November 2005 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 • NOVEMBER 2005

Johnson Emerges as Front Runner

ROSA PARKS 1913-2005

The 2005 General Election is Tuesday, Nov. 8 Inside this issue candidates discuss their strengths, weaknesses and why Houstonians should vote for them. Houston Highlight

Publishing, L.L.C., publisher even gets the candidates to rate the City on it’s response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. See Page 1B

Other Candidates Favored By Poll Participants Race For Mayor

At-Large Position#3

District B

District H

Bill White (i) 81%

Sekula-Gibbs (i) 81%

Jarvis Johnson 48%

Adrian Garcia (i) 74%

At-Large Position#1

At-Large Position#5

District C

District I

Peter Brown 75%

Michael Berry (i) 83%

George Hittner 62%

Carol Alvarado (i) 71%

At-Large Position#2

District A

District F

Jay Aiyer 45%

Toni Lawrence (i) 86%

M.J. Khan (i) 70%

Proposition #2 64% For Prop #2

Jarvis Johnson (Left) garnered 48% of the votes in the District B poll. FOR COMPLETE BREAKDOWN SEE SECTION B.

Heroine Remembered

House Wants To Go To The Big House

BROWN ON FAST TRACK

In 1943 and 1944 Rosa Parks tried to register to vote but was denied both times. Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., would like to pay tribute to the memory of Rosa Parks an American heroine. SEE PAGE 1B.

Gladys M. House A LongTime Community Activist Launches Campaign To Become Mayor of Houston Gladys M. House, president and CEO of Carpet Depot, a local carpet and tile company is on a mission to become Houston’s first AfricanAmerican female mayor. Having volunteered for over 25 years with the Freedman’s Town A s s o c i a t i o n in House Houston’s 4th Ward provides House a strong connection to Houston’s inner-city neighborhoods— this could aid her in her bid. One of the knocks on Mayor Bill White, is many within the AfricanAmerican community feel he doesn’t involve the community enough before crucial decisions are made that effect the community. As a matter of fact, well known Houston minister Robert Muhammad, the southwest regional minister for the Nation of Islam is quoted in Houston’s only daily as saying, “His weakness is lack of community input and not utilizing longterm senior staff members in the administration.” House just beat the filling deadline to enter the race for mayor and is ready to fund her campaign on her own if need be. She may be fighting an uphill battle, but she is determined and will not be deterred by anyone she told Houston Business Connections during this interview. Her competition in the race for mayor are Bill White the current mayor, Anthony Dutrow a meat packer, Jack Terence publisher of the Houstonian, and Luis Ullrich, a selfemployed contractor. The following is House’s response to a series of questions posed to her by Please see HOUSE, P.10

Considering Bankruptcy? Law changes may lead to prolonged hardship ALL SMILES: Peter Brown, candidate for Houston City Council At-Large Position 1, (Right) is joined at the “Grand Opening” of his campaign headquarters located 3907 Main Street by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, (Left) and his guest speaker for the occasion Henry Cisneros former Secretary of Housing and Mayor of San Antonio, Texas, (Center).

Full Steam Ahead Architect Peter Brown has Grand “Grand Opening” Recently over 200 supporters of Peter Brown gathered at his campaign headquarters for it’s grand opening. Community leaders,elected officials, family and friends got a treat from special guest, former Secretary of Housing and Mayor of San Antonio, Henry Cisneros. Peter and Henry entered the office located at 3907

Main via the light rail. Enthusiastic supporters applauded them as they walked from the rail line to the campaign headquarters. Peter Brown an architect and urban planner is the front runner for Houston City Council At Large Please see CAMPAIGN, P.12

Marsh knows the value of a dollar Houston-Based fastest Growing ISP, Web-Hoster wired for success

Marsh

Robert Marsh knows the value of a dollar. $10 dollars to be exact. A promotion to get his new business going in October, 1998, has helped Everyones Internet to soar into cyberspace earning many millions. The concept of “Just $10 Bucks” a month, with Please see MARSH, P.10

By David Moakler CEO, HomeSavers USA The new bankruptcy law will have a great impact on consumers making it much harder for them to wipe out their debt completely. Those whose incomes are above their state average will be forced to file Chapter 13, instead of Chapter 7 which gives a fresh start, meaning consumers will be required to repay much of their outstanding debt over 5 years. Those being impacted the most include sinPlease see BANKRUPTCY, P.12

