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Vol. 46 No. 15 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: [email protected] August 24, 2018 Aretha Franklin’s Funeral Set INSIDE for August 31 in Detroit

Coach Fenner talks about open season opportunities. RAPPIN’ See LBJ Tommy Wyatt Page 2 Has the MYEC outlived its purpose? Critically acclaimed There is a proposal on scholar receives the table to remodel and world premiere. redevelop the Millen- See MONROE nium Youth Entertain- Page 4 ment complex (MYEC) in East Austin. This center came about because of the pressure from the African American community on the City of Austin to Progressive attorney provide a safe place for dedicated to boost Black youth to gather. graduation rates. They need more than See ACC parks and swimming Page 5 pools. They need the same kind of facilities Michigan that were avail to youth Official Faces in other parts of the city – Movie theaters, Manslaughter bowling alleys, skating Trial over rinks, etc. Black youth were not Poisoned Flint welcome in the shopping Water center food courts, many By The Associated Press of the theaters or other (AP) - A judge on facilities where youth Monday ordered gathered. And the efforts Michigan’s state health came to a head after a director to stand trial on youth was killed while involuntary manslaughter hanging out on a corner Aretha Franklin performing during the BET Honors at the Warner Theatre in Washington on charges in the deaths of in East Austin. After that January 14, 2012. Franklin died Thursday, Aug. 16, 2018 at her home in Detroit. She was 76. two men linked to an out- tragic incident, the com- (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File) break of Legionnaires’ dis- munity turned up the ease in the Flint area, the heat on the city council. By MESFIN FEKADU | AP Music Writer highest ranking official to Austin formed the NEW YORK (AP) — Aretha Franklin’s funeral can History from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. stand trial as a result of Austin Rosewood Com- the scandal. munity Development will be held Aug. 31 in her hometown of Detroit. Franklin will be entombed at Woodlawn Cem- The late singer’s publicist, Gwendolyn Quinn, etery in Detroit, along with her father Rev. C.L. Nick Lyon is accused Corporation in 1995 and of failing to issue a timely applied for a federal said Friday that the funeral, to be held at Greater Franklin; sisters Carolyn Franklin and Erma Franklin; Grace Temple, is limited to the Queen of Soul’s fam- brother Cecil Franklin; and nephew Thomas alert to the public about HUD Section 109 the outbreak. Judge David ily and friends. Garrett. guaranteed loan for the Goggins Central City Entertain- Public viewings will take place Aug. 28-29 at Franklin died Thursday at her home in Detroit ment Center, now known the Charles H. Wright Museum of African Ameri- from pancreatic cancer. She was 76. See CHARGED, page 4 as the MYEC. The center rd was completed in 1999. The 3 Annual Black Music The center need to be upgraded and moder- Honors Celebrates nized, but it should not be torn town in the name of African-American Trailblazers improving the center. The by Naomi Richard | VILLAGER Newspaper center needs to be brought to today’s standards with (VILLAGER NEWS) - The 2018 Black Music Honors recognized the legacy com- puters and other of Aretha Franklin during the award show taping on August 16 in Nashville, electronic devices. But it Tennessee. Hosted by 2017 Marconi Award Winner Rickey Smiley and singer/ should maintain its focus actress LeToya Luckett, the annual two-hour television special honored artists as a Youth Center. This is and musicians who have influenced and made significant contributions to not the first time that a American music. proposal has been This year’s honorees for the 2018 Black Music Honors included Bobby presented to improve the Brown who received the R&B Soul Music Icon Award for his 40 years in enter- MYEC with the inten- tainment and 32 years as a solo artist; BeBe and CeCe Winans were co-honor- tion of tearing it down and ees of the Gospel Music Icon Award; chart-topping music producer and label building a multi-level executive Dallas Austin received the Music Innovator Icon Award; multi-plati- facility on the property. num, Grammy® Award-winning recording artist, songwriter and producer Faith The community must Evans received the Urban Music Icon Award; Grammy® Award-winning singer, get organized and show its songwriter and actress Stephanie Mills received the Legends Awards; and strong objection to any finally the renowned hip hop group Whodini received the Hip Hop Icon Award redevelopment that would for their musical contributions. “The vision of the Black Music Honors is to recognize the trailblazers in change the purpose of the Honoree Stephanie Mills on Black Music Honors' Youth Center See BOBBY BROWN OVERWHELMED WITH EMOTION, page 3 red carpet arrivals. Photo by Naomi Richard. Page 2 ~ THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 THE COMMUNIQUÉ www.theaustinvillager.com

(AUSTIN, TX) - Q&A with LBJ Fenner, 36, was officially named LBJ head football coach and athletic coor- football coach dinator in February. He replaced Andrew Jack- son, who died two Jahmal Fenner months earlier from Stage IV esophageal can- cer. Fenner served as co- by John Harris Jr. | head coach last season VILLAGER Sports Writer when Jackson under- went treatment, Fenner spoke with the Villager and de- scribed how he and Jack- son enjoyed a close re- Jahmal Fenner lationship that extended LBJ head football coach and athletic coordinator beyond coach and player. Fenner played the kids. If anything, kids in our building and cornerback for Jackson Coach Jack wanted us to on our team. Every year at Reagan High and later go out and play with someone is going to es- played the same posi- even more emotion dur- tablish themselves as tion at the University of ing that time. But I think the guy or a prolific Texas at El Paso. Fenner everybody understood player. That’s my expec- said his admiration for that football was really tation. I think we’ll have Jackson influenced him not as important as it a successful season be- to become a coach and would be in a normal ing with him was like cause we have some tal- teacher. situation. having a teacher, some- ented kids. That will be LBJ opens its first Describe your rela- one constantly to show an opportunity for full season under Fenner tionship with Coach you the way. Personally, someone else to shine at Elgin on Aug. 31. Jackson we had a father-son re- and fill those shoes. What was it like be- I was blessed to lationship, a brother- LBJ went 7-5 and ing in charge of the foot- have the type of rela- type relationship, a made the playoffs last ball team when you tionship