a permanent ban,

but in 1983 that ban was replaced with a five-year waiting period after felons finished their sentences. Thanks to then-Gov. Bush, the waiting period was erased in 1997 in the state of Texas. Why do you think most felons don’t know this information? The state laws that ban or restrict the voting rights of felons keep an estimated 4.7 million citizens – 1 in 43 adults in the United States – from voting; more than half a million in Texas. If ex-offenders were given this information and began to exercise their right to vote we don’t have to tell you what would happen in Texas. This could become one of the largest voting blocks in the state.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Because You Deserve The BEST! Purchase your next car from Kesa Guest

Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

The Publisher’s Desk

Mercedes-Benz of Sugarland 15625 South West Freeway Sugarland, Texas 77478

Direct: 281.207.1519 Cell: 713.703.5185 Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., publisher of Houston Business Connections.

recently received an invitation from the Atlanta Tribune to attend a Diversity Roundtable which took place in Atlanta, Georgia on Jan. 25. The event was being hosted by the Atlanta Tribune and the Atlanta Hawks and is an annual roundtable discussion held before the Hawks vs. Cleveland game and took place in the Philips Arena, 1 Philips Drive. This year’s discussion offered perspectives from top corporate diversity leaders on what has and hasn’t - worked in corporate diversity. Panelists included: Frank McCloskey, vice president of diversity and corporate relations for Georgia Power; Arthur Triche, vice president of the Atlanta Hawks; Kevin Clayton, vice president of diversity for Russell Corporation; Alfred Elder, diversity manager for City of Atlanta; Valencia Adams, vice president and chief diversity officer for BellSouth Corporation; and Geri Thomas, senior vice president of corporate diversity for Bank of America.

Kesa Guest

Executive Sales Associate

Star Achiever

I was honored to have been invited to this event. I was not able to attend this year. However, I wondered seemingly out loud to myself. Why don’t we have these kinds of working relationships with our sports organizations here in Texas?

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Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land • 15625 South West Freeway • Sugarland, Texas 77478

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NEWS BRIEFS & INFORMATION Champion Bus Operator Honored continued from P.1 ing for Hurricane Rita, Charlie was in route to Dallas to become a hero,” said Wilson. The American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) International Bus

Roadeo took place September 22 – 25. The Roadeo competition is designed to test safe bus operating skills. To win the challenging event, Kennedy drove his METRO bus thru several obstacle courses. One of them is set up with two lines of tennis balls only inches apart, and the operator must drive the rear wheels between them. Obstacle courses also address routine operations like the simulated

bus stop, where the operator who comes closest to the curb without actually touching it gets the highest rank. “I learned everything about bus driving here in METRO,” said the 15-year veteran operator. Asked about how he honed all his safe driving skills, Kennedy humbly replied: “I have to give all the credit to our training department.”

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Candidates Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

New Voice. New Priorities.

The following is a comprehensive list of Houston area Chambers of Commerce -------------------------Acres Home Citizen Chamber Of Commerce (713) 692-7003 6130 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 Arab U.S. Chamber Of Commerce (281) 447-2563 525 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Houston, TX 77060 Arab-us Chamber National (713) 963-4620 1330 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 Asian Chamber Of Commerce (713) 782-7222 7457 Harwin Dr Houston, TX 77036 Australian American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 467-2146 11935 Cobblestone Dr Houston, TX 77024 C I S American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 464-4800 8707 Katy Fwy Houston, TX 77024 Caribbean Chamber Of Commerce (713) 977-8308 7171 Harwin Dr Houston, TX 77036

Al and Tanyel Bennett with their two children

We need representation that is focused on the real needs of District 146. Priorities Increase state funding for public education Provide affordable prescriptions for senior citizens Increase children’s healthcare benefits Create economic development through partnerships with private businesses

Experience

Alfred H. Bennett

“I pledge to work harder and smarter to address the needs of District 146.” To offer support or for additional information contact the Al Bennett for State Rep. Campaign, P.O. Box 88051, Houston, TX 77288, (713)529-9630

Attorney, Law Office of Alfred H. Bennett Adjunct Professor, Thurgood Marshall School of Law First Vice-President, Parkwood Drive Civic Club Board Member, East Downtown Management District Board Member, University of Texas School of Law Alumni Association Former President, Houston Lawyers’ Association Former Associate, Fulbright and Jaworski, LLP Former Intern, Mickey Leland UH/TSU Internship Program

Education Bachelor of Science, University of Houston Jurisprudence Doctorate, University of Texas School of Law

www.AlBennettForStateRep.com

Chamber Of Commerce North (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 Chamber Of Commerce North Channel Area (713) 450-3600 P 9759 Ste Ste 100 Houston, TX 77213 Clear Lake Area Economic Development Foundation (281) 486-5535 2525 Bay Area Blvd Apollo, TX 77058 Clear Lake Shores Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058 Cy-fair Houston Chamber Of Commerce (281) 955-1100 11050 Fm 1960 Rd W Houston, TX 77065 Cy-fair Houston Chamber Of Commerce (281) 765-8888 11050 Fm 1960 Rd W Houston, TX 77065 French American Chamber Of Commerce 5373 West Alabama, #209 Houston, TX 77056 (713) 960-0575 German American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 877-1114 5599 San Felipe St Houston, TX 77056

P o l i t i c a l a d v. p a i d b y A l B e n n e t t f o r S t a t e R e p . C a m p a i g n , G r e g o r y L . P h i l l i p s , Tr e a s u r e r

Please see LISTING, P.5

THE ALFRED “AL” BENNETT FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 146 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• FEBRUARY • 3

BULLETIN BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

Some say Slade getting paid

ACCOUNTABLE

Houston Business Connections Reports

President are many, some of the most significant include: increased student enrollment, reengineering (Houston)- Texas Southern University (TSU) of campus maintenance and construction operations, president Priscilla Slade is under fire again. This time and achieving certification of the financial aid delivallegations have the Texas Southern University board ery system from U.S. Department of Education. of regents seeking answers. At the heart of the alleDr. Slade holds a Bachelor of Science degree in gation is a claim that Slade used school money on Business Administration from Mississippi State her private residence according to pubUniversity, a Masters degree in lished reports. Professional Accounting from Jackson J. Paul Johnson, told Houston’s only State University, and a Ph.D. in daily, “We’re looking into some quesAccounting from the University of tions that have been raised at the univerTexas at Austin. sity.” Johnson is the regents’ chairman, Dr. Slade’s achievements are and tried to schedule an emergency meetfueled by her continual quest for exceling recently but could not get a quorum. lence. She currently serves on the Board “Let’s not rush to judgement on of Directors of the Federal Reserve Slade,” says Aubrey R.Taylor, president Bank-Houston Branch; Greater Houston and CEO of Houston Highlight Partnership; Houston 2012 Foundation; Publishing, L.L.C., the publisher of Houston Technology Center; INROADS Houston Business Connections.” He /Houston, Inc.; Junior Achievement; The Slade says “sometimes we allow things to take Houston Forum; YMCA of the Greater on a life of their own in the media...we Houston Area; HISD HU-LINC should allow the Texas Southern University Board of Governing Board; and The Telecom Opportunity Regents to do their job.” Institute. Additionally, she served on Governor Rick Dr. Priscilla Dean Slade was named President of Perry’s transition team, the Environmental Advisory Texas Southern University on October 27,1999. After Committee, and Executive Women’s Partnership for joining the TSU Family in 1991 as Chair of the the Greater Houston Partnership. Her dedication to Accounting Department, Dr. Slade was named Dean academia includes publications in refereed journals of the Jesse H. Jones School of Business in 1992, and proceedings. She has been instrumental in where she succeeded in building a legacy of pride obtaining funding to increase student access to highbased on the Texas Southern University motto of er education. The President has received various “Excellence in Achievement.” prestigious awards, including The Gutenberg Award, Dr. Slade has a head for business and a heart for Woman of the Year, Achiever’s Award, Soaring Eagle education. Her forte is program development, where Award, Wall of Fame Award, Spirit of Freedom she exercises her creative talents, keen eye for busi- Award, Women on the Move, Women of Excellence ness, and genuine desire to provide students with the Award, IMPACT Award, and the Young Eagles Award. best education possible. Empowering young people Dr. Slade enjoys singing, playing bridge, to make wise and informed career decisions and backgammon, tennis, and working out. She is a memmove further towards their futures is of utmost importance ber of Windsor Village United Methodist Church and to Dr. Slade. organizations such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Texas Southern University exhibits all of the Inc., Texas Executive Women, the National characteristics of a well-run business due Dr. Slade’s Association of Black Accountants, the American prudent leadership in the areas of planning and Accounting Association, Beta Alpha PSI Accounting administration. She has established focused alliances Fraternity, Administrators of Accounting Programs with the corporate sector to build a strong develop- Group, and the American Association of Women ment infrastructure. Though her accomplishments as Accountants.

