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Vol. 46 No. 7 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: [email protected] June 29, 2018 Supreme Court rules Texas did not intentionally INSIDE discriminate in drawing political maps By Defender News Service

Film veterans, Leon and Malik serve as CCBFF ambassadors. RAPPIN’ See CAPITAL Tommy Wyatt Page 2 The Paid Sick Leave controversy! On February 16, 2018, GRAMMY winning the Austin City Council artist debuts special passed an ordinance that mixtape project. will require private See TRAP companies with Page 3 employees working in the City of Austin to provide between 48 and 64 hours per year of paid sick leave to employees. In addition to providing leave, employees must have written notice of their paid sick leave (DEFENDER NEWS) - Extinguishing the possibility The Supreme Court’s ruling, which keeps all but Activists unite with rights and receive that Texas could be placed back under federal electoral one of the state’s districts in place through the end of a common goal of monthly statements supervision, the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday the decade, is a major blow to the maps’ challengers improving Pflugerville. informing them of the pushed aside claims that lawmakers intentionally dis- — civil rights groups, voters of color and Democratic See COMMUNITY time they have criminated against voters of color when they enacted lawmakers — who have been fighting the Republican- Page 4 remaining. the state’s congressional and state House maps. controlled Legislature’s adjustment of district bound- This ordinance seems to In a 5-4 vote, the high court upheld 10 of 11 con- aries since 2011. City Council be an overstep on the gressional and state House districts that the maps’ chal- That year, Republicans were forced to grapple with part of the council. One lengers said intentionally undercut the voting power how to redraw the state’s political maps to account for to hear public of the benefits of private of Hispanic and black voters, oftentimes to keep white 2010 U.S. census numbers that showed that the state’s input on 2018 business has been the incumbents in office. The Supreme Court found that demographics were shifting against them. Most of the freedom to operate their the evidence was “plainly insufficient” to prove that state’s growth was attributable to people of color, par- bond language businesses without much the 2013 Legislature acted in “bad faith” when it en- ticularly Hispanics, who are more likely to vote for interference from the acted the districts. Democrats. Still, lawmakers managed to redraw elec- AUSTIN, TX - Next government. Most The one exception was Fort Worth-based House toral maps to add more Republican-friendly districts, Thursday, June 28, the businesses hold their District 90, which is occupied by Democratic state Rep. particularly in Congress where Republicans gained three Austin City Council will ac- employees in high Ramon Romero and was deemed an impermissible ra- surefire districts and Democrats gained just one. cept public input on a esteem and work very cial gerrymander because lawmakers illegally used race The maps lawmakers first drew in 2011 to account bond package to go to vot- hard at making sure that as the predominant factor in deciding its boundaries. See GERRYMANDER, page 5 ers on Nov. 6, 2018. they are treated fairly. Sign up to speak be- While there has been fore the Council by com- government intervention ARA 2018 Juneteenth HAYES Basketball pleting an electronic reg- in providing minimum istration form in person at wages, historically, Artist Exhibition Camp Scores Again the kiosks located in the private independent lobby of City Hall, 301 W. businesses have been 2nd St. given a free hand in Indicate you want to looking out for their employees. As a result, speak on Item No. 27. many of our citizens Speaker sign up starts spend most of their Monday, June 25. working years working The proposed resolu- in the private sector. tion is based on recom- The new ordinance mendations from the goes into effect October 1, Bond Election Advisory 2018. And the employer Task Force and City staff. will not be fined for It establishes a bond pack- failure to comply until age of $816 million in gen- May 2019. Employers eral obligation bonds as with five or fewer From L to R: Brian Joseph (Bydeeman), Youthful participants of the annual HAYES the starting point for de- employees in the City of Lakeem Wilson (Artist), Basketball Camp at Travis High School in veloping proposition lan- Austin at any time in the Gregory L. Smith (ARA President & CEO) Austin, Texas. Photo/Wanda Hayes. guage to be considered by last 12 months have until AUSTIN, TX - In celebration of Juneteenth, the Council. Bond funding is October 1, 2020 to AUSTIN, TX - Travis High School played host to Austin Revitalization Authority hosted “From Kids To proposed to fund the fol- comply. the HAYES Basketball camp for the second year in a Kings: a Juneteenth Celebration” featuring the artistic lowing summarized im- An injunction has been row. This year was an even greater success as kids work of Artist Lakeem Wilson. provements: $161 million filed