INDEX From the Publisher's Desk …………..…...2 The Range Rover For 2006 ..………..…...2 Ernster Receives President’s Award ........3 Stress & It’s Impact On You ......................4 Gov. Perry Gains Major Endorsement .... .5 Beat High Gas Prices With Moore............6 Jodie Jiles Achieves Another Milestone....6 Deciding The Best Leasing Option ...........7 Staying Plugged In While You’re Out .......8 2005 Election Guide ...............................1B Online Poll Results .................................2B Candidates Answers To Questionnaire ..2B Questions & Answers About e-Slate .....2B Tribute To Rosa Parks..........................10B

Enron Turns Over Nearly $7 Million in Delinquent Property Taxes Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Paul Bettencourt recently announced that the county’s delinquent tax attorneys have collected $6.9 million in delinquent property taxes from several Enron subsidiaries

in the largest bankruptcy collection in the county's history. “This record collection returns millions of dollars to where they rightly belong — to the residents of Harris

County, Houston and HISD,” said Bettencourt. “Attorneys with Linebarger Please see ENRON, P.10

AUTOMOTIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS/Publisher’s Page

The Range Rover For 2006 The Range Rover for 2006 is the most refined, most luxurious and most powerful Range Rover ever. Two new petrol engines – including a powerful supercharged 4.2-litre – are complemented by fresh exterior design details, a quieter interior and a profusion of new technology. “The Range Rover has always been the world's most complete luxury SUV,” says Land Rover's managing director Matthew Taylor. “With this new, even more refined flagship for the company, we believe that the best luxury SUV in the world is now even better.”

HHP

The latest Range Rover joins the recently announced, dynamic Range Rover Sport, which has extended the Land Rover line-up to five models for the first time. “The two Range Rover models complement each other perfectly,” says Matthew Taylor. “The Range Rover for 2006 is our luxury SUV. The Range Rover Sport is our performance SUV, a driver-focussed sports tourer. Two different models will enable us to compete even more successfully in the market and take the Range Rover name to even greater success.”

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.

nother Election Day is upon us and many candidates are vying for your vote. Some deserving—some are not so deserving. Personal views aside—my only request is that you make an informed voting decision on Election Day. That’s why we’ve gone to such great lengths to pull together our 2005 VOTERS GUIDE. While we do not endorse political candidates, our “Election Poll” was of great interest to the political campaigns. I would like to thank all those who participated in the poll. I furthermore look forward to more people taking part in our next poll. Nothing pleases me more than to say over 18,000 votes were cast in the poll and I’m hopeful that we will have greater participation in the upcoming March Primary polls. With that said, I must personally thank the following individuals for making our 2005 VOTERS GUIDE possible: Gladys House, M.J. Khan, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Shelly Sekula-Gibbs, Judge Georgia Dempster, K.A. Khan, Brian Cweren, Dr. Eddie Watson, John Shike, Jarvis Johnson, and Michael Stoma. As always, none of what we do to serve the community would be possible without the support of our many advertisers and readers. I hope you enjoy this issue and wish all the candidates much success in their respective races.

Kesa Guest

Executive Sales Associate

Star Achiever

Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Mailing: 957 Nasa Parkway #251 Houston, TX 77058. Connections Line: (832)212-8735 Fax Line: (530)348-6423 Email News & Press Release info to: news@houstonbusinessconnections.com Houston Business Connections is published on a monthly basis by Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. all right reserved. No articles may be copied, rewritten, published, or otherwise distributed without the prior written approval of the publisher. For special requests email: aubrey@houstonbusinessconnections.com

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

2 • NOVEMBER • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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NEWS & COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Cletus P. Ernster III Receives the President’s Award from NAACP Local attorney leads the fight against racial profiling in Dillard’s department stores Houston based attorney Cletus P. Ernster, III, received a Special President’s Award at the October 7th NAACP State Convention in Dallas, Texas. The theme of the convention was “Conscience of a Nation”. Mr. Ernster was recognized for his commitment to addressing consumer racial profiling and racial justice in the African-

Ernster

American community. “Mr. Ernster is so dedicated to the plight of those wrongly accused and mistreated at Dillard’s department stores that he has risked much personally to fight for justice,” says attorney Gary Bledsoe, President of the State NAACP branch. “His commitment exemplifies the convention theme and the goals of the

NAACP.” Recognized statewide in 2001 by Texas Lawyer as one of the state’s forty up and coming lawyers, Ernster has been described as a workhorse and tireless advocate of consumer rights. Mr. Ernster’s law firm, Cletus Ernster III, P.C., has filed Please see ERNSTER, P.10

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

WHY SETTLE FOR LESS THAN THE BEST? Mike Calvert Toyota opened for business in Houston over 20 years ago. The reputation of this dealership is built upon Fairness, Honesty, and being there after the sale. Our hard work earned the President’s Award for Customer Satisfaction. Call Andre’ Walker at 866-684-3446 or come by our Dealership located at 2333 South Loop West for a pleasant buying experience. There’s always a great selection to choose from. Easy financing! Call or come by TODAY!

