Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Austin, Texas Permit No. 01949 TPA TEXAS PUBLISHERS www.TheAustinVillager.com ASSOCIATION This paper can be recycled Vol. 44 No. 17 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: vil3202@aol.com September 16, 2016 MAGAZINE SHOW ED GORDON INSIDE PREMIERED ON BOUNCE TV By Naomi Richard | The Austin Villager RAPPIN’ Tommy Wyatt I identify with the Precursors! The group known as The Precursors was the first undergraduate class of African Americans who began attending the University of Texas at Austin in 1956. It was a major step at that time for any institution of higher learning in the Southern United States. I identify with this group because I also graduated from high school in 1956. But, going to UT was not an option for me, because I needed an athletic scholarship in order to afford college. That was not an option at UT. So, I sought out our (Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). I ended up at Bishop College in Marshall, Texas. After graduation, and a two-year tour in the Army, I was sent to Austin for my job. And that is when I became acquainted with the Black UT students and graduates. And I was excited about the relationship between UT students and those of Huston-Tillotson College (now University). That relationship was very deep. UT did not have Black Sororities and Fraternities. So, for a time, interested students could join these organizations through the H-T chapters. That lasted until UT stopped the activity. The National chapters of all of the major sororities and fraternities waged an effort to establish chapters on the UT campus and finally made it happen. But, there was still the question as to what to do about those students who had graduated. Those individuals were permitted to join the local alumni chapters until a chapter could be established on the UT campus. That relationship that started in 1956 continues today. We thank The Precursors for opening the doors of our major universities to Black students all over the south. Because of their sacrifices our students now have more choices when seeking an education. ED GORDON NATIONAL NEWS - Award-winning journalist Ed Gordon returned to primetime television Tuesday night, September 13, as Bounce TV world premiered their first-ever news magazine show Ed Gordon. Gordon serves as executive producer and host of the new Bounce TV original series, sitting down for revealing interviews with top headline makers, entertainers and pop cultural figures. Ed Gordon will also include investigative pieces, celebrity profiles, current event segments and human-interest feature stories. The series premiere featured Gordon’s exclusive and emotional interview from Ferguson, Missouri with five Mothers of The Movement, African-American women whose children have been shot, with four killed, in acts of violence: Sybrina Fulton (Trayvon Martin), Lucia McBath (Jordan Davis), Lezley McSpadden (Michael Brown), Wanda Johnson (Oscar Grant) and Marian Tolan (Robbie Tolan). Gordon also visited with Nate Parker and the cast of The Birth of a Nation, the much-anticipated motion picture dramatizing the life of Nat Turner, the slave who lead a rebellion in Virginia in 1831. Parker, the director and star of the film, discussed his passion to produce the project and how many are seeing this film as ‘an See BUCKET LIST, page 2 Black-Centered Housing at Cal State Provokes Debate – Is It Segregation-in-Reverse, or Not ? NOLA serenades 107 year old WWII veteran. See PARTY Page 2 Bucy kicks campaign fundraising into high gear. See WILLIAMSON Page 6 HBCU announce a significant cut in their workforce. See TUSKEGEE Page 7 Response to Austin AmericanStatesman’s Story Regarding Racial Disparities in DPS Searches by: Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent LOS ANGELES, CA - A new housing enclave aimed at Black students on the campus of Cal State University Los Angeles has become a source of contention–some argue it’s an agent of racial segregation while others say it offers support amid discriminatory environments. The Halisi Scholars Black Living-Learning Community is a set-aside of about 20 spots in the university’s 192-room residential complex for students “ interested in Pan-African history, culture and current affairs,” according to the school’s Housing Services website. But, it’s “open to all students,” school spokesman Robert Lopez told The New York Times. “This living-learning (Image from http://www.calstatela.edu/) “If Black students wanted to go to an all-Black institution, there are plenty of historically black colleges that still exist,” community focuses on academic excellence and learning experiences that are inclusive and nondiscriminatory,” Lopez said. Some say the housing option undermines the aims and achievements of the Civil Rights Movement by promoting segregation. “If they (Black students) wanted to go to an all-Black institution, there are plenty of historically black colleges that still exist,” Niger Innis, the national spokesperson for the Congress of Racial Equality, told FoxNews.com. “But if they want to go to an institution that is racially diverse and integrated, then racial diversity and integration is part of it. To have a university-sanctioned segregation or separation is, to me, a bit troubling.” Proponents of the Black-focused housing program at Cal State point out that it is but one of several “themed communities” housed in the dorm. And, they add, such housing arrangements are not new–similar programs exist at University of Cali- fornia Davis, University of Connecticut, Stanford and elsewhere. The Cal State Black Student Union, which requested the housing as one of several demands they issued to the administration last November, praised the Halisi housing as an “achievement…long overdue, but well deserved” on its Instagram account. In the letter addressed to university President William Covino, the union said the housing could be a source of support for beleaguered African-American students, who represent 4 percent of the student body. “Black students at Cal State LA have been, and still are, consistently made the targets of racist attacks by fellow students, faculty and administration,” the letter read in part. Rep. Garnet Coleman AUSTIN –The Austin American-Statesman recently published multiple stories in relation to an investigation they performed into racial disparities in DPS searches. Rep. Garnet Coleman (D-Houston) released the following statement announcing the upcoming County Affairs Committee hearing and regarding the findings of the Statesman’s investigation: “The House County Affairs Committee will See DPS STOPS, page 2 Page 2 ~ THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 www.theaustinvillager.com THE COMMUNIQUÉ Black World War II Veteran Turns 107 with a Party in New Orleans SMBR’s monthly workshop & other events of interest Events happening this month This month’s workshop will provide Understanding MBE/WBE Contract Compliance. Our workshop will be on September 27th at 5:30 p.m. at SMBR, 4201 Ed Bluestein Blvd. Austin. RSVP @ https://smbr_mbewbecompliance_92716.eventbrite.com Save the Date for our Contractor and Consultant Appreciation Event and Reception. It will be held on October 25th from 6-7:30 p.m. at the George Washington Carver Museum. RSVP @ https://contractorsappreciation2016.eventbrite.com Of over 14 million DPS stops since 2009, people of color are more likely to be subject to a search during a traffic stop than Whites continued from page 1 NATIONAL TREASURE - World War II veteran Lawrence Brooks, conduct a hearing to 107, left, gets a birthday handshake from Lt. Col. Austin Appleton with the discuss DPS profiling pracU.S. Army Corps of Engineers during a birthday celebration for Brooks at The National World War II Museum in New Orleans on Monday, Sept. 12, tices, de-escalation techniques in all circumstances 2016. (Chris Granger/NOLA.com The Times-Picayune via AP) as discussed in the recent by: The Associated Press enaded and congratulated said, “The biggest change Houston Chronicle editoby other veterans and that I didn’t think would rial ‘Police shootings’, ever happen was a Black problems with aggressive NEW ORLEANS (AP) well-wishers. policing, and diversion for The newspaper re- president.” — When Lawrence Brooks In an oral history people with mental illness joined the military, it was ports Brooks was a private still segregated. Yet the in