with the courts from all over the city came in to showcase their skills. for Affordable Housing; calling for an injunction Brian Joseph, “Bydeeman,” lent his expertise to The week was spend working on skills building drills, the event by curating the exhibition and making the $176 million for Transpor- against the ordinance. A shooting clinics, and competitive games. tation Infrastructure; temporary injunction show a true reflection of Juneteenth Cultural Heritage. These campers ranged in age from 8 to 16 years $167 million for Parks and was denied. However, “From Kids To Kings: a Juneteenth Celebration” old. “Many of the campers were able to leave hav- Recreation; $184 million this fight is not over and took place on Thursday, June 14, 2018 from 5-8 pm at ing gained something they did not start camp with for Stormwater and Open could go all the way to the historic Eastroom (also known as the Herman and that is the goal” said Coach Hayes. I am very the Supreme Court. In Schieffer House): 1154 Lydia St., Austin, TX 78702. Over Space; $74 million for Li- the meantime, employers 65 patrons of the community attended the event where pleased with the turn out and show of support and braries and Cultural Cen- and employees need to several art pieces were sold. hope for even more campers next summer. HAYES ters; $38 million for Pub- keep abreast of what is in For more information, and to view all ARA com- Academy would like to extend a special thank you lic Safety; and $16 million the ordinance and learn munity engagement events, please visit our website Tommy Wyatt and the Villager Newspaper for their for Health and Human how it affects them. at: http://www.austinrev.org. continued support. Services. Page 2 ~ THE VILLAGER/June 29, 2018 THE COMMUNIQUÉ www.theaustinvillager.com CAPITAL CITY BLACK FILM FESTIVAL TO RETURN TO AUSTIN AUGUST 30TH thru SEPTEMBER 2ND (Black PR Wire) than 25 films including his AUSTIN, TX — The breakout film was his role Capital City Black Film Fes- as ‘Yul Brenner’ in Cool tival (CCBFF) today an- Runnings and ‘Gavin’ in nounced the return of its Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get premier film festival to the Married I and II. Yoba is city of Austin on August 30 well-known for his starring – September 2, 2018 at the role as ‘Detective Will- Austin Convention Center. iams’ in 90’s hit television This year’s festival will show New York Under- feature film screenings of cover, as well as recent TV documentaries, features, roles in Empire, Desig- shorts and music videos nated Survivor and from talented filmmakers Netflix’s Seven Seconds. from across the globe. “We are honored to Filmmakers and fans can have industry veterans’ expect engaging and edu- Leon and Malik Yoba join cational programming and as ambassadors for CCBFF. the opportunity to network These artists have exem- with and learn from indus- plary careers and a wealth try professionals. Film sub- of knowledge that spans missions are currently be- Leon Malik Yoba over three decades. We ing accepted and tickets four athletes who go to ex- are excited to have their are now on sale for All Film tremes to compete as is most notably known for Bannock’ in the 1993 film over the years. He is also support and look forward and VIP festival passes. bobsled racers at the Win- his roles as ‘David Ruffin’ in Cool Runnings, and as an accomplished musician to bringing aspiring film- Visit www.capcitybff.com ter Olympics. Actors will the television movie The ‘Shep’ in the 1994 basket- and leads the band Leon makers and supporters an for more information. attend screening and Temptations, ‘J.T. ball drama film, Above the & The Peoples. enhanced experience at Leon and Malik Yoba meet-and-greet to allow Matthews’ in the 90’s clas- Rim. Leon has collectively Yoba’s acting career this year’s festival,” said will serve as ambassadors fans an opportunity to sic Robert Townsend film appeared in more than 40 spans more than 25 years. CCBFF Executive Director to this year’s festival – learn more from their ex- The Five Heartbeats, ‘Derice television and film roles He has appeared in more Winston G. Williams. bringing with them a periences. wealth of experience in Leon Robinson is an Cori ‘Coco’ Another Black tennis the film industry. Yoba and accomplished actor, pro- player is making history. Leon will join in the cel- ducer and musician whose Gauff Cori “Coco” Gauff, 14, be- ebration of the 25th anni- acting career began in the came the youngest girl to versary of Cool Runnings, early 80’s. With more than becomes win the junior title at the Cori a true-life comedic saga of 30 years in the industry, he French Open since 1994. ‘Coco’ youngest Gauff defeated Caty Gauff McNally 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (1) in female an all-American final to win the girls’ title at the Serena Williams’ coach, Gauff, is a former track star tennis French Open. She is the Patrick Mouratoglou, and gymnast. fifth youngest to win the since 2015. Gauff comes The young tennis champion in title overall in the history from a family of athletes: champ posted about her of the French Open. Her father, Corey Gauff, win on the ’gram and 24 years Gauff has been play- was a basketball player at thanked God as well as By ing since the age of 6 but Georgia State University, those who have supported Defender News Service has also been training with and her mother, Candi her. www.theaustinvillager.com THE BULLETIN THE VILLAGER/June 29, 2018 ~ Page 3 Lecrae & Zaytoven Release Joint Project Let The Trap Say Amen We Want YOU! By Naomi Richard | VILLAGER Contributor 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 - Friday 11 am - 8 p.m. Saturday - 12 noon - 5 p.m. Closed Sunday Call (512) 928-5555

