Austin Black Business Journal & Community News - May 2018

May 2018

FREE

Volume I, Issue 1

Heated Texas Primary Race Headed to a Runoff Let’s Hear from the Candidates

INSIDE

page 8

pictured: Anita C Roberts

Publisher Launches Austin Business Journal page 3

pictured: Jose “Chito” Vela

National Small Business Week: April 29 - May 5

pictured: Sheryl Cole

Photos by Dhills Photography

pictured: 2018 Chapter NFBPA

page 10

page 28

pictured: Darrell W Pierce

page 14

pictured: Quincy Dunlap

Austin Area Urban LeagueSocial & Economic Equality Champion

page 16

Leaders in Texas Government Recognized for Excellence

Breaking Down Local Government Get the 4-1-1

HUSTON-TILLOTSON UNIVERSITY CONTINUES ITS LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION.

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS: Business Administration Chemistry Communications Computer Science and Education Environmental Studies Information Systems Math Music Political Science

ADULT DEGREE PROGRAMS: Business Administration Criminal Justice Education Liberal Arts Psychology

Connect with us today at htu.edu or call 512.505.3036

GRADUATE PROGRAM:

@HustonTillotson

Educational Leadership with Principal Certification

@hustontillotsonuniversity @HustonTillotson

#WeAreYou #WeAreIDEAL #WeAreHT

“A connected world where diversity of thought matters”

Colette Pierce Burnette, Ed.D. President and CEO

PUBLISHER NOTE

Owned by Made Media Group, a 501(c)3 Nonprofit.

PUBLISHER & FOUNDER

Anita C Roberts

PUBLISHER

AMC Publishing, LLC

ABOUT US

Made Media Group is here to serve our community. We strive to inform, empower and transform the community with positive news and multi-media content. Austin BBJ & Community News is a FREE print & digital, community newspaper and business journal for the multicultural community we serve.

CONTACT US

5114 Balcones Woods Dr. Ste. 307-345 Austin, TX 78759 512-380-1611 www.blackbusinessjournal.com

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A

ustin Black Business Journal & Community News prides itself on creating quality content for the multi-cultural community we serve. We are the voice of Central Texas. We provide influence & direction to Black communities and consumers.

With so much buying power, Austin Black Business Journal & Community News is strategically using its multi-media platforms as a conduit for information and economic empowerment to transform our community.

We created a space where we could present business and community news from a trusted source, but ensure the information is presented with a respectful and positive voice.

We pray you see our value, and see our worth and we look forward to working together to build a better Central Texas for all.

We are seeking community partners, we are seeking positive and constructive dialogue, we are seeking a seat at the table and the ability to evoke change on a grand scale. We are here to build up our community. Our community includes everyone in Central Texas, with a specific focus on the needs of Black Americans, especially business owners.

God bless.

Anita C Roberts Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

In 2012 there were more than 2.6 million Black businesses in the United States. More than 95% of those businesses were sole proprietorship or partnerships which had no paid employees according to a study by the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Texas at Austin.

Army Veteran

African American consumers are an underestimated force in the American economy, but not for long.

According to a 2016 Neilson report, African Americans are on the road to spend more than $1.5 trillion by 2021. This collective buying power means that nearly $2 trillion will flow through Black America annually.

CONTENTS

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VOTERS GUIDE

5

Get the inside scoop on your candidates

BUSINESS NEWS

10 12 ©2018 Austin Black Business Journal & Community News. All Rights Reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without express permission form the publisher.

Proudly printed by ArtJam Productions, Inc. 3414 East 5th Street Austin, Texas 78702 512-389-1747

5 Days of Free Sessions for National Business Week 8 Conferences All Entrepreneurs Should Attend

CITY & COUNTY NEWS

14

Local Government Explained: Get the 4-1-1

FEATURED NONPROFIT

16

Quincy Dunlap, Austin Area Urban League

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

17

Clara Spriggs-Adams: When a Man Cheats, It’s Not About You...Usually!

TRANSPORTATION

CELEBRATING LIFE

18

27

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

28

Texas Transportation Department to Waive $1.3B in Late Fines

19

COMMUNITY NEWS LIFESTYLE

29

PEOPLE OF AUSTIN

30

50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act

Home Depot: Investing in Technology Professionals

DINING

26

Wedding Bliss: Melissa & Michael

50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

23

Local News from your Neighbors!

Your Guide to Trustworthy Local Businesses!

REAL ESTATE NEWS

20

A Celebration of Lives Lost

RELIGION

32

Home Depot: Investing in Technology Professionals

Treat Mom to a Mother’s Day Brunch

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Saturday, September 8, 2018, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Huston-Tillotson University, 900 Chicon Ave The Soul of Austin Culture festival is a celebration of our diverse Central Texas communities.

It features an offering of dance performances, live music, arts, crafts, and food vendors.

www.soulofaustin.org Sponsors & Diversity Champions

This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.

VOTERS GUIDE

by The League of Women Voters of Texas

THE NEXT ELECTION TAKES PLACE ON

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2 : 2

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LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE IS APRIL 12RD

STATE GOVERNOR

Q1. What specific measures, if any, would you take to improve voter registration, access to voting, voter turnout and the redistricting process? Why? Q2. What specific reforms, if any, would you propose in state health care policy to address the cost and access to health care? Explain.

Q3. Referring to water, energy, public education, transportation, what specific measures do you propose to meet the states growing infrastructure needs? Explain rationale.

Q4. What other issues do you believe will be most pressing in the next session of the Texas Legislature, and what is your position on these issues?

Lupe Valdez (D)

Background: I’ve spent my career working for the greater good. From 2005–2017, I served as Dallas County Sheriff, managing a $140+ million budget, bringing sincere reform & saving taxpayer dollars. I’ve also been an officer in the Army and federal investigator.

Education: Master’s of Criminology, UTArlington, Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Southern Nazarene University  www.lupevaldez.com A1. Red & blue states across the country are reforming election laws. To modernize our elections, I support automatic voter registration, an independent redistricting commission, repealing discriminatory voter ID laws, shedding light on dark money, and any practical steps that protect the integrity of our elections and make it clear we want the people’s voice to be heard.

A2. I am committed to adopting the Medicaid expansion, adequately funding state mental health facilities, stopping the attacks on women’s healthcare, and ending the medical deserts in urban and rural Texas, where maternal mortality rates are unacceptable. As governor, I’ll wield the bully pulpit to push Congress to build on the ACA and protect our healthcare from sabotage.

A3. First, we need to stop focusing on harmful, job-killing bills and start paying attention to these issues that truly matter to Texans. We should reform the school finance system, promote public and private investment in renewable energies, and ensure our transportation funding meets the needs of today and future growth.

A4. Texans need to know they have a voice in Austin who will support our families, rein in special interests’ influence, and bring back some sanity.

The Legislature must respond to people’s needs and focus on issues where we can improve their lives—this includes the economy, accessible healthcare, an equitable education system, and adequate transportation funding.

Andrew White (D)

Background: I’ve been a proven entrepreneur for twenty years and led hundreds of employees. My style of leadership involves tackling complex issues using data and building consensus and I am committed to standing up against the extremism in our state.

Education: Andrew earned a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia in 1994. He received his Masters in Business Administration degree from the University of Texas in 2003.  www.andrewwhite.com A1. Texas has one of the lowest voter turnout rates in the nation, in part, because our state has made voting so difficult. We do not have a voter fraud issue—the data doesn’t support that accusation. The voter ID law needs to be changed, because voting should be easy. Our state should allow automatic registration whenever a citizen interacts with a government entity.

A2. Texas has the highest rate of uninsured Americans in the country. And yet, Gov Abbot refuses to cash a check for $6 billion per year from the federal government to expand Medicaid. I will expand Medicaid so we can stop treating the uninsured in expensive emergency rooms. I will also increase funding for mental health, which will reduce the pressure on hospitals and jails.

A3. We need to reform the education system, and we need to pay teachers fairly.

I will invest in public school districts, not voucher programs. I will build strong pre-K programs and vocational training for high school students. As our cities grow, so do our infrastructure needs. I will invest in smart plans to reduce traffic and I support the bullet train.

A4. My priorities are healthcare & education. We also need to increase funding for Planned Parenthood & close the $5 billion property tax loophole that benefits commercial property owners. Expanding Medicaid & closing loopholes takes pressure off the counties & homeowners who pay more than their fair share of property taxes. Finally, the “show me your papers” law is dangerous.

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VOTERS GUIDE

23

LAST DAY TO REGISTER

14

EARLY VOTING BEGINS

18

EARLY VOTING ENDS

22

PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION

APR

M AY

M AY

M AY

The Primary Runoff Election will take place on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Last day to register to vote is Monday, April 23, 2018. Early voting takes place from Monday, May 14, 2018 - Friday, May 18, 2018.

Check your county elections website for voting information and locations. To learn about ID required for voting in person, check out the FAQS at http://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote.

NATIONAL U.S. REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 10 Tawana Walter-Cadien (D)

Background: I am a Public Administrator, and RN Health Care Educator committed to serving, and advocating for citizens across CD10 and the United States.

Education: Executive Masters in Public Administration/Texas Southern University; Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing/ Prairie View A&M University

NATIONAL U.S. REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 21

Joseph Kopser (D)

Background: Joseph Kopser is a 20-year Army veteran, technology entrepreneur, and father of three daughters running in the Democratic Primary for TX-21.

