Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis will ask Commissioners Court to approve a resolution calling for the state Legislature to hold a special session to address gun violence and school safety in the wake of the Uvalde massacre.
“For the last three weeks,” Commissioner Ellis said, “we have mourned the loss of children and teachers in Uvalde, along with senseless gun deaths in Tulsa and across the country, including at least three people in Harris County.
“These deaths are preventable. But instead of creating responsible gun safety measures, Texas has loosened our gun laws. After the tragic mass shooting in El Paso, the Legislature legalized unlicensed open and concealed carry handguns.”
Commissioner Ellis’ resolution calls on the Texas governor, Senate and House of Representatives to act on behalf of the people they are obligated to serve and protect to pass common-sense gun laws that would prevent gun violence and the needless loss of life in the Lone Star State.
“… We are experiencing a crisis of gun violence in Texas and across the country,” the resolution reads. “From mass shootings to homicides to suicides to accidental deaths, gun violence is claiming lives every day. It is getting worse. Every day, firearm-related incidents kill more than 110 people in the United States and injure more than 200 others.”
Fewer people die from gun violence in states where elected officials “have acted with moral courage to pass gun safety laws,” the resolution states. States with the highest gun death rates have weak gun laws that “protect special interests instead of lives.”
“… For decades, the powerful gun lobby has blocked gun safety laws and research at the state and federal levels while advancing reckless laws that allow for ghost guns, permitless carry, and the irresponsible proliferation of guns throughout our communities,” it says.
The resolution calls upon our representatives in Congress to work with the Biden Administration in enacting effective gun safety legislation to protect all Americans, including a renewal of the assault weapons ban, background checks for all gun sales, new standards for gun storage and safety, implementation of red flag laws that allow for the temporary removal of guns from people who pose an imminent danger to themselves or others, and removal of the liability shield that protects gun manufacturers from lawsuits over the harm their weapons cause.
In addition, the resolution states, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed the “Protecting Our Kids Act” that would raise the age for buying semiautomatic weapons from 18 to 21; establish new federal offenses for gun trafficking and selling large-capacity magazines; and create tax incentives for purchasing safe storage devices.
“If this law had been in effect in 1999, at least 20 gunmen might not have been able to purchase large-capacity magazines and destroy countless lives,” the resolution says.
Said Commissioner Ellis: “Responsible gun owners and the vast majority of Americans agree: it’s time to enact meaningful gun legislation. Lives are on the line. I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this resolution calling on our state legislators to convene and pass laws to make our communities safer.”
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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.
