GARCIA ON THE GO
Making every day count
Thursday, July 10, 2014

 

SENATOR GARCIA TESTIFIES ON VOTING RIGHTS ACT

On Wednesday June 25, 2014, one year after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Shelby County v. Holder that state and local governments do not have to get cleared by the federal government before making any changes to the voting laws and practices, Senator Garcia testified before the U.S. Senate about protecting Americans, and more specifically Texans, sacred right to vote. According to U.S. Department of Justice, since 1982 Texas has had the second highest number of Voting Rights Act violations. The Voting Rights Act has stepped in to ensure that all Texans, particularly minority populations, maintain their ability to vote. Preclearance from the federal government has protected Texans from discrimination in voting time and time again. I will continue to do everything in my power to make sure that every Texan is fairly represented.

UNACCOMPANIED MINORS

Over the past couple of months, the Department of Homeland Security has seen an unprecedented increase in the number of unaccompanied immigrant children crossing the border into the United States. The vast majority of these children, ages 0-17, are fleeing from unimaginable violence and abuse in Central America fueled by drug cartels. After visiting some of these young victims in San Antonio, my office is committed to finding some quality shelters and providing the service and protection that America is known for. I will continue to monitor this matter closely and update you on how you can help.

SUMMER RELIEF WITH "BEAT THE HEAT" CENTERS

With the promise of another sweltering Texas Summer, Reliant Energy will provide SD6 residents relief with the "Beat the Heat" program. This 9 year program provides air-conditioned spaces, entertainment and light snacks for residents to enjoy during each facilities hours of operation. Beat the Heat program will be available now until October 3rd, 2014.

Northeast Community Center, 9720 Spaulding, 713.732.5030
Denver Harbor MSC, 6402 Market St., 713.670.2100
Magnolia MSC, 7037 Capitol St., 713.928.9515

Please contact the center nearest you at the numbers provided for any additional information. Above all, please remain cool, safe, and manage those electricity costs.

Thursday, July 31, 2014 - Fundraising Reception for Leticia Van de Putte for Lt. Governor, 5:30pm - 7:00pm, Home of Beckie & Gasper Mir, 2010 Candlelight Place, 77018. Join me in supporting one of my Senate Sisters, Senator Leticia Van de Putte as she runs for Lieutenant Governor of this great state! Facing a tough general race, Leticia could use all our help! What I'm sure will be a fun night -  come visit with me and the next Lt. Governor of Texas! RSVP at www.leticiavandeputte.com/ehou0731

Cafe Con Sylvia, Friday August 1 at 7:30am, 513 College Ave, South Houston, 77587 and Friday, August 8 at 7:30am in Denver Harbor. Come have a cup of coffee or tea with Senator Garcia, catch up on events and happenings around the district and be able to talk with your state Senator about issues and concerns affecting you and your community.

Friday, August, 1, 2014- Back to School Health & Resource Fair, 8:00am-12:00pm, Leonel Castillo Community Center & Moody Park. Join me and Representative Farrar and multiple community partners to receive free backpacks, school supplies, health screenings, and much more! To pre-register, please contact our office at 713-923-7575 or the fair information hotline at 832-857-0671.

Friday, August 1, 2014 - FREE All About Ann Screening, 8:00pm - 10:30pm, Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, 77010. Fiesty, fiery, fearless, funny, a force of nature. These are just some of the words used to describe Ann Richards, one of the most charismatic American political figures of the last 30 years. This portrait chronicles the life of the liberal Richards who rose to power in a conservative state, effecting sweeping state reforms while becoming a beloved national icon. Join me for a movie in the park and what I'm sure will be a great night!

Monday, August 4, Education Town Hall, 6:30pm - 8:00pm at Ripley House, 4410 Navigation Blvd, 77011.

Tuesday, August 19, Immigration Town Hall, 7:30pm - 9:00pm, 2002 S Wayside Dr, 77023.

Thursday, August 28, Transportation Town Hall, 6:00pm - 7:30pm at Leonel Castillo Community Center, 2101 South St, 77009.

This July 4th marked the 238th birthday of the United States of America. As another celebration of the founding of our Republic passed, it reminded me that this time of year is an especially appropriate time to observe and reflect. I celebrated this national holiday by paying tribute to those who laid the groundwork for the freedoms we enjoy today and to the men and women serving this country defending it. I hope you had a great Independence Day!

Putting People First,

Sylvia