Education: United States Military Academy, 1993; Harvard Kennedy School of Government, 2002.  www.kopserforcongress.com

Mary Street Wilson (D)

Background: Mathematics professor and educator for 20 years. Currently, I pastor a small congregation in Cedar Park.

Education: BSMathematics, Ok. Bapt. Univ.; MAMathematics, SUNY-New Paltz; Mdiv-Austin Pres. Theological Sem; Doctor of Ministry- in progress, Brite Divinity.  www.electmarywilson.com

NATIONAL U.S. REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 25

 www.tawanacadien forcongress.com

Mike Siegel (D)

Background: Public school teacher; Teachers’ union representative; Executive director of nonprofit education agency; Civil rights lawyer; Assistant City Attorney © 2018 League of Women Voters Austin Area League of Women Voters: Voters Guide— Primary Election 2018 5 National U.S. Representatives.

Education: B.A., Comparative Literature, Brandeis University; Teaching Credential, California State University—East Bay; J.D., Cornell Law School.  http://www.siegelfortexas.org

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Julie Oliver (D)

Background: Former teen Medicaid mom who put herself through college and law school; attorney with background in taxation and healthcare finance.

Education: B.B.A, University of Texas at Arlington (Summa Cum Laude); J.D., University of Texas Austin.  www. oliver2018.com

Chris Perri (D)

Background: As a criminal defense attorney in Austin, I tirelessly fight to uphold the Constitution, by defending Texans of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Education: M.A. (economics), University of Illinois-Chicago (2009); J.D., University of Texas School of Law (2005); B.A., Southwestern University (2002).  www.chrisperrifor texas.com

MAY 2018

VOTERS GUIDE STATE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 47

LOCAL TRAVIS COUNTY CIVIL DISTRICT COURT JUDGES, 459TH DISTRICT JUDGE

Elaina Fowler (D)

Maya Guerra Gamble (D)

Background: Elaina Fowler has dedicated 20 years to a public policy career to protect the rights of fellow Americans.

As the current State Director of Texas Retirement System.

Education: B.A. Wesleyan College International  www.fowlerfortexas.com

Vikki Goodwin (D)

Background: Vikki Goodwin is the Broker/Owner of Goodwin & Goodwin Real Estate. She serves her community on a variety of Committees, Boards and organizations.

Education: BBA from the University of Texas, ’89. Master’s degree from the LBJ School of Public Affairs, ’91.  www.VoteVikki.com

Background: From Montopolis to Yale: Maya’s significant experience in civil and family law and deep ties to the community guides her to always help others.

Education: Austin High School, 1988; Yale University, B.A. with distinction, 1992; Yale Law School, J.D., 1996.  www.MayaGuerra Gamble. com

Aurora Martinez Jones (D)

Background: Progressive Judge.

Life-long Democrat. Former sole practitioner, family & civil law.

Daughter of immigrants. Wife & mom of 2.

Education: BA Government, The University of Texas at Austin. JD, The University of Texas School of Law. Child Welfare Law Specialist, NACC.  www.Aurora MartinezJones. com

This is a condensed copy, courtesy of the League of Women Voters. To see the guide in its entirety please go to https://my.lwv.org/ texas/voters-guide. The LWV-Texas Voters Guide is nonpartisan & unbiased and lists candidates in contested races who are on the Election ballot and provides their answers to questions posed by the League of Women Voters of Texas Education Fund.

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VOTERS GUIDE

A1. I support online voter registration and same-day voter registration and believe that anyone should be able to vote by mail. I oppose discriminatory Voter ID laws, which disproportionately affect low-income communities, students, and people of color.

STATE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 46 Q1. What processes do you support to improve elections and voting in Texas?

Q2. Identify three measures you would support that reduce gun violence.

Q3. After publication of the 2020 census, new congressional, state, and education districts will be redrawn. What processes do you support to ensure fair representation?

Sheryl Cole (D) Background: I am an attorney and accountant by trade and have a long history of public service. I served on Austin City Council for 10 years and as Mayor Pro Tem. Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence, University of Texas School of Law, 1991. Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Texas at Austin, 1986.  www.sherylcole.com

A1. I support making registration as easy and as quick as possible, including allowing online registration and allow- © 2018 League of Women Voters Austin Area League of Women Voters: Voters Guide—Primary Election 2018 37 State Texas House of Representatives ing people to register to vote on election day. I would repeal the disenfranchising voter ID laws that Texas has recently passed. They negatively impact poor and minority voters.

Q4. What woul dyou do to provide and fund an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12?

Q5. What are your legislative priorities for the Texas environment? Discuss water management, renewable energy, and clean air.

Q6. What woul dyou do to ensure healthcare for all Texans?

Q7. What other issue do you consider most important and how would you address it?

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A2. Closing the Gun Show Loophole, where background checks and identification are not required during gun sales at a gun show, is an easy place to start. We also need to ensure that existing background check infrastructure is functioning, to reduce the odds that a tragedy like Sutherland Springs, where the gunman purchased firearms despite a violent criminal background. We also need to look at causes of violence. We need to expand access to mental health care and intervene earlier in cycles of domestic violence— both of which would require increased funding from the state.

Jose “Chito” Vela (D) Background: I am currently an immigration and criminal defense attorney. Before, I worked for a State Representative and at the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Education: I received a bachelor’s in history, a master’s in public affairs and a law degree from The University of Texas.  www.chitovela.com

A2. I would support the following measures to reduce gun violence: (1) universal background checks without any loopholes or exceptions (2) repeal the open carry and campus carry laws (3) ban the sale of assault weapons. As a young boy, I grew up hunting and fishing in South Texas. I appreciate the tradition of gun ownership in Texas. However, I also woke up in Las Vegas, Nevada on the morning of Oct. 1, 2017 when a madman with an assault weapon killed 58 and wounded more than 500. That horrific scene will forever haunt me. Our country must ban assault weapons.

MAY 2018

VOTERS GUIDE

A3. I believe California’s system of a nonpartisan independent committee to draw maps for redistricting is a strong answer to Texas’ hyper-partisan Gerrymandering. It allowed for greater input from the community, and the resulting districts are much healthier for democracy and representation.

A4. I support a fair and equitable state income tax. However, since I do not believe that is likely to pass in the current political climate, I believe we absolutely must revise the school finance funding formula and reexamine recapture rates. As it stands, AISD is losing $500 million or more to recapture, despite the fact that a majority of our students are from low income houses and have free or reduced-price lunches. School finance should not be funded on the backs of those who can least afford it.

A3. The current congressional districts clearly establish the fact that the last people that should be drawing a district are the politicians that will inherit those districts. Texas should have an independent, bi-partisan re-districting committee made up of diverse members selected on a statewide basis. There should be no elected officials on the committee.

A4. Funding quality public education is a core function of state government. Sadly, Texas has one of the lowest levels of per student funding in the U.S. We must move away from our reliance on local property taxes to fund education and toward a statewide tax system.

A statewide tax system allows us to end the inequitable “Robin Hood” system that punishes Austin and other urban districts. Other states have legalized and taxed marijuana.

Texas should do the same and dedicate that revenue to education. We should also look at legalized gambling and dedicate those revenues to education.

A5. On Austin City Council, I formed a Water Conservation Task Force and defended Austin Energy’s progressive policies at the State Legislature, and I would continue to be a strong voice for the environment if elected. We must invest in the future so that our children’s children have a beautiful, clean, and habitable Earth to inherit. They should not have to live in fear of alternating drought and super storms from the gulf. Texas has a great potential for investing in solar and wind energy, and I strongly support efforts to improve our infrastructure to better guard against flooding and drought.

A6. Texas should have accepted the Medicaid expansion. Unfortunately, we failed to do so, and many Texans have paid the price. We need to invest in accessible and affordable community clinics, including for mental healthcare. We need to study why Texas has such an overwhelming Maternal Mortality Rate, and do everything we can to address

A5. Water Management—The cities of San Antonio and Austin, have successfully reduced water consumption through aggressive public awareness campaigns. The state should support funding for a myriad of water conservation programs at the local level.

Renewable Energy—I support a carbon tax on producers of electricity. This would both limit carbon producing electrical plants, such as coal and natural gas, and raise badly-needed revenue for the state. Clean Air—I will advocate to ensure the state complies with the federal Clean Air Act and holds polluters accountable.

that. We need to invest in nonprofits, such as Planned Parenthood, that pay overwhelming dividends in how much they help our communities. The Health and Human Services budget needs every dollar it can get, and I will fight for them during the budget process.

A7. There are many facets to affordability and no one way to address these issues. We need to ensure economic development is for everyone. We need to address rising housing costs by making sure the Legislature pays for its fair share of education. We have to fix the trend of rising deregulated tuition and healthcare costs that have outpaced stagnated wages. On Council, I revived failing affordability efforts and made sure they passed, supported prevailing wages, and made sure businesses responsibly contributed to our tax base. I pledge to actively seek progress everywhere we can.