Let The Trap Say Amen. Photo courtesy of Reach Records. DOUBLE In honor of “Black Music Month,” we spotlight music,’ I don’t think of glorifying the negativity. I think GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist, Lecrae, who of a soundscape that speaks a certain language. I think is out with a special mixtape project, Let The Trap Say of music that tells real stories.” He went on to say, Amen, with fellow GRAMMY Award-winning producer, “There’s a whole other side to the trap that doesn’t get “R” Zaytoven, June 22 via Reach Records. Let The Trap Say exposed...You can’t pigeonhole our communities. Ev- Amen is available now for streaming and purchase at eryone in the Trap ain’t trappin’.” all digital retailers. To bring his message home and to celebrate the Born out of a mutual respect for each other’s work positivity that exists in the trap, Lecrae is hosting a city and joined by common faith, the two Atlanta legends wide community contest in Atlanta to honor exemplary GROCERY came together for a release aimed at bridging under- small business owners, youth entrepreneurs, artists and *We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out standing and building community, especially in musicians. On July 6, the outstanding contest winners 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. underserved neighborhoods across America often will be presented with a cash prize during a pop up per- dubbed “The Trap.” The 13-track project touts features formance in Atlanta. Visit TrapSayAmen.eventbrite.com Ebenezer Baptist Church from the likes of 24hrs, nobigdyl., and Verse Simmonds, to find out more information. 1010 East 10th Street 512-478-1875 Fax 512-478-1892 as well as one of Atlanta’s best-loved sons, Waka Flocka Nearing the 2 million mark in sales, Lecrae has won Bus Ministry Call 512-478-1875 Flame. a Billboard Music Award, multiple BET, Soul Train, and Sunday Services The record has already garnered praise from both Dove awards, with an Honorary Doctorate of Music to Worship Service 8:00 A.M. mainstream and hip hop press alike, including NPR New Sunday School 9:00 A.M. go along with his two Grammy wins and Best Rap Per- Discipleship Training 10:00 A.M. Music Friday, Billboard and Complex. Lecrae recently formance nomination. Past signature songs include the Worship Service 11:00 A.M. appeared on ESPN’s SportsNation, letting “The Nation” ultra-relatable “I’ll Find You” featuring Tori Kelly, the pro- Wednesday Midweek Prayer Service 7:00 P.M. know Let The Trap Say Amen was set to arrive and the phetic, hypnotic “Welcome To America,” along with the Dr. Ricky Freeman, Child Development Center leading entertainment site, WorldstarHipHop, exclu- powerfully charged “Blessings,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign. Pastor Ages 0-5 years (Daily) 512-478-6709 sively premiered the music video for “Get Back Right” Lecrae is a best-selling author, entrepreneur and to positive reception. social activist. He’s a NY Times Bestseller after the re- Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church In a guest editorial Lecrae penned for DJBooth.net lease of his heartfelt memoir ‘Unashamed’ and his 5900 Cameron Road Austin, Texas 78723-1843 (512) 451-0808 (512) 302-4575 Fax to announce the project, The Trap Does More Than Say breakthrough spoken word performance at the BET Hip Web Site - www.themount.net “Aye,” Lecrae explained, “When I hear the term ‘trap Hop Awards drew global praise. WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship - 7:45 a.m. & 11 a.m. Williamson County votes to end contract with T. Don Hutto Church School - 9:45 a.m. Bible Studies - Mon, 6:30 p.m. & Wed., 12 noon immigrant detention center Wednesday Night Worship - 7 p.m. Decision gives ICE six months to renegotiate contract; advocates stress importance of freeing “Ministries For Mankind” Luke 4:18 A.W.. Anthony Mays, Senior Pastor women at detention center, including mothers separated from kids, immediately GEORGETOWN, TX — The Williamson County Down Hutto coalition for their work to make this hap- Agape Baptist Church Commissioners Court today voted 4-1 to end the inter- pen,” said Bethany Carson, immigration organizer and In “The Centre” Bldg. F-15 7801 N. Lamar Blvd. (SE Corner of N Lamar and 183) AGAPE is a chuch for all people. “Where Jesus Christ is Magnified and the love He governmental service agreement with the T. Don Hutto researcher at Grassroots Leadership. “However, there exhibited is Exemplified.” Come, receive God’s unconditional lovefor you. detention center in Taylor, Texas. The move follows is still much to do. We must first fight to ensure that For there is no greater