Last Thursday I turned 50 years old. I have to say that in looking back on accomplishments as we tend to do at times like this, this race for public office is already a proud accomplishment for me. It is a wonderful time indeed to be seeking to serve. And through hard work by me, my family and friends, I seem to be doing well in this race which will hopefully be official on Wednesday of next week. Of course I won’t be happy “just to be nominated” and nothing in politics is a sure thing so I’m ready to quadruple my efforts and energies as the election really begins. I hope you’ll join me in this exciting time for Houston neighborhoods. Not just exciting because of my campaign but because of the new energy for neighborhood quality of life improvement and atmosphere of innovation regarding urban living that I’m seeing everywhere I go. Yes, we can, indeed.
It has been a real pleasure getting out and about in the city to answer President Obama’s call to service. I’m delighted with the general mood of Houstonians these days, at least where I’ve been hanging out. This weekend I joined the Heights Democrats and the Tejano Democrats to pick up trash along White Oak Bayou. It was a great time of camaraderie for all that attended, even among political opponents. And we picked up some interesting items. Yes we wore gloves. One volunteer found a real message in a bottle washed up during the hurricane. Today myself and some of our volunteers attended an event in Independence Heights, the first incorporated Black city in Texas. I highly recommend you visit http://indepheights.rice.edu (no www) to learn more about the facinating history of this sister city to the Houston Heights. The event was the community painting of a wonderful mural depicting Dr. King and President Obama and their famous quotes “I have a dream…” and “Yes we can…” Orgainizers say the turn out far surpassed their expectations. There was a food drive for their pantry, a bazzar, games and food. The mural painting brought together people from the neighborhood and people from all over looking for a project to get involved in to answer our new president’s call to give of yourself. With kids out of school, everyone was included, both young and old. I’d love to hear about how you answered the call to service.
Voluntary HOA’s and Civic Associations are on my agenda almost every night of the week now. Houston’s strongest and most successful neighborhoods have one thing in common….an organized and vital HOA or civic club. For the historic and older neighborhoods, most of the HOA’s are voluntary but that is o.k. Some meet quarterly but the most successful meet monthly, even if the meeting content is sometimes just social in nature. The key is to stay connected and know your neighbors and business owners. When serious issues do arise, you’ll know each others talents and concerns. A functioning HOA also makes it easier for your elected officials to address you and reach out to a neighborhood. As a Realtor for over 18 years, I appreciate neighborhood associations and the services they provide. If your neighborhood decides to organize a constable program or neighborhood watch, the HOA’s role will be invaluable, especially when it comes to communication. If I can help you with your HOA or your community in forming a neighborhood association please contact me. I’d be glad to help.