Houston Political Blog

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Mayor going to the Dogs

I picked up the newest edition of Houston Pet Talk magazine because my friend, Natalie and her dog Alex, are featured inside.  But then, who could avoid the cover?  It's a nice enough picture of the Mayor.. but that dog sure looks miserable.  Click on the photo to enlarge... it's quite obvious he's pouting:  "Why do I have to pose like this? Where is my bone? No, I will not smile!"  Inside the magazine, the editors asked several prominent Houstonians to share their thoughts on holiday virtues.  Mayor White chose the topic of Hope, while others like Carolyn Farb chose Compassion, Laughter, etc.  I just couldn't figure out why everyone else had a nice, smiling picture inside... and the picture of the Mayor was, well... we don't even see his face!  Instead, we get a nice shot of his pseudo-famous shiny head.  The fashion police is also wondering what's up with the white pants and black cowboy boots in a magazine's holiday edition! 

Where was his fashionably forward staffer Terence Fontaine to style the shoot?  How about his image conscious campaign manager Mustafa Tameez to cheer up the dog?  To be fair, I hear his staffers are busy shaking their head over another cover shot, on Health and Fitness Sports magazine.  This time, there is no unhappy dog to worry about.  Instead, staffers are greeted with the Mayor in his workout clothes, and those white tube socks.  White socks, black shoes, and Fontaine is shaking his head.  It also looks like he's sweating through that green jersey, but anyway.  To be fair, his campaign can argue that the Mayor is so busy running the city that he's just pausing briefly to snap a photo, or something like that.  Besides, he's always well dressed at City Council.  For guys, suits are easier than casual wear.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

Big honor for Buck and "Poppa Bird"

A standing ovation, a lot of clapping, and the Mayor talking about legs.  That's what greeted Thomas "Buck" Buchanan and Charles "Poppa Bird" Idlebrid at City Council today.  The two veterans of the Solid Waste Department recently retired.  Today, they got a rare honor: buildings named after them.  The Northwest Service Center was named after Buchanan, and the Southeast Service Center was named after Idlebird.

As the two men stood patiently basking in the glowing reviews from the City Council Members, Mayor Bill White decided to break up the monotony of the chatter by complaining about Buchanan's choice of wardrobe during the annual office Christmas party.  Apparently, Buchanan's choice of a kilt and bare legs never went over too well with the Mayor.  Quipped White:  "Your legs are about as scary as mine."  Much laughter all around.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

The Pro-Tem Shuffle!

Gee... for a job that nobody wanted a little more than a year ago, the back room race for the Mayor Pro-Tem title sure is heating up.  As I blogged about last week,  MJ Khan and Ronald Green are definitely in the running.  Now, I want to add the name of Sue Lovell, who is apparently also vying for the job.  Insiders tell me Lovell is lobbying various City Council members, although in a slightly different style than Khan.  Green, for his part, has maintained a fairly low profile, apparently not wanting to look like he HAS to have it to survive.

The battle for the Pro-Tem job, of course, is mostly symbolic.  For Khan and Green, it could be a higher profile title that offers a jump off point for their next political aspirations.  It's been said by more than a few people that both men are eying a run for Controller when their council terms are up.  When reached over the phone, Lovell wouldn't talk about her wishes regarding the Pro-Tem title other than to say:  "I will be happy to serve in whatever capacity the Mayor asks me to."  Funny that's what Khan and Green have said to me as well.  Have no fear, the behind the scenes jostling will get settled... and then everyone will appear happy and joyous when the Mayor nominates HIS choice for Mayor Pro Tem.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

A Synchronized Drive?

Driving through downtown is part of my daily commute, and over the years, I've mastered the quickest way to get from one end of downtown to another.  The zig-zag approach worked best with the "old" style of synchronization, which involved blocks of green lights at a time.  Now that the city is testing out this "rolling" synchronization, I took along a little camera to test the commute.  Depending on the time of day, I'm not sure if I'm doing a synchronized drive or a syncopated drive!  The video is long, because there is very little editing as I went from Market Square to the Spur.  Don't worry-- I didn't shoot and drive! As for Kevin, I paid special homage to your favorite on-ramp. Enjoy.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Gallegos Settlement?

Should be an interesting council meeting this week.   A while back, we reported about the lawsuit filed by Sen. Mario Gallegos relating to back pay from the City of Houston.  Since then, he's undergone a liver transplant, managed to hold off the voter ID bill in the Senate, and is now about to settle with the City of Houston.  The City would like to settle for $500,000 -- it will most likely get tagged at council on Wednesday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm working today... but not before snapping a photo with Mei Ling! Happy Turkey Day everyone!