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(From left to right): Dr. Hubert D. Glover, CMA, CIA, CPA Chair, Howard University School of Business Accounting Department; Frank Ross, NABA founding president and director of the CAE; Johnetta Boseman Hardy, NABA deputy executive director; and Darryl R. Matthews, Sr., NABA executive director and COO.

NABA presents second installment of $60,000 pledge to Howard University’s Center for Accounting Education Greenbelt, MD (BlackNews.com) - The National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), a leading association dedicated to advancing people of color in the accounting and finance industries, recently presented the second installment of its $60,000 pledge to Howard University's Center for Accounting Education (CAE). The CAE, located on Howard's Washington, D.C. campus, offers a range of programs to support highly talented African-American accounting graduates as they begin their careers. Dr. Hubert D. Glover, CMA, CIA, CPA, chair of Howard's School of Business Accounting Department, and Frank Ross, NABA founding president and director of the CAE, were on hand to receive a $20,000 check from Johnetta Boseman Hardy, NABA's deputy executive director, and Darryl R. Matthews, Sr., executive director and COO of NABA. “Accountants are in high demand, and it is important that programs like ours continue to flourish and offer the best accounting education available to people of color,” Glover said. “NABA's contribution will go towards our goal of increasing the actual number of Howard students entering into the accounting profession and enhancing their future in the field.” “Because the accounting industry will continue to be scrutinized, NABA recognizes the need to increase the pool of qualified black CPAs to lead compliant finance

departments,” NABA’s Matthews said. “By supporting programs such as the CAE, we are taking proactive measures to make sure that the accounting field will be rich with diversity in the future.” The CAE partnership is just one of many initiatives NABA has embarked on to support the advancement of people of color in accounting and finance. Last summer, NABA and its Division of Firms (DOF) participated in the CAE’s inaugural weeklong Leadership Skills Development program, where several senior audit and tax leaders from Deloitte and the DOF led participants through a series of courses focused on professional development as well as preparation for the CPA exam. NABA also joined forces with Becker CPA Review and Gleim Accounting Publications to offer high-quality, careerboosting CPA exam review workshops at its 34th Annual National Convention and Diversity Recruitment Expo last year in Detroit. NABA will partner with these organizations again and provide similar offerings at the 35th Annual National Convention and Diversity Recruitment Expo at The Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, Fla., June 13-17, 2006. NABA, Inc. is one of the premier professional organizations in the nation. NABA represents the interests of more than 100,000 people of color in the furtherance of their educational, professional and career goals in the related fields of accounting.

THE CHERYL Y. ARMITAGE FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 147 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! 4 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

NEWS BRIEFS & INFORMATION Thirteen/WNET New York Presents African American Lives

Listing continued from P.3

PBS series to trace Black family trees through genealogy, DNA analysis, to premier in February Renowned Scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr. To Host Four-Hour Series Dr. Ben Carson, Whoopi Goldberg, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Dr. Mae Jemison, Quincy Jones, Dr. Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, Chris Tucker And Oprah Winfrey Participate In Illuminating Journey Of Discovery An unprecedented four-part PBS series, AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES takes Alex

Houston Hispanic Chambers Of Commerce (713) 644-7215 2900 Woodridge Dr Houston, TX 77087

Carson

Whoopi

Jakes

Haley's Roots saga to a whole new level through moving stories of personal discovery. Using genealogy, oral history, family stories, and DNA analysis to trace lineages through American history and back to Africa, the series provides a life-changing journey for a diverse group of highly accom-

Jemison

Jones

plished African Americans: a neurosurgeon, a TV pioneer/philanthropist, an astronaut, a music entrepreneur, a sociologist, a movie star, a minister and a comedian. Dr. Henry

Houston Northwest Chamber Of Commerce (281) 440-3476 14511 Falling Creek Dr Bammel, TX 77014 Houston Northwest Chamber Of Commerce (281) 440-4160 14511 Falling Creek Dr Houston, TX 77014

Please see PBS SERIES, P.9

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

“It’s So Easy To Buy A Dodge” at GULFGATE DODGE!

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Houston West Chamber Of Commerce (713) 785-4922 10777 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77042 Houston West Chamber Of Commerce Spring Branch Division (713) 467-9330 8400 Long Point Rd Houston, TX 77055 Indo American Chamber Of Commerce Of Greater Houston (713) 850-1144 1990 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 Interamerican Chamber Of Commerce (713) 975-6171 510 Bering Dr Houston, TX 77057 Italy-america Chamber Of Commerce Of Texas Inc. (713) 626-9303 4605 Post Oak Place Dr Houston, TX 77027 Japan Business Association Of Houston (281) 493-1512 14133 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77079

Dianoh Johnson-Wills

Fleet Manager

281.477.6767

League City Chamber of Commerce (281) 554-5595 P.O. Box 977 League City, Texas 77574

Of Course, It’s Got a HEMI®! The Dodge Charger – one of the biggest names from the muscle car era – powered its way out of its storied past and onto the stage at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The much-anticipated 2006 Dodge Charger is making its way back onto the streets of Houston. Will you be behind the wheel of one?

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North Chamber Of Commerce (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 North Channel Area Chamber Of Commerce (713) 450-3600 13301 E Fwy Houston, TX 77015 North Houston Greenspoint Chamber Of Commerce (281) 872-8700 16825 Northchase Dr Houston, TX 77060 Seabrook Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058

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National U.S. Arab Chamber Of Commerce (713) 963-4620 1330 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056

Te x a s

7 7 0 1 7

Please see LISTING, P.18

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• FEBRUARY • 5

NEWS BRIEFS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Special Message for Houstonians The time is now for change in District 147 continued from P.1

It’s Getting Lonelier At The Top Survey Says MENLO PARK, CA -- Pressure on the job may be growing for corporate executives, according to a new survey. An overwhelming majority (89 percent) of senior executives polled said they believe it’s more challenging to be a company leader in today’s business environment than five years ago. The survey was developed by Robert Half Management Resources, the world’s premier provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a project and interim Please see SURVEY, P.11

measures for crime reduction is where we must go with our planning. All of which require new revenue for our District, particularly at a time when Businesses in many parts of the District are leaving. My name is Cheryl Y. Armitige. I am a candidate for State Representative in the Texas Legislative District 147. I am running for this position because we need effective and more accountable leadership. I am concerned about all of the people who live in Houston in general and District 147in particular. I am a long time resident of District 147. I attended Jesse H. Jones Sr. High School and Texas Southern University. As a single mother, I've raised a fine young man. Having been a Cub Scout Leader, PTA President, Youth Minister

and Civic Association President I understand the power of Volunteerism and the effect it can have in the community. My work as a Property tax consultant has enabled me to experience firsthand the dilemma faced by many when confronted with property tax issues as well as how to successfully apply strategies to solve those issues. I am self-employed and have worked in the Real Estate Industry for 22 plus years. I enjoy it immensely. My passion is to help as many people as I can. When you elect me as your State Representative one of my objectives will be to engage all of the community regularly as a matter of ordinary practice during my tenure as your elected Representative. Too often elected officials ignore the need to include and encourage all of the people to participate in the consideration of legislative actions and important issues. Whether its Property Taxes, School Funding, Housing, or Police/Fire Protection, people want to be assured that their interests and/or concerns are being rep-

resented . Each and every voice should be heard and the opportunity should always be available for all of the people to do so. I believe I can best represent this diverse District by seeking the input of all of the people who live in it. One of the issues I will be discussing over the course of this campaign is how people are short changed and without question void of information, as to what is available to them and what really isn’t. What is really going to be the future of our community and what really isn’t in the offing for our community? Information that can assist Citizens now and information about our community’s future shouldn’t be blurry at all. Ineffective and unaccountable leadership causes this. To that I say “let's’ bring government back to people.” ----------------------------------------------I need your vote! I am asking for your support. If you’d like to volunteer, contribute to and/or support our campaign call us at 713 524-6499. This political message was brought to you by the Cheryl Y. Armitige Campaign, Pamela Redd, Treasurer.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Candidates Who Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Judge Georgia Dempster. Efficient, Respectful, Compassionate and Fair.

