January 2007 Houston Business Connections Newspaper by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Houston

Community Community News, News, Business Business Reports Reports & & Politics Politics

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

• Email: news@houstonbusinessconnections.com • JANUARY 2007

Got Foot Problems?

SPOTLIGHT

The good doctors at Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers may have the answer to what ails your feet, ankles Houston Business Connections Reports

A Dr. Paul T. Sykes, left, and partner Dr. Jennifer L. Galaway, “It is our pleasure to serve you and your family at Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers.”

ccording to research, experts, up to 70 percent of the U.S. population will have athlete’s foot at some time during their lives. So, if you are active, athletic, on the go, or simply spend a lot of time on your feet, chances are pretty good that at some point you may need the services of a good podiatrist. If you should happen to reside in Houston, help may be just a hop, skip, and jump away at the Pinnacle Ankle & Foot Centers.

Pinnacle Ankle & Foot Centers is the brainchild of Doctor Paul T. Sykes, and his partner Jennifer L. Galaway and is conveniently located just minutes from downtown, the Museum District, Herman Park, Texas Medical Center, Texas Southern University, and the University of Houston. And the good folks at this fine clinic just may have the answer for what ails you. “We are podiatric physicians who can assist Houstonians with all types of foot care needs,” says the pair. See PINNACLE, P.8

RODEO ON THE WAY

Posse Preparing For Their Ride Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse Ride for Rodeo in full swing HOUSTON - Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and Harris County Sheriff Tommy Thomas recently welcomed the Harris County Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse during their yearly trail ride to promote the 2007 75th Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The youngsters, clad in matching western sheriff’s attire of cowboy hats, black boots, chaps, vests, and badges posed for Houston Business Connections before beginning their annual pilgrimage of riding through Texas to spread the word about the rodeo in “Texas Style.” Mounted posse members Troy Scanlin of Cy-Fair High School, Kelsey Supac of Goodson Junior High, William Conner of Waller High School, Kirby Conner of Cimmaron Elementary, Matthew Rowley of Splendora High School, and Courtney Chapman the riding president along with many more posse members were on hand for the occasion. “These kids are riding tall in the saddle spreading the word about the upcoming Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo,” said Judge Eckels. “They are encouraging folks See POSSE PREPARING, P.6,7

Congresswoman Sekula Gibbs

Congresswoman Honored by Skin Cancer Surgeons HOUSTON-Congresswoman Shelley Sekula Gibbs, M.D. was recently elected by her fellow dermatologists to serve on the Board of Directors of the American Society for Mohs Surgery. Mohs surgery is a specialized technique to remove skin See SURGEONS, P.15

ON THE SCENE

THIS IS IT SUNDAYS Craig Joseph, owner of This Is It Soul Food located at 207 Gray Street in Houston along with his customers, Joseph “Joe” Brown, Warren Taylor, Stanley Grier, Al Gavito, Cashard Simmons, Linda Smith, Jeremy Ellis, Terry L. Estell, Edna Riley, Tish Estell, Roxane Witte, Ron Bolen, and Jeremy Scott all took part in this issue of “This Is It Sundays” held on December 31. See Page 16

READY TO GO: Harris County Sheriff Tommy Thomas (second from left) and Harris County Judge Robert Eckels gave proclamations to riding presidents Courtney Chapman of Waller Jr. High School (far left) and Kristin Arrington of Gentry Jr. High School. J.A. Blendermann, Field Training Supervisor with Harris County (lower left) and Junior Deputy Sheriff William Conner of Waller High School prepares his horse for the ride.

Craig Joseph, owner of This Is It Soul Food

BJ-ML SOPA fundraiser set for January 23 HOUSTON—The Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University will honor eight distinguished community leaders at its 2007 Fundraising

Reception, Tuesday, January 23, 2007, 5:30 p.m. at the Forest Club. Hosted by George and Laura Pontikes, and Willie and Christine Payne, the reception honors Jim Blackburn, Esq.,

Hon. Rodney G. Ellis, Texas State Senator, and Hon. Shelia Jackson Lee, U.S. House of Representatives with the Barbara Jordan Community Advocate Award; Sylvia K.

Brooks, president and CEO, Houston Area Urban League, Hon. Garnet F. Coleman, Texas State Representative and Hon. See FUNDRAISER, P.15

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HHP Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Mailing: 957 Nasa Parkway #251 Houston, TX 77058.

Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., publisher of Houston Business Connections.

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s always, I would like to thank you for picking up this copy of Houston Business Connections. I can’t tell you how much it blesses me to hear the positive comments you make about our efforts. And I am honored to serve you and look forward to you becoming a regular reader – if you aren't one already. Black History Month is next month. So, if you are looking for a good event to attend during Black History Month – look no further. Let me recommend you attend the upcoming Friends of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority (MHMRA) event, taking place on Sunday, February 7, at the Westside Tennis Club located at 1200 Wilcrest Drive, right here in Houston. This event will be an event filled with smiling faces. (See advertisement on page thirteen for more info). Last years event was a great success and was attended by approximately 200 friends of MHMRA. Mayor Bill White and Judge Robert Eckels were honored for their work and efforts extended to the people who were affected by Hurricane Katrina. Senator Jon Lindsay was also honored for his lifetime of efforts in supporting the mental health community. If your schedule permits, please try to attend this event. I really believe it will be an enjoyable experience. I thank you for your continued support! Aubrey R. Taylor, Publisher Email: aubrey@houstonbusinessconnections.com

ENTREPRENEURS CREDO I do not choose to be a Common man It is my right to be UNCOMMON...If I can I seek Opportunity - not Security I do not wish to be a kept citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me. I want to take the “Calculated Risk” to Dream and to Build, to fail and to SUCCEED. I refuse to barter incentive for a dole. I prefer the challenges of Life to the “Guaranteed existence”, the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of Utopia. I will not trade FREEDOM for Beneficence nor my dignity for a handout. I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat. It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid, to think and act for myself, to enjoy the benefit of “MY CREATIONS” and to face the world boldly and say: “This with God’s help, I have done. All this is what it means to be a ENTREPRENEUR” H OUSTON B USINESS C ONNECTIONS IS PUBLISHED BY H OUSTON H IGHLIGHTS P UBLISHING , L.L.C. ALL RIGHT RESERVED . N O ARTICLES MAY BE COPIED , REWRITTEN , PUBLISHED , OR OTHERWISE DISTRIBUTED WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRIT TEN APPROVAL OF THE PUBLISHER . F OR SPECIAL REQUESTS EMAIL : AUBREY @ HOUSTONBUSINESSCONNECTIONS . COM SEND PRESS RELEASES TO: NEWS@HOUSTONBUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM. FOR MORE INFO CALL: 832.212.8735

ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES Carroll G. Robinson, Esq. Elected Chairman of the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce, Houston, Texas

agement process) and TMP (territory management and planning), which have been adopted as global standards by IBM, Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and Oracle and embedded in Siebel System's software applications. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

he Houston Citizen’s Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) Board of Directors elected Carroll G. Robinson, Esq. Chairman of the Board for 2007. The election was held on Wednesday, December 6, 2007 at the Chamber’s office building in Houston, Texas. According to chamber officials, they’re excited about the new Chairman of the Board and the new Board members. And believe they have the vision and the drive to lead the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce into the future, locally and globally. The Mission of the Houston (Texas) Citizens Chamber of Commerce is to encourage business and economic development in the African American community. It is the oldest African American Chamber of commerce in Texas and was established in 1935. Robinson is Associate Dean of External Affairs and an Assistant Professor at Texas Southern University’s Barbara Jordan—Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs in Houston, Texas. Robinson is a former AtLarge member of the Houston City Council. After his election, Robinson stated, “I am committed to protecting, promoting and expanding the growth and prosperity of businesses Robinson and their employees throughout our city, region and state.” The Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce is poised for explosive growth in 2007 through corporate and government partnerships. Our collective African American buying power is at an all-time high.

Rhoda Weiss, APR, Fellow PRSA, To Lead Public Relations Association hoda Weiss, APR, Fellow PRSA, took the helm this month as chair and chief executive officer of the Public Relations Society ofAmerica (PRSA), the world’s largest organization of communications professionals in business, consulting firms, government, associations, hospitals, schools, the military, education, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Society of America, based in New York City, is the world's Weiss largest organization for public relations professionals. The Society has more than 28,000 professional and student members. PRSA is organized into 112 Chapters nationwide, 19 Professional Interest Sections, along with Affinity Groups, which represent business and industry, counseling firms, independent practitioners, military, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) has 255 Chapters at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

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Metallect Appoints Wendy Lea as Board Member etallect recently announced the appointment of Wendy Lea to the company's board of directors. With more than 20 years of sales and marketing strategy and alliance expertise for venture-backed startup companies, Lea will serve as a key contributor to Metallect's strategic growth plans. Lea is Chairman of the Board for Newmerix, a provider of enterprise application lifecycle management software, a board member for Stratify and the Forum of Women Entrepreneurs & Executives, and an advisory board member for StillSecure, Beam and Amazon Consulting. Previously, Lea led Siebel Systems' eBusiness Consulting division, which provided channel strategy to Siebel's global customers. She joined Siebel in 1999 as a result of its acquisition of OnTarget, Inc., a provider of sales and marketing process to the high technology industry, where she held the position of VP of Marketing and Alliances. “Wendy is an asset to Lea the Metallect board of directors. Her experience and expertise add a key perspective to our strategic and operational discussions,” said Guy Hoffman, Metallect President and CEO. Lea has been in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) space since 1984, initially as VP Sales and Marketing for Acclivus. In 1992, she joined The Sales Consultancy (TSC) in the UK, as VP of Marketing and assisted with its European expansion. In 1995 she moved back to the US as co-founder of TSC-US. She co-authored two innovative sales methodologies, CHAMP (channel and alliance man-

Texas Southern University offers free income tax assistance at the Jesse H. Jones School of Business

ax time is here. And so is help. Free tax assistance preparation and electronic filing is available through Texas Southern University’s Jesse H. Jones School of Business’s headed by Dean Joseph L. Boyd. The free tax help is offered to those who earned less than $39,000 in 2006. Tax program volunteers are trained in the preparation of federal 1040EZ, 1040A, and 1040 forms. Volunteers from the IRS and TSU's accounting faculty and students will provide free electronic filings for qualified tax payers every Boyd Saturday beginning Feb. 3 to April 14, 2007 (excluding March 17, 24 and April 7). The Texas Southern University tax preparation site will be held in the Jesse H. Jones School of Business in room 374 from 9 a.m. 10 1 p.m. For information call 713-313-7910.

We once worried that democracy could not survive if an undereducated populace knew too little. Now we worry if it can survive us knowing too much. — Robert Bianco

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ANNOUNCEMENTS HONORS & UPCOMING EVENTS Money. Power. Destiny Financial Empowerment Seminar Series to Launch During Black History Month

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he Revelation Urban Development Institute, Houston Style Magazine and the Texas Southern University School of Business will host the Money.Power.Destiny conference (MPD 2007) scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2007, at the Federal Reserve Bank, 1801 Allen Parkway. At the conference, a series of financial empowerment seminars will be Smith launched based on Black Enterprise’s “10 Principles of Saving and Investing.” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Registration is free to the public. Seating is limited to the first 250 registrants. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– “For the last 11 years, we have been involved in providing community and economic development conferences,” said Chairman Stephen K. Brown, Revelation Urban Development. “MPD 2007 offers a new, actionoriented and sustainable approach to personal and business finance education that encourages better money management habits to positively impact our financial destinies,” said Brown. “With African-American consumers spending over $13 billion annually, a substantial amount of wealth-building potential is being lost,” said Francis Page, Jr., publisher, Houston Style Magazine. “We’re involved because it’s important to educate our readers on the 10 financial principles. Education plus money is a powerful equation that shapes our destiny.” “The Texas Southern University School of Business developed the MPD 2007 curriculum to be useful to parents, youths, and the business community,” said Kimberly Cade, director Gerald B. Smith Center for Entrepreneurship and Executive Development, Jesse H. Jones School of Business. “The inaugural conference in February will focus on all 10 principles of saving and investing while each of the three subsequent quarterly seminars will provide an in depth and handson study of each principle.” “Unique to MPD 2007, See CONFERENCE, P.11

Kayakers make their way through the Richard "Dick" Gorini Marsh. The marsh is laced with canoe and kayak trails throughout.

