October 3rd, 2024

Man on mission to become Waller County’s 1st African American sheriff

By: N. L. Preston

WALLER COUNTY, Texas— A county that made headlines could soon be making history, if Cedric Watson has anything to say about it.  On Nov. 3, if Watson’s mission is accomplished, he will become the first Black sheriff of Waller County, and he says it’s time for a change.

“There need to be a change in Waller County. Get the ‘good old boys system’ out and put some righteousness in this county. It doesn’t matter who the individuals are. If you get into trouble, you have to pay the piper,” Watson said.

The Democrat is up against Republican Troy Guidry for the position, which Glenn Smith held more than a decade before dying from a heart attack in August at the age of 61. Joe Hester been serving as sheriff in the interim.

Watson ran against Smith in 2016, but was defeated by a small amount, so he is going for it again. The 57-year-old reserve officer with the Coffee City Police Department is determined to become the county’s top cop. Watson, a graduate of the Houston Community College Police Academy, has been in law enforcement since 1992, previously serving with various agencies and departments, including Texas Department of Public Safety, Highway patrol, Hempstead Police Department, Precinct 7, Waller County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office and a local school district.

He adds that he also held different ranks from deputy to major. Holding a Master Peace Officer certification, he stresses he has the experience and the credentials to get the job done.

Does he have a chance? Waller County, which is just west of Harris County, is about 43 percent white, 31 percent Latino and 24 percent Black, according to U. S. Census data.

Watson says, no matter the demographics, it’s all about unification.

“As your sheriff, I will provide community services where homeowners, business owners, and multi-family housing occupants can see how to protect themselves, their families and their property,” Watson said on a Facebook video.  “It is my concern that safety be established as a priority within the Sheriff’s Department toward the community as we work together to unite.”

How officers deal with mental health patients is also high on his priority list.

The eyes of the nation were fixed upon Waller County after Sandra Bland, a 28-year-old Black woman, died while in police custody.  Her arrest, which was caught on camera, and her “suspicious” death, which was ruled a suicide, was front and center of the #BlackLivesMatter movement with protesters calling for change.

A Texas State Trooper pulled over the Prairie View A&M University employee, citing a traffic violation, and jailed her after a tense exchange. After being confined for several days, jailers found the woman hanging in her cell. It was said that Bland had mental health issues.

“If there is someone in place to recognize these type of issues with mental health patients coming into the jails, they can be identified and there will be less controversy for them, or having them harming themselves,” Watson said. “Such as with Sandra Bland. If there was a proper individual that was trained in mental health, then things could have been different.”

It was determined that the jail did not comply with state standards regarding staff training and observations, and Bland’s family was awarded settlement in the amount of $1.8 million. And in January 2019, another inmate died at the jail. The death was also by hanging.

Watson is also looking to increase the enforcement manpower to include a traffic enforcement division, and wants to implement more programs where police have more of a connection with those they have vowed to protect and serve.

“I’m not here to try and make buddies or do favors, I am here to get things done. I took an oath to uphold the laws of the state of Texas. I have values in honesty and integrity to serve the people. God served us and I am here to give back,” Watson said.

Watson has been a Waller County resident since 2015.  He is single, but has family in nearby Houston.

There’s a lot at stake in Waller County and across the nation in what is shaping up to be a historic election year for many. Vote, as if your life depends on it.

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.

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