love! month of public pressure from formerly detained every woman at Hutto, including all of the moms who Church Services Sunday School 9:30 AM women, advocates, members of the faith community have had their kids taken from them, are released from Sunday Worship 11:00 AM and Williamson County residents in the Shut Down the facility immediately.” Mid-Week Service Thursday: Praise, Hutto Coalition who have called for the closure of the The decision does not immediately close the facil- Prayer and Bible Study 7:00 PM Rev. H. Ed Calahan Call 454-1547 for Transporation for-profit prison. ity, but rather gives Immigration and Customs Enforce- Pastor Website www.agapebcaustintx.com Before the vote, hundreds joined a Jericho March ment until January to renegotiate a possible agreement. to reunite families and shut down Hutto. Marchers call At least 35 mothers who have had their kids taken from A Ministry That Ministers for an end to the systems upholding the Hutto Deten- them at the border are being held the facility, and some tion Center and the Trump administration’s cruel zero- are at imminent risk of deportation. tolerance policies that criminalize and lock up families Grassroots Leadership has launched the Hutto De- seeking safety. portation Defense and Bond Fund to provide support for “This is an important step forward in the fight for women detained at the facility. On July 8th, hundreds of Globalizing the Gospel justice at Hutto and a victory for all who have raised Episcopalians from across the country will gather at the 1179 San Bernard Street, Edward M. Fleming, Austin, TX 78702, 512-478-7023 Sr. Pastor their voices. We thank all the members of the Shut Hutto detention center for a prayer service. Sunday Morning Bible Study, 9:00 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship, 10:15 A.M. OLIVET BAPTIST AL’s Carpet & Upholstery GO YE EVANGELISTIC GOSPEL MISSION Visit our website @ www.obcaus.org CHURCH (Arena of Refuge and Liberty) Cleaning Venu: Super 8, 8128 N. Interstate 35 DAVID CHAPEL Missionary Baptist Church “Reasonable Prices Quality Service” Austin, Texas 78753 SUNDAY CHURCH WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Christian Education 9:15a.m. | Worship 10:30 a.m. Sundays: Sunday Celebration 9am - 12 noon Nursery Available (512) 445-2443 WEDNESDAY | Wednesdays: Systematic Bible Study 6pm-7:30 pm Worship 1st Wed. monthly 7:00p.m. | Bible Study 7:30p.m. Serving The Manor & Austin Area For 25 Years Fri: “I Believe in Miracle” Prayer Meetings 6-7:30 3 Rooms of Carpet Cleaned for $65 Join Operation PUSH Prayerline Team Every Friday @ 6:pm 2211 East Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Insured/Bonded Cell. (512) 799-5477 Austin, TX 78702 REV. SAMUEL EHIMEN, Minister in-charge Office: 512-472-9748 Fax: 512-472-5399 Austin, TX. Free Estimates Tel: 512-506-1645 Website: www.davidchapel.org Email: [email protected] Dr. Joseph C. Parker, Jr. Senior Pastor “A Church with a Heart for The Community” New Lincoln Missionary Baptist Church Olive Branch Fellowship of Austin / All Faith Chapel 2215 E. 8th St., Austin, TX 78702 4110 Guadalupe St Bldg #639 Austin, TX 78751 Sunday Morning This life, therefore, is not righteous- Imani Community Church Going to Higher Heights, Worship @ 11: am ness, but growth in righteousness; not health, Davis Elementray Auditorium 5214 West Duval Road Trusting God along the way. but healing; not being, but becoming; not rest, Sunday School 9:00am but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, Sunday School 9:00 A.M. BTU: 10:00am but we are growing toward it. The process is Morning Worship - 11:00 am Worship Service 10:00 A.M. not yet finished, but it is going on. This is not •Power Hour Bible Life Group 6:00 P.M. Church Phone (512) 477-2714 the end, but it is the road. All does not yet Cell Phont (512) 585-0744 gleam in glory, but all is being purified. Imani Complex & Office, Email: --- Martin Luther 11800 Mustang at Duval Austin, Texas 78727 [email protected] Romans 5:1 Therefore,having been Rev. Darron E. Patterson Visit:imanichurch.com www.newlincolnmbc.org justified by faith, we have peace Pastor Kenneth Hill, Pastor with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn 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 Office 512- 926-1686 Fax 512-929-7281 JOIN US This SUNDAY / THURSDAY Christian Web Site- @ 12424 Scofield Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78758 stpetersaustintx.ning.com Weekly Schedule [email protected] Sunday School 9:00 a.m. (By Parmer Lane Baptist Church building, behind Wells Fargo) THE PLACE WHERE WE STEP OUT ON FAITH. COME AND STEP OUT ON FAITH WITH US Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m. SUNDAYS 10:30 A.M., THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Praise and Worship 10:15 a.m. Experience Grace For Life Wednesday Bible Study 12:00 p.m. Pastor J.R.Roberson & Study 6:00p.m. and Praise /Bible Study 6:30 p.m. First lady Lillian Robertson Call: 682.472.9073 l Email: [email protected] l Rev. Jack C. Gause (to include Children’s Choir Rehersaland (979)542-2784 Church Visit: www.gracewaycca.org Pastor Bible Study with age appropiate Activities) & (979) 540-6352 Hlme Page 4 ~ THE VILLAGER/June 29, 2018 DIASPORA www.theaustinvillager.com Black Pflugerville 12th Host Community Forum Annual African American Book Festival by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist

