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Burt Levine

Stories by Burt

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Harris County Voters Lead the Charge: Early Voting Kickoff for Critical May 4th Elections

Houston Style Magazine readers are set to be well-informed with the latest details on the significant local elections that just took place. As the early voting period commenced, Harris County presented several pivotal positions to be decided upon, including the race for Senate District 15 and the Harris County Central Appraisal District Board elections.

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Early Voting Kicks Off in Harris County: Cast Your Vote for the Future of Houston’s Leadership

Houston Style Magazine proudly presents a comprehensive guide to the Early Voting period commencing Monday, April 22, 2024, for a pivotal Special Election in Harris County. This election will notably determine who will complete the term for the State Senator District 15 seat, following John Whitmire’s resignation to assume the mayoralty of Houston. As Houstonians gear up for the electoral season, it's crucial to stay informed about the candidates and the impact of their potential leadership.

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Ericka McCrutcheon: Championing Fair Tax Appraisals in Harris County

As Harris County gears up for the General Election on Saturday, May 4, 2024, Ericka McCrutcheon emerges as a standout candidate for the Central Appraisal District Board. With a deep-seated commitment to fairness and community service, McCrutcheon's bid is not just a campaign—it's a promise to ensure equity in tax appraisals for every resident of Harris County.

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Ferrel Bonner's Candidacy: A New Chapter for Fort Bend ISD's Board

As an embodiment of dedication and community service, Ferrel Bonner has embarked on a new journey. With a rich background as a Houston ISD alumnus from Sterling High School and an honored veteran from the US Army Airborne, Bonner is now setting his sights on the Fort Bend ISD School Board, Position 6.

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Houston Commemorates Vietnam Veterans with a New Memorial at Club Creek Park

On the auspicious occasion of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, Houston will witness Council Member Edward Pollard fulfilling a heartfelt promise to his father, a valiant U.S. Marine and Vietnam veteran. This Friday at 10 am, Club Creek Park will become the setting of a long-awaited tribute to the heroes of Houston who served in Vietnam.

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Vivian King: A Trailblazing Force for Equitable Justice Set to Transform Harris County's Legal Landscape

Vivian King is poised to make a significant impact in Harris County as the leading candidate in the upcoming runoff for the 486th District Court judge position. With a historic win on Super Tuesday, King commands the spotlight with her impressive credentials and unwavering commitment to justice.

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Kenneth Omoruyi Secures Spot in Historic Run-Off for Houston's CD7

Kenneth Omoruyi is set to be a significant contender on the Primary Run-off Ballot for Harris County this coming May. He marks a monumental moment as the first African American candidate to reach this stage for the esteemed Congressional District 7 seat in Houston – a position once held by political luminaries such as George H.W. Bush and currently occupied by Lizzie Fletcher.

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Sheila Jackson Lee Secures Resounding Victory in Texas' Super Tuesday Showdown

In a remarkable display of political prowess, Sheila Jackson Lee, the enduring representative and senior member of the Texas Delegation, clinched a decisive 60% victory in the 18th Congressional District during this Super Tuesday's electric showdown.

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Houston's Super Tuesday Showdown: The Decisive Moment in Local and State Elections

As the crescendo of the election season approaches, Harris County voters are reminded that early voting for the highly anticipated Super Tuesday, happening on March 5, 2024, will conclude this Friday, March 1st. This pivotal day will determine the nominees for November's General Elections, shaping the future of federal, state, and local governance across Texas.

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Mayor Whitmire Instills Renewed Leadership in Houston Housing Authority

In a decisive move to combat financial irregularities and enhance the operational efficacy of the Houston Housing Authority (HHA), Mayor John Whitmire has appointed a new slate of esteemed Commissioners. This strategic change comes in the wake of HHA ceasing the issuance of housing vouchers due to budget overruns, a decision that notably affects veterans, the disabled, and the homeless.

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A Dynamic Tapestry of Democracy in Action with "Harris County Votes: A Prelude to Progress"

As the dawn of February 20th unfurled its light over Harris County, the pulse of early voting began to beat with a vigor reflective of the community's commitment to shaping its future. A resounding 13,626 civic voices rang out across 79 polling stations, undeterred by the rescheduling necessitated by President’s Day – a testament to the steadfast dedication of the citizens.

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Houston Style Magazine Presents: Super Tuesday – A Call to the Polls! Houston, the Stage is Set for Early Voting on Super Tuesday

The heart of democracy beats stronger this Tuesday, February 20, as Early Voting commences in Texas and 14 other proud states across our nation. This pivotal moment in our presidential election process is not just about delegate counts; it's a vibrant showcase of local democracy in action, with numerous crucial nominations at stake.

