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Crucial election set for Saturday with Houston mayoral runoff

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2 years ago

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As the city of Houston headed into the final week before the runoff election for mayor, an ad for one of the contenders, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, urged city residents to “vote on or before December 7th.” There was one problem: The runoff election is on Sat., Dec. 9 and the early voting period ended on Dec. 5.

Jackson Lee’s office quickly pulled the ad, telling Houston Public Media that it debuted Saturday and ran on the local ABC, CBS and NBC affiliates but had been created by an outside ad agency, not the campaign.

The erroneous ad and even the lack of knowledge about the date of the election seemed to sum up everything happening so far in the mayoral race in America’s fourth-largest city — limping ahead to a low turnout outcome in what is the last major election of 2023.

Jackson Lee, a 30-year veteran of Congress, is trailing in polls to state Sen. John Whitmire, who has had more than 50 years in public service. The two were the top two vote-getters in the Nov. 7 general election, which had 17 candidates on the ballot and a write-in candidate. Whitmire, 74, received 43% of the vote to 36% for Jackson Lee, 73. About 21% of Houston’s 1.2 million registered voters cast ballots in the Nov. 7 election, according to The Associated Press. The current mayor, Sylvester Turner, is term-limited.

“It’s been a pretty sleepy race so far,” said Brandon Rottinghaus, a professor of political science at the University of Houston. “We’ve seen mayor’s races in the past that have had a lot more fireworks, a lot more partisanship. This has been a race that frankly hasn’t really caught the voters’ attention.”

Since the Nov. election, the numbers haven’t moved much. A SurveyUSA Research poll on behalf of the University of Houston conducted in mid-November found Whitmire leading Jackson Lee 42% to 35%.

The race is considered nonpartisan, but both Whitmire and Jackson Lee are Democrats. Jackson Lee has pulled out major endorsements, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. But, as Rottinghaus pointed out, the big-time endorsements haven’t managed to move the needle.

Whitmire, meanwhile, has boasted of some big-time local support, including Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, former Houston City Councilman Jack Christie, who ran as a Republican in the first round, and Republican megadonor Tilman Fertitta.

Houston is considered America’s most diverse large city, so winning the mayor’s office means winning a coalition of voters.

Turner’s victory in 2015 by just two points over a conservative businessman was driven in large part by Black voters and get-out-the-vote efforts, according to the Houston Chronicle. Jackson Lee, who, if elected, would be the city’s first Black female mayor,  has not managed to galvanize Black voters the same way, Rottinghaus said. In the precincts with high numbers of Black voters, the voting numbers are way down, Rottinghaus said.

Although Whitmire has touted his Democratic party credentials, he also courted Republican support and has multiple large GOP donors backing him. The University of Houston poll showed him with a 56-point advantage among Republicans. While Houston leans Democratic, the city is not as much a Democratic stronghold as other large U.S. cities, and the Republican vote could be crucial to winning. Republicans also have complete control over the state government, with a GOP governor and majorities in both the Legislature and state Senate.

Whitmire, who is White, has also courted the Latino vote, and the University of Houston poll showed him with a 20-point advantage among Latino voters, who make up roughly 45% of the city’s population.

Although Houston is a young city, the average age of the Houstonian voter is 62, according to Rottinghaus. The major local issue has been crime, and both candidates said in the final debate on Monday that they would keep Police Chief Troy Finner.

With the two candidates so close on many of the issues, the race has had some slugfest.

Two weeks before the general election, audio was leaked where Jackson Lee appeared to berate a staffer with profanity. “I know I am not perfect,” she said in a statement in response. As Rottinghaus noted, they added a poll question in November about the leaked audio, and while most people said it didn’t make a difference, a “sizeable percentage” said it did. Those people tended to be younger and in particular, younger women — two groups that Jackson Lee needs to win.