Gorini Marsh Naming Honors Environmental Visionary ore than 150 guests attended a recent celebration honoring environmentalist Richard “Dick” Gorini, namesake for the nation’s first man made marsh of its magnitude. The event at the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center was hosted by the Port of Houston Authority (PHA), Gahagan & Bryant Associates Inc., Hydrographic Technologies Inc., J. Simmons Group and Turner Collie and Braden Inc. Gorini was hired as the port authority’s first environmental manager in 1988. He went on to successfully steward the country’s most ambitious project of its kind – the building of a 200-acre marsh from dredge material dug from the Houston Ship Channel in Galveston Bay. It was originally called, simply, the Demonstration Marsh. Once finished, it loomed as the largest man made marsh in U.S. history. Today, the marsh is laced with canoe and kayak trails throughout. In Early 2006, the marsh was cited in a National Marine Fisheries Service report that showed all populations for shrimp and crab were substantially higher (12 to 154 times) within the marsh

Richard Gorini (second from right) is flanked by family members including brotherand sister-in-law Don and Christi Craske, wife Claudia and sister Karen Fletcher. that could have been expected to be sustained in the open water the marsh replaced. On November 27, 2006, the Demonstration Marsh was officially

named Richard “Dick” Gorini Marsh by the Commission for the Port of Houston Authority. The December 7 event was held to celebrate that naming.

Democracy is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder, and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequal alike. — Plato

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PAUL SYKES, D.P.M.

MISSION STATEMENT To provide our patient population with quality podiatric care utilizing state-of-the-art technology. JENNIFER GALAWAY, D.P.M.

At Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers we treat anomalies of the foot and ankle. We offer treatment for athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, ankle sprains, hammertoe, fractures, bunions, flatfoot, and much, much more. Treatment options for our patients include pharmacological, biomechanical, therapeutic or a combination of the aforementioned. In cases where conservative treatment fails to provide relief, surgical treatment is also an option. We accept most types of insurance, including Medicare. Give us a call today and we will gladly assist you with your footcare needs. Call 713.526.PFAC (7322). Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers is the brainchild of Doctors Paul T. Sykes and Jennifer L. Galaway. We are podiatric physicians who can assist you with all of your footcare needs from athlete’s foot to flatfoot repair.

713.526.PFAC (7322) 5445 Almeda Road, Suite 206 • Houston, Texas 77004

www.pinnaclefootandankle.com If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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• JANUARY 2007 • 5

SNAPSHOTS

JUNIOR DEPUTY SHERIFF’S MOUNTED POSSE

Junior Deputy Sheriff William Conner a student at Waller High School preparing his horse for the ride to promote the upcoming 2007 Houston Livestock Show.

“These kids are riding tall in the saddle spreading the word about the upcoming Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.” – HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE ROBERT ECKELS

THE POSSE: The Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse was founded by former Harris County Sheriff CV “Buster” Kern in 1951, and is the oldest youth riding group in Texas. The youngsters, clad in matching western sheriff’s attire of cowboy hats, black boots, chaps, vests, and badges posed for Houston Business Connections before beginning their annual pilgrimage of riding through Texas to spread the word about the rodeo in “Texas Style.”

Junior Deputy Sheriff Kirby Conner a student at Cimmaron Elementary, left, and Junior Deputy Sheriff Kelsey Supac a student at Goodson Junior High School.

Junior Deputy Sheriff Matthew Rowley, left, a student at Splendora High School, and Junior Deputy Sheriff Troy Scanlin a student at Cy-Fair High School. Democracy is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder, and dispensing a sort of equality to equals and unequal alike. — Plato

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SNAPSHOTS

SPONSORED BY BAYWAY LINCOLN MERCURY

Posse Preparing For Their Ride Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse Ride for Rodeo in full swing Continued from Page • 1 throughout our region to visit the rodeo and to participate in the great Texas tradition of the world’s largest rodeo.” Field Training Supervisor J.A. Blenderman and Dinnis Vickery, member of the Board of Directors for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was

also on hand to send the Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse on their way. The Junior Deputy Sheriff’s Mounted Posse was founded by former Harris County Sheriff CV “Buster” Kern in 1951, and is the oldest youth riding group in Texas. – All Snapshots photos by Houston Business Connections

RIDING PRESIDENT: Courtney Chapman, is a student at Waller Junior High School.

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If liberty and equality are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. — Aristotle

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• JANUARY 2007 • 7

ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOCUS ON BUSINESS

Got Foot Problems? The good doctors at Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers may have the answer to what ails your feet, ankles

Continued from Page • 1 “At our clinic we specialize in the treatment of athlete’s feet, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, ankle sprains, hammertoes, fractures, bunions, flatfoot, and much, much more.” “We offer various treatment options that include pharmacological, biomechanical, and therapeutic procedures. Moreover, should conservative treatment fail to provide relief for our patients, we can perform surgical treatment as well.”

Profile Dr. Jennifer L. Galaway is a native Houstonian and graduate of the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She completed her residency training in Baltimore, Maryland, at the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center and Bon Secours Baltimore Health System. She resides in Houston. Dr. Paul T. Sykes is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and is a graduate of the California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco, California. He completed his residency training with the Houston Podiatric Foundation in Kingwood, Texas. He resides in Pearland with his wife and two children.

Mission Statement To provide our patient population with quality podiatric cares utilizing state-ofthe-art technology.

Inspiration According to Dr. Sykes, he was inspired to become an entrepreneur by his mother, Agnes and father Daniel Sykes who were both teachers. According Dr. Galaway, she was not inspired by anyone in particular to become an entrepreneur. However, her mother Martha Stoot a registered nurse raised her as a single mom and still inspires her today to be all that she can be in life.

Aspiration According to this pair of Houston area entrepreneurs, they would like to one day get into real estate and open another foot care practice – which would enable them to create opportunities for other young doctors and aspiring entrepreneurs.

About Athlete's foot Athlete’s foot is a skin infection in the foot caused by a fungus. The fungus that causes Athlete foot is called Trichophyton. When the feet, or other areas of the body, stay moist, warm and irritated, this fungus can thrive and infect the upper layer of the skin. Athlete foot is caused by the ringworm fungus (“tinea” in medical jargon).

