Houston Political Blog

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

A Match made in City Hall heaven...

Update: Thanks to Ms. Nikki Cooper, we now have a great photo of the happy couple shortly after they got engaged at the Astros.  Nikki reminded me that Jose worked for Mayor White and she worked for Council Member Mark Goldberg when they first met.  Congrats!

Earlier: No, no ... not Jose and Gio.. but until they send me a photo... this is what you get! Actually, congratulations go out to Jose Soto and Nikki Cooper, who were engaged on Friday, during the Astros Game! And, there was no popcorn throwing in sight... awww... Jose is seen on the left, Giovanni Garibay on the right.

After a few years of dating across rival cubicles, Jose finally asked Nikki to marry him, or as he put it:  A very good ball and chain.  Both worked for various City Council members (Jose was chief of staff for Council Member Sue Lovell) and now work in different city departments.  Jose's former house mate and new Comcast government hack Giovanni Garibay failed to email this blog a timely photo of the happy couple.  Then again, it should be pointed out that Garibay is the only remaining "City Hall Trio" who remains lacking a better half.  Current council candidate James Rodriguez, Soto, and Garibay were all house mates at one point in time.  Rodriguez is married, Soto engaged, and Garibay has left City Hall.

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

Who needs City Hall to light the Mecom?

I snapped this photo of the Mecom fountain at night a few days ago.  No, your eyes are not deceiving you, the city has not replaced the stolen light bulbs.  The most iconic fountain in our city still can not shine from within, long after thieves stoled the copper housing, and the bulbs that went with them.  In fact, efforts to fix the problem has been so bogged down that the Hotel Zaza is lighting the Mecom.  Giant floodlights mounted on the roof of the hotel shine down on the fountain every night.  Obviously, part of that benefits hotel guests, as many of the rooms overlook the fountain.  However, it is a vast improvement than a dark fountain easy for our talented Houston drivers to run into!  Now... if we can just get those bulbs replaced, reworked.. or something!

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

So that's where the Mayors are...

Actually, I hear former Mayor Bob Lanier was at the Hobby's house, toasting to Senate candidate Rick Noriega... As for where the other two who are about town were, both made it to the Greater Houston Partnership's celebration of the Lucy exhibit at the Museum of Natural Science.  With Mayor Bill White serving on the host committee, the event was packed with the business savvy and the politically powerful.  As is his usual style, White said his opening remarks, then left to spend whatever time was left with his family.

Of course, the GHP is always looking for a chance to showcase its business footprint around town.  This time, CEO Jeff Moseley and his wife Jackie hosted the President of Ethiopia, among the packed house of 160.  Former Mayor Lee Brown made the scene, so did Council Member Ronald Green, Ada Edwards, attorney Charles Foster and his wife Lilly, and the man who spent a lot of time championing the cause -- State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

Much to his wife's dismay, GHP Board Member Michael Dee spent a good 10 minutes bending my ear about how wonderful the HISD bond proposal is. (He did eventually sit down for dinner!) Even though the Board has not taken a position, Dee is one of the chairs for the bond, and is very passionate.

Our main anchor Dave Ward was also on the host committee.  Besides his wife Laura, my boss Dave Strickland, and our GM Henry Florsheim were all present with their spouses. The event was filled to capacity, so much so that the dozen or so volunteers were initially seat-less.  But, yes! Seats were found, food was sent, and everyone ate well. And a final note, Mayor Brown says he's enjoying the consulting life, and only plans to play a supporting role in politics... as in:  supporting his buddy C.O. Bradford for District Attorney.

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

An unexpected alliance... to solve murders

The Acres Homes murders are on the minds of Houstonians again, with the body of the seventh victim discovered over the weekend.  Perhaps because there's been no major break throughs, perhaps there's a sense of timing... but an unexpected alliance has sprung from these unsolved murders.  Yesterday, Deric Muhammad, Robert Muhammad, Council Member Jarvis Johnson, HPD Homicide Asst. Chief Mike Dirden, and Capt. Steve Jett all stood together during a news conference.  Their goal?  To get the community to open up and tell what they know about these murders to the police, so the murders can be solved.

