Dear Editor,
Well, it appears that Dwight Boykins is running for Mayor! If not, he’s doing his level best to make sure that Sylvester Turner is no longer Mayor! The latest of his antics over the last few years include tagging almost the entire City Agenda on March 6th and again on March 20th. (See his March 11th Press Release on his Facebook page bragging about it.) I have never seen a single Councilmember so focused on showing up a Mayor and so engaged in so much grandstanding as Boykins does! He never did this to Annise Parker when she was Mayor and LORD knows she wasn’t perfect! So, why’s he doing it?
Officially, municipal races in the Texas are nonpartisan. But, ever since term limits were established for elected officials in the City of Houston during the ’90s, partisanship and political ideology, especially on the part of those who identify as Republicans on the Council, have been a major hindrance to the forward progress of this City (e.g. the nixing of monorail, the Revenue Cap, and the opposition to drainage fees to prevent flooding by calling them “Rain Taxes.”) All he’s going to do is wind up getting a Republican, Tony Buzbee, Bill King, or maybe Orlando Sanchez, elected by splitting up the Democratic Vote specifically the Black Vote. They aren’t going to do anything for anybody except for their friends and relatives and of course the corporate fat cats in the Greater Houston Partnership. They’ll be massive cuts and layoffs to pay for their corporate giveaways and budgetary mismanagement. So, again, I ask, why’s he doing it?
Look, personally, I like Dwight Boykins. I knew him from his days as an administrator at Texas Southern University. He’s done some good things while on Council like the Second Chance Job Fair for ex-cons and getting two new grocery stores in 3rd Ward. But, he ain’t gonna win the Mayor’s chair and he knows it! So, why’s he doing it? Maybe, it’s because his corporate contributors from the Greater Houston Partnership are egging him on while they play both sides against the middle? Maybe, he really believes he’s helping the firefighters? But, a new $80 a month tax he calls a garbage fee ain’t gonna cut it! He will be hurting the very low and moderate income residents of his district he claims he’s so concerned about if this new tax would take effect because they can least afford it. Many City of Houston firefighters don’t even live in the City. Some don’t even live in the State. Plus, they have lucrative side jobs. But, Dwight wants City residents to give them even more money! He also was one of the big proponents of Prop. B, but instead of all the firefighters getting raises, 400 of them are facing layoffs. So, how did that work out for them? Perhaps, one day, Dwight, will become Mayor of Houston or even Governor of Texas and I’m sure he’ll do a fine job. But, until then, he needs to be a good soldier and wait his turn by supporting Mayor Turner’s re-election bid.
Bryan C.
Spring, TX
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