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

MIKE CALVERT TOYOTA 2333 SOUTH LOOP WEST HOUSTON, TEXAS 77054

Caribbean Chamber Of Commerce (713) 977-8308 7171 Harwin Dr Houston, TX 77036 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

Andre’ Walker New & Preowned Sales (713)558-8252 Direct (832)283-1660 Cell

Clear Lake Shores Chamber Of Commerce (281) 488-7676 1201 Nasa Rd 1 Apollo, TX 77058

Email: usedcars@mikecalverttoyota.com

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 Please see LISTING, P.5

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• Houston Business Connections Monthly • NOVEMBER • 3

HEALTH TALK

WITH DR. JANICE M. BEAL

Stress & It’s Impact On You By: Dr. Janice M. Beal Houston Business Connections Columnist “I have a deadline tomorrow at three,” “The traffic was horrible,” “I don’t like my new boss,” “My spouse will not let up,” or “Oh My Children........” These statements are often said by people who are experiencing some form of stress. This six letter word is probably one of the most frequently used in the English language. Everyone at some point in their lives experience a certain amount of stress that may overcome their natural Dr. Beal coping abilities. The important factor is how you handle stress. Stress is defined as an environmental stimulus that affects an organism in physically psychologically injurious ways, usually producing anxiety, tension, and physiological arousal. Because we are individuals each person views a situation in a different way. What may be stressful for one may not be stressful for another person. What becomes most important is for you to be able to identify the sources of your stress and how these situations are affecting you. The process for learning to control stress is life-long and will not only contribute to better health, but a greater ability to succeed in one’s own plans.

under tension or stress, an ordinary workload can sometimes seem unbearable. The best way to cope with this feeling of being overwhelmed is to take one task at a time. Pick one urgent task and work on it. Once you accomplish that task, choose the next one. The positive feeling of “checking off” tasks is very satisfying. It will motivate you to keep going. Exercise. Regular exercise is a popular way to relieve stress. Twenty to thirty minutes of physical activity benefits both the body and the mind. Healthy life style. Good nutrition makes a difference. Limit intake of caffeine and alcohol (alcohol actually disturbs

regular sleep patterns), get adequate rest, exercise, and balance work and play. Share your feelings. A conversation with a friend lets you know that you are not the only one having a bad day, caring for a sick child or working in a busy office. Stay in touch with friends and family. Let them provide love, support and guidance. Don’t try to cope alone. Where to Get Help Help may be as close as a friend or spouse. But if you think that you or someone you know may be under more stress than just dealing with a passing difficulty, it may be helpful to talk with your doctor,

spiritual advisor, or employee assistance professional. They may suggest you visit with a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or other qualified counselor. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dr. Janice M. Beal is the Clinical Director for Beal Counseling Associates a community mental health agency. The agency specializes in Anger Management, Behavioral Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Depression. Dr. Janice M. Beal can be contacted at (713)522-1721. Beal Counseling Associates is located at 2520 Rosewood St. @ Live Oak in Houston, Texas.

Tips for reducing or controlling stress As you read the following suggestions, remember that success will not come from a half hearted effort, nor will it come overnight. It will take determination, persistence and time. Some suggestions may help immediately, but if your stress is chronic, it may require more attention and/or lifestyle changes. Determine YOUR tolerance level for stress and try to live within these limits. Learn to accept or change stressful and tense situations whenever possible. Be realistic. If you feel overwhelmed by some activities (yours and/or your family’s), learn to say NO! Eliminate an activity that is not absolutely necessary. You may be taking on more responsibility than you can or should handle. If you meet resistance, give reasons why you’re making the changes. Be willing to listen to other’s suggestions and be ready to compromise. Shed the “superman/superwoman” urge. No one is perfect, so don’t expect perfection from yourself or others. Ask yourself, “What really needs to be done? How much can I do? Is the deadline realistic? What adjustments can I make?” Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Meditate. Just ten to twenty minutes of quiet reflection may bring relief from chronic stress as well as increase your tolerance to it. Use the time to listen to music, relax and try to think of pleasant things or nothing. Visualize. Use your imagination and picture how you can manage a stressful situation more successfully. Whether it’s a business presentation or moving to a new place, many people feel visual rehearsals boost self-confidence and enable them to take a more positive approach to a difficult task. Take one thing at a time. For people