IT IS OUR PLEASURE TO SERVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY: Pinnacle Ankle & Foot Centers treat anomalies of the foot and ankle. The company offers treatment for athlete’s feet, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, ankle sprains, hammertoes, fractures, bunions, flatfoot, and much, much more. Pinnacle Ankle & Foot Centers is located at 5445 Almeda Road, Suite 206, Houston, Texas 77004 and can be contacted by phone at (713)526-7322 (PFAC). Athlete foot is also called tinea pedis. The fungus that causes Athlete foot can be found on floors and in socks and clothing. The fungus can be spread from person to person by contact with these objects. However, without proper growing conditions (a warm, moist environment), the fungus will not infect the skin. Up to 70% of the population will have athletes foot at some time during their lives. The symptoms of Athlete foot include itching and burning feet. The skin frequently peels and, in particularly severe cases, there may be some cracking, pain

and bleeding as well. When the skin is injured by the fungus, bacteria can also invade the skin. These bacteria can cause a bad smell. Bacterial infection of the skin and resulting inflammation is known as cellulitis. This is especially likely to occur in the elderly, individuals with diabetes, chronic leg swelling, or who have had veins removed (such as for heart bypass surgery), and patients with impaired immune systems. The treatment of Athlete foot can be divided into two parts. The first, and most important part, is to make the infected area

less suitable for the Athlete foot fungus to grow. This means keeping the area clean and dry. Buy shoes that are leather or other breathable material. Shoe materials, such as vinyl, that don’t breath cause your feet to remain moist, providing an excellent area for the fungus to breed. Likewise, absorbent socks that wick water away from your feet such as cotton socks will help. Powders, especially medicated powders (such as with miconazole or tolnafSee PINNACLE, P.10

If an individual agrees with everybody, he lacks conviction; if he likes everybody and is everybody's friend, he is indifferent to one and all. — Nikolai Dobrolyubov

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ISSUES UPCOMING EVENTS

Gift to Museum Underwrites 20 Years of Free Public Programs Internationally Known Civil Rights Attorney Alan Dershowitz to Headline First of “Strategic Discussions” on World Issues

gers of hatred, prejudice and apathy.” “With this gift, our Museum can further the public discussion on significant, strategic issues that will impact the world and how each and every one of us treats each other for generations to come,” Berkowitz said. The gift was made in memory of Ruth Vinn Hendler Lack, a Holocaust survivor who served as

Dershowitz

the second executive director of the Museum. Lack was killed in a car accident in 1994, ending several years of service at the Museum. “We believe that offering this caliber of programming at no cost to the public is in keeping with the hopes and dreams that Ruth had for Holocaust Museum Houston and the impact that the Museum could have on our com-

munity. We want to help fulfill those aspirations,” said Livingston Kosberg. Dolores Wilkenfeld recalled her sense of loss when Lack died and added, “We know how much the Museum meant to her and the expectations she had for the programming which could emanate See GIFT, P.10

HOUSTON – Noted civil rights attorney Alan M. Dershowitz will present the first of 20 years of free public programs featuring internationally known experts discussing "strategically important" issues to current and future generations of Americans as the result of a new gift to Holocaust Museum Houston. The Museum recently announced that Dershowitz will be the first in a line of internationally known speakers brought to Houston by the Museum in the new 20-year-long, free public program series underwritten by Saranne and Livingston Kosberg and Dolores and the late Buddy Wilkenfeld. More than 600 people are expected to hear Dershowitz speak on the topic “Is There a New Antisemitism?” at 7:30 p.m., on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2007, in the Becker Theater at the Emery/Weiner School at 9825 Stella Link Road. His appearance is free and open to the public, but reservations are required, and seating is expected to be at capacity. To register online, visit www.hmh.org/register.asp. Dershowitz also will speak in a separate, private session with students at the school earlier in the day. His presentation will focus on the irrational hatred against Israel by extreme left and extreme right factions, which – he argues – seems to increase as Israel makes concessions for peace. He argues that it cannot be understood without acknowledging that Israel is the Jewish state and is being treated by extremists as the Jew among nations. Dershowitz – one of the nation's best-known defenders of individual rights – calls this “the newest manifestation of the oldest of bigotries.” Dershowitz’ appearance is the first of the KosbergWilkenfeld Distinguished Lectures hosted by the Museum, with special thanks to Continental Airlines, official airline of the Museum. The value of the gift was not announced, but Museum Chairman Peter N. Berkowitz said the gift was “an incredibly significant advance to our Museum’s public outreach efforts to teach the world the dan-

When great changes occur in history, when great principles are involved, as a rule the majority are wrong. The minority are right. — Eugene V. Debs

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• JANUARY 2007 • 9

Pinnacle continued from P.8 tate), can help keep your feet dry. Finally, your feet can be soaked in a drying solution of aluminum acetate (Burrow's solution or Domeboro's solution). The second part of treatment is the use of antifungal creams. Many medications are available including miconazole, clotrimazole, etc. Ask your health care professional or pharmacist for a recommendation. Treatment should be continued for 4 weeks. If you notice any redness, increased swelling, bleeding, or if your infection is not clearing up, see your healthcare practitioner. If a bacterial infection is also occurring, an antibiotic may be necessary. For more information on Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Centers, LLP call (713) 526-7322. The center is located at 5445 Almeda Road, Suite 206 in Houston, TX.

– HBC Reports

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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

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• SERVICE • SUPPLIES • SALES

Protector’s Insurance Agency

Codwell Family Foot Center

713.731.1919

Of all base passions, fear is most accursed. —William Shakespeare

713/

Gift from it. It is in this spirit that our gift is being given.” Lack and Dolores Wilkenfeld knew each other from childhood, and both attended The University of Texas at Austin, where they were sorority sisters. They worked together on common causes for more than 35 years before Lack’s death. During the 1980s, Lack served as senior vice president of public relations and affairs at a firm Kosberg headed. It was during those years that he also served as chairman of the Texas Department of Human Services and worked closely with Lack on speaking engagements and public appearances. Dershowitz is a Brooklyn native who has been called “the nation’s most peripatetic civil liberties lawyer” and one of its “most distinguished defenders of individual rights,” “the best-known criminal lawyer in the world,” “the top lawyer of last resort,” and “America’s most public Jewish defender.” He is the Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School. A graduate of Brooklyn College and Yale Law School, Dershowitz joined the Harvard Law School faculty at age 25 after clerking for Judge David Bazelon and Justice Arthur Goldberg. While he is known for defending clients such as Anatoly Sharansky, Claus von Bülow, O.J. Simpson, Michael Milken and Mike Tyson, he continues to represent numerous indigent defendants and takes half of his cases pro bono. Dershowitz is the author of 20 works of fiction and non-fiction, including six bestsellers.