I had with him. friend-type relationship. year. What is the mentor was battling can- I played for him. I What are your ex- strength of this year’s cer? coached beside him, I pectations following the team? Last year was coached his sons. He loss of playmaker Deon My focus is on de- tough. It was a struggle coached my son. As an Collins to graduation? fense. All of our impact seeing someone that athlete playing for him, Deon is special. players will play defense. coached you in high he was a very tough He’s electrifying. Offen- If we’re able to stop school and cared about coach but he also had sively, we will struggle a people, we’re going to you tremendously and compassion. He could be little bit without him, but score points. It’s going to you came and worked one way on the field be- we have some talented take the first two or with them, and their cause his expectations three games to find our health (deteriorated). were so high for you. (offensive) identity, and My approach was about And then he could be so then we’ll roll with it. staying positive, trying nurturing and loving off We’re going to take to uplift Coach Jack, try- the field where you some bumps and ing to uplift the coaching knew that he really bruises, but I think we staff, trying to uplift the cared about you genu- can have a successful administration, uplift inely as a person. Coach- year. www.theaustinvillager.com THE BULLETIN THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 ~ Page 3 Bobby Brown overwhelmed with emotion after We Want YOU! riveting performance from Bell Biv Devoe Advertise With The VILLAGER Country Boyz Fixin’s 4140 E. 12th Street, Austin, TX 78721 Featuring Fish, Poboys, Hot Wings, Pork Chops, Homemade Gumbo, Shrimp and Alligator DINE IN OR ORDER TO GO Mon - Fri: 11 am - 8 p.m. Saturday: 12 noon - 5 p.m. Closed Sunday Call (512) 928-5555 DOUBLE Evans Brown “R” Cece & Bebe Winans GROCERY

*We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. Ebenezer Baptist Church 1010 East 10th Street, Austin, TX 78702 Phone: (512) 478-1875 Fax: (512) 478-1892 Bus Ministry: (512) 478-1875 Sunday Services Worship Service 8:00 A.M. Sunday School 9:00 A.M. Discipleship Training 10:00 A.M. Worship Service 11:00 A.M. Wednesday Midweek Prayer Service 7:00 P.M. Dr. Ricky Freeman, Child Development Center Pastor Ages 0-5 years (Daily) 512-478-6709 Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church 5900 Cameron Road - Austin, Texas 78723-1843 (512) 451-0808 (512) 302-4575 Fax Web Site - www.themount.net WORSHIP SERVICES Top-left: Honoree Faith Evans on Black Music Honors' red carpet arrivals. Top-right: Hon- Sunday Worship - 7:45 a.m. & 11 a.m. oree Bobby Brown on Black Music Honors' red carpet arrivals. Bottom: Honoree CeCe Winans & Church School - 9:45 a.m. BeBe Winans on Black Music Honors' red carpet arrivals. Photos by Naomi Richard. Bible Studies - Mon, 6:30 p.m. & Wed., 12 noon Wednesday Night Worship - 7 p.m. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 “Ministries For Mankind” Luke 4:18 A.W.. Anthony Mays, Senior Pastor African American music who have paved the nius bundled within the honorees of the evening. way for the artists of today. Many of these artists Other performers included Next, Jade Novah, Agape Baptist Church have never received their much-deserved recogni- V. Bozeman, Demetria McKinney, DJ Mell Starr, In “The Centre” Bldg. F-15 7801 N. Lamar Blvd. (SE Corner of N Lamar and 183) tion,” said Don Jackson, Founder, and CEO of Cen- Sammie, Sammie, Yo-Yo, Koryn Hawthorne, Rhyon AGAPE is a chuch for all people. “Where Jesus Christ is Magnified and the love He exhibited is Exemplified.” Come, receive God’s unconditional lovefor you. tral City Productions. Brown, Raheem DeVaughn, Regina Belle, Paris For there is no greater love! The Austin Villager Newspaper joined media Bennett, Syleena Johnson, Angela Winbush, Monie Church Services outlets from around the country, covering the en- Love, Ruben Studdard and Doug E. Fresh. Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 11:00 AM tire evening beginning with the star-studded, two- Proceeds from the 2018 Black Music Honors Mid-Week Service Thursday: Praise, hour red-carpet event, the television taping and the will benefit the 2019 opening of the National Mu- Prayer and Bible Study 7:00 PM after-event celebrations. What an extraordinary seum of African American Music (NMAAM) in Rev. H. Ed Calahan Call 454-1547 for Transporation Pastor Website www.agapebcaustintx.com moment in our music’s history. Bobby Brown for Nashville. NMAAM’s stated mission is to educate the example, was overwhelmed with emotion and grati- world, preserve the legacy, and celebrate the cen- A Ministry That Ministers tude for the recognition after a riveting perfor- tral role African-Americans play in creating the mance by Bell Biv Devoe. American soundtrack. Another stand-out celebration consisted of a The annual two-hour television special taping spiritually moving performance featuring Donnie will broadcast in national syndication from Septem- McClurkin, Kierra Sheard, Tasha Page-Lockhart and ber 8-30, 2018, and will air on Bounce TV on Sep- Globalizing the Gospel Jonathan McReynolds as they paid tribute to long- tember 28, 2018. For more information on Black 1179 San Bernard Street, Austin, TX 78702, 512-478-7023 Edward M. Fleming, time Gospel superstars BeBe and CeCe Winans. Music Honors, please visit http:// Sunday Morning Bible Study, 9:00 A.M. Sr. Pastor We laughed, we cried and we danced the night blackmusichonors.com/ and watch live on Sunday Morning Worship, 10:15 A.M. OLIVET BAPTIST away while reflecting on the combined musical ge- www.bouncetv.com. Visit our website @ www.obcaus.org CHURCH GO YE EVANGELISTIC GOSPEL MISSION DAVID CHAPEL Missionary Baptist Church (Arena of Refuge and Liberty) SUNDAY Venu: Super 8, 8128 N. Interstate 35 Christian Education 9:15a.m. | Worship 10:30 a.m. Nursery Available Austin, Texas 78753 WEDNESDAY | CHURCH WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Worship 1st Wed. monthly 7:00p.m. | Bible Study 7:30p.m. Sundays: Sunday Celebration 9am - 12 noon Wednesdays: Systematic Bible Study 6pm-7:30 pm Fri: “I Believe in Miracle” Prayer Meetings 6-7:30 2211 East Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Austin, TX 78702 Join Operation PUSH Prayerline Team Every Office: 512-472-9748 Fax: 512-472-5399 Friday @ 6:pm Website: www.davidchapel.org Email: [email protected] REV. SAMUEL EHIMEN, Minister in-charge Dr. Joseph C. Parker, Jr. “A Church with a Heart Tel: 512-506-1645 Senior Pastor for The Community” New Lincoln Missionary Baptist Church Olive Branch Fellowship of Austin / All Faith Chapel 4110 Guadalupe St. Bldg #639 Austin, TX 78751 Imani Community Church 2215 E. 8th St., Davis Elementray Auditorium Sunday Morning “This