In addition to the leaked audio, Jackson Lee goes into the runoff election with high unfavorables. An October poll from the Hobby School at the University of Houston found that 43% said they would never vote for her compared to 15% who said they would never vote for Whitmire. In the same poll, 41% said they had a “very unfavorable” view of Jackson Lee with 28% having a “very favorable” view, compared to 13% reporting a “very unfavorable” view of Whitmire while 27% said they had a “very favorable” view.

But Whitmire has been dogged by allegations of conflict of interest as a state senator. According to the Houston Chronicle, Whitmire has been accused of blurring the line between public and private roles. Whitmire has maintained that the Legislature is part-time and has a salary of $7,200 a year, making avoiding conflicts of interest impossible.

“The major difference is when I’m mayor, I’ll be a full-time mayor. I won’t have a law practice,” Whitmire said at the debate earlier this week. “A bunch of the Chronicle issues I could dispute but it’s not necessary. It involved the practice of law. Most of those allegations arrived in previous campaigns. We make $600 a month as a senator. … You have to have civilian jobs, that’s where most of that was arrived at.”

Harris County, which includes Houston, has been targeted with state audits in 2022 and 2023 over voting and Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed a law this year that removed Harris County’s elections administrator and transferred the responsibility to other local officials. This election has been the first election with the new system.

Culled from CBS

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Houston and Owerri Community Mourn the Passing of Beloved Icon, Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie

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2 weeks ago

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October 3, 2025

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Houston was thrown into mourning on September 19, 2025, following the sudden passing of businessman and community advocate Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie, who peacefully joined his ancestors. Immediate family member in Houston, Nick Anozie, confirmed his untimely death and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and condolences from both the Houston and Owerri communities.

Lawrence was born to Chief Alexander and Lolo Ether Anozie of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria, and will be dearly remembered by family members, friends, and the entire Houston community.

An accomplished accountant, the late Lawrence incorporated and successfully managed three major companies: Universal Insurance Company, LLC, Universal Mortgage LLC, and Universal Financial Services. Through these enterprises, he not only built a thriving business career but also created opportunities for countless individuals to achieve financial stability. His contributions to entrepreneurship and community development will remain a lasting legacy.

According to the family, arrangements for his final funeral rites are in progress and will be announced in due course.

Lawrence will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate man who dedicated much of his life to uplifting others. He helped countless young Nigerians and African Americans overcome economic challenges by providing mentorship, financial guidance, and career opportunities. His generosity touched the lives of many who otherwise might not have found their footing. A devout Catholic, he was unwavering in his faith and never missed Mass, drawing strength and inspiration from his church community. To those who knew him, Lawrence was not only a successful businessman but also a pillar of kindness, humility, and faith whose legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

For more information, please contact Nick Anozie – 832-891-2213

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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3 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Honoring Prof. Chris Ulasi at 70: A Life of Scholarship, Service, and Brotherhood

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3 months ago

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July 12, 2025

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Today, I write with great joy and admiration to wish you, Prof. Chris Chinwe Ulasi, a delighted 70th birthday. It is a glorious milestone, and my family and I are honored to join friends and colleagues in celebrating this remarkable occasion with you here in Cancun, Mexico.

Since I first met you in 2005 at Texas Southern University (TSU), Houston, Texas, you have consistently demonstrated that you are a true Nwannedinamba—a brother from Anambra State, Nigeria. As both a colleague and a friend, you have been a source of inspiration to all who have crossed your path.

Shortly after I joined TSU, a colleague informed me that I had a “brother” in the School of Communications. That brother was you. Not long afterward, we co-presented a training seminar for Akwa Ibom legislators, accompanied by their then-Governor, Akpabio, who now serves as Senate President of Nigeria. I vividly recall how your training manual immediately impressed me with its depth and clarity. From that moment, we became not only colleagues and friends but brothers in every sense of the word.