Something To Think About

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MYRNA L. SLACK-WILSON

hen you reach for the stars you may not make it, but you won’t come up with a handful of mud either. —Leo Burnett

REALTOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE & MANAGEMENT TEAM

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(713)

721-9600

(713)

721-9605 Fax

5322 West Bellfort, Ste. 106 Houston, Texas 77035

8303 SOUTHWEST FRWY., #390 HOUSTON, TEXAS 77074

Whatever field of human activity one may take, only those trends that are in harmony with the needs of society show rapid progress. — Nikolai Chernyshevsky

10 • JANUARY 2007 • Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

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UPCOMING EVENTS MARK YOUR CALENDAR On Monday, January 15, 2007, the North Houston Frontiers Club will host its Nineteenth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast at the George R. Brown Convention Center at 8:15 A.M. he North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c) (3), service organization dedicated to providing educational and charitable assistance to needy persons in the greater Houston area. Our membership is composed of 20 African-American men and women volunteers, non-paid staff, who are determined to give something back to the community. Proceeds from the memorial breakfast support the North Houston Frontiers’ Minority Scholarship Program. Since its inception in 1988, the scholarship program has awarded over $750,000 in grants to deserving college bound minority high school seniors. Proceeds from the 2006 Breakfast were used to fund $40,000 in scholarships (10 four-year awards @ $1,000 per year). As the global economy continues to evolve into one of the most competitive environments in recent history, we plan to be in the forefront of making certain that the students in our community are equipped to compete in that environment. Our mission is to help educate and motivate students to strive for excellence in all that they do. This fund-raising program is the only source of funding the club has to support the more than 40 students currently enrolled in colleges and universities around the country. The keynote speaker for the 2007 program is Mr. Je’Caryous Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, of I’m Ready Productions. Mr. Johnson is our 1995 North Houston Frontiers Scholarship recipient. The Honorary Chairperson is Mr. John W. Bland, Vice President of Transport Workers Union of America AFL-CIO. Also on this special occasion The Prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award will be presented to Ms. Katherine West, Executive Director, Macedonia Outreach and Career Center. Our Mistress of Ceremonies is the award-winning journalist Melanie Lawson of KTRK-TV Channel 13. We wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your past support and assistance, and ask that you continue to help us in making the Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Breakfast a successful program.

Should you have any questions, please contact John Fain at (713) 256-1915 or Shirley Williams at (713) 826-6890 or

email us at info@nhfrontiers.com. We look forward to your joining us for breakfast on Monday, January 15, 2007.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

You are Cordially Invited to The 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Fundraiser An Evening of Entertainment & Auction with the Friends of MHMRA

February 7, 2007 Westside Tennis Club 1200 Wilcrest • Houston, TX 77042

6 P.M. - 9:30 P.M. Co-Sponsored By FRIENDS OF MHMRA OF HARRIS COUNTY STEVEN B. SCHNEE, PH.D PRESIDENT

ALAN HELFMAN, V.P. RIVER OAKS CHRYSLER PLYMOUTH JEEP

www.friendsofmhmra.org

Conference continued from P.4 youths will be invited to participate in several workshops designed to teach the value of good money management,” Cade said. For more information regarding MPD 2007, to register, or become a sponsor or booth vendor, visit www.MoneyPowerDestiny.com and www.revelationudi.org, or call 281.213.9554. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Conference proceeds will fund college scholarships for low-to-moderate income students. Scholarship applications can be downloaded from the Revelation Urban Development Institute Web site.

7011 Southwest Freeway • Houston, TX 77074 • Phone: 713.970.7667 • Fax: 713.970.7231

Democracy cannot be forced upon a society, neither is it a gift that can be held forever. It has to be struggled hard for and defended everyday anew.—Heinz Galinski

Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

www.houstonbusinessconnections.com • 832.212.8735

• JANUARY 2007 • 11

Teens Develop Successful Businesses from Their Ideas with the Wall Street Project NEW YORK -Globalization, corporate mergers, ethics: These may dominate today’s business headlines, but the real news is minority youth turning their ideas into profitable business ventures. They’re getting help from the Wall Street Project, this month at its 10th Annual Wall Street Economic Summit and Conference at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers. Founded by Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., founder and President of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Wall Street Project exists to spur global investment in minority busiJackson nesses, train minority entrepreneurs, and grow the next generation of minority business developers. This year, about 150 high school students from New York City's public schools attended the conference to learn about the stock market, they also learned about what it takes to start their own businesses. Facilitators from the Young Entrepreneurs Camp taught students how to develop feasible business concepts, assess their products and marketability, design a business plan, and apply for venture capital and marketing. They also learned how to develop ideas using technology and explore how to use their business acumen to benefit their communities. “The Wall Street Project exists to promote African Americans success in business, and there's no better way to do that than by bringing in our bright young people,” Rev. Jackson said. “As they excel, they become role models for their peers and every person of color.” “Financial literacy and economic development are a key component of the Civil Rights Movement,” said Andrew Carr, director of the Wall Street Project. “This is an important part of the goal of leveling the playing field.” Among the hundreds of business professionals in attendance at the Wall Street Project conference was 12-year-old Jamal Browder, owner of a family-travel agency. Browder was encouraged to start his own business two years ago after meeting other young entrepreneurs through the Washington, D.C.-basedInternational Business Kids Foundation during the Wall Street Project’s Economic Summit. “The Wall Street Project has given my students a chance to see

See JACKSON, P.14

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

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you may not make it, but you won’t come up with a handful of mud either. —Leo Burnett

Something To Think About

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713.995.7710

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BEAL COUNSELING ASSOCIATES A Community Mental Health Agency

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In actual fact those who do not care for politics and sit on the fence do indeed side for a political party: The ruling party. — Max Frisch

12 • JANUARY 2007 • Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

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CRIME & INFO

SPONSORED BY QUALITY SECURITY SERVICES, INC.

IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF QUALITY SECURITY, CALL QUALITY SECURITY SERVICES, INC. AT 713.988.2918

Could This Happen In A Houston Hotel? Celebrities Robbed at Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel

Police Chief Hurtt

Five Suspects Arrested in Airport Luggage Thefts HOUSTON - The men in blue recently arrested five suspects and say more arrests are possible in connection with the thefts of dozens of pieces of luggage from Bush Intercontinental Airport over the Holidays. The five suspects are each charged with engaging in organized criminal activity in the 182nd State District Court. They are identified as:

* Erick Perez (H/m, DOB 7-22-77)

* Ricardo Aguilar (H/m, DOB 11-19-83)

* Manuel Aguilar (H/m, DOB 11-19-83)

* Carlos Osorio (H/m, DOB 8-12-82)

* Daniel Venegas (H/m, DOB 1-5-81) All five suspects are employed by Menzies Aviation Group, an airline contractor, and work at the airport. They are not employed or contracted by the Houston Airport System. Menzies Aviation Group representatives have been very cooperative in the investigation. In addition to 68 pieces of luggage originally recovered from a dumpster at 230 Bammel Westfield on December 26, investigators have recovered an additional 90 pieces of luggage from two separate locations. All stolen luggage involved bags being transferred between connecting flights. The investigation is ongoing and may result in additional arrests and charges. ----------------------------------------Anyone with information in these cases is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

OKLAHOMA CITY,— In the early morning hours of December 24th, according to Ryan Blair and Kasie Head they were robbed as they slept after an evening of holiday parties and family reunions. To their dismay, the couple woke to find their belongings out of place and several items missing. A thief had

apparently entered their Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel room without damaging standard door locks. Among the goods taken were an undisclosed amount of cash and a Breitling 8-Carat Diamond watch valued at $35K. Former Miss Oklahoma Kasie Head was shaken by the incident: “It scares me that someone came in while we were sleeping. Who knows what would have happened if we woke up.” Head was relieved to find the thief overlooked a stack of presents hid-

Head den in the corner of the room. “At least this Grinch didn’t completely ruin Christmas!”

Ryan Blair, CEO of PathConnect.com, believes the robbery was premeditated. “This person knew what they were looking for. They came in without causing noise or damage and managed to take only our most valuable stuff.” The Sheraton Hotel offers 24-hour staff and security cameras, but there was no suspicious behavior reported on the night in question according to Blair and Head. The hotel declined comment and was not See SHERATON, P.14

NEWS & INFORMATION Nabers' firm Top Texas Woman-Owned Business AUSTIN – In recognition of the economic power of multicultural businesses, DiversityBusiness.com, the nations’ leading multiBUSINESS cultural internet site, recently named Strategic Partnerships, Inc., as one of the “Top 100 Woman-Owned businesses in the state of Texas (Div100)”. Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc., said, “I am pleased that the Strategic Partnerships team has been included in this recognition, which is one measure of our hard work to provide value to our clients on a daily basis. We’re gratified that our efforts continue to pay off.” The Div100 is the 7th annual listing of Texas’s top 100 WomanOwned businesses. Ranging in revenue Nabers size from $1.9 million to over $867 million, the list demonstrates the significant economic impact of businesses owned by women. Strategic Partnerships, Inc., with $2.3 million in sales, ranked 96th on the list. “Woman-Owned Businesses and consumers are a growing force in the U.S. economy, and a force to be reckoned with,” said Kenton Clarke, CEO of Computer Consulting Associates International, the company that built DiversityBusiness.com. “This is a whole business segment that can carry its own, that provides jobs, products and services, and generates wealth for their communities. These are the new leaders in American business.” –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Houston City Council Member Jarvis Johnson has a message for District B constituents, Legislature HOUSTON – As the District B City Council Member, I am very concerned

when there is a public safety threat to my constituents. I am also concerned that a private water company is not providing the level of service needed to ensure the public safety of the residents in the community it serves. This puts the residents of this community and the City of Houston in a position of having no authority or control over their safety, only monitoring by local fire personnel. I therefore call on the State Legislature to pass stronger regulations granting the City of Houston governing, operational and monitoring, powJohnson ers over private water companies when property is annexed into the City. Private companies must also be required to install larger fire suppression water lines. Water provided for fire safety is just as important as water lines providing water to drink, cook and clean to communities. I am committed to working with State Representatives to ensure that we are providing the quality of life and resources COMMUNITY necessary to protect the welfare of the constituents of District B and throughout the City of Houston. Working with State Representative Sylvester Turner and through the voice of the community we will continue to “Lead By Example” setting citywide standards to ensure the protection of all Houstonians. To learn more about this particular situation and Turner additional information that will keep you and your home safe join my office in conjunction with Garden City Civic Club at a public meeting on Monday, January 8, 2007 at 7pm. The meeting will be at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church located at 9833

Bonazzi St, Houston, Texas 77088. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Linc Group Acquires Air Tech Commercial Services PITTSBURGH – The Linc Group(r), LLC (TLG) has acquired Houston-based Air Tech Commercial Services, a commercial HVAC company that specializes in indoor air quality (IAQ). With the addition of Air Tech's two offices in Houston and Austin, BUSINESS Linc(r) will now operate five companyowned locations in Texas - providing a broad reach of services to customers across the entire state. TLG is the parent company of Linc Network, LLC, franchisor of the Linc System(r). Air Tech has been a provider of HVAC, indoor air quality, refrigeration and plumbing services to commercial and industrial facilities throughout the Houston area for the past 20 years. The addition of Air Tech extends the reach of Linc’s companyowned stores to 21 major metropolitan markets Price within the U.S. The Linc Service Network of Contractors is comprised of these locations plus 110 additional, independentlyowned franchises throughout the United States, Canada and Bermuda, all of which follow the disciplines of the Linc System - a proprietary and proven system for delivering professional preventive maintenance, equipment retrofits and energy efficiency to the commercial buildings market. “In becoming a Linc-owned contractor, we are joining an elite group of companies that are dedicated to innovation, quality, standards, and continuous education and improvement,” said Joe Bronte, general manager of Air Tech. "The large array of resources available to us as part of the Linc organization is very impressive and we look forward to learning and applying Linc technology and See LINK GROUP, P.15

If...the machine of government...is of such a nature that it requires you to be the agent of injustice to another, then, I say, break the law.— Henry David Thoreau

Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

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• JANUARY 2007 • 13

Jackson continued from P.12 minorities who are making a difference on Wall Street," said Endura Govan, director of the Foundation leading the training. “My kids know that Rev. Jackson’s actions didn't stop with the death of Dr. King. He's still opening doors.” In 1990, as a kindergarten pupil, Govan’s son Alexander began a button-making business. He soon organized other students and developed the business with them. Sadly, Alexander died of cancer several years later. But Govan vowed to keep alive his collaboration with other young people through the Foundation. “It’s definitely an extension of his vision,” she said. “It’s reflecting on Alexander being so young and coming to me and saying, ‘Mommy, can you help me start a business?’” Through workshops and afterschool programs, the Foundation aims to train more than 10,000 youngsters by 2010 in order to create their own youth-led companies. Carr said he believes the training produces results. “Starting at a younger age increases the opportunity for students’ success,” he said. “A lot of folks in the community who’ve started businesses, are still looking for basic tools that can be taught at a younger age.” The Wall Street Project, founded in 1997 on the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., uses the Operation Breadbasket model of research, education, negotiation and reconciliation to promote inclusion, opportunity and economic growth by encouraging public and private industries to improve hiring and promotion practices; name more minorities to corporate boards; allocate more business to minority companies; and increase the amount of business minority firms conduct with each other. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition is a progressive organization protecting, defending and expanding civil rights to improve economic and educational opportunity. To learn more about the c o n f e r e n c e , p l e a s e visit http://ga3.org/ct/vpLRjhd1BR8n/ or call (212)-425-7874.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

Something To Think About

OLIVET MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH The Olivet Missionary Baptist Church family of believers would like to invite you to come out and worship with us. We believe you will have a Spirit-filled encounter with the Almighty God. If you do not have a church home we would like nothing more than for you to consider Olivet Missionary Baptist Church. SUNDAY: Morning Worship—11:00A.M. TUESDAY: Bible Study—7:30 P.M.

Prepared To Praise...

(713)224-1515

...Motivated To Minister “Over 73 Years Of Service”

Reverend Robert L. Thomas, Jr., Pastor

3115 Lyons Avenue • Houston, TX 77020 Email comments or suggestions to Pastor Thomas at: Pastort2@yahoo.com “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths”

Committed to your needs The role of a real estate agent is to guide you through the buying or selling process, taking the time to make sure you understand every step of the transaction. I am absolutely committed to fulfilling your needs with the highest level of professionalism, expertise and service. My commitment to your satisfaction is the foundation from which a solid business relationship is built. I realize that people do business with people they trust. I am interested in what is best for you, the client, and am committed to establishing a long-term relationship based on trust. I pride myself on being knowledgeable and staying current with changes in the industry that will affect the success of your transaction. You have worked hard to be able to purchase the home of your dreams. I feel the responsibility to make those dreams a reality and pursue the right solution enthusiastically. THE TREADSTONE REALTY GROUP

www.fm1960REALESTATE.COM

12830 Willow Centre Dr., STE A Houston, TX 77066 Direct: (832) 229-4380 Alternate: (281) 580-0898 Email: reathiaa@earthlink.net

“The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.” – Words of wisdom from the good book

Moore Transportation Services “You’ll Get More With Moore”

Sheraton continued from P.13

• SCHEDULED COURIER SERVICES • GUARANTEED QUALITY SERVICE

Trustworthy

• LARGE OR SMALL PACKAGES • HOTSHOT SERVICES

willing to cover any of the damages or losses the pair says. “I am a fan of Sheraton and have come to expect a certain level of security and service. This was a complete shock and makes me question the hotel’s commitment to safety.” Blair filed a report with local police and plans to issue an insurance claim for the valuable watch. Ryan Blair and Kasie Head at the time of the incident were in Oklahoma City for the holidays. Head is best known for her work on NBC’s Deal or No Deal and Blair is an author/speaker who appears regularly on MSNBC.

• DAILY ROUTE PICK-UPS • ALL MAIL RUNS

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Honest Loyal

“Moore Transportation Services was founded by Antwain Moore in March of 2000 to service the needs of one client. Today, we have clients throughout the city of Houston and more than 25 drivers to service their needs. We Invite you to join our growing list of satisfied customers.”

Corporate Headquarters: 2600 SOUTH LOOP WEST • SUITE 630 • HOUSTON, TEXAS 77054

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.— Margaret Mead

14 • JANUARY 2007 • Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

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Surgeons

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

Something To Think About

continued from P.1 cancers resulting in high cure rates and less cosmetic deformity. As a board member Dr. Sekula Gibbs will work to advance skin cancer treatment, develop educational opportunities for doctors performing Mohs surgery and improve patient safety. The ASMS was founded in 1990 and has a membership of 850 physicians and technicians across the United States. Dr. Sekula Gibbs, at release of this issue is serving in the 109th U.S. Congress from Texas District 22 where she was appointed to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Education and the Workforce Committee. When the term is over this month, she will return to her private practice of dermatology in the Clear Lake area where she will continue to work on issues related to healthcare, border security, supporting Ellington Field and NASA/JSC.

LINDA D. POPE, M.D.

Texas State Auto Title & Consultant Services

NDRE

License Stickers-Title Transfers

COSMETIC EYE SURGERY Surgery and Diseases of the Eye

(OWNER/CONSULTANT)

713.721.6300 • 832.279.7115 Email: thetitleman@hotmail.com 2

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

JOSEPH L. GILES

Linda D. Pope, M.D., P.A. Ophthalmologist

ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR

Mechanic Liens • Dealers License Salvage Titles • Lost Titles

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Not Certified By The Texas Board Of Legal Specialization

713.659.1608

1314 Texas Avenue, Ste. 525 Houston, Texas 77002

207 Gray Street • Houston, Texas

Fundraiser continued from P.1 Victor Trevino, Harris County Constable, will be honored with the George “Mickey” Leland Community Leadership Award; and James T. Edmonds, chairman, Port of Houston Commission and Houston Organization of Public Employees (HOPE), will receive the Benjamin Banneker Community Builder Award. Honorary chairs of the event are Alison Leland and Rose Mary McGowen. The Forest Club is located at 9950 Memorial Club. For more information call 713-313-7348.