On June 23rd, the Austin African Ameri- can Book Festival orga- nized their 12th annual affair at the Carver Li- brary in East Austin. According to the orga- nizers, “The book fair is Pictured left to right are: Meme Styles and Pflugerville Police Chief, an inter-generational Jessica Robledo. Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon event that seeks to pro- mote literature within by Tsoke Engagement; Lacy Ajibola partment. Author, Ms. Obie attends 2018 Austin Black Book the African American (Chuch) Adjavon | - Education and Letisha Moreover, Festival. Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon Villager Columnist E.C. Brown, ABD - Health. Pflugerville has seen a community.” Further- As one can see, the drastic increase in its Af- more, it was a very fam- Mr. Coates “ started the Victoria Christopher Monday, June 18, panel members each spe- rican American popula- ily friendly event dis- Black Classic Press, Inc. Murray and John 2018, leaders within the cialized in their field tion. In the next 5 years, playing activities and about 40 years ago to Jennings read and African American spoke of how the quality Pflugerville will have the books for every genera- ensure that black litera- signed their latest Pflugerville community of life of African Ameri- largest African American tion. For instance, the ture is available for fu- works. Murray won the held a panel discussion at cans can be improved in population in Central books varied from chil- ture generations. Coates NAACP Image Award Abundant Church Life. Pflugerville. For in- Texas. According to dren to adult books. formerly served as the for Outstanding Liter- Moreover, the panel in- stance, Chief Robledo Diaspora Vote, “also the For the 12h Annual African American Stud- ary Work for her social cluded the following: Chief challenged the attendee large African immigrant Austin African Ameri- ies reference and acqui- commentary novel, Jessica Robledo - Law En- to get their friends and community has also con- can Book Fair, the key- sition librarian at Stand Your Ground. In forcement; Sheldon B. family more engaged in tributed to the growth of note speaker was the Howard University and addition to being a Lamey - Business/Advo- civic dialogue with the the Black population of publisher called Paul is the father of cultural graphic novelist, cacy; Deone Wilhite - Civic Pflugerville police de- Central Texas.” Coates. Mr. Coates is a critic Ta-Neshi Coates. Jennings is a professor visionary in the African According to the of media and cultural Barbara’s Book Bag American book circle. organizers, “Writers studies.” Down the River Unto the Sea Eagle Conference a Success By Walter Mosley tioned that it was an amazing 4 days of learn- gator. He is hired to how that becomes a li- ing more about God.” work on the case of a ability to him. Mosley Not only is the prisoner sentenced to creates a good character “Eagle Conference” die. and shows what can meant to “empower” its Oliver who was a happen when you love members but, it is also an policeman of unusual your job, follow the opportunity to reach out integrity and commit- rules, as you do unto to the community. Dur- ment, worked hard to others, and obey the ing these 4 days, GMVC learn who set him up law. I enjoyed the book. was well attended. Nu- Barbara Williams and why. He also However, merous church members Mosley’s new worked on the case to is was sometimes too invited their friends and novel brings Joe King free the prisoner on graphic and sexually family members to at- Oliver, a former New death row. In looking descriptive for my taste. tend the event. Thus, it York City Police Officer, for these answers, Walter Mosley is an ex- served its purpose of out- who was charged with Mosley takes his readers cellent writer. His reach to the community. a crime he did not com- on a wild roller coaster storytelling is filled with According to the or- mit, and landed in jail at ride with many, many excellent metaphors. ganizers, “If you desire to Pictured left to right are: Prophese Stephanie Riker’s Island. characters. Chief The power of his words be equipped and posi- Abaka Ncho and Apostle Guy Tanoh. He is released from among them are his makes you like or dis- tioned to bring a signifi- Photo by by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon prison after charges daughter, ex-wife and a like and move with his cant contribution to the against him are sud- very strange acquain- characters. He puts a lot by Tsoke Church (GVMC) held kingdom then, this is for denly dropped. He was tance. This is a page of feelings into his writ- (Chuch) Adjavon | their annual Eagle’s Con- you. It will be 4 days of set-up. Having lost his turner, telling the story ings. Read and enjoy Villager Columnist ference in the heart of powerful teachings.” job and career as a of a cop, known for his this 43rd book of fiction Austin, Texas. It was an Moreover, the majority Policeman, Oliver be- integrity and commit- by Walter