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Monica Riley's Re-Election Campaign Launch: A Celebration of Unity and Progress in Missouri City

On a vibrant evening of February 3rd, Missouri City Council Member Monica Riley embarked on her journey towards re-election, surrounded by an eclectic mix of over 400 supporters spanning a wide age range and representing a rich tapestry of ethnicities and political affiliations. This diverse crowd, mirroring the unique composition of City Council District A, gathered to celebrate Riley's significant contributions and to rally behind her continued leadership.

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Jerry Rodriguez: A Local Voice for Positive Change in the Harris County Constable Precinct 5 Race

As early voting approaches on February 20th, anticipation builds for the Texas Democratic and GOP Primaries on Super Tuesday, March 5th. A vast array of positions from the President to local constables will be on the ballot, but one race, in particular, is drawing attention in Harris County: the Constable Pct. 5 race, where after 40 years of dedicated service, Ted Heap is stepping down, and Sergeant Jerry Rodriguez steps forward as a candidate.

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Houston's Own Jarvis Johnson Steps Forward in Senate District 15 Race

In political landscape of Houston is abuzz as State Representative Jarvis Johnson enters the fray for Senate District 15, a seat with a legacy of strong leadership. As candidates rally their supporters for the upcoming primaries, with early voting commencing on February 20th, Johnson emerges as a formidable contender with deep Houstonian roots.

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Unity in Faith: Houston Clergy Embodies Dr. King’s Vision with Interfaith Call to Action

In a poignant tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy, Senior Rabbi David Lyon of Houston's historic Congregation Beth Israel joined forces with Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, esteemed leader of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, in a ceremonial remembrance this Monday. Their union symbolizes a bridge across faiths, reaffirming Dr. King's vision in the very city where he once imparted his transformative message during the civil rights movement.

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Pearland Celebrates MLK Day with Vision for the Future

In a vibrant declaration, Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole has honored the spirit of MLK Day, symbolizing this annual observance as a beacon for new beginnings in Pearland’s dynamic community. The proclamation comes amidst Pearland's remarkable growth, heralding a new era of diversity and civic pride.

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Mayor John Whitmire Ushers in New Era of Leadership for Houston

Despite the brisk weather and rain showers, Houston greeted the New Year with optimism as Mayor John Whitmire delivered a heartfelt inaugural address. As the city’s 63rd Mayor and, at 75, the eldest in over seven decades, Whitmire's speech was a beacon of hope for the city's vibrant future.

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Houston Ushers In A New Era Of Leadership With Diverse City Hall

As the dawn of 2024 unfurls, Houston City Hall is set to embrace a trans- formative era with the inauguration of new leadership. The city will witness a historic transition on January 2nd, as it welcomes John Whitmire as the new Mayor along with Chris Hollins as the City Controller, and a dynamic ensemble of both fresh and returning City Council members.

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Houston Politics: Upholding Integrity Amidst Party Primaries

Discover how Houston's party primaries are challenging political integrity, featuring insights from Kim Ogg and Shawn Thierry, with a focus on local impact and community values.

In the dynamic landscape of Houston’s political scene, the spirit of bipartisanship is put to the test as the primaries approach. Esteemed public servants like Kim Ogg and Shawn Thierry stand at the forefront, navigating the complex waters where principle often clashes with party purity.

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Whitmire's Vision for a Thriving Houston

John Whitmire has firmly set his sights on "Revitalizing Houston," echoing his commitment from the campaign's inception on November 15 last year, through to his triumphant declaration of victory. His words resonated with conviction in the packed hall of George R. Brown Convention Center, where he announced, "Great cities accomplish great things. My focus is on enhancing safety and infrastructure – expect more officers on our streets and tangible improvements in our community's well-being."

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John Whitmire's Triumph and the Dawn of Transformative Leadership

John Whitmire, since November 15 last year, remains steadfast in his commitment to revitalizing Houston.

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Final Call To Voters For Houston's Decisive City Elections, Dec. 9th

This Saturday, December 9, 2023, marks a pivotal day for Houston as election polls, open from 7 am to 7 pm, invite voters to conclude the heated run-off elections. The positions up for grabs include the mayoral seats for Houston and Bellaire, the Houston City Controller, and council seats for Houston and Baytown. Up until Monday, an impressive count of over 107,000 Houstonians have already cast their ballots, in-person and by mail.

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Houston's City Councilwomen's Races Bring Out Harris County Voters

A total of 13,763 Harris County voters trekked to early vote the first day of Early Vote for Houston run-off races Monday, November 27 not only for the first open Mayor’s race in eight years featuring the first African American woman run-off candidate for mayor but women defending council seats too.