4 • NOVEMBER • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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ENDORSEMENT NEWS Texas’ largest association pledges its support for Perry AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Association of Realtors has announced its decision to endorse Rick Perry in his reelection bid as Texas governor. Making the statement recently at the organization’s annual convention in Corpus Christi, TAR Chairman Lance Lacy applauded the governor’s commitment to strengthening the rights of private-property owners across the state. “Gov. Perry has continued to side with homeowners, and that is why we are siding with him today,” said Lacy. “The Texas Association of Realtors Executive Board voted unanimously to endorse Gov. Perry in his re-election bid to continue to be the governor of the great state of Texas.” Under the governor’s leadership, Texas

lawmakers guaranteed private-property owners state-level protection from eminent domain for private profit, passed consumer-friendly insurance reform legislation and created another avenue for homeowners to contest their property appraisals without having to file a costly lawsuit. “I am honored to have the endorsement of the 75,000 Perry members of the Texas Association of Realtors,” Perry said. “These men and women recognize that I have worked hard to make the dream of homeownership more affordable for Texas families. I will continue to fight for real property tax relief that includes lower rates, more

taxpayertransparency and new taxpayer protections that will stop government from growing too fast.” The first Texas A & M graduate to occupy the Governor’s Mansion, Rick Perry was sworn in as Texas’ 47th governor on Dec. 12, 2000. He was elected to a four-year term in November 2005. A fifth generation Texan, Gov. Perry understands the importance of the right to own and use real property, and the Texas Association of Realtors believes he is dedicated to helping Texans realize the American dream of homeownership. “Since Gov. Perry took office, he has been a staunch advocate for Texas consumers,” said Benny McMahan, CEO of the Texas Association of Realtors.

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

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Listing continued from P.3 Houston Hispanic Chambers Of Commerce (713) 644-7215 2900 Woodridge Dr Houston, TX 77087 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 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?

281.477.6767

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Te x a s

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

20O5 DODGE RAM 1500

H o u s t o n ,

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

7 7 0 1 7

Please see LISTING, P.9

• Houston Business Connections Monthly • NOVEMBER • 5

SERVICES

HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS REPORTS

ty, and integrity,” says Antwan Moore, the founder and CEO of the company. “We treat our drivers as part of the family and our clients are part of the family also,” he says. Moore a graduate of Houston’s Westbury High School is very knowledgeable of the Houston market because he’s spent all of his life in Houston. “I know Houston like the back of my hand,” says this confident business owner. “My drivers are just as knowledgeable as I am of the Houston area…this saves our customers money because we take the shortest routes to get their packages to their desired destinations,” he says. Founded by Moore in March of 2000, Moore Moore Transportation Services Transportation Services opened its doors when Medical Billing Services asked Moore to be their Can Help Houstonians to Beat the personal courier. Since then, Moore has grown his High Gas Prices In Houston company from a one-man operation into a corporation with over twenty-five drivers. According to Moore, he attributes the company’s growth to the ouston area gas prices are simply outra- faith he has in God and the support of his family, geous. These days everyone is feeling the workers, and friends who have been there for him pinch of the high gasoline prices—espe- every step of the way. cially Houston area business The company specializes owners. If you’re driving in hotshots, mail runs, and genaround town in a mid-size car, eral delivery services. truck, or SUV—you know “With gasoline prices so exactly what we’re talking high…business people should about. With no end in sight, let Moore Transportation experts feel prices are certain Services do their running for to rise even higher over the them,” says Aubrey R. Taylor, coming weeks. Some say gas president and CEO of Houston prices could reach as much as Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., $5 dollars per gallon. Since the publisher of Houston prices are certain to rise, Business Connections. “I’ve Houstonians are certain to found Antwan Moore and his begin looking for options to DRIVEN TO SUCCEED: Antwan Moore has company to be very dependsave money. One good option grown Moore Transportation Services from a able and they treat you like could be to begin using a one-man operation into a corporation with you are their number one conmore than twenty-five drivers. With gas prices delivery service. You may be at record levels, delivery service providers like cern,” he says. “They’re not so surprised at how inexpensive it Moore can help your business save dollars. big where you are just is to let someone else do the another number…however running around town for you. If you have employ- they are big enough to service your every need.” ees running errands or simple mail runs during the The corporate headquarters for Moore course of doing business, you could be liable for an Transportation Services is located at 2600 South accident—should one occur. This alone is reason Loop West Suite #630 in Houston, Texas. For more enough to consider using a delivery service to cut costs. information or to begin experiencing the fast, “Moore Transportation Services is a Houston, friendly, and on time every time service of Texas based courier service which operates under Moore Transportation Service you should call four core principles; honesty, trustworthiness, loyal- (713) 668-0500.