A7. Criminal justice reform is an overarching issue that ranges from grappling with major shifts in policy to addressing mundane changes to the Texas Penal Code such as making it easier for people to keep and renew their drivers’ licenses by reducing fines that disporportionally affect the poor. The war on drugs has failed. Texas should stop the over criminalization of possession for personal use and treat illegal drug use as the public health crisis that it is. And we must end the use of the death penalty.

A6. One of the biggest issues facing Texas today is our refusal to accept the Medicaid expansion that was part of the Affordable Care Act. About 900,000 Texans could have access to free and comprehensive health care through Medicaid if our state government simply said yes to the federal money.

I strongly support accessing those federal funds and will make this my priority at the Texas Legislature.

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BUSINESS

CITY OF AUSTIN SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM CELEBRATES

National Small Business Week Free sessions and events to help local businesses April 30th - May 4th

The City of Austin Small Business Program will provide a series of educational events to help Austin’s small businesses. Small business owners receive free advice on subjects including: funding, marketing, legal, and business planning from fellow business owners and experts in their respective fields.

Highlights of the weeklong program include Money Talks: Seed Funding Roundtables on April 30th at 2:00 p.m. and concludes with The Art of Social Media for Advanced Users on May 4th beginning at 10:30 a.m.

“There will be plenty of sessions where new or existing small business owners can learn different ways to do business and develop new skills,”

adds Vicky Valdez, Small Business Program Division Manager.

These events celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit in Austin in conjunction with the national celebration which recognizes small business and entrepreneurs across the United States. The Small Business Program is proud to partner with the Austin Public Library to host five small business sessions at branches throughout the city.

Tickets to each event are free, but attendees should arrive early to ensure a spot as tickets do not guarantee admission. Registration and more details can be found at www.SmallBizAustin.org.

NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK IN AUSTIN

Who should attend? Aspiring Entrepreneurs, Existing Small Business Owners, and Creative Industries

MONDAY, APRIL 30

at Norris Conference Center - 2525 W Anderson Lane #365, Austin, TX 78757 2:00pm - Money Talks: Seed Funding Roundtables 2:00pm - Money Talks: Growth Funding Roundtables 4:30pm - Money Talks: Networking

TUESDAY, MAY 1

2:00pm - Business Coaching Open Office Hours Pleasant Hill Branch, Austin Public Library 211 E William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745 12:00pm - Product Launch Success with Digital Marketing Entrepreneur Center of Austin 4029 S Capital of TX Hwy, Suite #110 Austin, TX 78704 9:00am - Small Business Financing Workshop Entrepreneur Center of Austin 4029 S Capital of TX Hwy, Suite #110 Austin, TX 78704

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

9:00am - Test Before You Invest: The Lean Start Method Entrepreneur Center of Austin 4029 S Capital of TX Hwy, Suite #110 Austin, TX 78704 3:00pm - BizAid Business Orientation for Creatives Old Quarry Branch, Austin Public Library 7051 Village Center Dr, Austin, TX 78731 5:30pm - Managing Liability Entrepreneur Center of Austin 4029 S Capital of TX Hwy, Suite #110 Austin, TX 78704

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THURSDAY, MAY 3

5:30pm - Small Biz Lawyer UP! Legal Clinic Entrepreneur Center of Austin 4029 S Capital of TX Hwy, Suite #110 Austin, TX 78704 10:30am - Writing a Winning Business Plan Spicewood Springs Branch, Austin Public Library 8637, Spicewood Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78759 2:00pm - Business Coaching Open Office Hours Carver Branch, Austin Public Library, 1161 Angelina St, Austin, TX 78702 10:00am - BizOpen: Commercial Property Requirements Webinar Virtual Webinar 6:00pm - From Starting a Dream to Living the Dream ACC Highland Campus, Bldg. 1000, 6101 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78752 7:00pm – Build Your Business & Life Design in Sync Manchaca Road Branch, Austin Public Library 5500 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745

FRIDAY, MAY 4

10:30am - The Art of Social Media for Advanced Users Carver Branch, Austin Public Library 1161 Angelina St, Austin, TX 78702 The Small Business Program, a division of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department, is committed to providing opportunities and resources to small businesses to help them grow and prosper in a competitive business environment. For more information, visit www.SmallBizAustin.org

MAY 2018

BUSINESS

Public Hearings on CodeNEXT The public hearings are an opportunity for you to speak to the land use commissions and City Council about CodeNEXT. For more information about the public hearings, call (512) 974-2000 or visit austintexas.gov/page/codenext-postcard.

The following are scheduled dates for public hearings on CodeNEXT: Saturday, APRIL 28 at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, MAY 29 at 10 a.m.

Joint Land Use Commissions at the

City Council at Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street

Dove Springs Recreation Center, 5801 Ainez Drive

Saturday, JUNE 2 at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, MAY 1 at 4 p.m.

City Council at Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street

Joint Land Use Commissions at the Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road

Spring Cleaning

by Stephanie Sullivan Whalon

Lou Rawls - yes: Lou Rawls - look him up! He wrote a song a few years ago. Okay, decades ago, that spoke to the real meaning of spring. It went something like this: “It’s Spring Again. I can hear the birds sing again, see the flowers start to bud, see young people fall in love.” That song evokes such fond memories and is so fitting with the start of a beautiful spring season in Central Texas.

As an Interior Designer, spring reminds me of shedding the weight of winter, and all that it has to offer.

Those wet, dreary cold, occasional snow days, wearing thick clothing, dark drab colors and snuggling on the couch in something warm and fuzzy.

Spring on the other hand reminds us that we are so lucky to live in this beautiful city where on average we get about 228 sunny days per year. It gives us an opportunity to go out into the world with a brand-new attitude, start anew. For me, I’m also reminded of spring cleaning, organizing my pantry, closets and, yes, sprucing up living spaces.

I’m always thinking of ways to provide solutions for my clients. Some may be starting over or simply refreshing a home that has looked the same for the past ten or twenty years. The kids are gone off to college, or better yet, newlyweds trying to figure out what to do with an extra bedroom. No matter the situation we get a fresh opportunity to start over and bring something new and fresh into our experience.

At the beginning of the year, I was meditating in prayer for what this year would bring. I asked God to give me a word of the year. After a few days, I received the word, “Order”. I thought it was pretty profound but who has time for “Order”?

Take Inventory

What is it about your space that is giving your grief? If its several things, take time and make a list of your hot buttons. When you arrive home from work or a day out; what is it that’s driving you crazy? If you have to look at it one more time, you will scream! That’s where you start. If money was no object, what would you do to change it? Buy a new sofa, paint the interior of your home, remodel your kitchen, ALL OF THE ABOVE. We know it can be overwhelming, but before you try to tackle a project on your own, or with an experienced designer make a list. A designer can help you develop a plan of action to transform your space.

I don’t recommend you try this on your own. I have had quite a few clients to reach out to me after they have spent hard earned money of doing it themselves. A consultation with a designer can save you tons.

Decide on A Budget

How much are you willing to invest in your Spring Makeover? I recommend to all my clients that they spend money on a design plan for all of the spaces they would like to see small changes or significant ones. A design plan will give you a roadmap on how to budget in the future. You have your Design Bible; it includes, the recommended structural changes, FF&E, Fixtures, Finishes, and Equipment. Estimates from the trades involved, paint colors, fabric swatches, and suggested accessories. Your strategy may be one or two rooms at a time. Eventually, you will have completed your project in no time. You could either do it yourself or call your designer to assist you with implementing the next phase. Better yet, call me. I love before and after stories.

Get Started

I asked He responded, now it was my turn to reflect. I looked around my home, with fresh eyes, and I knew what He meant. My office was a mess; my closet was a mess; I have clothes that I have not worn in years.

But, I paid too much money to throw them away. You get it I now. When I opened my kitchen cabinets, pots and pans met me at my feet. Okay, okay, okay, I get it: order. We go about our lives making a living, but we don’t take the time to stop and re-access the direction we are headed. I began the quest to straighten my life- office first, then kitchen, and the projects started to come in like a flood. It’s April and spring. I’m only now getting to my closets. Oh, did I fail to mention, He gave me the first quarter of this year to get it done. In trouble. I know.

I know you have angst, but It’s not as painful, and it sounds. You can do this! Like life, transforming your home is a series of choices. You have made all the hard decisions. You have identified the problem, created a budget, taken inventory, called your designer and together you have developed a plan of action. The only thing left to do is execute the plan...Get Started. It’s April and before you know it, it will be Summer and Fall again, the kids will be back in school, and the cycle starts all over again. Let’s decide to declutter our homes, call an organizer for help if that’s overwhelming. Let’s refresh our spaces, buy new furniture, change your drapes that have been hanging there for ten years; replace your flooring. So where do I begin, you ask.? I’d say the Master Bedroom; why? you work hard all day, pay the mortgage, keep the lights on, play taxi driver for the many activities the kids are involved in. When you retire to your bedroom for the evening, it should be the most serene, peaceful place in your home. You need rest, tomorrow is coming, and you have to do it all over again. So, let’s get started. Let’s Make What’s Old New Again!

At Stephanie Sullivan Interior Designs we offer solutions to the problems that have been nagging you consistently until you make the call to do something about it. It is our job to transform your space. Transformed spaces, equate to transformed lives. There’s nothing more peaceful and relaxing than a well-designed home.

Today, I’d like to share a few tips on how to get your Spring off a great start and transform your life by turning your house into a comfortable home.