Re-Elect Judge, 308th District Court PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

udge, 308th State District Court, January 1, 1995 to date *Practicing attorney for ten years - family law and domestic relations *Certified mediator in the state of Texas, with specialized family law training *Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law and Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah *Licensed to practice in Texas, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals *Appointed by the Texas Supreme Court to a nine-member state Committee on the Unauthorized Practice of Law *Member of the College of the State Bar *Founding member of Ad Litem Task Force, now Childrens Friend in Court *Member of The Council on Domestic Violence *Member of the Harris County Juvenile Board and the Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program *Liaison between the Family Law judiciary, the Attorney General's Office and the IV D Masters *Member, Community Advisory Board of the Junior League of North Harris County

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Primary Election Date

March 7, 2006 First Day of Early Voting

February 21, 2006

dmitted to the Texas State Bar in 1984 *Member of the American Bar Association, Texas Bar Association, Houston Bar Association, Houston Northwest Bar Association*Member of the International Association of Family and Conciliation Courts *Member of the Garland Walker Inn of Court *Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation, Houston Bar Foundation * Member, American Judges Association & Foundation *Member, National Association of Women Judges *Member, Texas Association of State Judges *Member Junior League of North Harris County* Member of the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce *Member, Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce

Last Day of Early Voting

March 3, 2006

Vote For Georgia Dempster!

Efficient, Respectful, Compassionate, and Fair. Pol. Adv. Pd. for by the Georgia Dempster Campaign In compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. P.O. Box 236, 5315 FM 1960 West, Houston, TX 77069.

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NEWS COMMUNITY GOODWILL

The Fact Is, Jack Hilton Cares About The Houston Community Hilton Furniture Owner Jack Hilton cares about building healthy communities – And “That’s A Fact Jack!” As his famous slogan goes. Hilton visited Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA) recently where he developed a partnership to assists survivors of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita with furniture. Hilton has agreed to provide furniture at drastically reduced prices. The package includes the following items: twin, full and queen sized bed sets, a five-piece dinette set and sofa sets. A total of 200 individuals that Gulf Coast

Community Services provide assistance to will benefit from these special prices. Gulf Coast Community Services, Texas’ largest Community Action Agency, has been providing assistance to low-income individuals and families in Harris County since 1965. GCCSA provides income-eligible individuals and families with Head Start, Early Head Start, Adult Literacy Classes, Computer Skills, Home-Buying Information, GED Classes, English and Spanish As Second Languages, Job Training Skills, Rental/Mortgage Assistance, Prescription Vouchers, Home/Safety Repair for Elderly, Food, Clothes and Furniture Assistance. GCCSA has 24 Head Start Centers and 12 Community Outreach Centers where these services are provided throughout the year. In the Photo – Hilton (L), who is originally from New Orleans, La., visited with the For information about services or to agency’s CEO Dr. Jonita Solomon in her office recently while Jeff Wallace, Director of Community Services provided a tour of the agency’s facilities. donate to Gulf Coast call 713-393-4703.

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE ON MAR. 7TH EDUCATION • CITY STREETS • COUNTY ROADS • POLICE PROTECTION • FIRE PROTECTION • MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING • STRONGER COMMUNITIES

AS YOUR REPRESENTATIVE WE WILL WORK TOGETHER TO BRING GOVERNMENT BACK TO DISTRICT 147 I PROMISE TO SERVE AND LISTEN TO ALL THE PEOPLE OF DISTRICT 147

“Let’s Bring Government Back To The People” Cheryl Y. Armitige, Candidate for State Representative District 147

My Experience Includes: • Board Member Land Assembly Redevelopment Authority • Real Estate Instructor for Sierra Spencer School of Real Estate • Former 2nd Vice President Harris County Appraisal Review Board • Former 2nd Vice President Houston Real Estate Association • Board Member of Houston Real Estate Association • Houston Citizen Police Academy • Former President Jack Yates PTA • Former South East Vice President for HISD • Former Youth Minister St. Mary’s of the Purification • Cub Scout Troop Leader

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THE HONORABLE JUDGE GEORGIA DEMPSTER OF THE 308TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT IS RUNNING UNOPPOSED! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• FEBRUARY • 7

NEWS ANNOUNCEMENTS CONGRATULATIONS

Thomas, Thomas & Thomas, P.C. Named Emerging 10 Winner Mother and Two Daughter CPA Team Recognized by Houston Minority Business Council HOUSTON, TX – Thomas, Thomas, & Thomas, P.C., a tax consulting firm which provides regional and national clients with expert tax recovery and tax reduction services, has received the 2005 Emerging 10 (E-10) award awarded by the Houston Minority Business Council. The prestigious E-10 award recognizes Houston area minority-owned enterprises that are setting trends and embracing tomorrow's business realities. Companies receiving this award have established themselves for their innovative approaches, community involvement, expertise and excellent customer service. Barbara Thomas, President and Founder, is a certified public accountant who began her career in state taxation in 1983 as an auditor for the State of Texas Office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts. In 1997, she was appointed by Governor George W. Bush to serve on the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy and this appointment allowed her to be the first mother to sign as a State Board member on her children’s certification as public

(From Left-Right) Mary Thomas, Barbara Thomas and Stephanie Thomas. accountants. Barbara earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in accounting from the

University of Houston. Stephanie Thomas, Vice President, is also a certified public accountant and

joined the firm in 1998. An honors graduate of The University of Houston, she also holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in accounting and was a member of the Accounting Society. Mary Thomas, Corporate Secretary, is also a certified public accountant, graduating magna cum laude from Bauer College of Business with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. In addition, she obtained a Doctor of Jurisprudence from The University of Texas at Austin. During her career at the University of Houston, Mary was inducted into Alpha Lambda DeltaPhi Eta Sigma (freshman honor society)and served as the Vice President of Social Development in Beta Alpha Psi (accounting fraternity). Barbara, Stephanie and Mary have written numerous industry articles and have developed tax seminars for entrepreneurs. In addition, the firm has written a book entitled “Texas Taxes for the Hospitality Industry.”

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Dr. Steven B. Schnee

Alan Helfman

Director of MHMRA of Harris County

General Manager of River Oaks Chrysler-Plymouth Jeep

In A Collaborative Effort, Dr.Steven B. Schnee, Executive Director of MHMRA of Harris County & Alan Helfman, General Manager of River Oaks Chrysler-Plymouth Jeep Announce the Friends of MHMRA Foundation.

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AUCTION AUCTION & & ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT THE CHERYL Y. ARMITAGE FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 147 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! 8 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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Thirteen/WNET New York Presents African American Lives PBS series to trace Black family trees through genealogy, DNA analysis, to premier in February continued from P.5 Louis Gates, Jr., W.E.B. Du Bois professor of the Humanities and chair of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, is the series host, revealing the participants' unique family histories while researching his own as well. AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES will premiere Wednesdays February 1 and 8 at 9 p.m. (ET) on PBS. The series is a co-pr co-production of Thirteen/WNET New York and Kunhardt Productions Inc. Major funding is provided by The Coca-Cola Company and the following brands by the Procter & Gamble Company: Pringles®, Folgers®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Tide®, Downy®, Pampers®, Crest®. Additional funding for outreach activities is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES works to restore its participants' lineages in reverse chronological order. Starting with the oral histories of the individuals' families, and drawing on photographs, film clips, music and early personal records, Dr. Gates begins to trace their family trees back through the 20th century. Noted historians and expert genealogists around America help fill in missing branches, in the process explaining how such major events as Jim Crow segregation and the post-World War I “Great Migration” from the South to the North helped shape African American families. “This is one of the most exciting projects in which I have been involved,” said Dr. Gates. “AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES is about African American history, of course, but on a deeply personal level. Slavery deprived African Americans of their historical and familial memory, and this series is an attempt to restore that memory on both sides of the Atlantic.” Dr. Gates’ genealogical research becomes increasingly difficult as he proceeds back through the Reconstruction Era, Civil War, the Colonial and early slave trade periods in American history. When the genealogical road comes to an end, he turns to some of the country’s leading scientists involved in cuttingedge work using DNA samples to trace ancestral roots back to Africa. Finally, Dr. Gates joins one series participant in the last leg of the journey, across the Atlantic to the western coast of Africa. There, they visit an area where genetic, historical and

anthropological evidence suggests that the participant's ancestors once lived. In an era when ever-increasing numbers of Americans are investigating their genealogy, AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES provides a timely and powerful demonstration of how meaningful reclaiming one's past can be as well as an understanding like never before of African American history. It is the first television series to explore black roots in both America and Africa using not only genealogy but also DNA, including fascinating stories of ancestors that were free during the time of slavery. And by spot-