the Army’s mostly Afri- about his service posted before booking. The hear107-year-old African- can-American 91st Engi- on YouTube , Brooks also ing will take place at the American World War II neer Battalion. They were described how he was de- State Capitol in room veteran has lived long stationed in New Guinea livering a load of barbed E2.016 at 10:00 a.m. on enough not only to see and the Philippines. The wire to the front when Tuesday, September 20, that change, but to see a unit built infrastructure one of the engines of the 2016. This hearing will Black commander-in-chief such as bridges, roads and C-47 he was traveling in build upon the hearings the County Affairs Commitwent out. airstrips. too. After they dumped tee held last year in the Brooks was assigned Brooks, a New Orleans resident, Monday as an orderly to three the barbed wire to con- wake of the Sandra Bland’s celebrated his 107th birth- white officers during a serve weight he made his death. The analysis done by day at the city’s World War time when the Army was way to the cockpit. He told the pilot and co-pilot that the Austin Americanstill segregated. II Museum. Wearing a gray suit, since they were the only Statesman of over 14 milNOLA.COM/The Times-Picayune (http:// he walked into the mu- two with parachutes, if lion DPS stops since 2009 bit.ly/2cqGWp6) reports seum and then his daugh- they had to jump for it, he brings additional credence that Lawrence Brooks at- ter requested a wheelchair was going to grab on to to a fact that people of color have known for far tended a ceremonial birth- to conserve his strength. one of them. “We made it though,” too long - we are more Speaking of the day party honoring his service Monday in the mu- changes he’s seen in more he said laughing. “We had likely to be subject to a search during a traffic stop seum where he was ser- than a century, Brooks a big laugh about that.” Pflugerville Meet the Candidates For Mayoral and County Commissioner Forum Black Pflugerville is sponsoring a forum for Pflugerville candidates for mayor and County Commissioner on: Saturday, September 24th at 10am to 12pm at the Rolling Rooster located at 100 12th St Pflugerville, TX 78660. The public will be invited, and the event will be live streamed to be shown on Black Pflugerville’s Facebook as well as African TV 5. We very much hope that you will be able to participate. Black Pflugerville, is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization which encourages informed and active participation for Black people in the city of Pflugerville. It works to increase understanding of public issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy and collaboration. The Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex 1156 Hargrave St, Austin, TX 78702 Directions: On Hargrave St. between Pleasant Valley Rd. and E. 12th St. Free Raffle ticket for all “On Time” sign-in! Winners receive a $25.00 Gift card! Grand Prize Winner receives a free Laptop Computer!! Must be present to win. than Whites. Additionally, the analysis shows that this is not an isolated problem within the agency - over a third of the 1,138 troopers in the analysis were twice as likely to search Black and Hispanic drivers as they were White drivers. The detailed analysis done by the Statesman makes it clear that there is more work to be done in preventing racial discrimination in traffic stops. Moving forward we need to ensure that the letter of the law allows the spirit of anti-discrimination laws to become a reality. In addition to rewriting current laws, we need to improve the complaint investigation system by increasing transparency, scrutiny, and ease. Finally, additional trooper training regarding implicit bias, proper justification for searches, and better treatment of people is needed. DPS troopers and all law enforcement do the vital job of keeping us all safe. Unfortunately, the trust between law enforcement and communities of color is in need of repair. The facts are clear; there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Hence, the conversation moving forward should focus on how we can work together in a respectful and constructive manner to rebuild the relationship between law enforcement and people of color. Next Tuesday’s County Affairs Committee hearing will be part of that conversation. In addition to the hearing, I will file bills next session to fix the wording in the anti-discrimination law as it relates to DPS traffic stops, and to address the root causes of the discrimination that people of color are facing.” Surprising personality on Ed Gordan’s bucket list continued from page 1 agent of change,’ especially during a critical time in our society. The segment also explored the controversy surrounding Parker’s past. In addition, Gordon sat down with popular singer-songwriter, record producer and actor Maxwell. The multiple GRAMMY-winner opened up about his life, his music and his activism in a rare one-on-one interview. During an invitation only media call with Gor- don, The Villager Newspaper was able to speak with the legendary media mogul. We asked, ‘having interviewed such public notables as O.J. Simpson, Janet Jackson, R. Kelly, Senator Trent Lott and a rising young star named Oprah Winfrey, who is left on your bucket list to interview or to re-interview?’ Gordon answered, “O.J. Simpson, because of the country’s fascination with the trail. I would like to interview him again.” Gordon has been a contributing correspondent for 60 Minutes II , The Today Show and Dateline NBC , the host of “News and Notes with Ed Gordon” on NPR, anchorman for BET and is a weekly contributor to the national Steve Harvey Radio Show. He is also the recipient of an NAACP Image Award, as well as the prestigious Journalist of the Year Award from the National Association of Black Journalists. www.theaustinvillager.com THE BULLETIN Town Lake (TX) Chapter Wins National Recognition THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 ~ Page 3 We Want YOU! 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 - 8 p.m. Closed Sunday Call (512) 928-5555 *Mention this ad and get a FREE 20 oz. Drink* DOUBLE NOT JUST YOUR EVERYDAY GREEN - Standing (L-R) Tamera Brownlee Duperval, Wendolyn Washington, Sondra Johnson, Sonya Vento, Gia Jones. Seated (L-R) Gloria L. Williams, Veronica Matlock, Dominique Williams, Joyce Turner, Carla Grace Roberson, Joya Hayes LAS VEGAS, NV - The Town Lake (TX) Chapter was honored at The Links, Incorporated’s national assembly in Las Vegas, Nevada, for its STEM initiative at Norman Elementary School. The chapter’s effort placed in the top three of 286 Links chapters in the “Services to Youth Best Practices” category. The chapter offered computer skills lessons at Norman Elementary School three times a month during the academic year in order to bolster 5th grader’s competence and confidence when working with technology. Sessions presented opportunities for students to use Microsoft Powerpoint and Word, learn computer science through basic cod- ing, and nurture problem-solving skills, logic and creativity. By starting early, students will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path. The Town Lake Chapter has a long history of working with Norman Elementary School, administering both the original IKIC (I Know I Can) program and the Kids Café afterschool meals program. The computers in the computer lab were donated by Town Lake in memory of the late Link Andrea Pair Bryant, a charter member of the Town Lake Chapter. With the chapter’s help, the Norman 5th grade students achieved an all-time-high pass rate on the TechLiteracy Assessment in May of 2015. African American Men and Boys Conference WESLEY INTERGENERATIONAL CHOIR PRESENTS ITS 39TH CHOIR ANNUAL on SEPTEMBER 25 “Theme for the Conferences This Year” “Where Do We Go From Here?” “R” GROCERY *We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. Ebenezer Baptist Church 1010 East 10th Street 512-478-1875 Fax 512-478-1892 Bus Ministry Call 512-478-1875 Sunday Services Worship Service Sunday School Discipleship Training Worship Service 8:00 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. 