Stephanie Sullivan Interior Designs, Austin Metro Stephanie Sullivan Whalon, Associate ASID W: http:/ssinteriordesigns.com E: stephanie@ssinteriordesigns.com M: 512-466-0664

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11

BUSINESS

8 Conferences

All Entrepreneurs Should Attend

Collision

April 30-May 3, 2018 in New Orleans, LA Attendees include CEOs of both the world’s fastest-growing startups, and the world’s largest companies, alongside leading investors and media. https://collisionconf.com/

Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit

June 6-9, 2018 in Charlotte, NC A three-day business event tailored to both established business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. All the resources you need for entrepreneurship, small business, money, and careers. Join us for our 3-day Entrepreneurs Summit returning to Charlotte, NC where more than 1,000 CEOs, investors, and business experts will gather to share knowledge and make business deals. http://www.blackenterprise.com/ entrepreneurssummit/

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VidCon with Youtube

June 20-23, 2018 in Anaheim, CA For People Who Love Online Video. (and want to network with influencers). VidCon 2018 will again be a celebration of everything that makes this medium awesome, bringing together a global community that believes online video is the most important cultural force since the motion picture http://vidcon.com/

Congressional Black Caucus September 12-16,

Forbes Women’s Summit

June 18-19, 2018 in New York, NY Forbes leverages unique access to the world’s most influential leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and artists—uniting these global forces to harness their collective knowledge, address today’s critical issues and discover innovative solutions. From the likes of Warren Buffett, Sir Richard Branson, and Malala Yousafzai, to those working behind-the-scenes to revolutionize healthcare, ease the global refugee crisis, or invent breakthrough technology, the world’s leading entrepreneurs bring their stories, discoveries and debates to life on the Forbes stage. https://www.forbes.com/ forbes-live/event/womenssummit-2018/

Attending a conference with talented, experienced speakers can give you the opportunity to learn from the best, make valuable connections, find out about industry norms and major disruptions and of course, give you inspiration. Things that every entrepreneur can find value in.

2018 in Washington, DC Join subject experts, industry leaders, elected officials and citizen activists to explore today’s issues from an AfricanAmerican perspective. http://www.cbcfinc.org/annuallegislative-conference/

National Urban League Conference

August 1-4, 2018 in Columbus, OH An inspiring and empowering conference that will provide you with unmatched professional, civic engagement, business development, and networking opportunities. http://www.cul.org/conference/

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FinCon

September 26-29, 2018 in Orlando, FL Join 1700+ digital content creators in personal finance and investing for a one-of-akind networking and learning experience. https://finconexpo.com/

BlogHer August 2018 in New York City, NY #BlogHer18 Creators Summit will celebrate the women who tell their stories to inspire and educate communities across the globe. While all bloggers and social media influencers will learn something from the programming, workshops and networking opportunities, food, beauty and health will be key areas of focus. https://conferences.blogher.com/ blogher18cs-details/ MAY 2018

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800 Golf CLub Drive Lantana, TX 76226 (940) 728-4653 www.lantanagolf.com

CITY & COUNTY GOV’T

Local Government Explained:

Get the 4-1-1 Austin BBJ & Community News asked Darrell W. Pierce to give us some of the fundamental issues that are important to the African-American community, especially East Austin.

By Darrell W. Pierce

T

he first vital observation is to take note of how we define the African-American community.

There is a shift; oftentimes when we define it (black community) as East Austin, where we continue to lose representation through the impact of gentrification.

We’ve seen several transformations of the black community. Even East Austin was defined at one time as East of Mopac, and later East of Congress, where we had successful black businesses along 6th Street.

At one point in our history, Clarksville located just East of Mopac along the rail road tracks, was a vibrant black community.

As property values continued to increase, blacks began moving further east, then I-35 became the barrier as we know it today. Historically, we've had several East-West barriers that have moved. Now, some suggest that the next major West barrier will be 183.

While we may still have a large concentration in East Austin, there is a greater concentration of blacks transitioning northeast, like to Pflugerville and Round Rock, or if you go east, how far east do you go. which some include Manor.

Most folks don’t know the history

14

Darrell W. Pierce is CEO & President of SNAP Management Group Inc. Pierce has over 20 years providing consulting services with a focus on facilitation, executive coaching, building teams, process management, action planning, streamlining and re-engineering processes, establishing business controls, and determining best practices. Pierce holds a degree in Business Management from St. Edwards University and is studying for a Masters in Leadership and Ethics. that the boundaries have moved over time due to social and economic factors. I think it's important that we don’t define or limit our definition that impacts our leverage and voice to East Austin. If you look at the major issues facing the black Austin community, they have a huge impact on African-Americans wherever we might reside.

I think the limitations skew numbers and distort our ability to leverage each other in a way that can help improve our quality of life.

When I look at Central Texas and the metro area which includes Austin, some of the major issues facing us relate to the upcoming elections.

We need to have a fundamental understanding of the importance of getting out to vote and participate in the voting process regardless of your political persuasion or political interests. Let the issues drive your decision.

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When you look at Austin right now we are in a very unique transformational phase. The city just hired a new city manager (Spencer Cronk, hired Feb.2018). This City Manager is coming in with an unprecedented amount of responsibility for hiring more executive positions than normal.

Depending on who is elected can influence the type of people this

city manager hires to help fulfill the vision of the Austin city council. We do operate in a city manager form of government and not a mayoral form of government. There is an enormous amount of power and decision- making authority entrusted in the City Manager.

Houston, for example, has a mayoral form of government. But in our case, in Austin, the mayor is not compensated and the mayor doesn't make the day to day administrative or hiring decisions.

This City Manager - just to highlight a few positions, is responsible for some key executive positions that have a direct impact on our community. Such as police chief, the Assistant city manager (or Deputy City Manager) a position Mike McDonald held until retirement, reports directly to the city manager. Other positions, such as the director of the Austin Public Library, Director of the health department, and Director of Economic Development.

So, let's just talk about these positions. The police chief, we all understand how the criminal justice system has directly impacted the African-American community.

Who we elect in local elections matter. If we're not participating in that process, then we may not have a voice about what concerns us such as the type background or qualifications that we want the city manager to consider. The people we elect, those who will hold the city manager accountable, if we are not a part of the process, then we put ourselves in a very compromising position to be disappointed about the outcome.

Austin City Council

MAY 2018

CITY & COUNTY GOV’T

So, let’s talk about the next position of the Austin public library.

Recently an African American was hired to lead this critical position responsible for shaping and building minds. The Director of the Austin Public Library. Now while this may seem to be trivial position to some, we're talking about the heart of education. I mean what area has been vital to the plight of our success or the down fall of our struggle than the lack of education, the lack of exposure or access to the Internet to help kids learn?

For those who don't have the same resources that many of us do they depend on libraries and they need access. So, as they're looking at who they hire. The skills in this position requires someone who is thinking out of the box about how to deliver the librarian type services into the home for those who are disenfranchised. The caliber of leadership you have in that position is critical.

We're talking about building minds, so let’s transition and talk about the Director of the Health Department. This person is dealing directly with health issues and preventive strategies. This person will collaborate with other health facilities throughout Travis County - facilities like St. David’s, Seton and Dell medical school. Coordinating bringing the most efficient and effective health services is vital to our quality of life.

Another critical position I’d like to highlight would be economic development. The economic devel-

opment department is responsible for working with all the various chambers including the AfricanAmerican Chamber, the Hispanic Chamber, the Asian chamber the Gay and Lesbian Chamber, and the Greater Austin chamber. They provide funding to all of these chambers to provide and bring economic services to our community. So, who that executive director is has a direct responsibility for shaping whether economic development and what type of corporations may be introduced to Austin.

I served as a member on the or Austin Education Council, and Chaired the Austin Chamber of Commerce Education Task Force.

I've served on the board for the Austin Chamber of Commerce.

You know one of the things that I have been critical of our respective chambers especially Greater Austin chamber is we always do a great job in bringing white collar companies to our community. But do we make the same effort to bring a combination of blue collar jobs for blue collar workers. We need a leader in economic development driving and directing and making sure that we have a good mix portfolio, a healthy mixture of different type of industries that we're going after that allow for people who have this level of skill to want to stay in Austin and be able to afford living in Austin This has a direct impact to our community. If we look at our migration a lot of the reasons why our community is moving in the

direction that it has moved and migrated is because of lack of affordability. So, these positions are critical. It’s critical for us to be engaged, for us to be aware, for us to be cognizant of.

One of my old sayings in politics is you have to decide if you want to be the king or queen or do you want to be the maker of the king or queen? Sometimes being the king or queen maker is more influential than being the king or queen. It is important for all of us to find our role and stay the course.

This is a great opportunity for us as a community, as a collective body, to make sure we help drive the actions of those in government, private, and philanthropic circles.

If I transition into the world of

the AISD community, we just had a major bond issue that was approved. One of the largest in our history. And while there was a lot of debate over how much of this bond package was going to disenfranchise or leave out the needs that were identified in the African-American and Hispanic community, the bond package has passed. I encourage our community to recognize that now that it has passed this is even more of an opportunity to get involved to ensure that the money that was approved, whether you completely agree with them or not, it is important to stay engaged in the process to make sure that your respective schools whether your schools has been consolidated, whether

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15

CITY & COUNTY GOV’T your school is being remodeled, or whether your school is being completely moved/consolidated.