High Gas Prices Got You Down?

GLOBAL TSU Alumnus Leslie Mays Joins Pfizer In New Diversity Leadership Position Pfizer Inc. recently announced that Leslie Mays has joined the company as vice president of global diversity and inclusion. In this new position, Mays is responsible for developing and leading the design and implementation of global diversity strategies and plans for Pfizer. Mays has a broad range of human resources and change management experience, most recently with Royal Dutch Shell Group where she served for the last nine years. As vice president/head of global diversity and inclusiveness at Shell, Mays established the first auditable global diversity and inclusiveness policy in a global corporation. Prior to joining Shell, Mays held leadership positions at General Mills and Reebok. “This executive level role demonstrates an important and tangible step in achieving Pfizer’s goal of attracting, developing and engaging a diverse workforce,” said Sylvia Montero, senior vice president of Corporate Human Resources at Mays Pfizer Inc. “As a leading corporate diversity and inclusion specialist, we are pleased to bring Leslie aboard to not only develop best practice strategies, but also to build on Pfizer's current diversity platform.” A native of Houston, Mays earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Texas Southern University, and is active in a number of professional associations.

Greater Houston Partnership Chairman achieves yet another milestone Jodi Lee Jiles, chair of the Greater Houston Partnership and senior vice president of First Albany Capital has achieved yet another milestone. Jiles has been named to the board of directors of the Houston branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. He currently serves on the board of directors for Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital, University of Texas Health Science Center Development Board, University of Texas at Austin Development Board, and is chairman of the Houston Community College System Jiles Performance Audit Committee. Jiles was also appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Interim Commission on Higher Education. At First Albany Capital Jiles’ main responsibilities include coordinating municipal finance operation and implementing strategic marketing plans with targeted clients throughout the Southwest. In his newly appointed position to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Board, Jiles will serve the remaining portion of an unexpired three-year term ending in 2007.

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

Moore Transportation Services “You’ll Get More With Moore” • SCHEDULED COURIER SERVICES • GUARANTEED QUALITY SERVICE

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“Moore Transportation Services was founded by Antwan 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 6 • NOVEMBER • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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AUTOMOTIVE BUYING TIPS BY FRED HOYER

Deciding Which Leasing Option Is Best For You By Fred Hoyer Fleet and Leasing Manager Bayway Lincoln Mercury Everyone at one time or another will purchase a new car or truck. One of the most popular forms of purchasing a new automobile is leasing. Leasing is the most common in luxury car lines, such as Lincoln, Cadillac, BMW, and Mercedes etc. Some advantages of leasing are lower monthly payments, more automobile for the money, ability to change automobiles every 2 to 3 years, and the vehicle remains under warranty during the lease term. Some things shouldn’t be done when leasing a vehicle. First, never lease an

automobile for more than 3 years. Secondly, make sure the miles allowed are 15,000 miles per year. Finally, do not lease an automobile if you cannot stay close to the mileage limitations as stated in the contract. There are two types of leases —Open -end and Close-end. Import dealers mostly use an Open-end lease and in my opinion, it is not a consumer friendly lease. The Open-end lease gives the consumer no options at the end of the lease. Take this example: you lease a new car or truck at $500 a month for 36 months, with a lease end value of $19,000. Lease end value is what the car would be sold to you for at the end of the lease period. Using an

Open-end lease you have no options at the end of the lease —you must purchase the car or truck at the $19,000 sales price. You can refinance or pay cash, but you are forced to buy the car as stated in your contract. Avoid the Open-end lease at all cost. Now lets talk about a Close-end lease. The domestic car lines mostly use a Closeend lease. I recommend this lease if you’re going to lease a new car or truck. Using this lease, you have options available at the end of the lease. First, at the end of the lease it is your choice whether you purchase the car or truck. Secondly, you can return the car to the dealership and purchase or lease a new car or truck. Thirdly, you can walk away from the lease at the

end of the lease period—if you desire to do so. However, you are responsible for mileage charges if you exceed the mileage allowed or if any damage is inflicted to the vehicle as stipulated in your contract. The Close-end lease in my opinion, is the more consumer friendly leasing option. I would recommend this option to anyone planning to lease a new car or truck. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– If you have any other questions regarding financing or leasing a new or used car or truck, contact Fred Hoyer at Bayway Lincoln Mercury at (281) 929-6500 or by email at Fred@BaywayLincolnMercury.com

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• Houston Business Connections Monthly • NOVEMBER • 7

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

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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.