life, therefore, is not Austin, TX 78702 Worship @ 11: am righteousness, but growth in righteousness; 5214 West Duval Road Going to Higher Heights, not health, but healing; not being, but Sunday School - 9:00 A.M. Trusting God along the way. becoming; not rest, but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, but we are growing Worship Service - 10:00 A.M. Sunday School 9:00am toward it. The process is not yet finished, Power Hour Bible Life Group - 6:00 P.M. BTU: 10:00am but it is going on. This is not the end, but it Morning Worship - 11:00 am is the road. All does not yet gleam in glory, Imani Complex & Office, 11800 Mustang at Duval Church Phone (512) 477-2714 but all is being purified.” --- Martin Luther Austin, Texas 78727 Cell Phont (512) 585-0744 Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been Rev. Darron E. Patterson Kenneth Hill, Email: [email protected] justified by faith, we have peace Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Visit:imanichurch.com Pastor www.newlincolnmbc.org Pastor with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Donald-Mims Office: 512-343-9300

GRACEWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH St. Peter’s United Methodist Church BETHEL-ST. PAUL UNITED BAPTIST CHURCH Felix Bamirin, Pastor 4509 Springdale Road Austin, Tx 78723 877 W. Hempstead, Giddings, Texas 78942 JOIN US This SUNDAY / THURSDAY Office 512- 926-1686 Fax 512-929-7281 @ 12424 Scofield Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78758 Christian Web Site- Weekly Schedule stpetersaustintx.ning.com Sunday School 9:00 a.m. (By Parmer Lane Baptist Church building, [email protected] THE PLACE WHERE WE STEP OUT ON FAITH. behind Wells Fargo) Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m. COME AND STEP OUT ON FAITH WITH US Wednesday Night Bible SUNDAYS 10:30 A.M., THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. Praise and Worship 10:15 a.m. Study 6:00p.m. Experience Grace For Life Wednesday Bible Study 12:00 p.m. Pastor J. R. Roberson Call: 682.472.9073 l Email: [email protected] l Rev. Jack C. Gause and Praise /Bible Study 6:30 p.m. & First lady (979) 542-2784 Church Pastor (to include Children’s Choir Rehersaland (979) 540-6352 Home Visit: www.gracewaycca.org Bible Study with age appropiate Activities) Lillian Robertson Page 4 ~ THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 COLLECTED PRÉCIS www.theaustinvillager.com Austin Playhouse opens new season with premiere of local playwright Lisa B. Thompson’s Monroe

(AUSTIN, TX)— Although her family Austin, her play Un- American Studies. Austin Playhouse is dismisses her eccen- derground received its This year, Thompson thrilled to open its tric ways, her friend world premiere at The was honored with a 2018 – 2019 season Clyde takes her vi- VORTEX and won the Texas 10 Award, with the world pre- sions and dreams seri- 2017 Austin Critics’ given annually to UT’s miere of Monroe by lo- ously. When Clyde in- Table David Mark most inspiring profes- cal playwright Lisa B. vites her to go along Cohen New Play sors by the Alcalde Thompson. The play with him to California, Award. Thompson’s magazine. was a winner of the Cherry must decide other plays include Monroe will be di- Austin Playhouse Fes- whether being the The Mamalogues, Din- rected by Lara Toner tival of New Texas keeper of her family’s ner, Single Black Female Haddock and star Plays, receiving a roots and cultural tra- (nominee for the 2005 Deja Morgan as staged reading in ditions justifies living LA Weekly Theatre Cherry Henry with April 2018. under Jim Crow. Set in Award for best com- Crystal Bird Caviel as Following the rural Louisiana during edy), and Dreadtime Viola Henry and lynching death of her the Great Migration, Stories: One Sista’s Hair Kriston Woodreaux as older brother, Cherry Monroe explores how (Inner City Cultural Clyde James. The cast is haunted by the be- the threat and after- Center Talent Festival also includes Austin lief that God is telling math of racial terror Finalist). Thompson is Playhouse Company her to leave the south. dominates the psyches on the faculty of the Members Huck University of Texas at Huckaby as Dr. Austin where she is Wyland, Carla COME DANCE 2018! Associate Professor of Nickerson as Ma African and African Henry, and Marc Lisa B. Thompson Ballet Austin’s Annual FREE Diaspora Studies and Pouhé as Seymour of young African claimed plays, explor- affiliate faculty in the Jones. The production Day of Dance! Americans, while of- ing issues of race, departments of En- team includes Barry fering hope for a bet- class, sexuality and glish, Women and Miller (stage man- We celebrate dance every day. ter future. gender, have been Gender Studies, The- ager), Diana Huckaby But one day each year we make dance Lisa B. Thompson produced across the atre and Dance and (costume designer), FREE just for you! is an artist and scholar United States and the Warfield Center and Mike Toner (set Ballet Austin’s annual gift of dance to the whose critically ac- Canada. Recently in for African & African designer). City of Austin! It’s absolutely FREE! Sunday, August 26, 1:00pm TO 5:30pm at Ballet Austin An Free dance classes during additional Come Dance will include*: 14

Ballet | Bollywood | Brazilian | We want current CardioFUNK | Cardio Hip Hop | YOU! or former Contemporary | Hip Hop | Hula | Irish Advertise Dance | Jazz Funk | Pound Rockout Workout® | Videodance™ Michael With The state and Jackson’s Beat It | VILLAGER West African Dance & Drums | Zumba® local officials have been charged Michigan Department of Health and Hu- with man Services Director Nick Lyon will face trial on manslaughter charges for the deaths of two men during a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak crimes during the Flint water crisis. (Terray Sylvester/ continued from page 1 The Flint Journal-MLive.com via AP) said deaths likely investigation is part of a ment in 2014-15, includ- could have been pre- larger probe into how ing 12 deaths. More vented if the outbreak Flint’s water system be- than half of the people had been publicly came poisoned when had a common thread: known and keeping the the city used Flint River They spent time at public in the dark was water for 18 months. McLaren Hospital, which “corrupt.” The water wasn’t was on the Flint water When the judge treated to reduce corro- system. announced the decision, sion. As a result, lead The outbreak was a woman in the gallery leached from old pipes. announced by Gov Rick said, “Yes, yes, yes.” Lyon, director of Snyder and Lyon in Janu- Some experts have the Health and Human ary 2016, although Lyon blamed Legionnaires’ on Services Department, is concedes that he knew the scandal over Flint’s the highest-ranking that cases were being water, which wasn’t Michigan official