810 Hwy 6 South #100 Houston, Texas 77079

Selling or Buying A House? What About A Mortgage Loan? Contact David Oluwasegun Disu A Professional, Reliable, Knowledgeable and Experienced Realtor and Mortgage Loan Officer.

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Linc Group

Serving Houston Since 1993!

continued from P.13 techniques that will help us provide more, and better, service to our customers.” As one of the world’s leading and largest contractor networks, the Linc Service Network is committed to consistently providing the same high level of service, no matter the location or site type of the customer. Only one in 100 contractors is qualified to become a member of this award-winning network. Currently, Linc Service(r) Contractors hold 16,000 maintenance agreements for 26,000 facilities throughout North America that equal one billion square feet of commercial building space. “Growth, as always, is a strategic goal of our organization. Air Tech's history of quality service and existing customer base will allow Linc to quickly establish a presence in Houston and Austin,” said Scott Giacobbe, president and CEO of Linc Network, LLC. “These markets, plus our existing companyowned locations in Dallas, Ft. Worth, and Waco, coupled with the offices of our Linc Service Contractors in Abilene, Amarillo, Houston,Lubbock, Midland, and San Angelo, give the Linc Service Network a real stronghold in Texas - a vibrant and growing market.” Tracy Price, is the Chairman, President and CEO of The Linc Group. The Linc Group is headquartered in both Houston and Irvine, California and Price resides and operates from the Irvine office.

David Disu

• Selling • Relocation • Buying • Rental • Foreclosure • Real Estate Investments • New Construction • Mortgage Loan

Contact David Today! Email: disusegun@yahoo.com

Direct: 281.690.0078 Direct:312.401.6016

• Company Shirts with Embroidery $18.00 • Banners Flyers • Email Addresses Starting at $19.95 Per 10,000

Office: 281.870.0000 Fax: 281.870.9995

TV Commercials Starting at $375.00 Promo-Items: Pens • Cups • Calendars

713.995.9796

GOOD PEOPLE DOING THE RIGHT THING Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

9894 Bissonnet Suite 303

The finest test of character is seen in the amount and the power of gratitude we have. — Thoughts of wisdom from Milo H. Gates

The Pharmacy “ Yo u r F a m i l y ’s H e a l t h I s O u r C o n c e r n ”

713.266.5425 Victor A. Ehiemua, R.ph.

6 6 3 0 S . W. F r e e w a y • ( A t H i l l c r o f t ) • HOURS: Mon - Fri. 9a.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The well being of democracies regardless of their type and status is dependent on one small technical detail: The right to vote. Everything else is secondary.— Jose Ortega y Gasset

Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

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• JANUARY 2007 • 15

ON THE SCENE SPONSORED BY THIS IS IT SOUL FOOD IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A FUTURE “ON THE SCENE” TOPIC DISCUSSED AT YOUR BUSINESS CALL 832.212.8735 OR 281.636.5174

AL GAVITO

CASHARD SIMMONS

ROXANE WITTE

JEREMY SCOTT

WARREN TAYLOR

JOSEPH BROWN IS A 30 YEAR CUSTOMER

THIS IS IT SOUL FOOD SUNDAYS Joseph, Customers Share Thoughts, Resolutions for 2007 raig Joseph: “I’m the owner of This Is It Soul Food. I’ve been in ownership since 1995, however, this is our 48th year of continuous business. As far as New Year’s Resolutions go: I don’t believe in making resolutions – but, what I do believe in, is that God will see us through. Our strong foundation is built upon that fact. In 2007, we’ve set goals that we would like to reach...but I know that without the strength of God and the support of our customers, we won’t be able to reach those goals. I know we will have both, and I thank my customers for their continued support.” Joseph Brown: “I’m a member of Greater Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church on Jensen Drive...I’ve been visiting This Is It for more than 30 years and the food is great. I plan on increasing my business in 2007.” Warren Taylor: “I’m looking forward to 2007 to be more prosperous than 2006 for my transportation business.” Staney Grier: “I work in the jewelry business...I have a very positive outlook for 2007. My New Year’s Resolution is to hopefully, in the course of my dealings with other people and making statements, is to ask myself first is it true? Second, is it kind? Third, does it need to be said? And fourth,does is need to be said by me? Al Gavito: “I work in education, and my New Years Resolution is to continue doing the work I’ve been doing with children and making sure the education they

need is the one they’re getting –not only here in Houston, but throughout the state of Texas.” Cashard Simmons: “My outlook for 2007 is to just stay positive and effect the people around me and to help others as I climb.” Linda Smith: “I’m looking forward to the New Year. I’m also looking forward to seeing what the Democrats are going to do in Congress...and for myself, I just want to keep working on constant improvement.” Jeremy Ellis: “My 2007 outlook is to just put God first in everything that I do...and to become a better person at heart.” Terry Estell: “I don’t really have a New Year’s Resolution, I’ve just been more committed to doing what I believe to be God’s will in my life...and that’s what I’ll be doing in 2007.” Edna Riley: “I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions, but one of the things I hope for in 2007 is an end to the war. And to bring all the troops home.” Tish Estell: “I wish for peace for all in the world.” Jeremy Scott: “My New Year’s Resolution is to be prosperous and bless those when I can, and to continue serving God and to see what other challenges I can look forward to and other objectives. I am the GIS Coordinator for the Texas Department of Transportation.” Ron Bolen: “I work for a private equity firm out of Cleveland, Ohio, but I work here in Houston.” My 2007 resolution: I’m competing in the Iron Man Arizona in Tempe in April. Roxanne Witte: “I sell Real Estate and I’m looking forward to a fabulous year.”

CRAIG JOSEPH, OWNER OF THIS IS IT SOUL FOOD & CATERING

TISH ESTELL

STANLEY GRIER

JEREMY ELLIS

This Is It Soul Food is located at 207 Gray Street.

For directions or more information call (713)659.1608.

LINDA SMITH

RON BOLEN

EDNA RILEY

TERRY ESTELL ENJOYED HIS MEAL ALONG WITH HIS WIFE TISH, AND EDNA RILEY

The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not. — Thomas Jefferson

16 • JANUARY 2007 • Houston Business Connections Printed Edition •

PUBLISHED BY HOUSTON HIGHLIGHTS PUBLISHING, L.L.C. • 832.212.8735