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Houston's Mayoral Run-off Election Kicks Off With Early Voting

As the buzz of civic duty intensifies, Houston residents are poised to make their voices heard with ear- ly voting for the 2023 mayoral run-off commencing Monday, November 20. This critical election, culminating on Saturday, December 9, will determine the city’s leadership and the composition of the City Council across multiple at-large positions and districts D, H, and G.

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Veterans Day Brings Cheers to City Hall

Veterans soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen crowded Houston City Hall Saturday, November 11 including a 105-year-old woman Army Veteran and a 93-year-old widow of a combat veteran to celebrate the day first known as Armistice Day, the 11th Day on the 11th month in 1918 when World War I ended in Flanders Field, France.

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John Whitmire and Sheila Jackson Lee Go Head-to-Head in Run Off

John Whitmire won 43 percent, almost avoiding the Saturday, December 9 run-off. After 50 years as a Legislator from Houston Whitmire won big on his way to city hall. Celebrating at the Marriott Marquis with African American and Hispanic icons on his stage he hammered his crowd that he is ready to go to the mayor’s office today but first he has one more election.John Whitmire won 43 percent, nearly avoiding the Saturday, December 9 run-off. After 50 years as a legislator from Houston, Whitmire secured a significant victory on his path to City Hall. He celebrated at the Marriott Marquis with African American and Hispanic icons on his stage, passionately addressing his supporters. He declared his readiness to assume the mayor's office, but first, there's one more election to win.

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Houston Elections: Race Heats Up as Early Voting Nears Its End

As the early voting period in Harris County comes to a close, over 101,000 people have already cast their ballots, leaving one more week of early voting at the county's 68 designated locations. These elections, which hold the power to shape our lives, see citizens actively engaging in the democratic process, choosing from 18 candidates vying for the position of Houston Mayor and numerous contenders in hotly contested city council races.

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Early Voting Enthusiasm Soars in Houston

On Monday (October 23rd), thousands flocked to 68 Early Vote Polls across Harris County, marking the first day of Early Voting, fueled by the determination to elect the first new mayor and controller in eight years. They were eager to cast their votes in favor of five at-large and 11 distinct district city council races, along with some Houston ISD School Board races, propositions, bonds, and 14 state constitutional amendments.

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Early Voting Is Here Monday, October 23rd

Early voting is available starting Monday, October 23. This Monday, October 23, marks the beginning of early voting for the Tuesday, November 7 General Election, which includes 18 candidates for Houston Mayor, four candidates for controller, 23 running in 11 separate districts, and 27 for at-large City Council. City Propositions, County Bonds, and State Constitution Amendments are on the ballot. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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Houston Stands in Solidarity with Israel

Mayor Sylvester Turner, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Reps. Sheila Jackson Lee, Sylvia Garcia, and Lizzie Fletcher, District Attorney Kim Ogg, County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, City Council Members Sallie Alcorn and Abbie Kamin, and NAACP President James Dixon brought Houston together on Monday, chanting, "Long Live Israel."

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One Month Left in the Race for Houston Mayor: Candidates Make Their Case

As the November 7th mayoral election approaches, seven candidates gathered on stage at Forest Brook Middle School in northeast Houston to make their case to lead the fourth-largest city in the United States. Each contender presented their vision for Houston's future, addressing critical issues such as federal funding, COVID-19 relief, infrastructure, public safety, and more.

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Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson's Party Switch and Path to Republican Alignment

In a surprising turn of events, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, a lifelong Dallas native and former Democrat State Representative, made headlines last week by announcing his switch to the Republican Party. This move makes him the only mayor aligned with the Republican Party among America's 14 largest cities.

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Nikki Haley Becomes Biggest Threat to President Biden

Nikki Haley, the first Person of Color Governor of South Carolina and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, is the sole woman in the Republican race aiming to surpass former President Donald Trump and secure the position of the Indian American President. Recent polling has identified her as the only Republican with a chance to defeat President Joe Biden.

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Houston's Ballot Order for Tuesday, November 7 Election Now Finalized

Over a hundred official candidates vying for positions as Houston Mayor, City Council members, and City Controller gathered at the Houston City Council Annex last Friday, August, to determine their appearance order on the ballot for the upcoming Tuesday, November 7 Election.

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Texas’ Will Hurd Preps for the First Presidential Debate

Will Hurd, a former Congressman from south Texas and the first black Texas A&M University Student Body President during its bonfire tragedy 25 years ago is thankful to the 42,500 campaign donors that put him past the 40,000-threshold required by the Republican National Committee to be in Wednesday’s debate.