11:00 A.M. Wednesday Midweek Prayer Service 7:00 P.M. Child Development Center Ages 0-5 years (Daily) 512-478-6709 Dr. Ricky Freeman, Pastor 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 Sunday Worship - 7:45 a.m. & 11 a.m. Church School - 9:45 a.m. Bible Studies - Mon, 6:30 p.m. & Wed., 12 noon Wednesday Night Worship - 7 p.m . DATE: SEPTEMBER 24, 2016 TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. LOCATION: LBJ EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL “Ministries For Mankind” Luke 4:18 A.W.. Anthony Mays, Senior Pastor Agape Baptist Church 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 exhibited is Exemplified.” Come, receive God’s unconditional lovefor you. For there is no greater love! Register at: http://aambconference.eventbrite.com CONFERENCE TOPIC: WHO’S GOING TO TAKE THE LEAD? Conferences Are Free, Door Prizes Will Be Given Away, Refreshments Are Provided Volunteers, Vendors, Facilitators are requested to be present by 9:00 a.m. the day of the Conference. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. the Day of The Conference Special Request for: Teachers, Ministers and College Students to be in every workshop. Calling ALL Men and Boys To Attend This Dynamic Conference! Villager Youth Brigade will be taking sponsorships starting summer of 2015.Your support has been much appreciated over the years. Please continue to invest in Austin’s youth. We look forward to another successful year with some promising students. FMI Call 512-476-0082 La Génération des Vainqueurs Ministry Church Prophetess Stephanie N’Cho Associate Pastor Tuesday - Friday: 3pm -10pm Walking and Appointment Wednesday Bible Study | 7:45pm Friday Prayer |7:45pm Sunday Service | 10:00am Wesley Intergenerational Choir singing at the Memorial Service for the late Austin Celebrity Cactus Pryor at Riverbend Centre (September 2011). Photo by Deborah Cannon of The Austin American Statesman AUSTIN, TX - The Wesley Intergenerational Choir cordially invites the Greater Austin community to its 39th Choir Annual slated for Sunday September 25, 2016 at 4 p.m. in the Main Sanctuary at Wesley United Methodist Church, located at 1164 San Bernard Street. The theme for this year’s annual is “But God!” with supportive scripture taken from Ephesians 2:4 – 5. Ms. Lamonica M. Lewis is Director of the Wesley Music Ministry and Rev. Sylvester E. Chase, Jr. is Senior Pastor. For more information contact the church office at (512) 478-7007, send email to thedeskofwesley@sbcglobal.net, or go to www.wesleyunited.org/. The public is invited. Send your information to vil3202@aol.com or call 512-476-0082 Olive Branch Fellowship of Austin / All Faith Chapel 4110 Guadalupe St Bldg #639 Austin, TX 78751 This life, therefore, is not righteousSunday Morning ness, but growth in righteousness; not health, Worship @ 11: am but healing; not being, but becoming; not rest, but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, but we are growing toward it. The process is not yet finished, but it is going on. This is not the end, but it is the road. All does not yet gleam in glory, but all is being purified. --- Martin Luther GRACEWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH Kenneth Hill, Pastor St. Peter’s United Methodist Church 4509 Springdale Road Austin, Tx 78723 Office 512- 926-1686 Fax 512-929-7281 Christian Web Sitestpetersaustintx.ning.com stpetersaustintx@att.net Felix Bamirin, Pastor JOIN US This SUNDAY / THURSDAY @ 12424 Scofield Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78758 (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 SUNDAYS 10:30 A.M., THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. Experience Grace For Life Call: 682.472.9073 l Email: gracewayaustin@aol.com l Visit: www.gracewaycca.org Romans 5:1 Therefore,having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Rev. Jack C. Gause Pastor Sunday School 8:45 a.m. Praise and Worship 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 12:00 p.m. and Praise /Bible Study 6:30 p.m. (to include Children’s Choir Rehersaland Bible Study with age appropiate Activities) 9:30 AM 11:00 AM Mid-Week Service Thursday: Praise, Prayer and Bible Study 7:00 PM Call 454-1547 for Transporation Website www.agapebcaustintx.com Rev. H. Ed Calahan Pastor A Ministry That Ministers Globalizing the Gospel Edward M. Fleming, Sr. Pastor OLIVET BAPTIST CHURCH Visit our website @ www.obcaus.org 1179 San Bernard Street, Austin, TX 78702, 512-478-7023 Sunday Morning Bible Study, 9:00 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship, 10:15 A.M. DAVID CHAPEL Missionary Baptist Church SUNDAY | Christian Education 9:15a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. (MLK) Nursery Available TUESDAY | TNT Bible Study (Pflugerville) 6:45p.m. WEDNESDAY | Prayer & Praise 7:00p.m. Bible Study 7:30p.m. Do you have church news? Would you like to purchase a monthly ad for your church? Inquire TODAY! 469-226-4679 | www.vainqueurs.org 805 S. Sherman St. Richardson, TX 75081 Church Services Sunday School Sunday Worship Dr. Joseph C. Parker, Jr. 512-472-9748 www.davidchapel.org Senior Pastor 2211 E.MLK @ Chestnut St. Austin, TX 78702 Imani Community Church Davis Elementray Auditorium 5214 West Duval Road Sunday School Worship Service •Power Hour Bible Life Group 9:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. Imani Complex & Office, 11800 Mustang at Duval Austin, Texas 78727 Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Donald-Mims Visit:imanichurch.com Office: 512-343-9300 The Church of Pentecost Leading People to Experience God’s Love, Know Jesus Christ & Grow in His Image The Church of Pentecost, USA Inc, Austin offers a wide variety of opportunities for children, youth, adults, and older adults to be involved in worship, spiritual growth, education, community outreach, and making a tangible difference to those 7801 N. Lamar Blvd, in need in our community. You too, can Suite D 102, make a positive difference in our commuAustin, Texas 78752 nity through your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness. Tel: 512 302-1270 Worship: Sunday-10:00 am - 12:30 pm Tuesday Bible Studies-7:30pm - 9:00 pm Friday Prayers-7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Page 4 ~ THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 www.theaustinvillager.com YOUTH BRIGADE Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc Youth of Today Hope of Tomorrow Junior Seminar Jalen Moore KIPP Austin Collegiate At my school, Kipp Austin Collegiate, every junior is required to take a course called junior seminar. The purpose of this course is to provide students with aid in the process of improving their ACT scores throughout the year, help guide students to start considering the colleges they'd like to apply to, and provide students with resources to help them consider a career after college. I feel like in the few weeks of taking the course I've gained a lot more knowledge about the college application process and critical strategies for the ACT. However, the class doesn't only focus on academic content. We often discuss certain social injustices, how they have impacted our lives, and what we can do to change them. Overall, I have to say this is one of my favorite classes this year. Kubo and the Two Strings Ava Roberts Spring Hill Elementary Kubo and the Two strings is an animated movie. The genre is action and adventure. The setting is in Japan. The movie starts with baby Kubo and his mother being washed to the shore. His mother's head is bleeding and Kubo is missing an eye because his grandfather took it. Kubo plays a magical shamisen that brings origami characters to life. He earns money by telling stories to villagers. One day he summons an evil spirit from the past and goes on an adventure to find out about his family's past. He is joined by a monkey and a beetle. He battles and defeats gods, monsters, his mom's evil twin sisters, and the Moon King. In the end, he finds out that the monkey and the beetle are his parents, that his father was the greatest samurai warrior ever known, and that the evil Moon King is his grandfather. The movie is rated PG but has violent battles, blood, and death. It can be scary to watch for any age. I do not recommend it for younger kids! Slow Down and Stop Montrae Nelson Four Points M. S. Hello, Being in middle school this year means i have to take the bus to school everyday, and its getting kinda of scary because I've been seeing the news and watching that drivers have been running over kids in cars lately. Too me it seems easy when you see the big yellow bus with the stop sign flashing that means stop because you put us kids in danger. Every year kids are hit by cars because drivers don't pay attention and