reported a year earlier. properly treated when it charged in an investiga- “He had the chance was drawn from the Flint tion led by the attorney to save lives,” special River in 2014 and 2015. general’s office. prosecutor Todd Flood Goggins found An additional 14 told the court at a July 25 there’s probable cause for current or former state hearing. a trial. The legal standard and local officials have But Lyon’s attor- isn’t as high as beyond a been charged with neys have questioned reasonable doubt. crimes, either related to the causes of death of “It’s a long way Legionnaires’ or lead in two people cited by from over,” Lyon told The the water. Four agreed Flood. They also say Associated Press after to misdemeanor plea there was much specu- the judge’s order. He de- deals; the other cases lation about the cause clined further comment. are moving slowly. and not enough solid in- The state says at Legionella bacteria formation to share with least 90 cases of Legion- can emerge through the public. naires’ occurred in misting and cooling sys- “It is not enough Genesee County, includ- tems, triggering a severe for the prosecutor to ing 12 deaths. Lyon de- form of pneumonia, es- wave his hands in the air nies wrongdoing. His pecially in people with and cry bad things hap- lawyers say sending the weakened immune sys- pened to the people of case to trial will “danger- tems. The state says Flint so someone must ously chill” public em- there were 90 cases re- be held responsible,” ployees. ported to Genesee Lyon’s lawyers said in a The Legionnaires’ County Health Depart- court filing. www.theaustinvillager.com HEADLINES Page 5 ~ THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 Stephanie Gharakhanian Moore Media’s Black Bodies among Announces Run for ACC Trustee lineup at Sixth Annual Capital City Black Film Festival AUSTIN, TEXAS - Stephanie Gharakhanian, an attor- (AUSTIN, TX) - ney and community or- Moore Media an- ganizer for Workers De- nounced today its docu- fense Project, an- mentary Black Bodies nounced in an email to has been invited to the family and supporters sixth annual Capital City on Monday that she is Black Film Festival running for the Place 8 (CCBFF), an Austin, position on the Austin Texas-based film festival Community College Dis- dedicated to films writ- trict Board of Trustees. ten or directed and pro- She is a first generation duced by Black filmmak- American whose father ers, films with Black ac- is from Iran and whose tors in principle roles or mother is from Sicily. which are about Black Gharakhanian cur- characters, subject mat- rently serves as Special ter, or issues related to Counsel at Workers De- the Black community. fense Project. During the Black Bodies takes last five years, she has candid, thoughtful, cou- provided legal assistance rageous exploration into to low-wage workers what it means to be time to help amplify the a Black film presence in who face poor treat- Stephanie Gharakhanian black in America and in black voice. This film Austin was long over- ment or abuse on the StephanieForACC.com the world. In the film, does that.” due. job. black people of different The Festival will be- “Black films are im- Gharakhanian says Gharakhanian led the been a leader in the ages, backgrounds, reli- gin this year with the portant because they that she wants to be a successful campaign to movement to win paid gions, nationalities, and Opening Night program- give African-American progressive voice for guarantee higher wages sick time for all Texas skin tones share what it ming celebrating the 25 artists a place to show- working people on the and safer jobs for con- families. means to exist in their th anniversary of the case their work to our local community college struction workers on Stephanie earned black bodies. film Cool Runnings . community, and to the board. “We must better Austin Community Col- her bachelor’s degree Black Bodies is Stars of Cool Runnings , wider communities support students and lege District bond from the University of among over 50 films that Malik Yoba and Leon across the country,” said teachers by expanding projects. She then Notre Dame, and she will be shown through- (Robinson) will be Tennon. “They serve to affordable childcare and served on ACC’s Con- received a full-tuition out the four-day festival present at the Opening shine a light on our sto- boosting graduation struction Wages and scholarship to attend which includes network- Night Screening and will ries and struggles, but rates. ACC needs to play Working Conditions Task Northeastern University ing, panel discussions, serve as co-ambassadors more importantly, our a central role in address- Force to ensure that the School of Law as a Pub- workshops, dynamic of CCBFF 2018. success. They show that ing income inequality promises made by the lic Interest Law Scholar. film screenings, and par- “This year’s films we are a force, and what and promoting a family- ACC Board of Trustees She earned her law de- ties. represent the rich talent we have to say stands for friendly economy in this and the ACC administra- gree and began working “As a black woman, we have in this country something.” community.” tion became reality. for Workers Defense I am driven to join the and around the world After a tremendous In 2014, Most recently, she has Project in 2013. ranks of those who are both in front of and be- inaugural year in Septem- championing black hind to camera,” said ber 2013 and experienc- Austin African American Premier causes and attempting Winston G. Williams, ing unexpected growth to help foster better out- Executive Director of since, CCBFF continues to Belly Dancer After 10 Years comes for black commu- CCBFF. grow, going from two to nities,” says Charlotte Austinite Julius five screens with a diverse Still Going Strong! Moore, director of the Tennon, Co-President slate of feature films, film and founder of and Producer of JuVee documentary/feature by Adrienne Isom | VILLAGER Entertainment Contributor Moore Media. “There’s Productions, and his films, short films, docu- (VILLAGER NEWS) a big problem with race wife, award-winning mentary/short films and - Roberta Thomas set in America. And in my actress Viola Davis, music videos. The film rat- out at least ten years hometown of Austin, have been supporters of ings will range from G ago to be a belly dance where black people are CCBFF since its inception through the maximum of performer. She started 7% of the population, it’s because they felt having R. training and found that the dancing came natu- ral for her. At that time her reasons for learning primarily surrounded her own health and en- tertainment. Along the way she discovered many more benefits of belly dance. She stated, “ The Belly Dance group-association is very welcoming, and accepting. They