Stay involved in all phases of the process to make sure the funding that was designated to improve education in your respective neighborhoods. You can be a part of the PTA, vertical teams, or just being a concerned citizen through your respective school. It’s important to stay engaged in our community and government processes through the finish lines. One of the committees I’ve served on for many years was a school Boundary and Facility Task Force which primarily played a role in looking at how do you draw or move lines around to make sure you have proper enrollment capacity in the schools.

Stay the course and see accountability through to reality. Don’t’ get frustrated or detoured, see the issue(s) to the end. It is incredibly important that you remember politics are local. And if I have learned anything else I have learned that oftentimes the squeaky wheels get the priority when it comes to the high-quality grease. And in order to get what you want you have to stay diligent and focused and have a strategy in how you're trying to help impact these various different

areas that I described.

You know a lot of these issues came out of the Quality of Life Initiative years ago which my firm donated services. I helped lead, along with several other key community leaders, facilitate the initiative for the African-American community, and later this was followed by the Hispanic and Asian Community initiatives. If you look at the quality of life buckets many of the aforementioned City of Austin vacant positions I described have a direct impact on one of those buckets.

And so, the Quality of Life Initiatives primarily are initiatives that are not what I call sprints; they’re marathons. Some of those things have been plaguing and adversely impacting our community for years. And it's still there, still alive, maybe not as healthy as they should be but they're here in front of us. I think we best position ourselves to stay focused on the prize and forget the dream. If we want to continue to develop and sustain a healthy core that drives and sustains an African-American culture and presence in the central Texas Region, it will require an individual and collective effort. I think it’s vital to preserving our legacies.

FEATURED NONPROFIT

Quincy Dunlap, Austin Area Urban League

We are Austin area educators, artists, managers, activists, technology gurus, and people who believe in helping our community succeed. We are one unit, one team, and one family who work together to listen, create, and empower.

The mission of the Austin Area Urban League is to provide tools to African Americans and under-served populations to build a foundation for social and economic equality.

The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. Founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City, the National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research and advocacy. Today, there are more than 100 local affiliates in 36 states and the District of Columbia, providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of more than 2 million people nationwide.

President & CEO, Quincy Dunlap has spent the last twenty years working tirelessly for the advancement of those who seemed to be invisible in our society- the poor & disenfranchised. Through various leadership roles at renowned non-profits, developing and implementing strategic programming, serving on boards and committees, and partnering with entities in the public and private sectors, Quincy has solidified himself as a dynamic and inspirational leader, with an unwavering commitment and passion for service.

Dunlap began his journey in 2010 at the New York Urban League, where he served as the Director of College Access. He went on to serve as Manager for the Education and Youth Development Division with the National Urban League, where his primary responsibility was the administrative and programmatic oversight of the NUL signature program, Project Ready. And, for the last three years he has served as the Vice President of the Board of Directors for the NUL Federal Credit Union.

Dunlap earned his B.A. in Political Science from Lincoln University of Missouri and his Master of Education degree from William Woods University. He has also completed Executive Training Certificate Programs with Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business and the NUL/ Duke University’s Corporate Education -Emerging Leaders Program.

The Urban League remains relevant because of the steadfast focus of providing excellent service, resulting in access to opportunities for underserved and underrepresented individuals and groups.

Dunlap’s vision is to strategically position the Austin Area Urban League to continue to effectively serve and empower underrepresented and underserved individuals in the Central Texas area with comprehensive programming and support for an improved quality of life for all who encounter the Urban League movement.

The greatest way for individuals, groups and organization to assist the vision of the Austin Area Urban League is by committing time, energy and resources in a continual manner. This ensures we can all pay it forward. Additionally, we encourage you to serve in your community and invite you to partner with and invest in the Austin Area Urban League movement. Let’s improve the quality of life for all Central Texans.

16

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MAY 2018

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT:

Clara Spriggs-Adams WHEN A MAN CHEATS, IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU...USUALLY!

BBJ: Introduce yourself and profession to our readers: Spriggs-Adams: I am Clara Spriggs-Adams an author and Empowerment Specialist. I have been speaking professionally for over twenty years. I believes that my purpose in life is to empower individuals to reach their highest potential by sharing all that I have learned (and experienced) which lifted me out of the slums of Dallas, Texas. I came from a physically and emotionally abusive teenage mother. I went from a high school dropout, to a college graduate; from a first-tier employee, to a self-employed business owner of over twenty years, to an author, and a well-respected leader in my community, to an award-winning real estate broker, and now, I am totally empowered and self-sufficient.

I began writing books after having conducted empowerment seminars for many years and having the participants always say, “If we could only take you with us.” One day, God spoke to me and said, “If you write a book, they can take you with them.” From that point forward, the books have chosen me to write them.

BBJ: Describe your book: Spriggs-Adams: The book titled “When a Man Cheats, It’s Not About You...Usually!” is an empowerment book for women. This book will challenge everything you have been taught about love, monogamy, and infidelity. I interviewed over two-hundred men from all walks of life, and I share what I learned from those interviews in the hope of helping women avoid the devastation they usually endure when they experience infidelity in their own relationships. The information gleaned from those interviews will help women better understand the nature of why men cheat and that it’s not about them, usually.

BBJ: What inspires you?

Spriggs-Adams: I am inspired by the resilience of the human spirit.

I find great inspiration in seeing how so many people have overcome often horrendous challenges and have been able to accomplish great things in their lives. Just knowing that they were still able to succeed helped me to persevere and taught me to never give up on my dreams.

BBJ: What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?

Spriggs-Adams: Most people tell me they want to write a book, but what they really mean is that they want to have a book published. My advice to them is to write the book. You have to be willing to devote the time that it takes to do the writing. It’s a solitary activity. Once the writing is done, you can figure out the other details later.

BBJ: Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it: Spriggs-Adams: Writer’s block was my challenge. I eventually overcame it by not setting arbitrary times to write, such as --I’ll write every morning at 9 a.m.. I only write when I have encountered or witnessed something that I feel passionately about. Then I feel inspired to write because I have been given the subject matter.

BBJ: What is next for your brand/business in 2018?

Spriggs-Adams: I’ll write another book as soon as one is given to me.

BBJ: How can readers connect with you online and through social media?

Spriggs-Adams: Facebook: When a Man Cheats Twitter:https://twitter.com/ cspriggsadams BBJ: How can readers get a copy of your book?

Spriggs-Adams: Go to www.whenamancheats.com To advertise email sales@blackbusinessjournal.com

17

TRANSPORTATION

TEXAS TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT TO WAIVE $1.3B IN LATE FINES The Texas Department of Transportation will forgive more than $1.3 billion in late fines and fees owed by drivers on state toll roads since 2007.

The department announced the decision last week at a House Transportation Committee meeting in response to a cap on unpaid toll fees lawmakers imposed last year, the Austin American-Statesman reported .

18

The move only covers tolls incurred on roads operated by the Transportation Department, such as State Highway 130 and State Highway 45 North. The decision doesn’t affect tolls, fines or fees racked up on tollways operated by the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority or other local toll agencies.

The new law took effect last month and limits administrative

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fees on state-operated tollways to $6, with an annual maximum of $48. The department will charge $4 a month for unpaid tolls.

Texas didn’t have such a cap before, so the department’s fines could quickly amount to $25 per unpaid toll or more when cases were referred to a collection agency or a court. Some drivers saw debts up to tens of thousands of dollars.

Department officials said they won’t refund late fees and fines previously paid, including those made in the first two months of this year.

MAY 2018

BLACK BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BANKING / FINANCIAL SERVICES

PHOTOGRAPY

RESTAURANTS / DINING

EDWARD L. HANNA BBVA COMPASS

DWAYNE HILLS DHILLS PHOTOGRAPHY

Address: 3003 Williams Dr Georgetown, TX 78628

one:512-522-9093, 504-316-8043

JOHN Q COLLINS THE CHOW WAGON P.O BOX SHOPPING 364, Manor, TX 78653

Email: edward.hanna@bbva.com Phone:512-806-4560 Website: https://www.bbvacompass.com/business/ officers/edward-l.-hanna.htm

Website: www.dhillsphotography.com

Email: Thechowwagon2016@gmail.com Phone:512-317-6908

REALTORS

Website: www.The-Chow-Wagon.com

HOME, OFFICE & GARDEN ANDRÉ BLACK KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

Website: www.ABPropertyGroupATX.com

ALTA ALEXANDER ALTATUDES- UPSCALE WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE

Sponsoring Brokerage: Small World Realty

Address: 1717 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

Phone: 512.412.1266

SHERI A. MARSHALL UMOVEIT-WECLEANIT ENTERPRISES Email: smarshall074@gmail.com

Email: AndreBlack.Realtor@gmail.com

Phone: (512) 761-4292

Phone: 512-461-8510

Website: www.altatudes.com

Website: www.UMoveItWeCleanIt

LEGAL

CLARA SPRIGGS-ADAMS KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

TRAVEL

Phone: 512.589.5376 Website: www.claraspriggsadams.com

LILLIE ARNOLD LEGAL SHIELD Email: lilliea3@yahoo.com Phone: 512-272-4194 Website: www.lilliearnold.wearelegalshield.com

SHALONDA HURD RESORT READY RATES EDIE C. PHILLIPS ELEGANT ESTATES Phone: (512) 775-0637

Austin, TX Email: address:resortreadyrates@gmail.com Phone: (512) 293-5905 Website: http://wstgt.com/9079786498

Website: www.ediecphillips.com

SHERI A. MARSHALL BEST CHOICE MOBILE NOTARY & DOCUMENT SIGNING SERVICES

SCHOOLS / UNIVERSITIES

P.O. Box 142502 Austin, TX 78714 Phone: 512-461-8510 Website: www.bestchoicemobilenotary.com

HUSTON-TILLOTSON UNIVERSITY

WANT TO BE IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY? Only $25 per month!