Winfrey

Tucker

lighting African American role models, the series hopes to inspire millions to consider their own heritage, and underscore for all Americans the importance of knowing their past, in order to

unlock the future. “In addition to its poignant personal stories,” continued Dr. Gates, “AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES will be a great way to introduce young people to the

marvels of archival and scientific research and their practical applications. I hope that this project will encourage them and all Americans, especially those of African descent to explore their roots.” For some Americans, the essential question “Where do I come from?” cannot be answered; their history has been lost or stolen. But through its genealogical research and groundbreaking DNA analysis, AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES will not only provide a transformational discovery for several Please see PBS SERIES, P.13

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• FEBRUARY • 9

NATIONAL BUSINESS ANNOUNCEMENT

African-American Spirits Company Launches Its Signature Liqueur Carnivo XO Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) - Carnivo Unlimited, LLC, is an importer and marketer of alcohol beverages. Headquartered in Los Angeles California, the company will launched its signature brand Carnivo XO recently. Carnivo XO (neon-green) is a tantalizing mix of award winning Menuet XO Cognac, silky smooth French vodka, and a proprietary tropical berry flavor mix. The flavor profile is designed to maintain its consistency over ice, and the aroma is designed to be highly distinctive. Its marriage of quality ingredients renders Carnivo XO as a remarkably luxurious and smooth creation. The union of these ingredients supports

Carnivo XO as truly being A celebration in every sip, a party in every bottle. Carnivo Unlimited is the exclusive importer of Menuet Cognac in the Americas and Mexico. This historic occasion is a result of the diligent and persistent efforts of the founders and Co-CEOs, Robert Pierce and Kelvin Love. Carnivo Unlimited is the first African American company to exclusively import Cognac into the United States and is the developer and owner of Carnivo XO. Carnivo Unlimited has successfully test marketed its products and is now ready to enter the marketplace. Maurice Moore, who has 30 years of liquor experience with Seagrams, is

President and Darius Farrelly, who has extensive experience in grassroots promotional programs, is Vice President Marketing will assist with sales and marketing efforts. The Menuet family has been producing Cognac for over 150 years with a portfolio that includes XO, VSOP, VS and Hor D'Age. The company proudly points out that Menuet Cognacs are among the few cognacs marketed in the U.S., in which all of its marques are made from 100% Grande Champagne Region 1st Cru grapes. The Cordial category of the US spirits market is showing substantial growth, increasing 3.9% in 2004, and surpassing the 20 million case mark. The growth is driven by new product

launches that feature innovative flavors, through line extensions of existing products, and today's pervasive cocktail culture. The category is projected to grow by 3.3% per annum over the next five years. Carnivo XO offers exactly what consumers desire in distilled spirits - flavor, variety, and mix ability. Cognac is part of the Brandy and Cognac category, which has grown every year since 1994. Cognac’s recent gains can be attributed to its multi-cultural appeal, particularly in the hip-hop and AfricanAmerican communities who consume over 85% of Cognac with an increasing number of Asians and Hispanics enthusiastically enjoying the drink.

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FOR A FAST TAX RETURN & A CHANCE TO WIN A BIG SCREEN TV, CALL : 713.663.7312 THE CHERYL Y. ARMITAGE FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 147 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! 10 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

Is KCOH Really for Sale? Facts surrounding the supposed pending sale of the local Black station not adding up, says local publisher Federal Communications Commission (FCC) spokesperson Jessica Fisher tells Houston Business Connections, “no information in database or pending to indicate KCOH 1430 AM is being sold.” The Interviews On Thursday, January 19, in an interview with Houston Business Connections, Michael “Mike” Petrizzo told the publication a sale was pending and simply awaiting FCC approval. The FCC was contacted to confirm the statement, and Houston Business Connections was told by FCC spokesperson Jessica Fisher, “no record of a pending sale was available in FCC electronic files or database involving the Houston based radio station.” What’s really going on at KCOH Radio? For now what we do know is that technically the station is not sold.

Why KCOH is not sold The FCC is an independent United States government agency, directly responsible to Congress. The FCC was established by the Communications Act of 1934 and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The FCC’s jurisdiction covers the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions. If KCOH were sold, this organization would have had to approve or disapprove the sale. The FCC has provided Houston Business Connections with the appropriate links to help keep track of and bring you the latest information on this matter. “It is still very possible the sale is in the process of being negotiated between the station and potential buyers,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlight Publishing,

White-owned radio station with a Black format and a Black target audience of listeners. Since Petrizzo is also listed as the general manager, it should be assumed that he is in control of the day-to-day operations at the station.

What constitutes a minority-owned business?

Photo Courtesy of kcoh.com

KCOH Radio is considered to be the oldest urban radio station in Texas. Serving the Houston community since 1953, the station offers 24 hours of programming 7 days a week. The station has a 5,000 WATT signal that covers a large portion of the Houston and Galveston areas of south Texas. L.L.C., the publisher of Houston Business Connections. “However, at this time we have to believe Petrizzo has no reason to be dishonest about the sale of the station,” Taylor said.

On KCOH Being A Black Company At this time, KCOH is not a Black-Owned radio station. However, it could still be referred to as a Black radio station referring to its target audience of listeners and formatting. According to the March 2005 (Ownership) report filed by Michael “Mike” Petrizzo (a White male) with the FCC, his percentage of votes stood at 57.59 percent. His percentage of total assets (equity debt plus) also stood at 57.59 percent. Travis Gardner (Black or African American male) is listed as the secretary and has 22.20 percent of the votes and has 22.20 percent of the total assets (equity debt plus) according to the filing. Margarette T. Robinson (Black or African American female) is listed as the treasurer. She has 20.21 percent of the votes while also possessing 20.21 percent of the total assets (equity debt plus) according to the report. So, technically, Michael “Mike” Petrizzo is the majority owner of KCOH Radio and has the controlling interest in the station. That makes the station a

According to the Houston Minority Business Council’s criteria to get certified as a bonafide minority firm, 51 percent of the firm must be owned, managed, and controlled by an ethnic minority who is a United States citizen in order to protect against front operations. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development also has similar criteria, and states, a “minority-business enterprise” is a business in which minority group members own 51percent or more of the company; or, in the case of a publicly-owned business, one in which minority-group members own at least 51percent of its voting stock and control management and daily business operations. KCOH does not meet the standards necessary to be considered a Black-owned business. However, this does not negate the fact the station as a whole has served the community well for so many years.

About KCOH Radio KCOH Radio according to its website is the oldest Black radio station in Texas as well as the southern portion of the United States. The station was established in 1953 and began broadcasting from downtown Houston in the M&M building. In 1963, a new studio was built at the corner of Wichita and Almeda in Houston’s Third Ward that has been the home of KCOH ever since. The station continues to be a recognized forerunner in terms of being a Black radio station. KCOH has been the first in the field to include talk show programming, gospel, and many other types of shows with their urban listeners in mind.

Other Reports On This Matter The African-American News & Issues, considered to be Texas’ Widest Circulated and Read Newspaper with a Black Perspective is where Houston Business Connections initially learned of the pending sale of the radio station. In a recent article published in the January 25-31, 2006 issue, the publication is reporting the sale price of KCOH 1430 AM as being $10 million. The publication is furthermore listing the buyer as Freedom Communications, Inc.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS BECAUSE THEY MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR THIS PUBLICATION TO BE PRINTED! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• FEBRUARY • 11

Tax Tips From The Internal Revenue Service

Seven Ways to Get a Jump Start on Your Taxes Earlier is better when it comes to working on your taxes. Taxpayers are encouraged to get a head start on tax preparation, especially since early filers avoid the last minute rush and get their refunds sooner. Here are seven easy ways to get a good jump on your taxes long before the April deadline is here: 1. Gather your records in advance. Make sure you have all the records you need, including W2s and 1099s. Don’t forget to save a copy for your files. 2. Get the right forms. They’re available around the clock on the IRS Web site, IRS.gov. 3. Take your time. Don’t forget to leave room for a coffee break when filling out your tax return as rushing can mean making a mistake. 4. Double-check your math and verify all Social Security numbers. These are among the most common errors found on tax returns. Taking care will reduce your chance of hearing from the IRS and speed up your refund. 5. Get the fastest refund. When you file early, you receive your refund faster. When you choose direct deposit, you receive your refund sooner than waiting for a check 6. E-filing is easy. E-filing catches math problems, provides confirmation your return has been received and gives you a faster refund. 7. Don’t panic. If you have a problem or a question, remember the IRS is there to help. Try the IRS Web site at IRS.gov or call the IRS customer service number at 1800-829-1040.