make people from all walks, sizes and cultures so- Roberta Thomas cially welcomed!” form with hand sym- injure themselves ANNOUNCEMENT Over a decade as bols, djembe drum, and greatly. Roberta kept training other instruments not Roberta’s latest The Martin Luther King Neighborhood she discovered that not commonly found in endeavor performance only her health was America. She also was done at “La Palapa Association (MLKNA) is hosting a candidate maintained, but the ac- learned to perform bal- Cantina” this past Sun- forum for City Council Candidates running tivity also influenced ancing a sword on her day. The performance her positively mentally, head! (Above pic) included at least ten for office in District I. and physically. I asked her how other dancers. It was an “Belly Dance”, she felt about her exciting event, that in- th Roberta stated, “Is the health over the years vited the audience to The forum will be held on September 10 at oldest recorded form of concerning keeping up watch, order food, and St. James Missionary Baptist Church located dance that is known.” with belly dance. She drinks. at 1821 E.M. Franklin Ave, beginning with a She has had the chance said that she felt belly Quite a few of the over the years to per- dance has helped to dancers had been per- Meet and Greet at 6p & Forum from 7-8:30p form and teach her cul- keep her feeling flexible forming for at least 20 tural / dance experi- and young. The dance to 30 years. ence in many elemen- and practicing have The moderator of For more information: You may contact tary schools. “Chil- also helped her tre- the event (Who was Melonie Dixon, Chair at 512.964.7853 dren”, she stated, “Love mendously with bal- also a performer to wear the hip scarves ance. Good balance is a stated) “ Even when or [email protected] and play the instru- core problem for there are storms, you Come and hear the candidates discuss ments I bring with me.” people as they age, can still dance in the their platform for District 1 Roberta learned to per- who can have a fall, and rain”. Page 6 ~ THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 DIASPORA www.theaustinvillager.com Beto O'Rourke Audrey McGehee for Williamson Block Walk County Justice of the Peace by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist Recently, there's been candidate withdraws for the JP Precinct 2 race. Audrey Amos McGehee has since stepped up and filled as a contender. McGehee has been involved in Williamson County Democratic politics for some time. For instance, she's served as Precinct Chair and now serves as President of the Williamson County Black Democrats, and is member of various Democratic clubs. McGehee is running because, she wants to see positive changes within the court system. Accord- ing to Audrey, “ my goals include the following: end- ing the school to prison pipeline by expanding in- Volunteers for the Beto O'Rourke Campaign. tervention programs; reducing unreasonable bonds Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon and fines the average working person can’t afford; and, providing accessibility, transparency into the On Saturday Au- they pounded the operations of the JP Court to insure justice for ALL gust 18, 2018, a group streets and sidewalks. and not just us.” of concerned citizens Consequently, they Since Audrey jumped in the race later, she will met at a member’s reached about 250 be seeking advance strategies such as: boosting her home in Round Rock people in the neigh- name recognition and raise funds. Over the years, Texas, to hold a block borhood. the Williamson County Democrats have worked walk for U.S. Represen- Unlike previous hard to make the “county a battleground location.” tative, Robert Francis election cycles, Beto As a result, candidates like Audrey have the oppor- “Beto” O'Rourke. Ac- O'Rourke has a “realis- tunity to win the Justice of the Peace Court race. Audrey Amos-McGehee cording to the organiz- tic chance” to win. Ac- ers, residents of Travis cording to certain polls, and Williamson O'Rourke is less than Craig Moore Addresses Black Pflugerville County turned out to five percent away by Tsoke seeks to clean up the help with campaign ef- from the incumbent. (Chuch) Adjavon | only African American forts. In addition, O'Rourke Villager Columnist cemetery in the Despite the heat, has raised substantially Pflugerville area. Ac- it did not slow down more than his incum- Monday, August cording to Diaspora, it is the volunteers desire bent, which has caused 20, 2018, Black important for Black to “knock on doors.” some alarm among the Pflugerville held their Pflugerville to reach out For nearly two hours, Republican Party. monthly meeting at the to the growing African Pflugerville library. Every Diaspora living in NAACP Calls for meeting a guest speaker Pflugerville. is invited. This month, Moreover, Investigation into Air Craig Moore, president Pflugerville has seen a of the Black Austin drastic increase in its Marshalls Targeting of Democrats (BAD) was African American popu- the speaker. Mr. Moore lation. Over the next five Black Passengers discussed the need of years, Pflugerville will voting and the issue of have the largest African by NNPANewswirePR voting rights. Under the American population in current administration, Central Texas. Accord- it's important for people ing to Diaspora Vote, of color to vote. It will be "the large African im- through the “ballot box,” migrant community has in which change will oc- also contributed to the Pictured left to right are: Velva Price and Craig cur. growth of the Black Moore. Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon Black Pflugerville is population of Central a nonprofit organization participation of Black on local issues. In addi- Texas, in the Pflugerville that seeks to increase people and their allies tion, this group also area." MLB Officials Increase Derrick Johnson, the president and CEO of Diversity the NAACP, says that the targeting of the Afri- can American flyers is sickening and utterly un- acceptable. (NAACP) Efforts Pictured left to right: Tyvan Burns (Norfolk State University); By Tyvan Burns, Diamond Durant (Morgan State University); Dan Halem (deputy BALTIMORE, MD. - The nation’s leading Diamond Durant, commissioner for Baseball Administration for MLB); and Denver Lark civil rights organization is calling for an inves- Denver Lark (North Carolina A&T University), pause for a photo at Chevrolet’s MVP tigation into recently revealed allegations of Clubhouse exhibit, during MLB’s All-Star Week in Washington, D.C. federal air-marshals targeting African Ameri- Dating back to (Mark Finkenstaedt/Chevrolet) can passengers. 