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Ten Weeks Until Early Voting in Houston Municipal Races

Monday, October 23, from 7 am to 7 pm, marks the beginning of the opportunity for early voting in the Houston Mayor, City Controller, and City Council races. Early Voting will continue until Friday, November 3, leading up to the General Election on Tuesday, November 7.

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National Urban League: Celebrates Achievements and Advocate For A Better Nation

Thousands of National Urban League convention goers from all corners of the country gathered at the George R. Brown Convention Center last week for a momentous event. The occasion was not only a celebration of the organization's remarkable achievements but also a collective commitment to improving the nation for everyone.

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Senator Scott Makes Presidential Primary Debate Stage

United States Senator Tim Scott, elected in 2016 as the first black U.S. Senator since Reconstruction and in 2010 as the first Republican African American elected from South Carolina to the U.S. Congress since 1897, has raised the money and poll numbers to qualify to compete on the August 23 debate stage with former President Donald Trump.

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City Council Member Plummer Celebrates Big Birthday

Houston City Council Member Letitica Plummer recently celebrated a milestone birthday with a vibrant Third Ward celebration. The event drew a crowd of enthusiastic supporters and generated excitement for the upcoming early vote election period from October 23 to November 3, just around 100 days away.

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Demographic Factors Shaping Houston Council Races

As the deadline approaches for filing for ballot space in the upcoming Houston elections, the city's council races are being influenced by its diverse demographics. Houston stands out among America's and Texas' largest cities with its combination of at-large and district City Council Members.

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Houston City Candidates Continue to Play Musical Chairs

With two months to go until the Monday, August 21 filing deadline for Houston Mayor, City Controller, five at large (citywide), and 11 City Council seats, the list of candidates continues to shuffle at the city secretary’s office, where candidates are required to name a campaign treasurer before being permitted to politicize, raise, or spend campaign money.

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Stafford Elects Its First Minority Mayor

Stafford, a city located southwest of Houston, made history on Saturday, June 10, by electing Ken Matthew as its first minority Mayor. Matthew secured a victory in a run-off election, receiving 500 votes, while incumbent Mayor Cecil Willis received 484 votes. Matthew's extensive experience includes 17 years of service on the Stafford City Council, making him the longest-serving council member in the city at the time of his candidacy.

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Houston Council Races Are Crowding

While most of the focus is on who is running for president in 2024 or even who is running for mayor this year, Houston has five at-large City Council members elected citywide, and 11 district City Council members who vote on the mayor's $6.2 billion budget, every expenditure over $50,000, city laws called ordinances, and the care for local citizens' needs.

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Houston Mayor’s Race: The Hottest Ever

With Memorial Day over, summer is soon here. Hot temperatures are continuing to climb in Houston, and the upcoming Mayor, City Controller, and City Council races are becoming hotter than anything seen before in the money likely raised, spent, and votes sought to lead a city that covers 640 square miles and includes 2.4 million people.

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Pollard Proves That Race Doesn’t Matter

Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard, 38, represents District J, the southwest Houston areas of Galleria, Gulfton, Sharpstown, Braeburn, and Alief. Each of these areas are completely different with a wide range of different ethnicities and political ideology.

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Minorities achieved milestones in the May 6 elections

Last Saturday, May 6, on Texas’ second uniform election date other than the second Tuesday in November, African Americans, Hispanics, and Indian Americans won big milestones in suburban city and school board races that determine metrics in taxes, the quality of life, and the quality of education where minority families have been moving.

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Saturday, May 6 Polls Provide Plenty Political Picks

This Saturday, May 7th, is Texas’ second Uniform Election Date other than the second Tuesday in November. This Saturday, with early voting having happened from Monday, April 24th, to this past Tuesday, May 2nd, features mayor, city council, school board, and bond elections throughout the region, deciding the fate of suburbs and our schools.

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Judge Lina Hidalgo Commits to Harris County

Lina Hidalgo’s strikingly small figure and bright-eyed Latina looks caused political handicappers to dismiss her at 27-years-old for most of 2018. However, that happens no more around Harris County, where in her second month as the top elected official in America’s third largest county, Harris County Judge Hidalgo oversees a $4.1 billion budget that employs more than 17,000 people.

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Rep. White Wants Texas Fathers’ Role Valued in Texas Law

Rep. James White, Houston native and former teacher at Third Ward’s Cullen Middle School, was elected to his fourth term last fall as the only African American to represent Texas’ Piney Woods in the Texas Legislature. Today he's fighting for Texas families with his House Bill 453.

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