Business Their responses:

Survey: Company Leaders Say They Face Greater Job Demands Than Five Years Ago

Significantly more challenging Somewhat more challenging No change Much less challenging Don't know

54% 35% 9% 1% 1%

continued from P.7

Total

basis. The national poll was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 150 senior executives -including those from human resources, finance and marketing departments -- with the nation’s 1,000 largest companies. Executives were asked, “Do you think it’s more or less challenging to be a company leader in today’s business environment versus five years ago?”

“Companies today face levels of government, shareholder and public scrutiny that didn’t exist five years ago,” said Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. “Senior management is held more directly accountable for ensuring the integrity and financial stability of the company and spearheading growth in a competitive global market.” McDonald added that businesses are

100%

operating at an accelerated pace to meet customer demands and grow market share. “Corporate leaders are expected to accomplish more in less time but are confronted with key challenges, including driving shareholder value, retaining talent, establishing a strong technology infrastructure, and assessing merger or acquisition opportunities. The most successful executives develop and implement long-term strategies for their organizations, manage business risk to enhance performance and motivate employees to achieve their best.” --------------------------------------------------Robert Half Management Resources has more than 100 offices throughout North America, Europe and Australia, and offers online job search services at www.rhmr.com.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Our Supporters! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

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Thirteen/WNET New York Presents African American Lives PBS series to trace Black family trees through genealogy, DNA analysis, to premier in February continued from P.9 prominent African Americans, but also serve as an example for all Americans of the empowerment derived from knowing their heritage. To reconstruct the family trees of its participants, AFRICA AMERICAN LIVES is working in conjunction with

Ancestry.com, a leading Internet-based genealogy firm with one of the largest online collections of family history records. Among the scientists involved in the series’ DNA analysis is Dr. Peter Forster, a Fellow and Praelector at the University of Cambridge who has used DNA for genealogical, archeological and forensic casework; Dr. Fatimah Jackson, professor of Applied Biological Anthropology at the University of Maryland and co-founder of the first human DNA bank in Africa; Dr. Rick Kittles, co-founder of the ancestry-tracing firm African Ancestry, Inc., whose database contains over 20,000 lineages from more than 389 indigenous African popula-

tions; and Dr. Mark Shriver, associate professor of Anthropology & Genetics at Penn State University. Innovative new analytical techniques are also being developed for the project in conjunction with the Santa Clara-based biotechnology firm Affymetrix. AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES will be accompanied by a far-reaching educational component. Working in cooperation with seven public television stations in key markets across the country, Thirteen's teacher-training initiative will provide direct, hands-on training to more than 1,000 K-through- 12 educators, guiding them in the use of the broadcast program, Web site, and print materials in

standards-based classroom instruction. Extensive outreach is also being planned with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, as well as historical organizations and museums nationwide, to engage children and families of all ages in an exploration of their family origins. AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES' vibrant companion Web site will feature a beginner's guide to tracing one's own family tree, giving visitors step-by-step guidance in how to research their own past. The online component will also provide background on the science and scholarship featured in the series, extended interviews with series guests, and interactive learning tools that will appeal to all age levels.

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THE ALFRED “AL” BENNETT FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 146 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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• FEBRUARY • 13

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Houston

Community News & Business Reports

Published By Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Proudly Serving The Houston Community Since 1998

• Email: news@houstonbusinessconnections.com • FEBRUARY 2006

Polls, Politics, Headlines & News Information

EYE ON HOUSTON Giving Houstonians A Voice In The Happenings Around The City & Across The State

COMMENT ON HOT BUTTON ISSUES: www.eyeonhouston.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Politics

Edwards

Miles

Bennett

While there will be many heated races in the upcoming 2006 March Primary, the race for State Representative of District 146 will no doubt be of the most interest to Blacks. Houston Highlight Publishing, L.L.C., the publisher of Houston Business Connections and “Eye On Houston” has chosen this race as the feature race of the 2006 March Primary. You can take part along with our readers in answering our current poll question as well as comment on the candidates in this race.

The Question In Your Opinion Can Rep. Al Edwards Be Defeated? Yes, he can and I think Borris L. Miles Can Do It. ABOUT BORRIS L. MILES: He is a lifelong resident of the district who grew up in Sunnyside. A former law enforcement officer, Miles left a corporate career to launch his own insurance agency. He started as a one-man operation in his garage apartment, and today his company - Borris L. Miles Insurance - writes more than $12 million dollars in insurance premiums annually according to his campaign website. Yes, he can and I think Al Bennett can do it. ABOUT Al BENNETT: He is a fourth generation Texan and has lived in Houston for 22 years. He grew up in Ennis, where he attended public schools. He came to Houston in 1983 to attend the University of Houston, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in 1988. After graduating from UT Law School, Al went to work as an Associate at the law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski, L.L.P., in Houston. He later worked as an Associate at the firm Solar & Fernandes, L.L.P., also in Houston. In 1998, Al set up his own law practice, opening the Law Offices of Alfred H. Bennett, where he is a sole practitioner and specializes in complex commercial and tort litigation matters.

A Look Inside The Campaigns • The Latest Financial Reports Filed By The Candidates in Our Feature Race For State Representative District 146 Totals from Report for Borris Lee Miles Filed on: January 10 2006 Covering the Period August 20, 2005 through December 31, 2005 Total Total Total Total Total

Unitemized Contributions: Political Contributions: Unitemized Expenditures: Expenditures: Unitemized Pledges (Schedule B1 or B2)

$340.00 $96,906.00 $80.00 $70,563.89 $0.00

Total Contributions Maintained as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $139,269.41. Total Principal Amount of All Outstanding Loans as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $115,000.00. Total Unitemized Loans: $ 0.00 The requirement to report Total Contributions Maintained (Cash on Hand) applies to reports due on or after September 1, 2003. This requirement does not apply to special session reports or telegram reports. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Totals from Report for Alfred H. Bennett Filed on: January 17 2006 Covering the Period July 01, 2005 through December 31, 2005 Total Total Total Total Total

Unitemized Contributions: Political Contributions: Unitemized Expenditures: Expenditures: Unitemized Pledges (Schedule B1 or B2)

$20.00 $54,527.64 $0.00 $24,780.76 $0.00

Total Contributions Maintained as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $0.00. Total Principal Amount of All Outstanding Loans as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $0.00. Total Unitemized Loans: $0.00The requirement to report Total Contributions Maintained (Cash on Hand) applies to reports due on or after September 1, 2003. This requirement does not apply to special session reports or telegram reports.

Results At Time Of Printing 46% 33% 21%

Visit www.eyeonhouston.houstonbusinessconnections.com Poll is non-scientific and reflects the opinions of only the participants.

“We welcome you to offer your comments on our online poll being conducted on our website.” Aubrey R. Taylor

President

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Totals from Report for Al Edwards Filed on: January 12 2006 Covering the Period July 01, 2005 through December 31, 2005

No, Rep. Al Edwards Will Not Lose.

Bennett Edwards Miles

www.eyeonhouston.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Total Total Total Total Total

Unitemized Contributions: Political Contributions: Unitemized Expenditures: Expenditures: Unitemized Pledges (Schedule B1 or B2)

$287.00 $39,457.00 $393.65 $37,640.01 $0.00

Total Contributions Maintained as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $0.00. Total Principal Amount of All Outstanding Loans as of the Last Day of the Reporting Period $0.00.Total Unitemized Loans: $0.00.The requirement to report Total Contributions Maintained (Cash on Hand) applies to reports due on or after September 1, 2003. This requirement does not apply to special session reports or telegram reports.

This page our website nor any information herein is sponsored by or underwritten in any way or form by any candidate in any race in the upcoming 2006 March Primary election. Direct any questions concerns or correspondence to: 832.212.8735.