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900 Chicon Avenue Austin, TX 78702 Phone: (512) 887-5659 Website: www.htu.edu

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19

REAL ESTATE

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE

FAIR HOUSING ACT: A DREAM NOT YET REALIZED

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibited discrimination in connection with buying, selling, renting and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin or sex. Intended as a follow-up to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the bill was the subject of a contentious debate in the Senate, but was passed quickly by the House of Representatives in the days after the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. The Fair Housing Act stands as the final great legislative achievement of the civil rights era.

Despite the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, we as a nation, as a community are still grappling with the effects of housing discrimination. Although today’s discrimination comes in different forms compared to 1968, when President Johnson pushed the housing measure through Congress. Present day discrimination is not as blatant as displayed in 1934 Austin, Texas map from the Home Owners Loan Corporation. Bias still exists, especially in the form of redlining, which denies goods and services to racially determined neighborhoods, specifically minority populations.

HISTORY Under the practice known as redlining, lenders denied mortgages to home owners and prospective homeowners in “risky” neighborhoods. This practice

20

persisted for decades and continue to a problem today across the country.

Despite Supreme Court decisions such as Shelley v. Kraemer (1948) and Jones v. Mayer Co. (1968), which outlawed the exclusion of African Americans or other minorities from certain sections of cities, race-based housing patterns were still in force by the late 1960s. Those who challenged them often met with resistance, hostility and even violence.

While a growing number of African-American and Hispanic military service men fought and died in the Vietnam War, on the back home their families had trouble renting or purchasing homes in certain residential areas because of their race or national origin.

In this climate, organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored

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People (NAACP), the G.I. Forum and the National Committee Against Discrimination in Housing lobbied for new fair housing legislation to be passed.

The proposed civil rights legislation of 1968 expanded on and was intended as a follow-up to the historic Civil Rights Act of 1964. The bill’s original goal was to extend federal protection to civil rights workers, but it was eventually expanded to address racial discrimination in housing.

Title VIII of the proposed Civil Rights Act was known as the Fair Housing Act, a term often used as a shorthand description for the entire bill. It prohibited discrimination concerning the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin and sex.

On April 4 civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinat-

ed in Memphis, Tennessee, where he had gone to aid striking sanitation workers. Amid a wave of emotion—including riots, burning and looting in more than 100 cities around the country—President Lyndon B. Johnson increased pressure on Congress to pass the new civil rights legislation.

Despite the historic nature of the Fair Housing Act, and its stature as the last major act of legislation of the civil rights movement, in practice housing remained segregated in many areas of the United States in the years that followed.

In 1988, Congress passed the Fair Housing Amendments Act, which expanded the law to prohibit discrimination in housing based on disability or on family status (pregnant women or the presence of children under 18).

These amendments brought the enforcement of the Fair Housing MAY 2018

REAL ESTATE

WHAT IS THE FAIR HOUSING ACT? THE FAIR HOUSING ACT

THERE ARE EXEMPTIONS

CRIMINAL HISTORY

The Fair Housing Act protects you from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability— the seven protected classes. Specifically, the following actions are prohibited based on someone’s membership in a protected class:

The Fair Housing Act does not apply in all circumstances. Generally speaking, the rules don’t apply to:

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published guidance in 2016 that says a policy of refusing to rent to anybody with a criminal record could be discrimination, since the Fair Housing Act prohibits both intentional housing discrimination and housing practices that have a discriminatory effect on protected classes. HUD says that because of racial and ethnic disparities in the U.S. criminal justice system, criminal-history-based restrictions on access to housing are likely to disproportionately affect African Americans and Hispanics. That doesn’t mean landlords and property managers can’t consider criminal history information when making housing decisions, but arbitrary and broad criminal-history-related bans may violate the Fair Housing Act.

• Refusing to rent or sell housing • Refusing to negotiate for housing • Making housing unavailable • Denying a dwelling • Setting different terms, conditions, or privileges for sale or rental of a dwelling • Providing different housing services or facilities

• Small owner-occupied buildings with no more than four units • Single-family homes sold or rented without a broker • Religious organizations providing noncommercial housing to a religious subset • Certain private clubs (that favor club members over others) • Certain housing designated for senior housing

• Falsely denying that housing is available for inspection, sale, or rental • Engaging in blockbusting practices • Denying anyone access to or membership in a facility or service (such as multiple listing service) related to the sale or rent of housing • Threatening, coercing, intimidating, or interfering with anyone exercising a fair housing right or assisting others who exercise that right • Advertising or making any statement that indicates a limitation or preference based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

Act even more squarely under the control of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which sends complaints regarding housing discrimination to be investigated by its Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO).

In 2014, the Austin City Council added “source of income to an existing ordinance that banned

housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, disability, student status, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation and gender identity.

This ‘source of income’ amendment was aimed at preventing landlords from discriminating against low-income residents who use government issued housing vouchers.

However, whatever the level of segregation might be, the shortage of affordable housing continues to weigh heavily on Austin.

Michael Gerber, President & CEO of the Housing Authority of the

City of Austin reported in Realtor Austin, low-income residents, disabled residents, families with children and other disadvantaged people in Austin “don’t really have fair housing opportunities or choice because there’s not enough quantity”.

Five Strategies for Helping Fair Housing in Austin 1. Continue to invest in affordable housing. Preserve affordable housing. Many of the affordable housing options are being lost to redevelopment.

3. Promote inclusiveness in city policies that govern housing and related matters.

4. Foster public-private partnerships. The Fair Housing Act wasn’t meant to assign government agencies the sole duty of fixing the nation’s housing problems, Gerber said. Rather government agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and other stakeholders must team up to improve opportunities for fair housing.

Courtesy of Realtor Austin.

2. Stretch the dollars. Use every tool available to leverage funding for housing. The Housing Authority is replacing low density units at two of its complexes with higher density units to make room for more residents.

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21

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MAY 2018

TECHNOLOGY

Home Depot Investing In Technology Professionals To support programs related to its $11.1 billion, three-year strategic investment plan, The Home Depot will hire about 1,000 new technology professionals during 2018.

The hiring initiative will occur at Home Depot’s primary technology centers in Atlanta, Dallas and Austin, TX.

In December of 2017, Home Depot said it would invest in its store and online shopping experience, supply chain, and delivery capabilities, as well as associate and workforce management systems.

The initiatives require advanced software engineering, system engineering, UX design and product management skills. Home Depot’s technology team, in support of in-

novation initiatives, uses the latest in modern development stacks and agile practices across public and private cloud platforms in addition to artificial intelligence, augmented reality, big data, machine learning, as well as voice and visual recognition capabilities to build award-winning experiences for customers and associates, according to the company.

“With the rapidly-changing retail environment, this is easily one of the most exciting places to work in technology,” said Matt Carey, Home Depot EVP/Chief Information Officer.

“Our team is building some of the most advanced software anywhere to help customers shop whenever, wherever, and however they want.”

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23

AUSTIN REALTORS The decision to purchase a home is one of the biggest and best choices you could ever make. After all, a home is the largest - and most emotional - investment most people will face in their lifetime.

AUSTIN REALTORS

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When you’re looking for a real estate professional to help you, know that there are lots of good agents right here in Central Texas ready to assist. This is your dream, and your agent is your advocate to help make your dream come true.

ANDRÉ BLACK

CLARA SPRIGGS-ADAMS

EDIE C. PHILLIPS

REALTOR Small World Realty 512.412.1266 AndreBlack.Realtor@gmail.com www.ABPropertyGroupATX.com

REALTOR Keller Williams Realty 512.589.5376 www.claraspriggsadams.com

REALTOR Elegant Estates (512) 775-0637 www.ediecphillips.com

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MAY 2018

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25

DINING

Mother’s Day

is Sunday, May 14th

That means you only have a few days left to make reservations for an awesome brunch. Don’t fret, there are plenty of great ways to show mom how much you love her with delicious food and signature mimosas. Here are a few places to have Mother’s Day Brunch in Austin!

DRISKILL HOTEL

604 Brazos St. Take mom to a very classy Mother’s Day Victorian Tea service at The Driskill Hotel. There will also be delicious sandwiches & pastries to have with your tea. If you want to reserve your spot, give a call to (512) 391-7073.

Cost: $55 Adults, $33 Kids

EDEN EAST

755 Springdale Rd Treat mom to a farm-to-table brunch and cocktails on the grounds of beautiful Springdale Farm. Familystyle brunch will be served at 1PM, featuring Complimentary Cocktails, Wild Spinach Frittata, Housemade Pork Sausage, Blueberry Pancakes and more.