Mosley. From June 20th intense four days of teach- of the attendee are look- comes a Private Investi- ment to his work and Rating: 4.5* through June 24, 2018, ing and of “uplifting”. Ac- ing forward to the 2019 the La Génération des cording to one attendee Eagle Conference hosted WE RODE THE EASTSIDE! Vainqueurs Ministry called Joyce, she “men- by GVMC Austin. by soulciti On an overcast and windy morning in June, on the beautiful campus of the historic Huston-Tillotson Uni- versity – a very diverse cross-section of Austin’s com- munity came together for the purpose of fitness and fun. “Thanks for an amazing time ! As soon as my body stopped cussing me out, it offered praise and gratitude. Great ride, great peeps, great swag, great refreshments!” Fifty riders set out on a tour of East Austin and were led by Bike Austin, Riders Against the Storm and Austin’s most prolific tour guide Harrison Eppwright. At the end of the ride, riders replenished themselves with scrump- tious breakfast tacos and fruit cups from Glorious Barbeque and refreshing cups of italian ice from Make My Day Ice. This invigorating event was made possible by our amazing partners Counter Balance ATX, Six Square, Aus- tin B Cycle, the Austin Area Urban League, The Austin Socialite and Black Girls Do Bike Austin. A good time was truly had by all and word on these streets is this an event that may be repeated in the near (and much cooler) future! The ride was photographically captured for posterity by Eli Wells Photography. www.theaustinvillager.com CLASSIFIEDS THE VILLAGER/June 29, 2018 ~ Page 5 EMPLOYMENT | PROPOSALS | PUBLIC INFORMATION FOR SALE | FOR RENT | BIDS | MISCELLANEOUS State Representative Lloyd Doggett’s Congressional District 35, was flagged by the lower court as an impermissible racial gerrymander CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Lloyd Doggett for that growth never wrote. “All these facts gave high court also rejected actually went into effect the Legislature good rea- challenges to Congres- because they were imme- son to believe that the sional District 27 — where diately tied up in litigation court-approved interim the lower court said law- over claims they were un- plans were legally sound.” makers diluted the votes fair to voters of color. HD 90, which the of Hispanics in Nueces The current litigation high court upheld as a ra- County — and Congres- focused instead on Repub- cial gerrymander, was vir- sional District 35, which licans’ actions in 2013, tually the only district that the lower court flagged as when lawmakers adopted lawmakers significantly an impermissible racial temporary maps that a readjusted in 2013. gerrymander. three-judge federal panel Alito also said the But perhaps most sig- @RepLloydDoggett in San Antonio had or- lower court “committed a nificant on the voting Representative for dered up in 2012 amid le- fundamental legal error” rights front was the Su- Texas's 35th gal wrangling over the when it held the 2013 Leg- preme Court’s ruling that congressional district 2011 maps. islature liable for not cur- the state could be not be Since Jan 3, 2013 The San Antonio ing any “unlawful intent” held liable for intentional Map of the Texas 35th Congressional District (Next Election in 2018) panel of judges at the time behind the 2011 maps. discrimination of Hispanic had warned that the in- Even if the lower and black voters. office defended the maps elections from Texas vot- packed and cracked — and terim maps — based court found the 2013 Leg- The Texas redistrict- in court, praised the ruling ers,” he said in a state- the lived experience of our largely on the state’s origi- islature acted with dis- ing case was largely seen as a win for Texans who ment. clients,” said Allison Riggs, nal map-drawing — were criminatory intent, “the as a possible test case for want the “power to gov- For those challenging senior voting rights attor- meant to be temporary problem is that, in making the effectiveness of the ern themselves.” the maps, the ruling is a dis- ney with the Southern and that districts could still that finding, it relied over- Voting Rights Act after the “The court rightly appointing outcome to a Coalition for Social Justice, be subject to legal scru- whelmingly on what it per- Supreme Court in 2013 recognized that the Con- seven-year-long legal fight who represented some of tiny. After lawmakers ceived to be the 2013 gutted the portion of the stitution protects the right that will deny voters of color the map challengers.. “Un- adopted those maps, the Legislature’s duty to show law that for decades re- of Texans to draw their fair representation. fortunately, most voters in lower court ruled that law- that it had purged the bad quired Texas and other own legislative districts, “It’s difficult to recon- Texas will have to wait un- makers intentionally dis- intent of its predecessor,” states and localities to ob- and rejected the mis- cile this ruling with the fac- til the next redistricting criminated against voters Alito noted. tain the federal guided efforts by tual findings of the court process to get chance to of color in their 2011 maps Joined by the court’s government’s permission unelected federal