1947, when Jackie The national office of the NAACP joins the Robinson became the Halem said that he wants to make it easier for velopment (FIELD) pro- Charlotte-Mecklenburg NAACP Branch in call- first African American to bring baseball to areas them; if we take away gram to increase minor- ing for an investigation into these claims. Major League Baseball and kids that otherwise the barriers…they’ll ity participation in pro- “The targeting of the African American fly- (MLB) player for the would not be exposed to play.” fessional baseball. ers is sickening and utterly unacceptable,” said Brooklyn Dodgers, in- it. The league’s efforts Last year, the league NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson. creasing diversity and “We are encour- to increase diversity on created a fellowship pro- “We are moving forcefully with our partners inclusion continue to be aged by our draft results the field and in the front gram designed to ad- to issue requests to the Chairman and ranking two of the league’s most and we have had more office come at a time vance diversity in the members of the House Committee on Home- important objectives. African Americans play- when 42.5 percent of all front office, The Shadow land Security for a complete investigation into As the league’s ers drafted in the last players in the MLB are League reported. these allegations.” Deputy Commissioner five years than we’ve minorities, according to Halem acknowl- According to a report from Fox 46 in Char- for Baseball Administra- had in [previous] years,” The Institute for Diver- edged that, over time, lotte, former air marshal whistleblowers alleged tion, Dan Halem has Halem said. “The way to sity and Ethics in Sport baseball has evolved tre- they were “told by a supervisor to target “the taken on those missions. have more diversity (TIDES). However, less mendously. Black people” when they worked in Orlando, Growing up in cen- amongst our players is to than eight percent of Halem also said because “they’re the ones who have warrants.” tral New Jersey, Halem create as many opportu- MLB players are Black, that he wants to create These whistleblowers also report the use played, watched, and nities for kids to play African American or Af- scholarships and train- of the “N-word” and say they reported this in- loved baseball. baseball, as possible. rican Canadian. In 1991, ing opportunities for as- cident to TSA, but no action was ever taken. Now Halem over- Halem continued: nearly 20 percent of all piring journalists inter- The NAACP recently ended its travel ban sees legal affairs, labor “African American [chil- players were African ested in writing about on American Airlines after the airlines re- relations, baseball opera- dren] will play baseball, American. baseball, in an effort to sponded with company-wide training on rac- tions, human resources, if you bring it to them In 2016, the league increase awareness ism and implicit bias. The NAACP has called the Department of Inves- and organize it, just like launched the Fostering about the sport and for implicit bias testing for individuals and tigations, and diversity ef- any kids. The league Inclusion through Educa- grow the league’s fan groups receiving public funding. forts for the league. needs to organize things tion and Leadership De- base. www.theaustinvillager.com CLASSIFIEDS THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 ~ Page 7 EMPLOYMENT | PROPOSALS | PUBLIC INFORMATION FOR SALE | FOR RENT | BIDS | MISCELLANEOUS Democrats that Want had candidates in and pick up the local Black- shown to presidents be- the way he referred to we’ve been telling them owned newspaper. fore him,” Clyburn said. her,” he said. “Politics to Win in November that one of the best ways “People tend to pay “The narrative that ex- aside, I’m insulted that to demonstrate that attention to the head- ists in this country is that the president of the Must Advertise in the you’re not taking the lines, the stories and the there are certain things United States would Black vote for granted is ads in the Black Press so that Black folks are not denigrate the office in Black Press to advertise in the Black it’s vitally important that supposed to do and one this way.” Press,” Clyburn said. candidates know this,” of those things is becom- Clyburn continued: By Stacy M. Brown, The National News- Clyburn said. ing the president of the “The president asked an NNPA Newswire Contributor paper Publishers Asso- A former history United States and [Presi- important question ciation (NNPA) is the old- teacher, Clyburn said dent Trump] and his ad- when he was running, est and largest trade Trump’s obsession with ministration, feel they ‘What do we have to group representing the dismantling Obama’s have to do whatever lose?’ Well, we have lost Black Press, comprised legacy is reminiscent of they can to wipe out any dignity and the respect of more than 200 Black- tactics employed by An- semblance that Barack of the presidency, be- owned newspapers op- drew Johnson to de- Obama was ever presi- cause of his coarseness erating in the United mean his predecessor, dent of the United in the office. When you States. Abraham Lincoln. States.” lose respect, you’ve lost “I’ve been in [the Johnson, who was Clyburn continued: about everything there Black Press]. My daugh- impeached by the “[Trump] has a deep- is to lose.” ter and I ran a newspa- House, had a vision of seated hatred for people While he still sup- per down South, so I America as a White of color and it manifests ports Pelosi, Clyburn know that candidates man’s government, ac- itself every day.” said that if the Demo- tend to take Black media cording to historians. Though he doesn’t crats take back the for granted,” Clyburn “If you remember, support or agree politi- House, he’s up for the said. “They tend to judge it’s the same kind of re- cally with former Trump job as speaker. Rep. Jim Clyburn (D - S.C.) Black media the same action Johnson had to aide Omarosa Manigault “I have always way they do other media Lincoln and I remember Newman, Clyburn said supported her, but I (Wikimedia Commons) and you just can’t do sitting alone once in the he was deeply troubled have always remem- (NNPA) - While said. “We can’t let these that, because the busi- Oval Office with Obama when Trump referred to bered a sermon I heard there’s at least a per- voters feel like we’re tak- ness model is totally dif- and I told him that this her as a “low life” and a my father give a num- ceived growing number ing them for granted.” ferent.” would be the kind of re- “dog.” ber of times,” Clyburn of Democrats who say Clyburn, 78, said he Each Sunday after action he could expect,” “I’m the father of said. “That sermon they want to replace was recently taken attending Morris Brown Clyburn said. three daughters and I’m stayed with me and he California Rep. Nancy aback by one candidate, A.M.E. Church in “[Obama] was deeply insulted by the said, ‘keep your lamps Pelosi as the Democratic who said that he could Charleston, S.C., Clyburn never going to get the president of the United trimmed and burning leader in the House of win the Black vote by said he and other kind of respect for his States referring to an Af- to be ready when the Representatives, South running on an anti- churchgoers habitually presidency that was rican American women bridegroom comes.’ My Carolina Rep. Jim Trump platform. point is, I’ve never for- Clyburn has emerged as “Wait one second,” gotten that sermon so a favorite among his Clyburn said that he told Listen Live ))) I keep my lamp burning peers to become the the individual. “We can’t Every Friday 8 AM - 9 AM so I’m ready.” first African American to just go around being ‘Re- hold that position. publican-light.’ We have Tommy Wyatt, Akwasi Evans Microsoft Corporation We want YOU! currently has the following In an exclusive in- to be out there putting & Damita Shanklin Advertise With The openings in Austin, TX (job terview with the NNPA forth an alternative mes- op- portunities available at Newswire, the 25-year sage, for our base, and The VILLAGER all levels, e.g., Principal, congressman said that, we have to reach out to RATP DEV Senior and Lead levels). Technical Account Man- while he’s ready for the Black voters and let is hiring Bus Breakfast agers: Assure productive challenge, Democrats them know we’re not Operators! use of Mic- rosoft currently have much big- taking them or any of CDL Training Available technologies, focusing on ger fish to fry. our base for granted.” Club Excellent Benefits delivery quality through “The first order of To that end, Package! planning and governance. business is to win the Clyburn said advertising http://bit.ly Apply on line: MSJobs_Delivery_ [midterm] elections on campaigns must largely www.apply4bus.com Relationship_Mgmt November 6,” Clyburn include the Black Press. Or in person: Multiple positions avail- said. “That’s what I’ve “It’s very, very 2910 E. 5th Street, able. To view detailed job been concentrating on.” important…Chairman Austin, Texas 78702 descriptions and minimum Clyburn and Con- Richmond and I have www.KAZIFM.org requirements, and to apply, Fixed Route Services in visit the website address gressional Black Caucus Austin and Round Rock NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS Travis County Healthcare listed. EOE. Chair Cedric Richmond AGAINST THE ESTATE OF District d/b/a Central NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS each told the NNPA Health SCOTT EDWARD LAWLESS, DECEASED AGAINST THE ESTATE OF 1111 E. Cesar Chavez Street Newswire that they’ve Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for JANE DOE, DECEASED Austin, TX 78702 the Estate of Scott Edward Lawless, Deceased, were issued on Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the identified 37 districts RFP 1802-001 – Armed/ August 14, 2018, in Cause No. C-1-PB-18-001413, pending in Estate of Jane Doe, Deceased, were issued on month day, year, in across the country they Unarmed Security Officer the Probate Court No. 1 of Travis County, Texas, to Jill Bates Cause No. C-PB-18-00000, pending in the Probate Court No. 1 of Services believe can be won by Lawless. Travis County, Texas, to Tom Smith. Due Date: 9/6/2018 by 2:00 Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, Democrats this year, PM CT addressed as follows: addressed as follows: which would wrest con- Scope of Work: The purpose Jill Bates Lawless, Independent Executor Tom Smith, Independent Executor of this RFP is to obtain the trol of the House from Estate of Scott Edward Lawless, Deceased c/o Pamela Hailey- Estate of Jane Doe, Deceased services of a qualified Petty, Attorney for Independent Executor Hailey-Petty Law c/o Pamela Hailey-Petty, Attorney for Independent Executor Republicans. Security Services firm to Firm, PLLC Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC “We feel, with the provide on-site armed and un- 13740 Research Blvd Suite #N1 Austin, Texas 78750 13740 Research Blvd Suite #N1 armed security guards for right kind of effort, we All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently Austin, Texas 78750 Central Health and being administered, are required to present them within the time All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently can win,” Clyburn said. Community Care. and in the manner prescribed by law. being administered, are required to present them within the time Clyburn listed three Ordering Instructions: DATED ______, 2018. and in the manner prescribed by law. Package can be downloaded keys to success this No- Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC DATED ______, 2018. from: www.bidsync.com, OR Pamela Hailey-Petty, Attorney Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC vember. www.centralhealth.net/ Pamela Hailey-Petty, Attorney The first key, current_solicitations.html OR Clyburn said, is to priori- Hensel Phelps Construction Co., http://esbd.cpa.state.tx.us tize the Black vote; Construction Manager @Risk, Democrats can’t afford is soliciting proposals from subcontractors and material to take the African suppliers for the construction of the American vote for City of Austin, COA Project No. 11222.001, granted. Proposal Package 15 consists of TI Buildout of Apron Level Secondly, the Space Are you interested in doing Democrats shouldn’t September 4, 2018 New Jobs for the business with the City of Austin? rely on an anti-President The Proposal Package will be available by contacting our office, Week of 08/19/2018 We are here for you! Donald Trump wave to mentioned below. Proposal selection will be on a best value Assistant III, Administrative get out the vote. Finally, basis. Highland Business Center City of Austin Clyburn said that candi- September 12, 2018 at 10:00 AM Job# 1807035 Purchasing Office Coordinator, Professional A Pre-Proposal Conference and Job Walk will be held dates must advertise in Development Training Vendor Registration the Black Press, if they at 10211 ½ Hotel Dr., Austin, TX 78719 Highland Business Center October 5, 2018 at 2:00 PM 512-974-2018 want to win in Novem- Job# 1808008 will accept proposals for this package at our office, Assistant, Student Services [email protected] ber. 10211 ½ Hotel Dr., Austin, TX 78719 Northridge Campus www.austintexas.gov/department/purchasing “We are also talk- All City of Austin Certified Disadvantaged Business Job# 1808012 ing about districts where Enterprises Assistant, Senior Lab For information on the City of Austin’s Minority/ Riverside Campus Barack Obama won are encouraged to submit proposals. The project’s DBE Women-Owned Procurement Program please contact the Goal = 7.59% Job# 1808014 Small & Minority Business Resources at 512-974-7600 twice and where Hillary Hensel Phelps Construction Co. is available at (512) 834- Apply at HR or visit www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Clinton also won, but 9848 or fax (512) 834-9844 Middle Fiskville Rd. these voters don’t turn Hensel Phelps is an E.E.O. Employer. 