Cost: $85 Per Person

GOODALL’S KITCHEN & BAR

1900 Rio Grande Located in the elegant Hotel Ella, Goodall’s Kitchen & Bar is now accepting reservation for you and your mom. Their Mother’s Day Brunch includes a three-course meal featuring fresh Steak & Eggs, Shrimp & Jalapeno Grits, Ricotta Hotcakes, and much more! Meal comes with your choice of appetizer and dessert. Kids menu is coming soon.

Cost: $45 Per Person

JACOBY’S

3235 E. Cesar Chavez Enjoy one of the freshest Mother’s Day meals in Austin. Jacoby’s is featuring Chicken Fried Steak Fingers (w/ House Gravy & Syrup), Shrimp & Cheddar Grits (w/ Cajun Butter & Green Onion), and a spicy Smoked Brisket Hash.

Meals include an awesome side, perhaps Mac & Cheese or Homemade Biscuits & Gravy, and starters made with fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies.

Cost: $40 Adults, $20 Kids (6-12)

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LA CONDESA

400 A W. 2nd St Enjoy Huevos Condesa (roasted chicken, fried eggs, poblano rajas, duck fat-braised potatoes, grilled onions, bacon, spinach), Chilangos (wild boar chorizo, poached eggs, quinoa croquette, arugula, salsa verde) or the Vuelva a la Vida – a combination of scallops, mussels, tuna and clams in a smoked tomato sauce.

Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

PERLA’S

1400 S. Congress Ave This tree-shaded restaurant on South Congress offers a lot more than just oysters. Treat mom to a brunch of Crab Florentine, Lobster Omelettes, and the Big Blue Banana & Bacon - a buttermilk & banana pancake with wild blueberries, whipped cream, maple syrup, and house bacon.

Time: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm

TRACE AT THE W HOTEL

200 Lavaca St. Treat mom to a three-course Mother’s Day Brunch with Trace at the W. Main dish choices include Crispy Brussel Sprouts, Avocado Toast, Spinach Salad, Bacon and Egg Drop Soup.

Meals come with fresh fruit or veggie appetizer and a sweet treat at the end of your meal.

Time: 10:30 am - 3:00 pm Cost: $58 Per Person

TRIO AT THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

98 San Jacinto Blvd Enjoy made-to-order omelettes, buttermilk pancakes, poached shrimp & crab claws, cochinita eggs benedict, salads, and so much more.

Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Cost: $90 Adults, $30 Kids

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SPIDER HOUSE CAFE

2908 Fruth St On Sunday, May 10, Spider House is having a Mother’s Day Crawfish Boil, featuring Mike and the Moonpies. The event is free and all ages Dancing is not mandatory, but dancing shoes (i.e. cowgirl boots) are advised.

Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN - AUSTIN

Contemporary American / Downtown Enjoy an exclusive “Mom-osa” menu, featuring the choice of three flavorful Mimosas & one natural refresher, specially crafted to celebrate Mom’s on their big day. Pair your flavorful sips with anyone off of our regular brunch menu.

EDDIE V’S - 5TH STREET

Seafood / Downtown This Mother’s Day, join us for jazz brunch from 10am-2pm, $49 adults, $15 children.

Or enjoy exceptional seafood and Prime steaks from our Dinner menu, available from 10am- 9pm.

THE CAPITAL GRILLE - AUSTIN

SteakhouseDowntown Join us for an exceptional prix-fixe brunch and endless mimosas. Enjoy our Executive Chef’s take on classic brunch dishes such as our Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Crab Salad.

FOGO DE CHAO BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE - AUSTIN

Brazilian SteakhouseDowntown Celebrate Mother’s Day at Fogo and Mom receives a complimentary dining card.* Restrictions apply. Sunday, May 13, 11am - 9pm, dinner price all day.

III FORKS - AUSTIN

Steak / Downtown Join us for a Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 13. Featuring Filet Benedict, Lobster Benedict, Shrimp & Grits & more. Sip mimosas served tableside. Children 12 & under will enjoy our young adult brunch menu.

Brunch is served 11am - 3pm; regular menu available.

BOB’S STEAK AND CHOP HOUSE - AUSTIN

Steakhouse / Downtown Treat your Mom to an unforgettable meal at Bob’s Steak and Chop House on Sunday, May 13. We will be open 12:00-8:00pm, reservations are strongly recommended but walk-ins are welcome.

THE PEACHED TORTILLA

Asian / Central Austin Join us for Mother’s Day Sunday, May 13th from 10:30am-2:30pm. We’ll be serving a three course, $40 prix-fixe menu featuring highlights like our biscuits and gravy with seared pork belly and avocado toast with miso creme fraiche. We look forward to seeing you Sunday to celebrate mom!

L’OCA D’ORO

Italian / North Central “Just Like Ma Used To Make” Sunday!

L’Oca d’Oro is celebrating Mother’s Day by eating the way we used to on Sundays. We will be serving an Italian-American Sunday Supper all day. A $45 menu ($20 kids) will have multiple, family-style options and will be available all day. Details by phone or online.

MAY 2018

CELEBRATING LIFE

Austin Bombing Victims Included a Dedicated Father and a Talented 17-Year-Old Musician Two people were killed and five others wounded in a series of bombings centered on Austin, Texas last month. The police have said the attacks are linked, and the man suspected of being the bomber blew himself up as officers approached him.

Both people killed by the bombings were black, and belonged to prominent African-American families in the city, raising concern that the violence was racially motivated.

The first bomb, on March 2, killed Anthony Stephan House, a 39-year-old finance professional, as he was helping his 8-year-old daughter get ready for school.

Mr. House told his daughter to go brush her teeth before he picked up a package left on his front porch, his brother, Norrell Waynewood, said in an interview with The Daily Beast.

Mr. House graduated in 2008 from Texas State University, where he studied business administration, finance and financial management services. He started a money management firm, House Capital Management, and later worked for Texas Quarries and Acme Brick.

The second bomb killed Draylen Mason, age 17, on March 12th. He was

a promising classical musician who planned to enroll in the University of Texas’ competitive Butler School of Music in the fall.

The bomb was left in a package on his family’s doorstep overnight and had not arrived through the mail, the police said. Mr. Mason woke up early to go to the gym with his mother and was killed when the bomb exploded in their kitchen. His mother was also injured in the blast.

Mr. Mason’s grandmother heard the explosion from her bedroom and rushed to the kitchen, where she found them sprawled on the floor, Mr. Glover said.

Doug Dempster, the dean of the University of Texas at Austin’s College of Fine Arts, who serves on the board of the music program, said that Mr. Mason was “a remarkably and precariously talented bass player.”

A double bassist, Mr. Mason planned to study music performance. He had been a member of the Austin Soundwaves, a youth orchestra program, since age 11. He also played in the orchestra at his high school, East Austin College Prep, and during Sunday church services.

“He was every inch a musician,” Mr. Dempster said. “His gentle confidence seemed to come from a conviction that hard work and talent was going to work for him. It did.”

Mr. Glover agreed. “Draylen was smarter on accident than most of us are on purpose,” he said.

Nelda Wells Spears: A Public Servant & Trusted Adviser to Many Nelda Wells Spears, Travis County’s former tax assessor/ collector who was the first African-American in the state to hold the post, died at the age of 71 after a brief illness. Spears was the county’s tax assessor/ collector for 20 years before retiring in 2011. She was known for her compassion, dignity, and dedicated public service. She had a passion for mentoring black youth, especially women to help them pursue careers in public service.

Bruce Elfant, Travis County’s current tax assessor/collector who succeeded her, described Spears as “Dedicated to her staff, committed to hiring quality people and was passionate about giving county residents exceptional customer service.”

Nelda Wells, an only child, attended Austin Public Schools graduating from the original L.C. Anderson High School. While at Anderson High School a lifelong group called “The Mags” was formed. Nelda was a charter member of the group and she remained active until her death.

She attended Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn., where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English. Spears completed her masters’ degree at Memphis State University and later became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.

Spears was a lifelong member of Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church. Her family and her church were always her main priorities.

Spears filled many leadership roles in state government, working at the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Texas Department of Community Affairs, Texas Land Office. She was elected Travis County Tax Assessor Collector for five consecutive terms. She was dedicated to her staff, committed to hiring quality people and was passionate about giving county residents exceptional customer service.

and Texas County and District Retirement System.

Nelda leaves to cherish her legacy, a son and daughter-in-law, Trent and Lacy Spears, daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Larry Toney, seven grandchildren, Trent Jr., Malik, Lucyjean, Lauren, Theodore, Madden, Aiden and one sister-cousin, Robbie June McArthur, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Spears held leadership roles at the Austin Womens Center, NAACP

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27

COMMUNITY

VOLUNTEERING ABROAD IS A FAMILY AFFAIR Dr. Chuma Chike-Obi, Austin, TX Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, recently returned from a medical mission trip in Anambra State with the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA). During his visit, Dr. Chike-Obi surgically treated 27 patients in a variety of cases that included excisions of benign and malignant lesions and masses, full thickness skin grafts, areolar reconstruction, and more. A particularly special detail of the trip was that he had the opportunity to travel and work alongside his mother Dr. Ugonna Chile-Obiwho, a neonatologist, who resides in Dallas.