are in a hurry. Now schools have put cameras on the stop signs on buses and they detect when a car is coming and takes a picture of vehicles that don't stop.Police are even giving out 300 dollar fines! People have to slow down and pay attention to the buses so that no family has to go through the pain of a child being hurt or possibly killed. Thanks for reading. Always Turn In Your Homework! Averill Topps Stephen F. Austin H.S. Hello everybody, today I want to talk to you about the importance of turning in homework. Before I tell you about that I want to say how much writing articles for the Villager means to me. Now I want to talk about turning in homework. On the second week of school, I forgot to do my Algebra homework. I didn't think much of it until I checked my grades. It turns out that not turning in that one homework assignment made my grade go down thirty points. I turned it in and was able to get a ninety because it’s ten points off each day. I have learned that you should always do your homework no matter how unimportant it seems to be. Busy At School Sarah Robertson Athlos Leadership Acad. About two weeks ago I had volleyball tryouts, since I am in 8th grade my school Athlos Leadership Academy normally would have the 8th-10th grade on one team and 6th-7th on another team. But this year my school got rid of the high school team so now we have 6th and 7th on one team and 7th and 8th grade on another team. Because of this combination, making the team was challenging, but I’m grateful I made the team again. I’m very ex- cited for the upcoming season and the results of the 7th and 8th grade team games. Earlier this past week my school had an assembly for our school’s character traits. The 8th graders and I did a shadow play to help represent the character traits, which went really well. I really enjoyed doing that presentation and I hope I can do that again for another assembly. Also, what I did in the assembly is sing the national anthem with the choir. I know there is some disagreement about the National Anthem, but I did enjoy singing with the choir. So this past week was really busy because of volleyball, the shadow play for the assembly and singing the National Anthem. I’m ready for the volleyball season and doing great things in choir. I think it is a good thing to be busy especially in school. It’s Game Time Kevin Parish Park Crest M.S. It is Football season! Now that I am in high school, football is much different from middle school. I attend Hendrickson High School and our freshman football team has 185 kids and the coaches divided us up into three teams, Navy, Sliver and White. I am on Sliver and so far we are getting off to a bad start. We started the season with two losses. I play defensive end on defense and our defense is pretty good, but we are just having a problem with our offense. Our last game we lost. Before halftime we had a chance to score but we failed. Then after halftime we got the ball again and ended up on the 10 yard line and failed to score again. So the outcome of the game was 8-2. Our next game is at Hendrickson High School Thursday so I hope we can turn it around and win our next game. My LEAD Experience Wesley Dickerson Cedar Ridge H. S. Over the course of this past summer I was able to study business at Emory University through a program called LEAD, which stands for Leadership, Education, and Development. While getting the opportunity to study business I was also able to see the beautiful city of Atlanta, Georgia when my fellow scholars and I were away from the classroom. On our first weekend away from the Emory campus we were able to visit some important Atlanta landmarks such as the Wonderful World of Coke, the Georgia Aquarium, the studio headquarters of CNN, the Delta Flight Museum, Lenox Mall, and The Civil Rights Museum. These were all very interesting places to go and helped me learn a lot about Atlanta life and the city itself. The most interesting places we went were Lenox Mall, and the Civil Rights Museum. Lenox mall was a fun stop because I got to let loose with my fellow scholars and not worry about classes for a few hours and just shop at a mall like I would with my friends back home. Additionally I got to see the people of Atlanta taking part in their daily lives, who they were and what they looked like. The Civil rights Museum was very moving; it was probably our most significant field trip. I was able to see many historical records of modern and past infractions on human rights. I learned a lot about the Civil Rights movement in America and in other countries as well. My LEAD experience was very valuable not only because of the educational aspect but because of the bond with my fellow scholars that we created, and because of the learning and experiences I gained outside the classroom. New Program Joshua Moore KIPP Austin Academy My school is starting a new program called "Cool To Be Smart". In this program, we can earn an extra 100 test grade in one of our core academic classes (Math, Reading, Science, and LCS). It is an optional project that students can choose to participate in each quarter of the school year. This quarter 1 project is all about the Olympics. Students are going to try and convince their teammates and families that the country they researched is the best. Our teachers and family will view all the project and choose which one they think is the best. Parents are able to come see their sons or daughters projects. Students will complete most of their work on their projects at home independently. Our school is going to let us use their supplies to do our work. Students can go to the front office so they can help us during school hours. In this project, I chose math because math is the easiest for me and I can get more information that is based on numbers. I also chose math because I could write about the runners and the time they got in their race. For instance, Usain Bolt's fastest run was on the 100 meter dash. Homecoming Dance Kennedy George Pflugerville Cele M. S. On Friday my school had the first dance of the school year. Everyone at our school was invited and all the tables were cleared in our big cafeteria to fit everyone in. There were drinks and pizza, but obviously the best part was the dancing. The DJ had song requests so me and my friend Lilliana put down our favorite songs and went to dance. I was happy to get everyone dancing because most of my friends are shy. We took breaks when there were songs we didn’t know and constantly wiped our faces of sweat. Once the 6th and 7th graders left there weren’t that many 8th graders but Lilliana, Runa, Tega, Favor and I stayed away from the big group and danced by ourselves in front of the DJ booth. It was super fun to dance with my friends and have a good time again. Bullying and Retaliation Tyler Allen Barbara Jordan Elem. An important problem facing children in school today is bullying. It is talked about all the time. For six years I have seen I happen over and over again. Bu it does not seem to go away. Teachers work on it every day trying to solve this problem. I had to look up a good definition for bullying. It stated: Bullying is unwanted aggressive behavior among school age children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated or has the potential to be repeated overtime. Bullying includes actions such as threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally and including someone from a group or purpose. Then I read about something I had never heard of. It was called “Peer Conflict”. It stated: “Peer Conflict” is not considered bullying. It is said to be when two kids with no perceived imbalance fight, have an argument or disagreement. It says that conflict resolution or peer mediation maybe appropriate for these situations. It seems to me that this means just talking with each party. Keeping them separated seems to be another tactic. Many feel that the problem is if someone retaliates it then is reclassified as fighting. Most parents say it is just standing up for one’s own self. What do you think? www.theaustinvillager.com Colt Round Up Malakhi Washington Covington Academy Last week my school had an event called colt round up . Colt round up is an event that my school Covington middle school has for the students to come and have lots of fun and games. I was happy to go. When I got there the band was playing for us, I didn’t know what the song was but it was good . After the