You are a bona fide poet whose work resonates deeply with those privileged to read it. Your poems, carefully crafted and rich in meaning, often reflect the pressing issues of the time. I read them more than once to fully grasp their layered insights. They remind me of my younger days, poring over Dele Giwa’s columns in The Concord newspaper, pen and paper in hand, collecting new vocabulary. Thankfully, with the aid of modern technology, deciphering your poetic expressions has become more accessible, though no less profound.

Beyond your academic scholarship, you are a respected public intellectual. Through your efforts and those of your colleagues, you revived the West African Pilot News as co-publisher and executive editor, initially founded by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. I still recall when you invited me to join the editorial board and contribute op-eds. Initially hesitant—declaring myself a criminologist, not a journalist—you quickly convinced me that the goal was to elevate Ndigbo voices. You were right: too often, the positive narratives of Ndigbo are overlooked. Since then, the Pilot has become a vital platform for scholars and writers across disciplines to express optimistic, forward-looking visions of Nigeria and Africa. This is a tremendous legacy—one that you and your team should be proud of.

Your academic and professional accomplishments speak for themselves. You are a Professor of Radio, Television, and Film, the Dean of the School of Communication, and Chair of the Department of Radio, Television, and Film at TSU. With over three decades of teaching, research, and creative work—and more than 25 years of leadership experience—you have distinguished yourself as an educator, scholar, administrator, and cultural leader. Beyond the classroom and administrative offices, you are a dynamic force in the world of media and literature. A talented screenwriter, producer, director, and poet, you have used your voice and platforms to shape narratives and inspire change. You have been a journal and book editor of the Journal of Nigerian Affairs, formerly COMPO REVIEW. Since 2000, you have proudly served as University Marshal at TSU—another testament to your enduring leadership and commitment.

Your leadership in the Houston community is equally outstanding. The more than 200 people who traveled to Cancun to celebrate you are a testament to your enduring impact. As Chairman of the People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugarland chapter, your leadership has been exemplary. At Our Savior Anglican Church (OSAC), you oversee communications and have trained younger members to manage the system with excellence, even in your absence. You also serve as Dean of the Diocesan Conference, a role appointed by the Bishop, and are a valued member of OSAC’s governing board. Your dedication has contributed significantly to the growth and unity of the church.

Moreover, in the broader community, you once served as Chairman of the Ndi-Ichie Igbo Cultural Club and now lead its annual cultural celebrations in Houston. These events showcase the richness of Igbo heritage—culinary delights, traditional dances, language, and youth involvement—with elegance and pride.

Nwannedinamba, I could fill many more pages with your accomplishments, but allow me to share a personal story. When I lost my beloved brother, Prof. Ebere Onwudiwe (may his soul rest in peace), you traveled all the way from Nnewi to Isunjaba, Imo State, accompanied by a musical group and heartfelt gifts, including Nkwu Elu. I shared that special palm wine only with members of the Onwudiwe family. Your presence in our family compound remains unforgettable. While we danced to the Ogene music you brought, you engaged in deep dialogue with my traditional ruler about the origins of Isu. My Eze later insisted that you visit the palace, where he intended to present you with archival records on Isu’s history. One day, we will fulfill that promise.

Prof. Ulasi, you are not only a distinguished colleague and scholar but also a cherished friend. We are deeply grateful for your friendship and all you have done for us and the broader community. We also thank your wonderful wife for her unwavering support, love, and understanding.

As we mark this milestone with you, we are reminded that true greatness lies not just in titles held or accolades received, but in the lives touched, the values modeled, and the legacy quietly built each day. You exemplify this kind of greatness. May your 70th year be a continuation of your influence, your light, and your unwavering commitment to building a better, more just, and culturally vibrant world.

As you celebrate your 70th birthday, we wish you continued health, joy, and fulfillment. May the years ahead bring even greater blessings. Thank you for being the exceptional person you are, Nwannedinamba.

With warmest regards,

Prof. I. D. Onwudiwe

____

■ Dr. Onwudiwe, a Professor of Criminology at Texas Southern University, is on the EDITORIAL BOARD of  the WAP

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