Real people: Houston agent creates first Realtor safety/concealed carry class

JDR's Kristine Martinez, with her husband Joaquin, enjoyed the West University Elementary "Swinging Soiree." JDR's Kristine Martinez, with her husband Joaquin, enjoyed the West University Elementary "Swinging Soiree." Image 1 of / 6 Caption Close Real people: Houston agent creates first Realtor safety/concealed carry class 1 / 6 Back to Gallery

Bernstein Realty's Ron Johnson has a reputation as a straight shooter - and is looking to help other agents do the same. He has teamed with a local real estate school to offer the first Texas Real Estate Commission sanctioned Real Estate Agent Safety Course - including five hours of classroom Mandatory Continuing Education, followed by a Department of Public Safety sanctioned approved Concealed Handgun/License to Carry class and range work. It is the first, and so far only, such class approved by TREC in Texas.

The first sessions have all filled quickly and Johnson said students appreciate getting both five hours of MCE credit as well as their Concealed Handgun License.

"As Realtors, we are the only occupation that is expected to meet or escort a stranger to a strange location, often after dark, without adequate protection, all the while expecting the best," Johnson said, adding that believes the class is a proactive way to avoid potential issues.

Class fees include MCE credit and use of a shooting range, but students need to bring their own handgun (minimum .32 caliber) and at 50 rounds of ammunition. Firearm rental and ammunition are available for an additional cost. Classes are scheduled for several locations throughout the region. Contact Johnson or Lloyd Hampton Real Estate Education for more information.

Meyerland residents celebrated both their community and (finally) great weather at the Afternoon in the Park celebration last week at Goodwin Park. Ed Wolff and Cheryl Israel of Beth Wolff Realtors spent the afternoon handing out ice cold water to neighbors. Wolff said it was free, fun-filled day of activities, entertainment, giveaways and food - and attendance was excellent.

A Swinging Soiree was a 1920s theme to celebrate West University Elementary' s 90th anniversary. John Daugherty, Realtors' Kristine Martinez is this year's proud PTO president and helped welcome guests. Nearly 400 people attended the annual Auction and Gala that was held at The Astorian.

The event also included both a live and silent auction, Big Board, Wine Pull and Whisky Pull, and a Casino. This event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the school.

Martinez's fellow sales associate Laura Mayer also attended with her husband. Mayer and Martinez sponsored the open bar for the second year in a row.

There's even more reason to save the date for the 2016 On the Move Luncheon benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. JDR's mother and daughter team Emily Covey and Kay Holmes are honorary chairs, along with Emily's sister, Laura Dalton.

The 11th annual event will take place on Wednesday, March 23, at River Oaks Country Club. With more than $1.2 million raised since it began in 2006, the Luncheon is fueling the impact of groundbreaking research and critical programs and services.

The event features an elegant lunch, entertainment, inspirational speakers, prize drawings, and more.

Covey first became aware of MS when her roommate at the University of Texas, Wendy Bedortha was diagnosed. Covey has continued to be involved with the cause by serving on the On the Move Luncheon committees for numerous years with her friend Wendy and is honored to now be an honorary chair.

For more information, please contact Meredith Byrnes at Meredith.Byrnes@nmss.org.

Judi Griggs is a writer who lives in Houston in the winter and Buffalo in the summer - because the reverse would be ridiculous. Contact her at realnewshouston@gmail.com or through judigriggs.com.