*Information for this report obtained from the Texas Ethics Commission

To Vote Or Offer Your Opinion On Any Of The Questions On This Page Visit: www.eyeonhouston.houstonbusinessconnections.com

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HARRIS COUNTY AREA CANDIDATES IN THE MARCH PRIMARY ELECTION WWW.EYEONHOUSTON.HOUSTONBUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM

ATTORNEY GENERAL Republican: Greg Abbott (i) Democrat: David Van Os Libertarian: Jon Roland -----------------------------------------------------------------------COMPTROLLER Republican: Susan Combs Democrat: Fred Head Libertarian: Mike Burris -----------------------------------------------------------------------LAND COMMISSIONER Republican: Jerry patterson (i) Democrat: VaLinda Hathcox -----------------------------------------------------------------------AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER Republican: Todd Staples Democrat: Hank Gilbert; Koecadee Melton Jr. Libertarian: Clay Woolam -----------------------------------------------------------------------RAILROAD COMMISSIONER Republican: Elizabeth Ames Jones (i); Major Buck Werner Democrat: Dale Henry Libertarian: Tabitha Serrano -----------------------------------------------------------------------TEXAS SUPREME COURT CHIEF JUSTICE Republican: Wallace Jefferson (i) Democrat: Tom Oxford PLACE 2 Republican: Don Willett (i); Steve Smith Democrat: William E. “Bill” Moody PLACE 4 Republican: David Medina (i) PLACE 6 Republican: Nathan Hecht (i) PLACE 8 Republican: Phil Johnson (i) -----------------------------------------------------------------------COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS PRESIDING JUDGE Republican: Sharon Keller (i); Tom Price Democrat: J.R. Molina PLACE 7 Republican: Barbara Parker Hervey (i) PLACE 8 Republican: Robert Francia; Charles Holcomb; Terry Keel -----------------------------------------------------------------------STATE SENATE (Harris County) DISTRICT 7

Republican: Mark Ellis; Peggy Hamrick; Joe Nixon; Dan Patrick Democrat: F. Michael Kubosh DISTRICT 13 Democrat: Rodney Ellis (i) DISTRICT 15 Democrat: John Whitmire (i) DISTRICT 17 Republican: Kyle Janek (i) ---------------------------------------------------------------------STATE HOUSE (Harris County) DISTRICT 126 Republican: John Devine; Patricia Harless Democrat: Chad Khan DISTRICT 127 Republican: Joe Crabb (i); Joe Stunja Democrat: Diane Trautman DISTRICT 129 Republican: John E. Davis (i) Democrat: Sherrie Matula DISTRICT 130 Republican: Corbin Van Arsdale (i) DISTRICT 131 Democrat: Alma Allen (i) DISTRICT 132 Republican: Bill Callegari (i) DISTRICT 133 Republican: Barabara Larson; Jim Murphy; Mike Schofield Democrat: Kristi Thibault DISTRICT 134 Republican: Martha Wong Democrat: Ellen Cohen DISTRICT 135 Republican: Gary Elkins (i) DISTRICT 136 Republican: Beverly Woolley (i) Democrat: Scott Brann DISTRICT 137 Republican: Sylvia Spivey Democrat: Scott Hochberg (i) DISTRICT 138 Republican: Dwayne Bohac (i) Democrat: Mark McDavid DISTRICT 139 Democrat: Sylvester Turner (i) DISTRICT 140 Democrat: Keven Bailey; John Reyes DISTRICT 141 Democrat: Senfronia Thompson (i) DISTRICT 142 Democrat: Harold V. Dutton (i) DISTRICT 143 Republican: Charles George; Dorothy Olmos; Gilbert Pena Democrat: Ana E. Hernandez (i) DISTRICT 144 Republican: Robert E. Talton (i) Democrat: Janette Padilla Sexton DISTRICT 145 Democrat: Rick Noriega DISTRICT 146 Democrat: Al Edwards (i); Borris L. Miles; Alfred “Al” Bennett DISTRICT 147 Democrat: Garnet Coleman (i); Cheryl Armitige; Herschel Smith DISTRICT 148 Democrat: Jessica Farrar (i) DISTRICT 149 Republican: Talmadge Heflin Democrat: Hubert Vo (i) DISTRICT 150 Republican: Debbie Riddle (i) Democrat: Dot Nelson-Turnier ----------------------------------------------------------------------1ST COURT OF APPEALS PLACE 2: Republican: Jane Bland (i) PLACE 6: Republican: George C. Hanks Jr. (i) PLACE 7: Republican: Terry Gennings (i) PLACE 8: Republican: Tim Taft (i) PLACE 9: Republican: Elsa Alcala (i) ----------------------------------------------------------------------14TH COURT OF APPEALS PLACE 3: Republican: John Anderson (i) PLACE 4: Republican: Harvey Hudson (i) PLACE 5: Republican: Wanda McKee Fowler (i) PLACE 6: Republican: Richard Edelman (i) Democrat: Leora Kahn PLACE 8: Republican: Charles Seymore (i) ----------------------------------------------------------------------DISTRICT COURTS 55TH: Republican: Jeff Brown (i) 113TH: Republican: Patricia Hancock (i) 157TH: Republican: Randy Wilson (i) 180TH: Republican: Debbie Mantooth Stricklin (i) 182ND: Republican: Jeannine Barr (i) 183RD: Republican: Vanessa Valasquez (i); Lloyd Wayne Oliver Democrat: Robert Voigt

THE CANDIDATES

U.S. SENATE Republican: Kay Bailey Hutchison (i) Democrat: Darrel Reece Hunter; Gene Kelly; Barbara Ann Radnofsky Libertarian: Ray Salinas; Timothy Wade; Scott Lanier Jameson -----------------------------------------------------------------------U.S. HOUSE 2ND DISTRICT Republican: Ted Poe (i) Democrat: Gary E. Binderim Libertarian: Justo Perez -----------------------------------------------------------------------7TH DISTRICT Republican: John Culberson (i) Democrat: Jim Hanley, David Murff Libertarian: Drew Parks -----------------------------------------------------------------------9TH DISTRICT Democrat: Al Green (i) -----------------------------------------------------------------------10TH DISTRICT Republican: Michael McCaul (i) Democrat: Ted ankrum; Paul Foreman; Kyle Kincaid; Pat Mynatt; Sid Smith Libertarian: Michael Badnarik -----------------------------------------------------------------------18TH DISTRICT Republican: Ahmad Hassan Democrat: Shelia Jackson Lee (i) -----------------------------------------------------------------------22ND DISTRICT Republican: Tom DeLay (i); Tom Campbell; Michael Fjetland; Pat Baig Democrat: Nick Lampson Libertarian: Stan Norred; Bob Smither -----------------------------------------------------------------------GOVERNOR Republican: Rick Perry (i); Larry Kilgore; Star Locke; Rhett Smith Democrat: Felix Alvarado; Chris Bell; Bob Gammage; Rashad Jafer Libertarian: James Warner Independent: Kinky Friedman; Carole Keeton Strayhorn -----------------------------------------------------------------------LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Republican: David Dewhurst (i); Tom Kelly Democrat: Benjamin Grant; Adrian De Leon; Maria Luisa Alvarado Libertarian: Judy Baker ------------------------------------------------------------------------

NOT ALL THE CANDIDATES LISTED WILL BE SEEKING YOUR VOTE IN THE UPCOMING ELECTION. HOWEVER, THE ONE’S THAT ARE WILL VALUE YOU ENOUGH TO ASK FOR YOUR VOTE DIRECTLY.

VISIT:

184TH: Republican: Jan Krocker (i) 185TH: Republican: Susan Brown (i) Democrat:Randall Kallinen 189TH: Republican: Bill Burke (i) Democrat: Chuck Silverman 190TH: Republican: Jennifer Walker Elrod (i) 208TH: Republican: Denise Collins (i) 209TH: Republican: Michael McSpadden (i) 228TH: Republican: Marc Carter (i) 230TH: Republican: Belinda Hill (i) 232ND: Republican: Mary Lou Keel (i) Democrat: Herb Ritchie 234TH: Republican: Reece Rondon (i) 245TH: Republican: Annette Galik (i); Sherl Y. Dean Democrat: Mary Kay Green 246TH: Republican: Jim York (i) 247TH: Republican: Bonnie Hellums (i) 248TH: Republican: Joan Campbell (i) Democrat: Lydia Clay-Jackson 257TH: Republican: Judy Warne (i) 262ND: Republican: Mike Anderson (i) 263RD: Republican: Jim Wallace (i) 269TH: Republican: John T. Wooldridge (i) 270TH: Republican: Brent Gamble (i) 280TH: Republican: Tony Lindsay (i) 281ST: Republican: David Bernal (i) 295TH: Republican: Tracy Christopher (i) 308TH: Republican: Georgia Dempster (i) 309TH: Republican: Frank Rynd (i) 310TH: Republican: Lisa Millard (i) 311TH: Republican: Doug Warne (i) 312TH: Republican: Jim Squier (i) 313TH: Republican: Pat Shelton (i) 314TH: Republican: John Phillips (i) 315TH: Republican: Beverly Malazzo; Mike Schneider Jr. Democrat: D: Bill Connolly -----------------------------------------------------------------------COUNTY COURTS-AT LAW NO. 1: Republican: R. Jack Cable (i) NO. 2: Republican: Gary Block (i); Jacqueline Lucci Smith NO. 3: Republican: Lynn Bradshaw-Hull (i); Linda Story NO. 4: Republican: Roberta Lloyd (i)