judges below — that voters of have fair districts and the and that the 2013 maps three other liberal justices, to change their election to wrest control of Texas color were intentionally relief they deserve.” were tainted by that same Justice Sonia Sotomayor laws, a safeguard for vot- “The Pflugerville discrimination in places denounced the majority’s ers of color called Independent School District NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS where district boundaries opinion as a “disregard of preclearance. The Su- will open Proposals for: TO HIRE were left unchanged. both precedent and fact” preme Court wiped clean Administration of Medical Construction Manager at Risk for Windermere But on Monday, the in light of the “undeniable the list in 2013 and lifted Reimbursement on Tuesday, Elementary and Windermere Primary Combined July 24, 2018 @ 2:00 p.m. Campus Project Pflugerville ISD will accept conservative majority of proof of intentional dis- federal oversight for Texas All proposals may be the Supreme Court sided crimination” against vot- and other jurisdictions, submitted (by mail or hand proposals from qualified construction firms until 2:00 with the state’s lawyers ers of color. noting that conditions for carry) to: p.m., July 2, 2018, in the lobby of the PfISD who had argued that they “Those voters must voters of color had “dra- Pflugerville ISD Administration Building. Address all submittals to: could not have discrimi- return to the polls in 2018 matically improved.” 1401 West Pecan Craig Pruett Pflugerville, TX 78660 Pflugerville Independent School District nated against voters of and 2020 with the knowl- But the court left Attn: Janie Ornelas color in 2013 because they edge that their ability to open the possibility that Proposals may be picked up in 1401 West Pecan simply “embraced” maps exercise meaningfully future, purposeful dis- person or downloaded from the Pflugerville, Texas 78660 that the lower court had their right to vote has crimination could mean a PISD website at: www.pfisd. The anticipated budget for this project is deemed were okay. been burdened by the return to preclearance. net. approximately $3,000,000. The scope and schedule Writing for the ma- manipulation of district And the lower court’s find- Integral Care is currently soliciting for the project is currently defined and described proposals through a Request for jority, Justice Samuel Alito lines specifically designed ing of intentional discrimi- Proposals (RFP) process for within the Proposal Documents. echoed conservatives’ re- to target their communi- nation in the Texas redis- Residential Services. RFPs may be Proposal documents may be obtained by contacting marks during oral argu- ties and minimize their tricting case was key to ef- sent electronically, by contacting the Pflugerville ISD Purchasing Department by email Brody Ballard at ments that state lawmak- political will,” Sotomayor forts by advocates for vot- [email protected] at [email protected]. Pflugerville I.S.D. reserves ers had earned the pre- wrote. “The fundamental ers of color to persuade beginning June 18, 2018. The the right to waive any formalities and to reject any sumption of good faith right to vote is too pre- the courts to put Texas deadline to submit a proposal under or all Proposals. the RFP is 4 p.m. CST on July 23, when they leaned on the cious to be disregarded in back under federal over- 2018. Historically Underutilized Project Schedule of Events map the lower court ap- this manner.” sight of its election laws. Businesses, including Minority- · Request for Proposals Released proved, which “gave the In siding with the After years of litiga- Owned Businesses and Women- 06-16-2018 Owned Businesses, are encouraged Legislature a sound basis” state, the Supreme Court tion, Monday’s loss in the to apply. · Due Date for Proposals for believing that the maps tossed out claims of inten- redistricting case — 07-02-2018, 2:00 p.m. were legally sound. Alito tional vote dilution in state coupled with failed efforts Integral Care is currently soliciting · Board Approval Expected proposals through a Request for pointed to the lower House districts in Nueces to challenge the state’s Proposals (RFP) process for a 07-19-2018 court’s “careful analysis” County and Bell County, as voter identification law on Learning Management System. Notify Firm of legal claims at play and well as claims that His- discriminatory grounds — RFPs may be sent electronically, by 07-20-2018 contacting Brody Ballard at “detailed examination” of panic voters were nixes the possibility that [email protected] · Begin Construction individual districts, some “packed” into Dallas the state will be placed beginning June 18, 2018. The 12-12-2018 of which were modified. County districts to mini- back under preclearance. deadline to submit a proposal under · Expected Completion Date the RFP is 4 p.m. CST on July 23, “Its work was any- mize their influence in sur- Texas Attorney Gen- 2018. Historically Underutilized 07-22-2019 thing but slapdash,” Alito rounding districts. The eral Ken Paxton, whose Businesses, including Minority- Owned Businesses and Women- Owned Businesses, are encouraged to apply.