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“For CFOs, job pressures build up year-round, and vacations often are delayed because of busy work periods and financial reporting schedules,” said Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. “Even a brief respite can help executives recharge and refocus once they are back at the office.” McDonald added, “Technology tools such as wireless e-mail devices, laptops and cell phones make it

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8 • NOVEMBER • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

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Plugged

BUSINESS SHOWCASE &

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continued from P.8 easy to keep in touch with the office and are frequent companions for vacationing executives. They offer instant connectivity but prevent much-needed breaks from work.” McDonald offers several tips for executives who want to be accessible yet still enjoy plenty of rest and relaxation: * Designate point persons. Inform key parties well in advance of your upcoming absence and appoint someone you trust to manage major projects and daily responsibilities on your behalf. * Provide staff with clear instructions. Let your team know upfront what matters would require your immediate attention and those that can wait for your return. Request they offer solutions to urgent issues they communicate to you. * Be specific in out-ofoffice messages. State in your out-of-office e-mail responses and voice-mail recordings whom to contact for requests in your absence and when you will return to the office. * Determine "check in" times. If you must check e-mail and voice mail, do so during specific times, such as early morning or evening. Let your staff know when you will be checking in to avoid interruptions throughout the day. * Understand the importance of a vacation. Recognize that breaks are a necessity, not a luxury. Don’t minimize the value of taking enough time to recharge. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

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

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continued from P.5

IGON

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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.

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

• Houston Business Connections Monthly • NOVEMBER • 9

Ernster

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

continued from P3 more than 100 cases against Dillard’s department stores; alleging racial profiling and race discrimination against African-American customers. At the Conference of NAACP branches, held in October of 2003, the Texas State branches resolved that appropriate and serious forms of direct action, both locally and nationally, against retail establishments such as Dillard’s that appear to have a historical pattern of practicing and perpetuating racial profiling against AfricanAmericans be approved at the national level. The NAACP has criticized Dillard’s for nearly twenty years for their practices and unwillingness to change management policies. Mr. Ernster holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Trinity University and is a graduate of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He is a member of the State Bar of Texas, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, The Association of Trial Lawyers of America, and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law Alumni Association.

Enron continued from P.1 Goggan Blair & Sampson stuck with this case for years to ensure that their clients and city and county residents got their money for schools and other public services. It’s very rare in a bankruptcy case like this to collect such a big payment, much less all of the base tax owed.” Harris County and the City of Houston will collect $3.5 million of the $6.9 million, with most of the remainder going to the Houston Independent School District. The payments represent delinquent 2001 property and business personal property taxes on Enron’s downtown office building at 1400 Smith and its furnishings and equipment. Attorneys with Linebarger Goggan collected the payment in 48 checks. The $6.9 million is in addition to about $1.1 million the Tax Office, the Harris County District Attorney's Office and the Harris County Appraisal District collected from Enron Broadband Services through the same bankruptcy court in December 2002. Enron’s payment more than doubles the county's previous record for a bankruptcy payment, the $3.2 million collected from WorldCom in October 2004. “What District Attorney Chuck Rosenthal and Chief Appraiser Jim Robinson proved in 2002 was the magnitude of the fraud that Enron Broadband tried to perpetrate on the public,” said Bettencourt. “The good news today is that this most recent payment bodes well for any companies emerging from Enron’s bankruptcy proceedings, because the public property tax bill will have effectively been paid in full.” Officials with Linebarger Goggan said the $6.9 million represents the largest bankruptcy collection in the Houston office's history and that it effectively ends claims against the Enron companies, with the exception of some smaller collection activity.

Marsh continued from P.1 lots of features which are constantly upgraded and no contract for an internet dial-up service, became the permanent mantra that catapulted ev1.net into the enviable position of the fastest growing ISP (internet service provider) in Texas. The philosophy from the beginning has been to develop a world-class network and sell at below-market prices. “Folks are a lot more price sensitive than they were in the past,” Marsh, Everyones Internet President and CEO says. “The value concept is well-positioned in today’s economy.” Entrepreneurial since his lemonade stand days at age 9,

