Texas Democratic Convention -- Day 1

At the Texas Democratic Convention, it was a smart time for me to spread the word of my campaign. Fellow Democrats need to understand the urgency of getting a Democrat elected in District 122 for the Texas House of Representatives. We set up a booth to pass out yard signs and earn support. I thank my family and staff for managing the booth while I was away speaking at caucuses.

A fellow Democrat from San Antonio, Rebeca Martinez, who is running for a judicial seat in the 4th Court of Appeals, had a great mixer in downtown Corpus Christi. She is running against a Perry-appointed candidate and her appellate court will reach 32 counties in South Texas.

The biggest event of the first the day of the convention for me was the Texas Stonewall Democrats event at a local art gallery. I met some popular Democrats like Rep. Mike Villareal, Chair Boyd L. Richie, and Barbara Ann Radnofsky. I already have earned the endorsement of the San Antonio Stonewall Democrats. Being from my own diverse background, I know how hard it is to find acceptance. I let them know that Democrats are united for 2010.

Remembering Dolph Briscoe

The state of Texas is in mourning for the loss of one of its best leaders. Governor Dolph Briscoe died this past weekend at the age of 87 in his home. I send my condolences to Governor Briscoe's family.

As a fellow Democrat, I admire his ability to lead and his responsible decisions during a time when Texas was rocked by corrupt politics. Governor Briscoe restored integrity in the state government during the 1970's when Austin was knee-deep in a fraud scandal. His actions preserved the state for the last quarter of the 20th century.

I have a deep respect for Governor Briscoe for all his contributions to the city of San Antonio after he was governor. His support of research in the health fields gave me the opportunity to study and work at the UT-Health Science Center in San Antonio.  All Texas elected officials should move forward and learn from the examples set by this great man.

Photos courtesy of Associated Press.

The Bill White Phenomenon

Bill White gave an amazing appearance at the Texas Democratic Convention in Corpus Christi over the weekend. The delegates came from all over the state to pledge their support to the next governor of Texas. The enthusiasm for Bill White exploded when he walked on stage and the crowd waved their signs and chanted his name.

There are few individuals who have a proven track record for leadership like Bill White. I expect him to make all the positive changes for Texas as he did when he was mayor of the city of Houston. Let's bring them to the polls in November to elect Bill White as our governor.

See You at the Convention

As of Thursday, my staff and I will be making our way to Corpus Christi for the Texas Democratic State Convention to be held at the American Bank Center. This 3-day gathering will bring the Democratic Delegates to kick off the election season so we can turn Texas blue. I plan to attend and speak with some of the most notable caucuses in the state such as the Texas Democratic Women, the Texas Young Democrats, the Texas Jewish Democrats, and many others. Many candidates will be there, all running for offices ranging from state representative to the governor's seat. Corpus Christi is the perfect spot for such an event. Let's all have some fun in the sun as we work to take over this election year. If you see me at the convention, please introduce yourself because I would love to meet you.

Northeast Bexar County Democrats

The Northeast Bexar County Democrats opened their new office this weekend at 7122 San Pedro, here in San Antonio. They invited all their friends and candidates to a wonderful reception with barbecued hot dogs and live music. It was good to see my friends Dinorah Diaz, Roberto Rios and William Peche, all of whom are running for their respective judge positions. I thank the Northeast Bexar Democrats for inviting me, and congratulate them on their fine office. An organization needs an established spot to make decisions and to build the Democratic base.

Cystic Fibrosis Event

Cystic Fibrosis is one of many serious diseases we're doing advanced research on at my company. I attended a fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at the Plaza Club at the Frost Building. I thank Jason Smith for sponsoring, and Brandy Bendele and Hugh Farr of the foundation for arranging this event. And the beautiful Rita Verreos, former Ms. Venezuala, gave a heartfelt speech about this great cause.

Most cases of Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed when the patient is still a child. Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of foundations like this, many of these young people go on to live well past their teens. I urge public awareness to help fight this disease.

Lunch with the Precinct Chairs of 122

I recently held a luncheon for all the precinct chairs in Texas House District 122 to discuss how we plan to take the Representative seat in our district. We ate a delicious Indian lunch at Madras Pavilion and discussed my agenda platform and strategies for campaigning. I feel reassured that these women and men were so enthusiastic to come and show support for my race. My good friend Art Hall, former City Councilman, came also to say a few words to the group on my behalf. With so many good friends helping for the Democratic cause, I know I stand an able chance to take the election this November.

Texas Folklife Festival

On Saturday, I attended the Texas Folklife Festival at the Institute of Texan Cultures. Some of my supporters came with me to share in this favorite San Antonio summer event. Just by walking around and seeing all the booths representing different nationalities, I can see all the great nations that came together here in Texas to make us the diverse state that we are. I know I don't just speak for myself when I say there is no other state better to settle in than Texas. It's the story of America retold over and over.

Event Honoring Nico Lahood

This week, I was invited to a wonderful event at Bohanan's restaurant held in honor of Nicholas "Nico" Lahood who is running for district attorney of San Antonio. A good number of my friends also went to show their support like Texas Senator Carlos Uresti. It's nice for all of us to take a break from campaigning to have a good time. We thank Nico for inviting us and wish him well in his campaign.

Proud Father of a Graduate

I'm the lucky father of my son Omar who just graduated this week Summa Cum Laude from Ronald Reagan High School. He has been accepted to Trinity University and he, as well as my other two children who are currently in college, continue to make me proud.

I've often said that success in education begins with a good school. I worry how many other Texas children are as fortunate as my children to graduate from a fine school like Reagan which produced 513 total graduates who have all been admitted to colleges. They earned a total of $8 million in scholarships. I'm fully aware this success is not being transferred across the rest of Texas. When I'm elected as a Texas representative, I'll work to change that. Every school should give the same tools of success to its students. Education is a priority of mine, and I expect it's a priority for concerned citizens like you.

Congratulations to the Class of 2010 all across Texas. Graduation is a major step in any young person's life. I encourage all of you to work towards higher education for a more successful career.

                                  Reagan High School's Graduation Ceremony

Career Fair at Jefferson High School

I was lucky enough to be invited to speak to the bright young minds at Thomas Jefferson High School for their College & Career Fair. I was very happy to hear how many students were interested in my biotechnology firm and the amazing field of the bio-sciences.


I believe each child is a representative of a generation, and our investment into their education is our way of insuring they will lead our communities one day. Success in education starts with a good school. I commend Jefferson High School for having this event for their students and I'd like to thank Kimberlee Sharber at Communities in Schools for inviting me to speak. I wish all students at Jefferson and other schools a safe summer vacation.