band played the dance team came out to dance. I danced with them we did the wobble , cupid shuffle , and the whip and nae nae . Colt round up had a lot of things to eat like snow cones, pizza , and other good foods . While I was there me and my friend Kaiden where hanging out and playing lots of games. As the event started to shut down, me and Kaiden had to go home. Overall, I think that colt round up is a great event and I can’t wait to go next year. 50th Brandon Family Reunion Genesis Stiggers Elgin Middle School On September 3rd, 2016, I was able to attend the Brandon family’s 50th family reunion in Waco, Texas. The second I walked into the reception building you can tell that over a year of hard work has been put into the memorable reunion. In fact the Mistress of Ceremonies and President of the reunion was my grandma, Thelma Watson. She worked hard to put the reunion together and it was definitely a success. While having fun during the reunion, I had the blessing of interviewing a few of my family members. One was my grandaunt Faye Cox Thomas, also known as Auntie Faye. She is the oldest granddaughter of Jim Terrell and Inez Thomas Brandon and had some very moving words about her grandfather, “ He was very loving and family oriented... He loved to read.” She also spoke about the very first Brandon Family reunion during which she was 31 with children. I also spoke with Aunt Lula Faye, who quoted, “ I’ve been here for the first reunion, and I’m here for the fiftieth, Brandon family sticks together and loves one another.” The last person I interviewed was Thelma Cox Watson, also known as Bae or my grandma, the President and Mistress of Ceremonies for the reunion. “ My grandparents had a small reunion every Sunday at their house. The first official reunion was at Cameron Park in 1966...My grandpa was a door-to-door shoe salesman who also sold religious books... I remembered enjoying all the people there and seeing family.” Thelma Watson was 19 during the very first reunion. The reunion began with four beautiful prayers followed by a powerful speech about the Brandon family. There was delicious food and an actual talent show where people got up to sing and dance. My stepmom Ingrid Stiggers, a member of the Brandon family, actually sung Family Reunion by The O’Jays. They also gave a shout out to the oldest member of the Brandon family Mildred Brandon Lewis who is now in her 90’s. There were even proclamations sent by President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, State Senator Birdwell, the mayor of Golinda, Texas, county commissioner of Falls County Nita Wuebecker, State Representative Kyle Kaeal, and U.S. State Senator John Cornyn. The reunion was an amazing event that taught me a lot about family. In fact there was T-Shirts and even a family book filled with historical info, pictures, and ads paid for by family members. Hopefully future Brandon family generations will continue this tradition and more families will do events like this also. William Wegman Zachariah Washington Crockett High School William Wegman was born on December 2, 1943 in Holyoke Massachusetts. As a boy Wegman was always fascinated with art. One year for Wegmans Birthday he received a Polaroid camera which began his fascination for photography. He graduated from the Massachusetts college of Art in Boston in 1965 with a BFA in painting, he also enrolled in the Masters painting and printmaking program from the University of Illinois. After teaching at vari- ous universities. Wegman found an interest in photography and video. While living in Long Beach California Wegman got his first Weimaraners and later in 1986 Wegman received his second Weimaraner named Fay Ray. Wegman has received many awards for his work. William Wegman is a American artist best known for creating series composition involving the Weimaraner species. Before Wegman originally intended to pursue his career as a painter. During his lifetime he taught at various universities. But he had a change of heart once he got his first Weimarner named Man Ray in 1970 in Long Beach California. He got his second Weimanarer named Fay Ray in 1986 and that’s when he finally realized that taking pictures of dogs was what he wanted to do with his life. He has received tons of awards for his art work. YOUTH BRIGADE A.R.S. Volleyball Team! SaNaya White Ann Richards Tuesday, the 23rd to the the 25th of August were my volleyball tryouts. It was nothing like I had expected. I imaginged that we were gonna play a quick game and be chosen on who gets in or not. When I walked through those gym doors the net was set up, the balls were out on the court, and I took a few moments then finally said, "We are gonna really do some work, so let me get out my athsma pump!" We had three days of tryouts and for those three days we practiced and learned/reviewed new or old volleyball skills depending on what level of experience you are on. The next day there were many people crowded around a wall in the cafeteria so me with my nosy self I just had to go see what was going on. I saw that it was the list of who made the team and my name was there "SaNaya White." I was so happy and excited, but I didnt show it till I got home. On Wednesday, the 31st of August, I was told that I was on B team. I was kind of upset but I was still glad that I had made the team! That very next day we had a game and B team won and A team lost. I was then moved up to A team by my coach. I now play for A team and we recently just played Small Middle School and both teams lost on the 8th of September. My next game will be on the 15th at Ann Richards, 7:00, so come out and support! Summit Worship Men’s Retreat Ira “T.J.” Williams Cedar Ridge H. S. On September 9th and 10th, 2016, the church I attend, Summit Worship Center, held its first Men’s Retreat at Camp Buckner. Our lead pastor, Eric Moore, planned the retreat so that the men of the church could get closer to God and let go of all of the spiritual burdens that have been weighing them down. During the first session of the retreat, we had praise and worship time and then listened to an introductory message from Pastor Eric. The message was about being a shepherd and knowing how to nurture the people in your life. At the end of the night, some of the men went out and played basketball and some men stayed inside to played cards or dominoes. The next day, the men ate breakfast and then started the second session. For the second session, we had a former professional football player and pastor, Bryan Schwartz, talk to us. He shared his testimony and how he came to know Christ with us and allowed us to pray over each other. A lot of the men reached out to God for forgiveness and surrendered their lives to him. There was definitely God’s presence in the room that day. I feel a lot closer to God after that weekend and can’t wait for next year’s retreat. Summit Worship Center holds its services every Sunday at Cedar Ridge High School at 10:00 am. THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 ~ Page 5 Video Production Kayla Winn Manor New Technology Dr. Brooks, Manor ISD’s Director of Socio Emotional learning, has given Manor New Technology Advanced Audio Video production students the task of making a video that shows people the proper school and community conduct. He gave us the “ 3 Steps for School Safety”. His goal is to make students, teachers, parents and administrators of all ages more aware of the things happening around them. We are hoping that videos in a student’s point of view will be more relatable. While school is for a child to get their education some are put into an environment that is hostile. The goal is to make the videos so simple the First Days of School As a Freshman Alyssa James Winn Manor High School This year I am a freshman at Manor High School(MHS). My experience has been good. I was nervous when I went to my Spanish class because they had different grade levels in the same classroom. Once I got into my classroom, I sat with my group and we did a ice breaker where the freshmen got to know the sophomores and juniors. We each had to write ten things about each other. I had a junior in my group, she was a very high spirited person and made me feel welcomed. Lunch is very different to me and the other freshmen. We can socialize with other students from all grade levels instead of being separated. Ever Tiana Gardner Austin High School This past week, we had elections