COUNTY CRIMINAL COURTS NO. 1: Republican: Reagan Helm (i) Democrat: Joan Nwull NO. 2: Republican: Michael Peters (i); Bill Harmon NO. 3: Republican: Don Jackson (i) NO. 4: Republican: James Anderson (i) NO. 5: Republican: Margaret Harris (i) NO. 6: Republican: Larry Standley (i) NO. 7: Republican: Pam Derbyshire (i) NO. 8: Republican: Jay Karahan (i) Democrat: Alfred “Bud” Valdez NO. 9: Republican: Analia Wilkerson (i) Democrat: Randy E. Roll (i) NO. 10: Republican: Sherman Ross (i) NO. 11: Republican: Diane Bull (i) Democrat: Ira Chenkin NO. 12: Republican: Robin Brown (i) NO. 13: Republican: Mark Atkinson (i) NO. 14: Republican: Mike Fields (i) NO. 15: Republican: Jean Hughes (i) -----------------------------------------------------------------------PROBATE COURTS NO. 1: Republican: Russell Austin (i) NO. 2: Republican: Mike Wood (i) NO. 3: Republican: Rory Olsen (i) NO. 4: Republican: Bill McCulloch (i); Georgia Akers -----------------------------------------------------------------------DISTRICT CLERK Republican: Charles Bacarisse (i) Democrat: John Shike -----------------------------------------------------------------------COUNTY CLERK Republican: Beverly Kaufman (i) Democrat: James G. Pierre -----------------------------------------------------------------------COUNTY TREASURER Republican: Jack Cato (i); Orlando Sanchez Democrat: Richard Garcia -----------------------------------------------------------------------COUNTY COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT 2 Democrat: Sylvia Garcia (i) -----------------------------------------------------------------------COUNTY COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT 4 Republican: Jerry Eversole (i) ------------------------------------------------------------------------

• Information for this page obtained from Harris County Democratic Party, the Texas Republican Party, Libertarian Party, Harris County Republican Party website and other sources.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE IN THE PRIMARY ELECTION ON MARCH 7, 2006

THE HONORABLE JUDGE GEORGIA DEMPSTER OF THE 308TH FAMILY DISTRICT COURT IS RUNNING UNOPPOSED! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• FEBRUARY • 15

BUSINESS SHOWCASE & From: Max Messmer Chairman & CEO, Robert Half International

BUSINESS SHOWCASE is a monthly inspirational platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. 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. Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. 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. To include your business in this section call 832.212.8735 or email your request to: advertise@houstonbusinessconnections.com

MAXIMUM CARE PHARMACY

W Accounting, Finance Starting Salaries To Increase 3.1 Percent in 2006 Rise in Compensation Levels Correlates with Demand for Accounting Talent MENLO PARK, CA — Heightened competition for accounting and finance professionals will lead to increases in base compensation next year, according to the just-released 2006 Salary Guide from Robert Half International Inc. Starting salaries in accounting and finance are projected to rise an average of 3.1 percent in 2006. Research shows that starting salaries for personnel involved with corporate governance initiatives — such as internal auditors, information technology (IT) auditors and public accountants — are expected to see the strongest growth. Robert Half International Inc. is the world’s first and largest specialized consulting and staffing services firm. The company’s financial staffing divisions include Robert Half® Finance & Accounting, Accountemps® and Robert Half® Management Resources, for full-time, temporary and senior-level project professionals, respectively. The 2006 Salary Guide is based on an analysis of the thousands of job placements managed by the company’s U.S. offices. “Organizations are actively recruiting accounting and finance staff to support business expansion initiatives and corporate governance efforts,” said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. “To attract and retain skilled financial professionals, firms are reassessing their hiring practices and enhancing compensation packages for current staff.” Auditing Remains Strong in Corporate Accounting For the second consecutive year, corporate auditors can expect to see the strongest salary growth. IT auditors can expect the largest percentage increase in base compensation of any position in 2006, Please see SURVEY, P.17

Something To Think About

orry is a form of fear, and all forms of fear produce fatigue. A man who has learned not to feel fear will find the fatigue of daily life enormously diminished. — Bertrand Russell

UNITED HOME MORTGAGE

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Thelma Moore Senior Loan Officer

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Ross Mortuary, Inc.

Faith Flowers, ETC. • Exec. Gift Baskets • Weddings • Funerals • Landscaping • Interior Plants • Hospitals

Tel.713.413.4949 14010 S. Post Oak Rd SERVICE OF DISTINCTION E-MAIL:rossmortuary@aol.com

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713.731.1919

713.839.0852 713.839.0836 Fax 281.935.0662 Cell

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Sandra J. Peake

PIA

A t t o r n e y s a t L a w , P . C . L E G A L P R O B L E M S ? PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS

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713/

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LAW OFFICE OF

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COMMERCIAL INSURANCE DEPT.

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721-9605 Fax David and Celestine Edwards

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2201 CAROLINE • HOUSTON, TEXAS • 77002

THE CHERYL Y. ARMITAGE FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 147 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! 16 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

Survey continued from P.16 with average starting salaries forecast to rise 11.2 percent, to between $67,000 and $94,250 annually. Entry-level internal auditors at small companies (up to $25 million in sales) will see average starting salaries increase 9 percent, to $35,500 to $43,250 per year.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

Something To Think About

o one keeps up his enthusiasm automatically. Enthusiasm must be nourished with new actions, new aspirations, new efforts, new vision. It is one’s own fault if his enthusiasm is gone; he has failed to feed it. —Papyrus

BENTLEY

Other key findings reported in the 2006 Salary Guide: * Tax managers at midsize companies will see average starting salaries of $57,750 to $74,000 — up 4.6 percent over 2005 levels. * Bookkeepers can anticipate a 6.8 percent rise in base compensation in the year ahead. * Entry-level accountants at midsize companies will see starting salaries rise 4.1 percent, to $32,000 to $38,250 annually. * Mutual fund accountants can anticipate a 4.7 percent gain in base compensation, to the range of $38,000 to $51,250 annually. *Accounts receivable/accounts payable managers at small companies will see starting salaries climb 5.2 percent, to the range of $33,750 to $41,500. Nationally, demand for accounting and finance professionals is expected to be particularly strong in the manufacturing, real estate and construction industries. (All salaries listed are national averages. However, hiring activity and compensation vary significantly by geographic market. A regional analysis of hiring trends and compensation variances for select U.S. markets is included in the Salary Guide.) Information in the Salary Guide is based on the thousands of job searches, negotiations and placements managed each year by the company’s staffing and recruiting managers. Continuing or ongoing salaries are not reported because many external factors — such as seniority, work ethic, job performance and training — impact the salaries of full-time professionals as work histories develop. For decades, companies nationwide have consulted Robert Half International’s Salary Guide to determine appropriate compensation for all levels of accounting and finance professionals. In addition, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics references the guide in the preparation of its comprehensive Occupational Outlook Handbook.

IGON

• Employment Law Discrimination Wrongful Termination • Workers Compensation • Family Law Divorce Child Support Child Custody • Personal Injury Auto Accidents Injury at Apartment Complexes • Criminal Law

BENTLEY HOUSTON View our Fine Selection of New and Pre-owned Luxury Cars online. Inventory changes weekly.

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds in a day. Have you used one to say “thank you”?—William Arthur Ward

Nubian Mortgage Group

ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR

www.bentleyhouston.com

Public Accounting Outlook Public accounting firms are raising salaries across the board as they compete with companies in private industry for top accounting staff. Average starting salaries for entry-level accounting professionals at small firms are projected to climb 6.5 percent, to between $35,500 and $42,500. Senior managers/directors at large firms ($250 million+ in sales) can anticipate a 4.2 percent increase in average starting salaries, to $85,500 to $130,000 annually. Senior accountants at midsize firms ($25 million to $250 million in sales) will see base compensation rise to $50,000 to $70,000 — an increase of 8.8 percent from 2005.