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CENTRAL TEXAS CHAPTER NFBPA REWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE OF LEADERSHIP IN LOCAL & STATE GOVERNMENT Kerri Lang, President, of the Central Texas Chapter of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) lead a number of Central Texas members to the national conference in Cleveland, OH. During the conference Dusty McCormick, Ex-Officio to CTC, was elected to the National Board of Directors. Vice President, Michelle Faulkner, graduated from the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) and Rochion Gregg & Simone Wilson graduated from the Mentor program.

In addition, the Central Texas Chapter was recognized as the Chapter of the Year, won the NFBPA Forward Fundraising Efforts, received 2nd place for the table top competition, received 3rd place for the 2017 membership drive and won the 2018 FORUM Golf Tournament.

MAY 2018

LIFESTYLE

Wedded Bliss

MELISSA & MICHAEL

New Braunfels, TX Ceremony and Reception The Gardens of Cranesbury View

Photography provided by addisonstudios.com

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PEOPLE OF AUSTIN

Neasel & Naimah Conner

J.R., Audrey, & Kaye

Anita, Austin, & Forrest Roberts

Jaidyn, Deron, Frankie, Keesha, & Deron Jr.

Harmony

Alta, Clifton, Lamont, & Mikayla

Karen & Britney Box

Sherry Perkins

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Nell & Don Walker

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Jewel, La’Roy Jr., & La’Roy

MAY 2018

PEOPLE OF AUSTIN

Malaki

Tasha & Lyric

Joyce Dugar

Valerie & Myron Bethea

Ariel

Mitchell, LaDeitra, LeeJaylen, Justin, & Sanaa Lee

A’aijea & Aiyonna

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31

RELIGION

5 Facts

About the Religious Lives of African-Americans C

hristianity (and religion as a whole), have played a huge role in African-American history. While most Africans brought to the New World to be slaves were not Christians when they arrived, many of them, and their descendants embraced Christianity, finding comfort in the Biblical message of spiritual equality and deliverance.

In post-Civil War America, a burgeoning black church played a key role strengthening African-American communities and in providing key support to the civil rights movement.

Skip Walker

1 2

3

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oughly eight in ten (79%) African-Americans self-identify as R Christian, as do seven in ten whites, and 77% of Latinos, according to Pew Research Center’s 2014 Religious Landscape Study. e first predominantly black denominations in the U.S. were Th founded in the late 18th century, some by free black people.

Today, the largest historically black church in the U.S. is the National Baptist Convention U.S.A. Inc. Other large historically black churches include the Church of God in Christ, the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), and two other Baptist churches - the National Baptist Convention of America and the Progressive National Baptist Association Inc. frican-Americans are more religious than whites and A Latinos by many measures of commitment. For instance, three-quarters of black Americans say religion is very important in their lives, compared with smaller shares of whites (49%) and Hispanics (59%). African-Americans also are more likely to attend services at least once a week and to pray regularly. Black Americans (83%) are more likely to say they believe in God with absolute certainty than whites (61%) and Latinos (59%).

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Wesley United Methodist Church

4

5

e share of African-Americans who identify as religiously Th unaffiliated has increased in recent years, mirroring national trends. In 2014, when the second Religious Landscape Study was conducted, only 18% of black Americans said they were religiously unaffiliated — that is, atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular.” As with the general population, younger African-American adults are more likely to be unaffiliated than older African-Americans. Three in ten (29%) of AfricanAmericans between the ages of 18 and 29 say they are unaffiliated, compared with only 7% of black adults 65 and older who say the same thing. lder African-Americans are more likely than younger black O adults to be associated with historically black Protestant churches.

While 63% of the Silent Generation (born between 1928 and 1945) say they identify with historically black denominations, only 41% of black Millennials say the same.

(When the survey was conducted in 2014, Millennials included those born between 1981 and 1996.)

Information for this article has been provided courtesy of Pew Research. http://pewrsr.ch/2FW9nKB

MAY 2018

RELIGION

Austin’s Black Churches Church Name

Website

Pastor

Address

Zip

Agape Baptist Church

agapebcaustintx.com

H. Ed Calahan

7801 North Lamar Blvd., Bldg. F-15

78752

Alpha Seventh Day Adventist

alphaadventist.org

Dr. Gordon S. Jones

3016 East 51st Street

78723

Bethany Christian Church

bccdisciplesofchrist.com

Rev. W.W. Booker

3507 East 12th Street

78721

Christian Faith Fellowship Church

cffcaustin.org

Church of the New Testament

http://churchofthenewtest.wixsite.com/ctntaustin

Billy J. Walker

1602 Harvey Street

14900 Avery Ranch Blvd. Suite C200 78717 78702

David Chapel Missionary Baptist

davidchapel.org

Rev. Joseph C. Parker, Jr.

2211 E. MLK Jr. Blvd.

78702

East Side Church of Christ

eastsidecoc.com

George Williams - Minister

5701 East MLK Jr., Blvd.

78721

Ebenezer Baptist Church

ebc3austin.org

Dr. Ricky Freeman

1010 East 10th Street

78702

First Presbyterian Baptist Church

fpcaustin.org

Elizabeth McLean

8001 Mesa Drive

78731

Gates of Dominion Word MinistryInternational

gatesofdominion.org/home / https://www.facebook.com/GatesOfDominionMinistry/posts/273733116141402

Michael A. Price - Apostle

5005 Commercial Park Dr., Suite A-1 78724

Grant A.M.E. Worship Center

grantworshipcenter.org

Rev. Sylvester Delaney Patton III 1701 Kramer Lane

78758

Greater Calvary Baptist Church

greatercalvary.org

Archbishop Dr. Sterling Lands, II 6510 Berkman Drive

78723

Greater Mt. Moriah Primitive Baptist

mountmoriahpb.org

Chester F. Brown, III

4907 Springdale Road

78723

Greater Mt. Zion Baptist Church

gmzaustin.org/

Gaylon Clark

4301 Tannehill Lane

78721

Greater Union Baptist

gubcaustin.org

Pastor Rickey E. Williams

2939 Pecan Springs

78723

Higher Dimension Church

facebook.com/BishopSDJ/

Bishop Sid Deon Johnson

1310 Salina Street

78702

Holy Cross Catholic Church

holycrossaustin.org

Rev. Basil Aguzie, MSP

1610 East 11th Street

78702

Imani Community Church

imanichurch.com

5214 Duval Road

78757

Joshua Chapel C.M.E.

facebook.com/pages/Joshua-Chapel-Cme/117524628274427

1309 East 12 St

78702

Little Zion Baptist

facebook.com/LZBCMANOR/

406 East Burton St.

78653

Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church

facebook.com/pages/Mt-Calvary-Missionary-BaptistChurch/103677749692421

Charles Gillespie

2111 S.L. Davis Ave.

78702

Mt. Olive Baptist Church

mtolivebcaustin.org

Rev. Richard E. Carter

2718, 1800 E 11th St

78702

Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church

themount.net

A. W. Anthony Mays

5900 Cameron Road

78723

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

mtzion-baptist.org/rev-g-v-clark

Rev. G. V. Clark

2938 East 13th Street

78702

New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

newbeth.org

3403 Manor Road

78723

New Covenant Church

nccchurch.com

507 Commercial Drive

78610

New Hope Baptist Church

thehopeaustin.net

Pastor Roy F. Jones II

2405 East 16th Street

78702

New Lincoln Missionary Baptist Church

newlincolnmbc.org

Rev. Darron E. Patterson

2215 East 8th Street

78702

Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church

facebook.com/pages/Pleasant-Grove-Baptist/163419507010345 Pastor Nathaniel T. Cannon, Jr.

1158 Webberville Road

78721

Rehoboth Baptist Church

facebook.com/pg/rehobothchurchaustin/about/?ref=page_internal

5303 Samuel Huston Ave

78721

Simpson United Methodist Church

www.simpsonumc.com

Robert C. Waddle

1701 East 12th @ Leona

78702

Solid Rock Missionary Baptist Church

srmbcofaustin.com

John M. Perez

1014 Gardner Road

78721

St. James Baptist Church

stjamescmbc.org

Dr. B.W. McClendon, Sr.

3417 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd

78721

St. James Episcopal Church

stjamesaustin.org

Rev. Madeline Hawley

1941 Webberville Road

78721

St. John Primitive Baptist Church

directionus.com/tx/austin/st-johns-progressive-baptist.html

1709 E.M. Franklin

78721

St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church

facebook.com/pages/stluke-missionary-baptistchurch/108468775939516

1160 Hargrave St

78702

St.Peter United Methodist Church

stpetersaustintx.ning.com

Jack Gause

4509 Springdale Road

78723

St. Stephens MBC-Northstar

ststephensmbc.org

BJE McQueen

12300 Amherst Dr

78727

True Light Baptist Church

truelightbaptist.com

1300 Fort Branch Blvd.

78721

Wesley United Methodist

wesleyunited.org

1164 San Bernard Austin

78721

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33

what happens here lives with you forever.

There is a place where the memories grow in abundance. And last forever. At the luxuriously untamed Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, every room, every meal, every day is designed to make the most of every moment. And to make each moment a memorable one.

1 800 55 HYATT (49288) lostpines.hyatt.com The trademark HYATT and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. Š2011 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

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