for class officers at Stephen F. Austin. Last year, my freshman year, I won the position 2019 Class President. As a team we came up with great ideas to help raise money for our class, one of them being powderpuff. This year I ran again. I was definitely more nervous than last time where I had ran against someone who won since the first day of school I have felt confident in front of upperclassmen. So far my experience with the early college program is going great. We have taken the TSI test on the first week of school which test what we already know. To me the early college is for everybody; there are people who struggle in math who are in Pre-AP math and still excel. My Avid class at MHS is wonderful. My Avid teacher is an excellent teacher who takes his job seriously and cares about our future. In Avid he prepares us for college and the application process for scholarships by saving all of our work. My goal for this school year is to start my ACC courses. I’m looking forward to going to the games and other school activities during my time at MHS. This school receives a lot of support from students and people in the community. Sophomore year, I plan on becoming a softball player. Overall, I hope high school will be a great experience for me and everyone else who’s starting their freshman year. So to all the 8th graders out there, high school is not scary or bad! Just walk in the school with confidence and you will succeed. Student Council Elections Elections at Austin High the election every year at his middle school and where over half of the kids now attend Austin High. This year I ran against one of the most popular girls in my school. I was feeling very confident because I won last year. I had made stickers and the maximum amount of posters. Election day came and I was ready. I got a great amount of freshman to vote for me. I was campaigning the whole day. Friday night came and I got an email. I opened the email as soon as it popped up and I found out that I didn't win. I was so upset. At the same time though, I was happy for my opponent. I know that she is very creative and will make this year great. I'm excited to see the things she comes up with for the 2016-2017 school year. youngest child in elementary and the oldest adult those children are around can understand. People should be able to say hello, goodbye, please and thank you without being afraid of the people around them. If we all communicated and showed respect as kids then we wouldn’t have as much violence in our adulthood. Isn’t the main goal of school to become successful. Well the only way to do that is to not only educate a child on information in the books but educate them on now and how we are affected by large scale fights (wars). Don’t scare them but teach them how conflict affects us on an everyday basis because we don’t communicate properly. Things have changed since the history books were printed there are fights everyday and no mater what the size of the fight is it is equally wrong. What happens in school transfers to what happens in the real world so we should act now. If anyone knows someone who gets bullied or has witnessed a school fight tell them why it’s wrong, give them a hug, and say I love you. Cyrena Matingou Cedar Ridge H. S. It’s campaign week at Cedar Ridge High School. When you walk down the halls, you see colorful posters decorated with candidates’ names and faces. September 6-13 is the week when freshmen candidates running for an office in their class council are allowed to campaign. On Tuesday, September 13, all of the freshman class is allowed to vote for who will represent them in Student Council’s Freshman Class Council. Sofia Orozco is a freshman who is excited to vote in the election. “I see the candidates making posters and advertising their campaign. Some have even come up to me and asked for my vote. It makes me feel included in this election and that my vote actually matters.” Many freshmen enjoy this process because it gives them some insight of what it will be like for them, voting in four years. Kayden Brewer is running for President of the Freshman Class Council. When asked what his motivation for running was, he responded with “I believe that by becoming my class President, I can make a positive difference at my school. I also know the best way to make a difference is by doing it yourself and not waiting for others to do it for you.” Kayden has been preparing for this election by involving himself in school activities since early middle school. He joined various clubs and organizations, and has already been in student leadership positions. He is always getting to know his peers and building his relationships, so they know who is representing them in their student government. Many of the candidates have competition, but they are all ready to campaign hard to win their votes. Page 6 ~ THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 www.theaustinvillager.com HEADLINES Williamson County Democrats Central Texas Host Labor Day Fundraiser Diaspora Gears Up for Annual African Yam Fest by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist Pictured above are the Labor Day Barbecue Fundraiser hosts; Mrs. Molly Bucy and John Bucy, Chair of the Williamson County Democrats. Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist Sunday afternoon, September 4, 2016, the Williamson Democratic Party held their “Labor Day Barbecue Fundraiser.” Not only was it an opportunity for the “party members” to socialize together but also a chance for the party to raise money for the upcoming November elections. The event was well attended by both members and nonmembers of the Williamson Democratic Party. Some of those who attended the event included numerous candidates running in Williamson County for the upcoming election. For instance, Jimmy Flannigan, running for Austin City Council District 6 and Anthony Schoggins running for Austin Community College District 5 were present at the fundraiser. In addition, there were numerous Williamson County Precinct Chairpersons also present at the event. Moreover, the “Labor Day Barbecue” allowed for the Williamson County Democrats to “raise funds” for the election. The Williamson County Democrats believe that all the races are very competitive. They strongly believe that they can pick-up “some seats” in Williamson County. Black Lives, American Justice: From Ferguson to Dallas - Part 2 Wed September 21st | 12:15 pm - 1:30 pm Bass Lecture Hall LBJ School of Public Affairs | University of Texas at Austin 2315 Red River Street America’s historic crisis of race and democracy continued in 2016, against the backdrop of Black Lives Matter demonstrations challenging the criminal justice system, the tragic deaths of eight law enforcement officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge, the police shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, and a national presidential election. Black Lives, American Justice: From Ferguson to Dallas, Part Two, will bring together thought leaders, scholars, and activists to dialogue on some of the most critical issues of our time and what policy, cultural, and social responses are needed to frame the conversation required to move the nation forward toward a more perfect union. This will be a moderated discussion that will leave time for Q&A with audience. On October 29th, Diaspora will be organizing its annual African Yam Fest. Moreover, the Yam Fest came to existence due to the fact there is a growing African Diaspora community in Central Texas. Consequently, the African Yam Fest seeks to promote the activities of the growing African community. Some of the African Yam Fest themes include the African Women in the Diaspora; the African Diaspora in the Nonprofit Sector; African Diaspora in Business; and finally the African Diaspora in Politics. For instance, the African Diaspora in Business seeks to showcase the growing entrepreneur spirit of the African Diaspora Community in Central Texas. Last year’s event was well attended by the community. There were about 50 attendees. In addition, there were numerous vendors who attended the last Ms West Africa International 2015 event. Consequently, the Veronica Numesubo Asikiya. organizers believe that there is a need to hold a 3rd event will showcase the nity through its diverse third event this year. The African Diaspora commu- “lenses.” Jeff Marsh Wins the City Council Runoff