The scene was unusual, because the ministers admitted themselves that they are usually the ones criticizing the police.  We've all covered plenty of news conferences where Deric or Robert are often talking about a police brutality case or some sort of mistreatment.  When I asked if their constant criticism of the police department may have contributed to the lack of cooperation from the community, Robert admitted that they might have played a role, while Deric said he believes their anti-cop news conferences in the past have no effect on the community.  Whatever the reason, there was definitely an olive branch extended between the activists and the police, as both sides focused on what is truly important: solving the murders.  Maybe working with each other instead of against each other is a sign of things to come!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

A Marron Update... and then some

Okay, I've been in a mandated training session all morning.. so a little late on the blogging. There is also no City Council meeting this week, so council members can get all their campaigning in.  However, I should point out that the stuff I first reported on this blog last week regarding the driving record of council candidate John Marron is drawing some interesting comments.  In addition, the Chronicle's blog follows up with some other information... I should mention that in the process of looking into the Marron incident, I did try to contact the officer who first stopped him.  That officer, for some reason, is no longer with the Nassau Bay Police Dept.

let the campaigns continue!

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

YouTube spotlight: MetroRail vs. Houston Drivers

We know people make fun of Houston Drivers, we know the Light Rail is often the target of various rants.. then someone decided to put the two together.. using old Metro footage from the last few years... and.. Voila! Who needs political discussions when you can just have YouTube?

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

A question about John Marron...

John Marron, as most people know, is locked into a competitive race for the District I council seat.  This week, I asked his attorney Charles Flood a question:  Why did John Marron's driver's license get suspended in 2004?  Flood answered simply that his client refused to submit to a breath test, and that his license was suspended for six months.  Flood would not elaborate as to what led up to that point, other than to say:  "Nothing happened."  When I asked if it was because Marron was pulled over, he wouldn't say.  When I asked what happened to the case, he wouldn't talk about it.  But, according to court documents, Marron was indeed pulled over in the city of Nassau Bay in July of 2004.  He refused a breath test, as is his right.  Court documents show that he then, as routine, had his license suspended for 180 days.

It is unclear at this point whatever happened to the case.  While he was arrested on the suspicion of DUI, the case apparently dried up after the suspension of the license.  Hence, why Charles Flood may have continually stated that nothing happened.  Would this affect his election chances?  Who knows.  I have uploaded a few of the key court documents for you to read.  They are a little fuzzy, my scanner's not the best. 

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

HISD School Bond: A tough fight

I got too caught up in other stuff earlier this week, but I've been meaning to write something about the troubled HISD Bond.  Generally speaking, bonds tend to pass, with voters paying little attention to them.  BUT... not this one.  From the beginning, the $800 million proposal hit snags.  Primarily, many people from the Fifth Ward and other traditionally African American enclaves were very upset.  The initial proposal called for the closure of several historically significant schools, and brought out a number of community leaders against the project.  Since then, HISD has announced changes, and just today -- pointed out that the bond proposal would need no tax increase.  However, is it too little, too late?

Case in point, the Greater Houston Partnership, the affluent and influential business group that usually rubber stamps education related initiatives, took the rare step of not taking a position.  Its letter, signed by Board Chair John Hofmeister, points to community concerns.  Just click on the image to read full document.  In addition, the NAACP is still weighing its options.  State Reps. Sylvester Turner, and Harold Dutton, have all come out against it.  While most of the Board, and people like State Sen. Mario Gallegos supports the Bond, the fact that there is so much opposition is a rarity.  There are some on the inner circles who have pushed to have the proposal yanked from the November ballot, but that's not going to happen.  Frankly, the bond still might pass.  Dr. Abe Saavedra is making a strong push for it, with chief talking head Terry Abbot at his right hand.  Will HISD convince the voters? Maybe, but it will be a tougher fight than anyone expected.

The Asian Community: Win one, lose one

During the past two weeks, I've been accused of two thing:  1) playing favorites to the Asian Community, 2) Not being sensitive to the Asian Community.

Isn't that wonderful? I didn't realize I can play favorites and be against the community at the same time.  Well, as the old saying goes in Journalism:  When both sides are unhappy with you, at least you know you're doing your job.

1) Playing favorites.  This stems from the heartbreaking fight over the custody of little Raymond Liu.  Although his foster parents have been very nice to me, some of their supporters have managed to accuse me of being slanted and lumped me together with Martha Wong.  Of course, regular readers of this blog know very well that I'm not exactly one of Martha's favorite people.  Being able to speak Chinese certainly helped me cover the story, but that's a far cry from being slanted.

2) Not being sensitive to the Asian Community.  That notion, of course, comes from Jason Yoo, who has managed to call several leaders in the Asian community to try to pressure me into coming to my senses and stop blogging about a fellow Asian.  Considering he got his way with the airport concession on a 12-2 vote, I would say that Yoo would have been better off not calling anyone... just be happy.

See? Isn't being a reporter fun? Did I mention the five hour long City Council meetings? :-)