Letter to Democratic Executive Members on endorsements and integrity

North Side Political Action Group

From the Desk of the President

Ray/R.C. Jones

August 6, 2024

To: All Democratic Executive Members

18th Congressional District

Dear Executive Members,

I hope this letter finds you well. Having served as an executive member for forty-eight years, I am writing to address critical issues and procedures regarding our upcoming decisions in the 18th Congressional District.

Illegal Voting Practices

First and foremost, I must remind everyone that it is a crime to accept pay for your vote. Such actions undermine the integrity of our democratic process and are unequivocally unacceptable. We must all adhere to the highest ethical standards to maintain the trust of our constituents.

Endorsements and Nominations

It is imperative to remind our elected officials that their endorsements should not be the sole determining factor in nominating a candidate for the vacancy in the 18th Congressional District. These officials were elected by the voting public to be the voice of their constituents, and they must act in the best interest of the people they represent.

I do not agree with the endorsement made by the congresswoman’s sibling. This is just another way for elected officials to try to secure votes. Think about it: if your boss tells you to do something, you have to do it, regardless of its merit. I have known the congresswoman since the beginning of her political career. Therefore, precinct chairs should not be swayed by endorsements that appear to be another form of vote-buying.

Criteria for Succession

As we consider potential candidates for the 18th Congressional District vacancy, my approach involves:

Record Check: Thoroughly examining the records of any elected official to assess their accomplishments in their local district. It is crucial to understand what they have achieved and how they have served their communities before considering them for a higher office.

Experience Evaluation: Ensuring that the candidates possess the necessary experience and capabilities to meet the needs of the 18th Congressional District. Their qualifications and track record must align with the requirements and expectations of our community.

This process aims to ensure that any potential candidate is thoroughly vetted and genuinely represents the interests and needs of our community.

Let us uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that our representatives are chosen based on merit and their dedication to serving the public.

Sincerely,

Ray/R.C. Jones

President, North Side Political Action Group

By adhering to these guidelines, we can maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of our political process and ensure that we elect officials who are truly committed to the betterment of our district.

Thank you for your attention to these important matters.

Best regards,

Ray/R.C. Jones

Legacy can go first 8/22/24

A Legacy of Leadership and Service: The Career and Community Impact of a Dedicated Advocate

From the desk of Ray/RC Jones, most of you know me as Ray or RC. For the next two months, I will be speaking directly to you about how political positions and decisions impact our community in Northeast Houston. Our neighbourhood deserves representatives who genuinely care about the people they serve, and it is time we closely examined what our elected officials are doing with the power you have entrusted to them.

Understanding the Power of Your Vote

As voters, we have the responsibility and the right to elect candidates who we believe will best represent our interests. However, it is crucial to ask ourselves: what are these elected officials doing for the votes you give them? Are they giving back to the community, or are they simply riding on our support without delivering on their promises? Many voters feel disconnected from their representatives, either because they seem unapproachable or because they simply do not give a damn! This is an issue we must address.

About the North Side Political Action Group

Let me take a moment to introduce our organisation, the North Side Political Action Group East and West. Nine years ago, this group was co-founded by me, Ray/RC Jones, and the late Etta Crockett, who was a dedicated advocate for the community. While I've spent my entire political life serving the Northeast, Etta was a steadfast advocate in the Northwest. Her legacy continues to inspire the work we do every day.

My political journey began as a campaign worker for Barbara Jordan, a pioneer in Texas politics. Over the years, I've served as a Precinct Judge for an impressive 48 years and held a position on the State Democratic Committee for eight years (S.D.E.C.)

Our organisation was established to ensure that the voices of the Northeast are heard and respected. We help residents navigate the complexities of political engagement and advocate for their needs. If a constituent feels ignored by their representative, we step in, leveraging our connections with other officials to get the necessary support.

A Proven Track Record

Throughout my political career, I have had the privilege of working with numerous candidates, many of whom have gone on to win their elections. But my commitment goes beyond politics; I am also a self-made businessperson. I have owned and operated several businesses and currently serve as the CEO of RCJ Commercial Services LLC. My business acumen and political experience give me a unique perspective on the challenges our community faces and how best to address them.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

My dedication to leadership and service is evident in the various roles I have held throughout my career:

• Minority Liaison - Texas State Comptroller's Office (1992-1993): Advocated for minority communities and ensured their concerns were addressed at the state level.

• Founder/Partner – Superior Waste Management (1985-1992): Led a successful business that provided essential services to the community.

• Owner - 3M Waste Management (1983-1985): Managed operations and contributed to the growth of the waste management industry in the area.

• Member - CEDHE Corporation for Economic Development of Harris County (1985-2000): Played a crucial role in driving economic development initiatives in Harris County.

• Owner - R.J. Jones & Sons (1978-1983): Built and sustained a family-owned business that supported local employment.

• Owner - International Limousine Service (1971-1978): Provided premium transportation services and established a reputation for excellence.

• Bus Driver - Rapid Transit Company (1966-1971): Proudly served as one of the first Black bus drivers in the city, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

• Production Tech – Shell Oil Company (1964-1966): Gained valuable technical experience that informed my later business ventures.

• Stocker/Truck Driver - Grocers Supply Inc. (1960-1964): Began my career in organisation and supply chain management.

Community Service and Political Involvement

My commitment to community service has always been at the forefront of my work. Whether serving for the Harris County Economic Development Corp. under Squatty Lyons or being appointed by various mayors to key roles within the City of Houston, I have always sought to give back to the community that has given me so much.

Community Service Highlights:

• District B Captain for Clean Houston – Economic Summit 1990 (Appointed by Mayor Kathy Whitmire)

• Quadrant Captain for Clean Houston – 1992 Clean Up (Appointed by City Councilman Ernest McGowen)

• Special Deputy Constable – Harris County Precinct 3 (Appointed by Constable James Douglas)

• Houston Clean City Commission - Position B (Appointed by Mayor Bob Lanie)

• NAACP Member and ACT-SO Scholarship Sponsor

• Northwood Manor Civic Club – Organised and served as President for 10 years

Political Engagement:

My political involvement is extensive, having served as a Harris County Precinct Judge since 1972 and holding leadership roles within the Harris County Democrats and the Northeast Democratic Coalition. I have worked closely with candidates to ensure they are equipped to represent our community effectively.

Challenges and Future Goals

One of the pressing issues we face is the weakening relationship between our community and the local ministers in Northeast Houston. This disconnect is troubling, and I have tasked my office to mend these ties immediately. The spiritual and moral guidance provided by our religious leaders is crucial to our community's well-being, and we must work together to restore these bonds.

Recognitions and Honors

My efforts have not gone unnoticed. I have been honoured as an African American Business "Pinnacle" Award Finalist in both 1997 and 1999. I have also been recognised for my contributions with the Outstanding Citizenship Award from 1994 to 1999 and have been a nominee for Entrepreneur of the Week by the Houston Informer newspaper. Additionally, I was awarded the Pinnacle Award by the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce in 1997, recognising my business as one of the top fifty in the area. These honours reflect my dedication to both my business ventures and the community I serve.

Looking Ahead

As I continue to speak with you over the coming months, I encourage you to reflect on the importance of your vote and the power it holds. Together, we can ensure that our elected officials are held accountable and that they truly represent the needs and interests of Northeast Houston. Our community deserves nothing less.

Personal Mission Statement

"Ambition, inspiration & determination are my daily driving forces. To serve and give, despite the circumstances. Compassion and empathy partnered with fairness and moral standing. Community, Civic, and City active. I serve."