by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon | Villager Columnist The Center for the Study of Race and Democracy Tuesday, September 6, 2016, there was a runoff election for the City Council Place 1 between Jim McDonald and Jeff Marsh. Since none of the candidates received the fifty percent threshold the first time, then the race went to the runoff. Moreover, the voter turnout for the runoff election was very low. The turnout for this runoff was less than ten percent of the voters; despite the fact the City Council plays a crucial role in the well-being of the community. Furthermore, the low voter turnout has caused only a few individuals to play a crucial role in the development of Pflugerville. Moreover, Pflugerville is at a crossroad of being a “Sleepy Suburb” to becoming a “Booming City”. As Jeff Marsh takes office, there are still numerous issues that he would have to answer. Some of the issues that Jeff Marsh he will have to deal with include “How will Pflugerville grow and retain its small time vibes? How will the city hire more police officers of various racial and ethnic groups? How will Pflugerville help its small businesses grow? www.theaustinvillager.com THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 ~ Page 7 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT | PROPOSALS | PUBLIC INFORMATION FOR SALE | FOR RENT | BIDS | MISCELLANEOUS Tuskegee University to Eliminate 100-Plus Positions Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day AUSTIN, TX - Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day is part of an annual national campaign encouraging people to take charge of their own health and actively support their loved ones to do the same. It’s an event that focuses on prevention, early detection of disease and prompt referral to quality health care, all with the goal to reduce illness and health disparities in our community. The 11th annual Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day takes place: Saturday, September 17, 2016 10am-2 pm Delco Activity Center 4601 Pecan Brook Drive, Austin TX 78723 Services and programs offered that day include free health screenings (blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, HIV, vision, pregnancy, hearing tests and flu shots), free well checks, ask the doctor visits, community resources for healthy living, chiropractic and massage services, senior and children’s activities, job and career fair information and live entertainment. For more information contact Darrell Barnett at 512-972-5183. Tuskegee University (Campus Photo) by: Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent thorities said. The university, therefore plans to slash 60 non-tenure positions that have been budTUSKEGEE, AL - geted for but are curTuskegee University is rently vacant. Additionamong the latest HBCUs to ally, 60 current adjunct announce a significant cut and staff positions will be in their workforce due to permanently eliminated, bringing the expected “right-sizing” efforts. The Alabama univer- budget savings to $8.5 sity recently announced its million. “Voluntary efforts to commitment to reducing its annual operating costs balance the workforce by $15 million to $20 mil- since fiscal year 2015 have lion over the next three moved us significantly years. And, payroll ex- closer to our target perpenses will play an integral sonnel levels,” said role in the administration’s Tuskegee President Brian effort to trim the fat on its L. Johnson, in a statement. “We have reduced, over budget. As it stands, teaching time, the number of afand staff positions are not fected employees through in balance with expected several rounds of hiring enrollment, school au- freezes, contract renego- tiations, organizational restructuring, senior administrator salary reductions, and non-personnel budget cuts. He added, “Making changes that affect personnel is the single most difficult decision that any organization can make, especially where employees have faithfully and honorably served the University for many years. [However,] these difficult decisions are necessary for Tuskegee University’s future.” The AFRO recently reported that another southern HBCU, Albany State University in Georgia, had to undertake similar staff cuts due to failing finances. Community Engagement Center’s Front Porch Series Kicks Off Sept. 20 with “The Role of the Black Church in East Austin” AUSTIN, TX - The University of Texas at Austin Community Engagement Center, part of the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, is hosting a new Front Porch series that will focus on issues of importance to East Austin. Designed to activate more than just dialogue, the Front Porch series connects the university’s research and resources with engaged community organizations and community members to identify strategies, align efforts, and foster collaborative relationships. Each session works to address issues of equity, disparity, and access through active engagement. The first of the Front Porch series will be held Sept. 20 at David Chapel Baptist Church beginning at 6:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER The Role of the Black Church in East Austin Tuesday, September 20, 2016 @ 6:30 p.m. David Chapel Baptist Church, 2211 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. OCTOBER Law Enforcement and Community Engagement Tuesday, October 18, 2016 @ 6:30 p.m. Dobie Middle School, 1200 E. Rundberg Lane NOVEMBER Affordability and Re-Entry Tuesday, November 15, 2016 @ 6:30 p.m. Mt. Zion Church, 2938 E. 13th Street FEBRUARY The Suburbanization of Poverty in Austin Tuesday, February 21, 2017 Location TBA APRIL Health Disparities and Mental Health Tuesday, April 18, 2017 Huston-Tillotson University, 900 Chicon Street Questions may be directed to 512-232-8586. To register for the Front Porch Series visit: http://diversity.utexas.edu/communitycenter THE GREATER AUSTIN CAREER FAIR MEET FACE TO FACE WITH SOME OF THE BEST EMPLOYERS IN GREATER AUSTIN... POSITIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN: Accounting, Administrative, Advertising, Customer Service, Financial Services, Food Services, Management, Retail, Sales, Transportation/Drivers, Warehouse and many others... For a QUICK ENTRY PASS and more information, please go to: https://choicecareerfairs.com/e/austin-career-fair-september-22-2016 Thursday, September 22, 2016 11:00am to 2:00pm Norris Conference Center 2525 W Anderson Ln Austin, TX 78757 REQUESTFOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSALS Austin Independent School District requests competitive sealed proposals for construction of AISD Project No. 16-0006-GROUP Renovations at: Wooten ES, 1406 Dale Dr. (57); and McBee ES, 1101 W Braker Ln (58). Work to include: Demolition and installation of new windows, construction of two new adult restrooms, interior ADA ramp at stage, replace flooring, fencing, and cleaning of existing kitchen tile and base to included removal and replacement of kitchen equipment. 100% Performance and Payment Bonds required. 5% Proposal Guaranty required. PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 2:00 p.m. Austin time, on Thurs, Oct 13, 2016, at AISD Construction Mgmt Dept, 812 San Antonio, Ste 200, Austin, TX 78701, Ph: 512-4148940. Proposals will thereafter be publicly opened and the names of the offerors and any monetary proposals made by the offerors will be read aloud. Proposal Instructions, copies of drawings, specifications and contract documents, addenda (if any) and other documents related to this Request for Proposals will be available at the location indicated below for a deposit amount of $50.00 per set. The deposit will be refunded upon return in good condition to the location indicated below within 14 calendar days of the opening of proposals. Miller IDS Planroom - Download documents at: www.plan room. millerids.com Request and pick up printed documents at: 1000 E. 7th St, Austin, TX 78702, (512) 3815292,Email: planroom@millerids .com Questions or concerns regarding this Request for Proposals must be directed to: John Robinson, AIA, J. Robinson & Associates, Architects, Inc. by phone at: 512-452-7220, or by email at: john@robinsonarchitects.net. P R E - P R O P O S A L CONFERENCE: 4:00 p.m., Austin time, on Thurs, Sept 29, 2016 at Wooten ES, 1406 Dale Dr. AISD may consider an Offeror’s attendance of the pre-proposal conference in its determination of best value of each Proposal submitted. AISD reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. Austin Travis County Integral Care is currently soliciting proposals through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process for Equity Investor/Syndicator and Construction Lender Services. RFPs may be sent electronically, by contacting Brody Ballard at brody.ballard@atcic.org or (512) 440-4022 beginning September 5, 2016. The deadline to submit a proposal under the RFP is 4 p.m. CST on September 30, 2016. Historically Underutilized Businesses, including MinorityOwned Businesses and WomenOwned Businesses, are encouraged to apply. New Jobs for the Week of 09/11/2016 Faculty, Visual Communication (User Experience Design) Northridge Campus Job# 1608053 Faculty, Economics Location is as assigned Job# 1609001 Administrator, IT Applications Service Center Job# 1609003 Assistant I, Executive Highland Business Center Job# 1609004 Assistant, Student Financial Aid South Austin Campus Job# 1609006 Apply at HR Middle Fiskville Rd. 6th Floor, Austin, TX 78752 Job Line (512 223-5621 hhtp://www./austincc.ed EEOC/AA/M/F/D/V DPR Construction as CMAR for Texas State University will be constructing the 18,845 sf Library Repository Building and site development at 250 E. McCarty Ln., San Marcos, Texas 78666-4684 at their Star Park Campus. We are currently seeking competitive proposals from Subcontractors on the 100% CD Issuance for Final Cleaning, Plastic Laminate Cabinets and Countertops, Exterior Plaster, Ceramic Tile, Stained Concrete, Carpet and Base, Signage, Freezer, Security and Ornamental Steel Fencing and Gates by Tuesday, 9/27/2016 at 2:00 PM CST. If you’re interested in pursuing this project, please contact Ted Muckleroy at 512-3457699 or tedm@dpr.com for a Box link to access the project documents. “Landscape Project Planner – TGSD, LLC. – Austin, TX. Work on design concepts that draw out the positive qualities of a property’s natural surroundings while adding complementary components and handle projects during all phases. Req’d: 2 yr degree in a mech engring rel discipline, or other rel technical field + 1 yr exp working on complex landscape design projs, min 1 yr exp managing landscape crews of 5 or more, exp w/ irrigation sys for landscape projs, exp adapting an overall design approach to specific types of enviro, exp designing and building multiple types of outdoor structures, exp working directly w/ customers to develop design specifications, exp sourcing material for landscape projects. For complete job description visit http:// gardendesignstudio.us/. To apply email resume to scoker@gardendesignstudio.us.” Are you interested in doing business with the City of Austin? We are here for you! City of Austin Purchasing Office Vendor Registration 512-974-2018 VendorReg@austintexas.gov www.austintexas.gov/department/purchasing For information on the City of Austin’s Minority/ Women-Owned Procurement Program please contact the Small & Minority Business Resources at 512-974-7600 or visit www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Page 8 ~ THE VILLAGER/September 16, 2016 THE DISPATCH www.theaustinvillager.com UT Austin Salutes First Class of Black Undergraduates PRECURSORS AND FORMER STUDENTS WHO PAVED THE WAY FOR BLACK STUDENTS TO ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN The University of Texas at Austin celebrated the 60th anniversary of The Precursors, the first group of African American undergraduates to integrate the Forty Acres in 1956. Events were coordinated by the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, The Precursors and the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network.The event was held Sept. 8-10 and took place at various locations on and off campus. Many of the events were free and open to the public. In 1956, about 90 African American undergraduates began attending The University of Texas at Austin. Since that watershed year, thousands of African American students have attended this flagship institution. “As we celebrate this milestone in the history of Texas’ premier university, we are privileged to honor those who courageously paved the way for the advancement of civil rights on the Forty Acres and throughout the United States,” said Gregory J. Vincent, vice president of diversity and community engagement at The University of Texas at Austin. "We stand on the shoulders of the courageous men and women who were among the first African American students to enroll at The University of Texas at Austin,” said Stephanie Johnson, Black Alumni Network president. “Through their grace, dignity and determination, The Precursors showed the world they belonged on the Forty Acres. We look forward to honoring them and reconnecting with many other fellow Longhorns—former classmates and friends—during homecoming." H-E-B’S READ 3 PROGRAM CELEBRATES 5TH BIRTHDAY WITH TEXAS-SIZED BOOK DRIVE & READ-IN In its continued support for early childhood literacy across Texas, H-E-B is asking customers and schools to donate children’s books to in-store bins from Sept. 14 through Sept. 27 and help reach a goal of collecting 1 million books for families in need. Customers and Partners (employees) can drop off new and gently used children’s books in special collection bins in more than 370 H-E-B stores throughout Texas. To help families build their home library, H-E-B is giving away free children’s books with special Combo Locos and Meal Deals. Shoppers can also choose to donate those books back to the bins to put them in the hands of children in need. ”A parent is a child’s first teacher, and one of the best ways to set children up for success is to read to them at least three times a week,” said Kate Rogers, HE-B Vice President of Communications & Health Promotion. “Only 37 percent of children arrive at kindergarten with the skills necessary for lifetime learning. That statistic has to change.” In addition to the book drive, H-E-B is inviting communities across Texas to celebrate Read 3’s fifth birth- 2016 Texas Longhorns Football LONGHORNS (2-0) GOLDEN BEARS (1-1) Saturday, Sept. 17th on ESPN (#11) TEXAS @ CALIFORNIA Kabam Field at California Memorial Stadium, Berkeley, California day by taking part in a store-wide read-in, literary cupcake bake-offs and various puppet shows and story times during the two-week event. Check your local HE-B store for a calendar of events. On Sept. 21 from 10-10:30 a.m., all H-E-B stores will host a Read 3 Read-In, encouraging community members and shoppers to park their carts, grab a book and participate in story times. Schools, day cares and early childhood facilities are encouraged to organize read-ins on their campuses.Eligible organizations can register online and enter to win $1,000 cash grants, book donations and gift cards. For contest details, visit heb.com/read3. H-E-B’s Read 3 campaign is inspired by H-E-B CEO and Chairman Charles Butt’s strong commitment to education. Since September 2011, H-E-B has collected more than 3 million books for children. Read 3 encourages parents to read to their children at least three times a week to build a strong foundation for early literacy; however, access to books can be a significant problem for many low-income families. Thus, H-E-B has increased its book offerings and placed literacy centers in 14 stores statewide to serve as a com- munity hub for story times, character appearances and book signings with popular authors. To engage teachers and students in the book drive, H-E-B is offering grants to schools that collect the most books through the School Book Drive Challenge. One school in each region will win a $1,000 grant to be used toward supporting a campus literacy initiative. Entry forms can be found at heb.com/read3. Books collected in stores will be donated to children in need through schools, libraries, nonprofits and H-E-B’s annual Feast of Sharing dinners. If your organization is in need of books, applications can be found at heb.com/read3. In many communities, H-E-B has partnered with schools and universities to provide family literacy and nutrition workshops that prepare 3 and 4-year-olds and their parents for kindergarten. To date, those workshops have served more than 4,200 families in 17 Texas cities. Before completing the workshop, only 13 percent of families had 20 or more children’s books in the home and only 3 percent read to their children daily. After completing the workshop, 93 percent had 20 or more books and 33 percent read daily to their children.