House For Mayor continued from P.1 Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO of Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C., the publisher of Houston Business Connections. TAYLOR: What will you do for the city that perhaps the current administration is not currently doing? HOUSE: Houstonians will be given a greater voice by empowerment, giving them a forum to give meaningful input on the planning and development of their neighborhoods and the City of Houston as a whole. If Houston is to become a great city, it must be inclusive of its citizens and not only major developers and the wealthy. TAYLOR: What can city employees expect from your administration if you are elected mayor on November 8, 2005? HOUSE: City employees must be respected and appreciated by city administrators. Too often consultants and department heads are selected outside Houston and Texas which says that Houstonians are not qualified to manage the direction of their own city. Our city employees have been doing a great job for many years and getting their input to better cut costs and be more efficient is key—not forcing them into retirement and gambling with their pensions. TAYLOR: Do you feel citizens are currently informed as well as they should be? HOUSE: Citizens must be made aware of what is going on at city hall by first being part of the serious decision-making process. Making decisions for citizens and then conducting a townhall meeting is the improper procedure if you respect and understand “We, the People...” TAYLOR: What are some of your short and long terms plans for the city of Houston? HOUSE: Short and long term plans for Houston will focus first on empowering neighborhoods to plan and develop or re-develop their future and tie into the long term plans for the city at large. I would divide Houston into four quarters, NW, NE, SW and SE and focus on the priority needs and resolutions for each. I would work monthly on addressing these concerns and provide quarterly reports to each household in Houston. This prevents the eventual hiring of any consultant to do what citizens and city employees already in place are capable doing. TAYLOR: How would you handle a crisis such as the one city leadership is currently having to deal with? HOUSE: First, get population/census information from the mayor of New Orleans. Call a meeting with NBUF, SHAPE, BUF, Shrine of Black Madonna, United Way, Red Cross, etc. and other applicable groups for immediate action. Order emergency pickup via ship, plane, etc. Have medical teams ready to treat families upon arrival as they exit transport, have food, water and clothing ready to hand to each family. Assign color-coded housing or sections each family will go to so that they could easily be located. A list would be posted at each color-coded location so that all participants could locate their loved ones immediately rather than trying to do email or some other ridiculous approach. Each color would represent a quarter of the city to avoid concentration of so many in one location that causes disease/viruses to spread. Housing would initially be

while at college in Arkansas Robert Marsh rehabilitated a grand, historic single screen movie theatre. At age 21, in 1991, he cofounded Beeper Boutique with his father introducing beepers in a variety of styles and colors to consumers at value prices. Always looking for growth potential in communications, he was one of the three principals behind the launch of Everyones Internet. Not having much money to start with, “we had to pull it together on our bootstraps,” says Marsh. “We had to make it work with less (and still are cost-conscious). Others have huge money behind them and have blown through hundreds of millions of dollars – and they’re still not profitable.” Marsh doesn’t believe in growing gray before sharing his good fortune with the community.

His other passions: children, including his son, and animals. Robert and his wife Michelle and his brother Roy and wife Kathi are generous supporters of Houston Children’s Charity a non-profit umbrella group that helps many child-involved agencies in the Houston area. The Marshes are also involved with Citizens for Animal Protection and its volunteer adoption shelter for abused and abandoned animals, and Greyhound Pets of America (a local greyhound rescue group). United Cerebral Palsy, and the Jewish Community Center Children’s Carnival, are a few more of the groups the supported by the Marshes. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contact Everyones Internet by logging on to www.ev1.net or call the corporate office at (713) 333-SURF.

10 • NOVEMBER • Houston Business Connections Monthly •

MAKING HER RUN: Gladys M. House has served Houston’s 4th Ward community for more that 25 years and is now making a run to become Houston’s first African American female mayor.

in motels, hotels, and tents while temporary permanent housing would be established. TAYLOR: What is your view on what capital improvements are needed currently in the city? HOUSE: Capital improvements of infrastructure, sewer, and streets must be more fairly applied. Presently, disadvantaged neighborhoods in Houston receive blacktop while Caucasian communities receive concrete streets, and this is unfair. Each period during CIP (Capital Improvement Project) Houstonians are asked to submit their needs for their community, but disadvantaged communities never receive fulfillment. The city uses these communities’ demographics to obtain state and federal funding, but upon receipt of the funds, the city re-directs funding elsewhere. TAYLOR: You mentioned several times that the current administration is unfair. In your opinion, who is benefiting from this perceived unfairness? HOUSE: City government is biased and favors the major developers and wealthy, while being arrogant and insensitive to the everyday citizen requesting assistance. TAYLOR: If elected what are some immediate changes you would initiate? HOUSE: I would make city hall more Houstonian friendly and inclusiveness of citizens would be the immediate change upon my being elected and sworn in as mayor of Houston. Empowering Houstonians to give their input and be a part of the direction the city is headed would make the difference. TAYLOR: Why should the citizens of Houston vote to give you the opportunity to become the city’s first African American female mayor? HOUSE: If Houstonians want to be respected and included in helping to make their city grow and prosper for all citizens, then they will vote for me. Houston can’t continue the route of favoritism and unfairness along with the attack on city employees. There are difficult times ahead and we must prepare ourselves for them.