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Dynamo Rally adds to Stadium Pressure

On a mild November evening, the Houston Dynamo were treated like heros in a rally on the steps of City Hall.  Unlike last year, there was actually a stage set up, and a whole lot of orange-clad fans showed their support.  Besides the fans and the Dynamo team, a lot of politicians took the time to show their Dynamo pride, and enjoy a little positive P.R.  Council members Toni Lawrence, Sue Lovell, Peter Brown, Anne Clutterbuck, Adrian Garcia, and Jarvis Johnson all eagerly bounded on to the stage clad in their favorite orange outfits.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis brought the kiddos out, and Congress woman Sheila Jackson-Lee hoisted an American flag.  Yep, she was there.  Mayor Bill White was there too.  Fans greeted the politicians with chants of "Where's our stadium, where's our stadium?"  Jackson-Lee jumped on the pro stadium bandwagon.  The Mayor didn't talk about it publicly. However, from talking to the fans, it was clear that a stadium was on everyone's minds.  Will the Dynamo and the City come to an agreement sooner rather than later?  We shall see.  In the meantime, enjoy some of the photos.

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Inauguration Expectation

Alright, there is no City Council meeting this week. (What? A week off, hey, I have to work!) Sooo.... i have a little vlog to keep us entertained.  I know Susan Christian's working really hard to get a decent inauguration planned.  If you ask her (and I have) where it's going to be, she won't tell you.  But, a visit to the soon-to-be Discovery Green yielded the fun little nugget of information... if they can get it ready in time, It's going to be there.. forgive me for the goofy looking hard hat. It was a requirement, just in case silly reporters tripped and fell on their heads!

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Dynamo Wins, now where's the pie?

Update:  Former City Hall staffer Jessica Michan reminded me the pies were donated to a local charity last year.. and that no, City Hall staffers didn't eat all the pies!

Our hometown Houston Dynamo won the MLS cup for the second year in a row on Sunday.  The Houston Texans won their game as well, so it was a nice weekend on the sports end.  Anyway, back to the issue at hand.  The Mayors of Boston and Houston made their usual "friendly" wagers on the game.  At stake:  10 pecan pies here, and 10 Boston cream pies from up North.   For those keeping track, Gov. Rick Perry wagered bar-b-que.  The bigger question is, when will the pies get here?  I never did see those ten alleged pies floating around City Hall last year when the same bet was made. So, my guess is.. if you want boston cream, better buy your own.

Who's the next Mayor Pro-Tem?

The rumor mill is swirling around City Hall over who will be named Mayor Pro-Tem.  Now, it wasn't too long ago that the Mayor Pro-Tem job was loathed by many council members.  However, as the actual management responsibilities have been stripped away from the title, the title itself is now seen as more attractive.

Mayor Pro-Tem sure sounds good when you have to welcome a visiting delegation or hand out diplomas at your neighborhood school.  Having people call you "Chair" when the Mayor needs a bathroom break during a five hour City Council meeting is also an ego boost.  While there might be others interested, the two names I've heard being floated around are MJ Khan and Ronald Green.  The two men are about as different as you can get.  Khan has occasionally sat in for White when he took a break during council meetings.  Green has served as the powerful chair of the Fiscal Affairs committee.  Khan is a moderate Republican who is a district council member.  Green is a Democrat who is an at large member.

The Mayor Pro-Tem is generally expected to be the Mayor's sounding board, behind-the-scenes lobbyist, and trusted to vote with him on sticky issues.  You would think that he would then pick a fellow Democrat.  But, as all things, there are political implications involved.  Who can bring a more valuable donor/voter block?  Remember the KA Khan vs. MJ Khan campaign?  Oh, there is also the issue of who the other council members actually like.

When I reached Khan on the phone yesterday, he said that he had not lobbied for the job and would serve in "in any capacity the mayor asks me to."  When I asked the question to a Mayor staffer, the semi-official response was: "I have no idea."  So there you go... Now, anyone want to start the discussion of who will be Vice Mayor Pro-Tem?

Who's the next Mayor Pro-Tem?

The rumor mill is swirling around City Hall over who will be named Mayor Pro-Tem.  Now, it wasn't too long ago that the Mayor Pro-Tem job was loathed by many council members.  However, as the actual management responsibilities have been stripped away from the title, the title itself is now seen as more attractive.

Mayor Pro-Tem sure sounds good when you have to welcome a visiting delegation or hand