On the morning of Thursday, June 20th, at 8 am in the ACP Hotel lobby, the “Rise & Shine Morning Mixer” breakfast networking event organized by the Southwest Management Committee brought together elected officials, government agency personnel, community and business leaders. Southwest Committee Chairman Li Xiong, Director Lin Fugui, Public Safety Committee Chairman Peter Acquaro, and Business and Economic Development Committee Chairman David Peters attended the event, enjoying a hearty breakfast and engaging in interactions.
Lin Fugui mentioned that this event is held every third Thursday morning at 8 am, providing the community with a free breakfast gathering. It aims to expand interpersonal relationships, business opportunities, and familiarity with government officials. He introduced the three districts within the Southwest jurisdiction, including zip codes 77036, 77074, and 5% of the Richmond area 77057. Chairman Li Xiong and the two committee chairmen also introduced themselves, allowing 30 minutes for guests to give brief self-introductions to help everyone understand and get to know the represented organizations and key services.
Chairman Li Xiong announced the upcoming Independence Day celebration event scheduled for June 30th at PlazAmericas plaza, featuring over 100 sponsored booths and a spectacular fireworks display, welcoming all to attend. David Peters welcomed first-time attendees to the breakfast meeting and expressed delight in the growth of the event. Peter Acquaro highlighted the department’s flagship crime-fighting March event held annually in March; the Southwest area covers three police stations and has established good relations with the police department. They organize many community “police-citizen interaction” events to help make the Southwest area safer, encouraging active participation in the monthly open meeting held on the first Wednesday morning at 9 am.
Newly appointed sixth-month Houston City Councilor Julian Ramirez (AT-LARGE POSITION 1) shared his background, growing up supported by his family’s small business (a grocery store), emphasizing the importance of networking and camaraderie. He outlined the role of a councilor as, “If you live in Houston, I represent you and your voice.”
Houston Police Department Recruitment Supervisor Hong-Le Conn mentioned her previous service in the Midwest Division and the good relationship established with the Southwest Management District, using the event to promote HPD recruitment at hpdcareer.com. Those considering a career change are welcome to join HPD. Property and Financial Crimes Division Director Nhattien Nguyen highlighted their department’s efforts in investigating internet and financial crimes, collaborating with the Southwest area to address crime prevention issues raised by banks. The event was praised for enhancing community communication, information exchange, and strengthening crime prevention efforts.
Attendees at the event included Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher representing Christy Whitaker, State Representative Gene Wu representing Amy Turney, Justice of the Peace for Harris County Precinct 5, Place 1 Israel B. García, Jr., Harris County District Attorney candidate Sean Teare, Stafford City Councilor William Bostic Jr., and the newly appointed Chair of the Houston Holocaust Museum Board Alice Collins, Vice Chair of Outreach Nancy Li, and International District Chair Wea Lee.