Are you interested in doing business New Jobs for the with the City of Austin? Week of 06/24/2018 Specialist, Recruitment and We are here for you! Enrollment (Internal) Highland Business Center City of Austin Job# 1806021 Purchasing Office Specialist, High School Programs Enrollment and Outreach Vendor Registration Location is as assigned Job# 1806032 512-974-2018 Assistant, Student Services [email protected] Cypress Creek Campus Job# 1806037 www.austintexas.gov/department/purchasing Coordinator, Career Pathways Programs For information on the City of Austin’s Minority/ Highland Business Center Women-Owned Procurement Program please contact the Job# 1806040 Small & Minority Business Resources at 512-974-7600 or Apply at HR visit www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Middle Fiskville Rd. 6th Floor, Austin, TX 78752 Job Line (512 223-5621 hhtp://www./austincc.ed EEOC/AA/M/F/D/V Page 6 ~ THE VILLAGER/June 29, 2018 THE DISPATCH www.theaustinvillager.com High Court: Online shoppers can be forced to pay sales tax

By Defender News Service

(DEFENDER NEWS) - States will be able to force more shoppers to pay sales tax when they make online purchases under a Supreme Court decision Thursday that will leave shoppers with lighter wallets but is a big financial win for states. Consumers can expect to see sales tax being charged on more online purchases — likely over the next year and potentially before the Christmas shop- ping season — as states and retailers react to the court’s decision, said one attorney involved in the case. The Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision Thursday over- ruled two, decades-old Supreme Court decisions that states said cost them billions of dollars in lost revenue annually. The decisions made it more difficult for states to collect sales tax on certain online purchases, and more than 40 states had asked the high court to over- rule them. The cases the court overturned said that if a busi- ness was shipping a customer’s purchase to a state sales taxes when they shipped to addresses outside Stephen Breyer, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor. The where the business didn’t have a physical presence such those states. Online sellers that haven’t been charging lineup of justices on each side of the case was unusual, as a warehouse or office, the business didn’t have to sales tax on goods shipped to every state range from with Roberts joining three more liberal justices and collect the state’s sales tax. Customers were generally jewelry website Blue Nile to pet products site Ginsburg joining her more conservative colleagues. responsible for paying the sales tax to the state them- Chewy.com to clothing retailer L.L. Bean. Sellers who The case the court ruled on involved a 2016 law selves if they weren’t charged it, but most didn’t real- use eBay and Etsy, which provide platforms for smaller passed by South Dakota, which said it was losing out ize they owed it and few paid. sellers, also haven’t been collecting sales tax nation- on an estimated $50 million a year in sales tax not col- Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote that the previous wide. lected by out-of-state sellers. Lawmakers in the state, decisions were flawed. Under the ruling Thursday, states can pass laws which has no income tax, passed a law designed to di- “Each year the physical presence rule becomes requiring out-of-state sellers to collect the state’s sales rectly challenge the physical presence rule. The law re- further removed from economic reality and results in tax from customers and send it to the state. More than quires out-of-state sellers who do more than $100,000 significant revenue losses to the States,” he wrote in an a dozen states have already adopted laws like that ahead of business in the state or more than 200 transactions opinion joined by Justices Clarence Thomas, Ruth Bader of the court’s decision, according to state tax policy annually with state residents to collect sales tax and Ginsburg, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch. Kennedy expert Joseph Crosby. send it to the state. wrote that the rule “limited States’ ability to seek long- The National Retail Federation trade group, said South Dakota wanted out-of-state retailers to be- term prosperity and has prevented market participants the court’s decision was a “major victory” but the group gin collecting the tax and sued several of them: from competing on an even playing field.” said federal legislation is necessary to provide details Overstock.com, electronics retailer Newegg and home The ruling is also a win for large retailers, who ar- on how sales tax collection will take place, rather than goods company Wayfair. After the Supreme Court’s gued the physical presence rule was unfair. Large re- leaving it to each state to interpret the court’s decision. decision was announced, shares in Wayfair and Over- tailers including Apple, Macy’s, Target and Walmart, Chief Justice John Roberts and three of his col- stock both fell, with Wayfair down more than 3 per- which have brick-and-mortar stores, already generally leagues would have kept the court’s previous decisions cent and Overstock down more than 2 percent. collect sales tax from their customers who buy online. in place. South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard called That’s because they typically have a physical store in “E-commerce has grown into a significant and vi- Thursday’s decision a “Great Day for South Dakota,” whatever state the purchase is being shipped to. brant part of our national economy against the back- though the high court stopped short of greenlighting Amazon.com, with its network of warehouses, also col- drop of established rules, including the physical-pres- the state’s law. While the Supreme Court spoke approv- lects sales tax in every state that charges it, though third- ence rule. Any alteration to those rules with the poten- ingly of the law it sent it back to South Dakota’s highest party sellers who use the site don’t have to. tial to disrupt the development of such a critical seg- court to be revisited in light of the court’s decision. Sellers that have a physical presence in only a single ment of the economy should be undertaken by Con- The Trump administration had urged the justices state or a few states have been able to avoid charging gress,” Roberts wrote in a dissent joined by Justices to side with South Dakota.