6th Floor, Austin, TX 78752 We encourage and actively solicit proposals from Job Line (512 223-5621 out for the so-called ‘off- hhtp://www./austincc.ed Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for all projects year elections,’” Clyburn EEOC/AA/M/F/D/V Page 8 ~ THE VILLAGER/August 24, 2018 THE DISPATCH www.theaustinvillager.com Back-to-Back Legal Blows Jolt Trump Presidency By Defender News Service (DEFENDER NEWS) - On a day that saw his dent after he or she departs the White House. former campaign chairman convicted of financial Michael Avenatti, a lawyer pressing a civil case crimes within minutes of his former lawyer plead- against Trump for Daniels, who has said she had sex ing guilty to a series of felonies, President Trump with the president, tweeted Tuesday that the reso- told those in attendance at a campaign rally, “What lution of the criminal case against Cohen “should we’re doing is winning.” also permit us to proceed with an expedited depo- President Donald Trump confronted one of the sition of Trump under oath about what he knew, most perilous moments of his presidency Tuesday when he knew it, and what he did about it.” after two onetime members of his inner circle si- The Supreme Court in 1997, ruling in a sexual multaneously were labeled “guilty” of criminal harassment lawsuit brought by Paula Jones, held charges. Although Trump largely ignored the jarring that a sitting president could be made to answer back-to-back blows at a campaign rally in West Vir- questions as part of a lawsuit. That ruling did not ginia, questions mounted about his possible legal directly address whether a president could be sub- exposure and political future. poenaed to testify in a criminal investigation. In a split screen for the history books, Trump’s Despite blustery public denials, the fate of former campaign chairman Paul Manafort was con- Manafort and Cohen has worried the president’s victed of financial crimes at nearly the same mo- inner circle. ment Trump’s former personal attorney Michael President Donald Trump speaks during a For many around Trump, Cohen has repre- Cohen pleaded guilty to a series of felonies, includ- rally, Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2018, at the Charleston sented a greater threat than even the Russia inves- ing campaign finance violations that the lawyer said Civic Center in Charleston, W.Va. (Craig tigation, drawing from his decade of working as the he carried out in coordination with Trump. Hudson/Charleston Gazette-Mail via AP) then-celebrity real estate developer’s fixer. An FBI With two men who played prominent roles on raid on Cohen’s New York office and hotel room in the president’s campaign convicted of multiple dent of sexual misconduct. April rattled the president, who has complained criminal charges, the investigations circled ever Manafort’s conviction served as a vindication publicly about what he felt was government over- closer to Trump. But for all that, Trump spent an of Mueller’s work as investigators continue to probe reach while privately worrying about what mate- hour-plus rally in Charleston on Tuesday night paint- potential misdeeds by the president and those in rial Cohen may have had after working for the Trump ing a rosy view of his accomplishments in office, tick- his orbit. Mueller’s team also had referred evidence Organization for a decade. ing off developments on trade, taxes, North Korea in the Cohen case to federal prosecutors in New Those in Trump’s orbit, including Giuliani, have and even his plans for a Space Force. York. steadily ratcheted up attacks on Cohen, suggesting “What we’re doing is winning,” Trump told Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani sought to cast he was untrustworthy and lying about what he knew cheering supporters. the blame solely on Cohen in a Tuesday statement, about Trump’s business dealings. When Cohen’s “Where is the collusion?” he demanded, un- saying: “There is no allegation of any wrongdoing team produced a recording that the former fixer had derscoring that Manafort’s crimes had occurred against the President in the government’s charges made of Trump discussing a payment to silence a before he became involved with the Trump cam- against Mr. Cohen.” woman about an alleged affair, Giuliani sought to paign. “You know they’re still looking for collusion.” In a separate courtroom Tuesday, prosecutors impugn Cohen’s credibility and question his loyalty. The president did say he felt “badly for both” and defense attorneys for former Trump national Trump stewed for weeks over the media cov- men, but he largely ignored Cohen’s guilty pleas to security adviser Michael Flynn agreed to postpone erage of the Manafort trial. Though the proceed- eight felonies. his sentencing after he pleaded guilty to lying to ings were not connected to Russian election inter- Manafort was convicted Tuesday in Virginia on the FBI about his contacts with a Russian official, in ference, Trump has seethed to confidants that he charges brought by special counsel Robert Mueller, a sign his cooperation was still needed in the views the Manafort charges as “a warning shot” who is investigating Russian interference in the 2016 Mueller probe. from Mueller. election and potential obstruction of justice. Cohen Trump confidants reasserted late Tuesday that As he watched the courtroom proceedings, he pleaded guilty in New York, saying he and Trump it is the White House position that a president can- told confidents that he feared his eldest son, Donald had arranged the payment of hush money to porn not be indicted, referring to a 2000 opinion of the Trump Jr., could at some point be the one on trial, star Stormy Daniels and a former Playboy model to Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel, which according to two people familiar with his thinking influence the election. provides legal advice and guidance to executive but not authorized to discuss private conversations. It is the Cohen case that places Trump in the branch agencies. Trump’s lawyers have said Mueller “What matters is that a jury found that the most jeopardy, legal experts said, as the longtime plans to adhere to that guidance, though Mueller’s facts presented to them by the special prosecutor personal “fixer” acknowledged his role in a scheme office has never independently confirmed that. There warranted a conviction of someone who surrounds to pay off women who accused the future presi- would presumably be no bar against charging a presi- the president,” Weinstein said.