NDRE

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Email: nubianmortgage@sbcglobal.net • Broker# TX-9144 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.— Wisdom from Proverbs 17:22

LINDA D. POPE, M.D. COSMETIC EYE SURGERY Surgery and Diseases of the Eye

*NO COVER CHARGE POLICY MAY BE AMENDED FOR CERTAIN PERFORMANCES AT THE DISCRETION OF THE VENUE. FOR TIMES AND SCHEDULES YOU SHOULD CALL THE VENUE AT 713.522.7009

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SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS BECAUSE THEY MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR THIS PUBLICATION TO BE PRINTED! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• FEBRUARY • 17

Star Jones Reynolds is coming to Houston Sun., Feb. 19 A book signing with Star Jones Reynolds is scheduled to take place on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2006 at 4:00p.m. at the Shrine of the Black Madonna Cultural Center & Bookstore located at 5309 Martin Luther King Blvd in Houston, Texas. Star Jones Reynolds has done it all: College on scholarship, law school on loans, life by faith. She Jones has achieved a prestigious career as a lawyer and prosecutor. She provided much needed calm and insight while reporting the Rodney King and O.J. Simpson trials on television, and landed a spot co-hosting one of America’s most popular daytime television shows – The View. Then why was she feeling so down? It all began when Star took a close look at herself and her life and realized she was not happy with what she saw: obesity precluded her from crossing her legs, she needed an asthma inhaler, she couldn’t fasten her own necklace, and worst of all, she got too tired to shop – a disaster because Star Jones Reynolds is a seriously committed shopper. Then she realized something else: with all her extraordinary accomplishments, none of it mattered without true love.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

Something To Think About

L AW O F F I C E S O F L A N E T R A S . L A RY

hen we accept tough jobs as a challenge to our ability and wade into them with joy and enthusiasm, miracles can happen. When we do our work with a dynamic, conquering spirit, we get things done. —Arland Gilbert

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Sunscape Equine Rescue, Inc. (501c3 nonprofit)

713-560-4201 www.TexasRescue.org

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nergy, even like the Biblical grain of a mustard seed, will move mountains—John Muir

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$$Payment Plans Available Upon Qualification$$ Licensed to Practice in all Courts of the State of Texas. Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

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Listing continued from P.5 South Belt Ellington Chamber Of Commerce (281) 481-5516 11555 Beamer Rd Houston, TX 77089

LloydGeorge@WeTCB.com • 713.882.8262 W h e n y o u r e a c h f o r t h e s t a r s y o u m a y n o t m a k e i t , b u t y o u w o n ’ t c o m e u p w i t h a h a n d f u l o f m u d e i t h e r. — L e o B u r n e t t

Swedish American Chamber Of Commerce (281) 990-9944 4130 Pine Crest Trl Apollo, TX 77059 Swedish American Chamber Of Commerce (713) 914-0015 Houston, TX 77052 Taylor Lake Village Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058 Texas Israel Chamber Of Commerce Inc (713) 785-8855 2425 Fountain View Dr Houston, TX 77057 Tomball Chamber of Commerce 281.351.7222 Women’s Chamber Of Commerce Of Texas In Houston (713) 665-1637 Houston, TX 77052

Areas of Specialization • • • • • • •

WILLS & TRUST PROBATE & GUARDIANSHIP CRIMINAL MISDEMEANORS REAL ESTATE PERSONAL INJURY ELDER LAW FAMILY LAW • Divorce • Child Custody • Child Support • Adoptions • Modifications

713.432.0267 2600 South Loop West, Ste. 315 Houston, Texas 77054

Call Linda Dunson Today! NOT CERTIFIED BY TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

Houston Business Connections Showcase To Place Your Advertisement In This Section Of Houston Business Connections Call 832.212.8735 If you’re not selling your product...don’t blame the product!

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS BECAUSE THEY MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR THIS PUBLICATION TO BE PRINTED! 18 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

Classifieds To advertise here call 832.212.8735 or email your advertisement along with your contact information to: advertise@hous-

tonbusinessconnections.com

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

ERV’s Klip Joint

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ll that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become.—Buddha

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Something To Think About

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The world belongs to the enthusiast who keeps cool. —William McFee

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I rate enthusiasm even above professional skill.—Sir Edward Appleton

I prefer the errors of enthusiasm to the indifference of wisdom. —Anatole France

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A PROFESSIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION CAREER MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION The graying of America means more doctor/hospital visits and the need for medical transcriptionists – a recession-proof career. According to the U.S. Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics job opportunities will be good – Employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012.

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THE ALFRED “AL” BENNETT FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 146 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! Houston Business Connections Monthly •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• FEBRUARY • 19

Get to know Alfred "Al" Bennett District 146 may be up for grabs as well-known Father, Husband, and local businessman seeks to take over seat held by Edwards. continued from P.1 Connections, “I am completely confident that my campaign will emerge triumphantly when this is all over.” The following is information on Alfred H. Bennett that he would like the Houston community to know about him, his campaign, and the family—he so deeply cares about.

What Bennett Plans To Do As State Representative

Association, former Associate at the law firm of Fulbright and Jaworski, LLP, and former intern of the Mickey Leland UH/TSU Internship Program. Al and his wife, Tanyel, have been married for 11 years. Tanyel is a native Houstonian and graduate of Bellaire High School, the University of Houston, and Texas Tech University Law School. Al and Tanyel reside with their two sons in the Riverside Terrace neighborhood.

Bennett, His Experience, and His Family Al Bennett is an attorney in Houston. He is an Adjunct Professor at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has his own law firm, the Law Offices of Alfred H. Bennett. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston and a Jurisprudence Doctorate from the University of Texas School of Law. Al is First Vice President of the Parkwood Drive Civic Club, a Board Member of the East Downtown Management District, and a Board Member of the University of Texas School of Law Alumni Association. He is a former President of the Houston Lawyers’

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Visit www.AlBennettForStateRep.Com This information/Advertorial made possible by the Al Bennett for State Representative Campaign, P.O. Box 88051, Houston, Texas 77288, (713)529-9630. For more information contact the campaign or visit the website located at: www.AlBennettForStateRep.com. Gregory L. Phillips, Treasurer.

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Real Estate...At The Speed Of Life

As State Representative, Al Bennett’s priorities will include increasing state funding for public education, providing affordable prescriptions for senior citizens, increasing children’s healthcare benefits, and creating economic development through partnerships with private businesses.

Bennett’s Official Election Announcement “I am very proud to announce that I am seeking the March 2006 Democratic nomination for State Representative District 146. The time for a new voice and new priorities for our district has arrived,” Bennett stated.

Bennett on His Priorities “We need a public school finance bill that will ensure that all students, regardless of economic status, will receive the best education possible. We need a public health care system that allows all of our senior citizens to afford their prescription medication and all of our children to receive the proper preventative healthcare. And finally, we need partnerships between our government and private businesses to spur economic development where none or little has existed before. All of this can be accomplished. It is simply a matter of priorities.”

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Cheryl ThompsonDraper resigns as Port of Houston Official

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continued from P.1 third woman to be appointed to serve as a Commissioner since the inception of the Ports and Harbors Board in 1909. Over the years, she received many honors and award of distinction. She has been named “Texan of the Year” by All Those Texans, honored as one of the “Women on The Move” by the Texas Executive Women and recognized by the Mayor of Houston, Harris County Judge, US Chamber of Commerce, and the Port of Houston Authority as the “International Executive of the Year” (and after 20 years is still the only woman with this distinction). The Texas Women’s Chamber of Commerce named her a “Woman Thompson-Draper of the Century.” She also has been honored with the Houston Metropolitan Study Award in recognition of her work with Theatre Under the Stars. The YWCA of Dallas and the City of Dallas has presented her with the “Woman of Distinction” award. Additionally, Ernst & Young selected her as “Entrepreneur of the Year” for the Houston Region and is in the Ernst & Young ‘s National Hall of Fame.

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LAND ACQUISITIONS AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROJECTS Renaissance Strip Center • HEB Grocery Store •Taco Bell • McDonald’s • Papa John’s Pizza • Houston Independent School District (Old & New Locations) • Houston Community College System • Texas Southern University • Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

THE ALFRED “AL” BENNETT FOR STATE REP. DISTRICT 146 CAMPAIGN WOULD LIKE YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 7, 2006! 20 • FEBRUARY • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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