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• Houston Business Connections Monthly • NOVEMBER • 11

Bankruptcy continued from P.1 gle parent moderate and low income minority families and individuals of modest means hit with unexpected expenses such as divorce losses or medical bills. According to the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), African American and Latino homeowners are 500 percent more likely than white homeowners to find themselves in bankruptcy court largely due to discrimination in home mortgage lending and housing purchases as well as inequalities in hiring opportunities, wages and health insurance coverage. For the purposes of preventing the very few “true abuse” cases where the rich use the bankruptcy laws to turn their back on creditors, the new law will force the masses of filers that really do need a fresh start to prolong their hardships. Hassles and Hurdles of Filing Ahead As of October 17, filers will be sent from the attorney’s office to a credit-counseling center where they will be required to have their ability to pay evaluated. This will be called a “means test.” If a monthly budget shows they earn over the median income for their state, have over $166 left after paying the basics or even have enough disposable income to pay their debts down by 25% over a 60 month term, they will not eligible be able to file Chapter 7. Instead, they will be forced to pay their debt through a Chapter 13 wage-earner plan for a 3 to 5 year period. Even if consumers meet the guidelines for a fresh start (Chapter 7), filers will be required to complete a financial education course before they are granted a discharge of their debt.

jurisdictions with no limit on the amount of home equity one could keep during bankruptcy: Florida, Texas, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Washington DC. The new law will limit the homestead exemption to $125,000 unless the consumer has owned the property 40 months and has lived there for 2 years. With these new changes, the notorious homestead exemption will cease as we know it, putting an end to shelter strategies that were so often used by the infamous such as Scott Sullivan of Enron fame. Bad Timing of New Law Although this law has been 8 years in the making, it arrives just as troubling trends are in place. Citibank and other credit card companies have raised the minimum payment required on account holders from 2% of the balance to 4%. Other credit card companies are expected to do the same by the end of the year. Perhaps it is because they will soon be required to post the num-

ber of months each cardholder will be paying if they make the minimum payment each month, or perhaps they will be embarrassed to print that it will take 88 months to pay down $1,000 at a 17% interest rate. Nonetheless, if cardholders see their minimum monthly payments double, some will get pushed over the edge. New Filing Costs In the past, the average cost of filing a simple Chapter 7 was well under $1,000. The new law bumps the filing fees by $60 and also requires attorneys to do more work on each case that will boost estimated cost of legal fees by 25 to 50%. ___________________________ If you’re having trouble with debt, call the National Bankruptcy Hotline at (800) 5743377. Learn your options, it’s free! If you’re falling behind on your mortgage payments, visit www.homesaversusa.com or call the mortgage relief hotline at 800-452-9572.

Campaign continued from P.1 Position 1. The third generation Houstonian is a renowned professional who has received the FAIA designation, the industry's highest honor. By the crowd you could tell that Peter is no stranger in Houston. The diverse crowd supported Brown’s statement that he is a candidate for all the citizens of Houston and has a vision for the city's future. In addressing the large crowd of supporters Cisneros said “It is an honor to have some one who has accomplished so much in his profession to be willing to sacrifice for the betterment of the city. Peter’s hand has been on many major developments in Houston. From The Main Street Project to Light Rail, Peter has been there. His design team won the interna-

tional design competition for the restoration of Herman Park. I’ve sat and talked with this man and I know he will be a great leader for this city and I know he will Help Build A Better Houston,” said Cisneros. Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee expressed words of support for Brown at the event as well. Peter has been endorsed by numerous organizations and elected officials. He has been endorsed by the likes of Congressman Al Green, Rev. Bill Lawson, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, Former NAACP President Howard Jefferson, Constable May Walker, The Afro-American Sheriff Deputy League and many others. _________________________ For more information you can call Peter’s campaign office at 713-528-0049 or visit his website at www.peterbrownforcouncil.org

How will this affect my car loan? Before the new law, consumers who had car loans would see the balance of their car note shrink to the value of the car, called an “auto loan cram-down.” The new law will eliminate this. Instead, the consumer will still owe the full balance, even if it far surpasses the current value of the car. The consumer will risk repossession, if they cannot continue making payments at the current level. Housing Changes The new law also places limits on the “automatic stay,” general rules that immediately halt most collection actions and lawsuits against someone filing for bankruptcy. Among other things, the “automatic stay” no longer stops or postpones evictions after a foreclosure proceeding. Another new change, the new law will make it easier for the lender to contest the filing as fraudulent if the homeowner or spouse has filed in the recent past. Tenants who are behind on their rent will also have a harder time staying in their dwelling with this new law. Limited Homestead Exemption In the past, there were eight

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